Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tamaqua, PA (2023 Update)
- Tamaqua Solar Installation Cost: $12,120
- 25-Year Savings: $12,191
- Payback Period: 12.5 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tamaqua
We break down average solar pricing in Tamaqua.
The average cost of solar panels in Tamaqua is 2.55 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Tamaqua, most homeowners require a 6.8-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $12,120, or $17,332 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Tamaqua based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tamaqua
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,148 |
| 3 years | $-9,203 |
| 5 years | $-7,258 |
| 7 years | $-5,313 |
| 9 years | $-3,368 |
| 11 years | $-1,423 |
| 13 years | $521 |
| 15 years | $2,466 |
| 17 years | $4,411 |
| 19 years | $6,356 |
| 21 years | $8,301 |
| 23 years | $10,246 |
| 25 years | $12,191 |
Top Solar Installers in Tamaqua
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. In addition, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, using a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
If you're searching for a solar company in Tamaqua, we've put together 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 Tamaqua
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tamaqua
The cost of installing a solar system in Tamaqua 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 the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,550. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, 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 APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can affect your pricing. Tamaqua's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $10,355 | 13.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $14,092 | 12.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $17,972 | 12.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $21,995 | 12.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $26,161 | 12.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $30,469 | 11.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $34,920 | 11.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $39,514 | 11.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Tamaqua, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Tamaqua?
The average cost of solar panels in Tamaqua is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 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 consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Tamaqua?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Tamaqua, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Tamaqua?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.