Solar Panel Cost Guide in St. Marys, PA (2023 Update)
- St. Marys Solar Installation Cost: $12,854
- 25-Year Savings: $8,190
- Payback Period: 15.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in St. Marys
Here's how much it might cost to install solar panels in St. Marys.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in St. Marys it's 2.55 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.2-kW system would cost about $12,852 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average St. Marys homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $11,000 over 20 years on power bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in St. Marys that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in St. Marys
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,771 |
| 3 years | $-9,605 |
| 5 years | $-7,439 |
| 7 years | $-5,273 |
| 9 years | $-3,108 |
| 11 years | $-942 |
| 13 years | $1,224 |
| 15 years | $3,390 |
| 17 years | $5,556 |
| 19 years | $7,722 |
| 21 years | $9,887 |
| 23 years | $12,053 |
| 25 years | $14,219 |
Top Solar Installers in St. Marys
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra labor and know-how. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another good thing about choosing a vetted solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in St. Marys, 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
See all of the solar companies in St. Marys
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in St. Marys
For many St. Marys homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in St. Marys, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar energy system in St. Marys, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,550 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like St. Marys, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in St. Marys have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can influence how much you pay. St. Marys' solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk 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 | $2.65 | $11,138 | $6,396 | 15.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $8,813 | 15.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $11,373 | 15.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $14,076 | 15.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $16,922 | 14.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $19,911 | 14.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $23,042 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $26,317 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- 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 large role in the company you hire.
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar panel system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's St. Marys, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in St. Marys?
The average cost of solar panels in St. Marys is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $584.47 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.