Solar Panel Cost Guide in Upper Macungie, PA (2023 Update)
- Upper Macungie Solar Installation Cost: $11,924
- 25-Year Savings: $12,816
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Upper Macungie
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Upper Macungie.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Upper Macungie, the average cost of a solar system is 2.55 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.7-kW system would cost about $11,924 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Upper Macungie depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average Upper Macungie homeowners see about $14,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Upper Macungie
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,934 |
| 3 years | $-8,955 |
| 5 years | $-6,976 |
| 7 years | $-4,997 |
| 9 years | $-3,018 |
| 11 years | $-1,038 |
| 13 years | $941 |
| 15 years | $2,920 |
| 17 years | $4,899 |
| 19 years | $6,878 |
| 21 years | $8,857 |
| 23 years | $10,837 |
| 25 years | $12,816 |
Top Solar Installers in Upper Macungie
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra time and expertise. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar installers provide can be invaluable as well, particularly if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
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
See all of the solar companies in Upper Macungie
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Upper Macungie
The cost of installing a solar system in Upper Macungie can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation require 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. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Upper Macungie, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid choice because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to 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 financing options, including the total 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
A final factor to consider when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Upper Macungie is the company you choose to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $11,094 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,078 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,204 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,473 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,885 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,440 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $37,138 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,978 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you go with.
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 Upper Macungie, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Upper Macungie?
The average cost of solar panels in Upper Macungie 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 things such as the type 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?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Upper Macungie have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Upper Macungie?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.