Solar Panel Cost Guide in Upper Paxton, PA (2023 Update)

  • Upper Paxton Solar Installation Cost: $11,995
  • 25-Year Savings: $12,316
  • Payback Period: 12.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Upper Paxton

Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Upper Paxton.

The average cost of a solar panel system in Upper Paxton is 2.55 per watt. Because a 6.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Upper Paxton, the average price of going solar will be about $11,995 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you want, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.

To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Upper Paxton

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,023
3 years $-9,078
5 years $-7,133
7 years $-5,188
9 years $-3,243
11 years $-1,298
13 years $646
15 years $2,591
17 years $4,536
19 years $6,481
21 years $8,426
23 years $10,371
25 years $12,316

Top Solar Installers in Upper Paxton

Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra time and knowledge. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.

If you're looking for a solar company in Upper Paxton, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Upper Paxton

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Upper Paxton

While the average cost of a solar system in Upper Paxton is $11,995, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with 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 $2,550. The brand of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will substantially affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Furthermore, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Upper Paxton, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installation company you select will impact your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Upper Paxton have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 $10,579 12.8 years
8 kW $2.60 $14,566 $14,391 12.6 years
10 kW $2.55 $17,850 $18,346 12.3 years
12 kW $2.50 $20,992 $22,443 12.1 years
14 kW $2.45 $23,990 $26,683 11.8 years
16 kW $2.40 $26,846 $31,067 11.6 years
18 kW $2.35 $29,560 $35,593 11.3 years
20 kW $2.29 $32,130 $40,261 11.1 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
  • Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
  • Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to install plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Upper Paxton, PA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Upper Paxton?

The average cost of solar panels in Upper Paxton 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 things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Upper Paxton?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Upper Paxton?

The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption 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.

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