Solar Panel Cost Guide in Somerset, PA (2024 Update)
- Somerset Solar Installation Cost: $17,040
- 25-Year Savings: $16,537
- Payback Period: 14.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Somerset
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Somerset.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Somerset typically cost about 4.Using this figure, a typical 6.9-kW system would cost about $17,040 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Somerset homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average Somerset homeowners see about $16,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Somerset
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,563 |
| 3 years | $-12,608 |
| 5 years | $-9,653 |
| 7 years | $-6,698 |
| 9 years | $-3,743 |
| 11 years | $-788 |
| 13 years | $2,167 |
| 15 years | $5,122 |
| 17 years | $8,077 |
| 19 years | $11,032 |
| 21 years | $13,987 |
| 23 years | $16,942 |
| 25 years | $19,896 |
Top Solar Installers in Somerset
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra effort and handiness. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Another great thing about using a reputable solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
If you're searching for a solar company in Somerset, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
See all of the solar companies in Somerset
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Somerset
The cost of installing a solar system in Somerset can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,550.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Somerset average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Somerset to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Somerset, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.69 | $15,506 | $9,673 | 15.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $13,294 | 15.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $17,115 | 14.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $21,134 | 14.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $25,353 | 14.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $29,770 | 13.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $34,386 | 13.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $39,200 | 13.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you hire.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the longevity of your solar energy system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from past customers.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Solar Veteran
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
EcoWatch's Somerset, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Somerset?
The average cost of solar panels in Somerset is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Somerset?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Somerset. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How will having solar panels impact my home value?
Solar panels can increase your property’s value considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.