Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sugarloaf, PA (2023 Update)
- Sugarloaf Solar Installation Cost: $12,406
- 25-Year Savings: $11,905
- Payback Period: 12.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sugarloaf
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Sugarloaf.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Sugarloaf generally cost around 2.55. Because a 7.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Sugarloaf, the average price of going solar will be about $12,406 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. With average savings of about $13,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Sugarloaf find investing in solar can pay off big.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sugarloaf
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,433 |
| 3 years | $-9,488 |
| 5 years | $-7,544 |
| 7 years | $-5,599 |
| 9 years | $-3,654 |
| 11 years | $-1,709 |
| 13 years | $236 |
| 15 years | $2,181 |
| 17 years | $4,126 |
| 19 years | $6,070 |
| 21 years | $8,015 |
| 23 years | $9,960 |
| 25 years | $11,905 |
Top Solar Installers in Sugarloaf
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. The payback period of solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy needs, but going with a solar installer can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Sugarloaf
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sugarloaf
There are many factors that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation 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 $2,550. The type of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Moreover, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when searching for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Sugarloaf provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Sugarloaf, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Sugarloaf have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $9,857 | 13.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $13,428 | 13.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $17,142 | 12.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $20,999 | 12.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $24,998 | 12.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $29,141 | 12.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $33,426 | 11.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $37,854 | 11.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Sugarloaf, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you choose.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Sugarloaf, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sugarloaf?
The average cost of solar panels in Sugarloaf 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Sugarloaf?
A solar panel system isn't free in Sugarloaf, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Can solar panels eliminate my energy bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Sugarloaf, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses 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 house 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.