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

  • Upper Providence Solar Installation Cost: $11,763
  • 25-Year Savings: $14,882
  • Payback Period: 11.0 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated March 14, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Providence

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

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Upper Providence it's 2.55 per watt. Since a 6.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Upper Providence, the average price of going solar will be about $11,763 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average Upper Providence homeowners see about $15,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Upper Providence

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-10,697
3 years $-8,566
5 years $-6,434
7 years $-4,302
9 years $-2,171
11 years $-39
13 years $2,093
15 years $4,224
17 years $6,356
19 years $8,487
21 years $10,619
23 years $12,751
25 years $14,882

Top Solar Installers in Upper Providence

Installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, using a solar installer can help with that as well. 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 installer in Upper Providence, we've compiled 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 Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Upper Providence

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Upper Providence

Although the average cost of a solar system in Upper Providence is $11,763, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Upper Providence average.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Upper Providence offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. Even though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Upper Providence homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Upper Providence is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger 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 $13,139 11.5 years
8 kW $2.60 $14,566 $17,804 11.2 years
10 kW $2.55 $17,850 $22,612 11.0 years
12 kW $2.50 $20,992 $27,562 10.8 years
14 kW $2.45 $23,990 $32,656 10.6 years
16 kW $2.40 $26,846 $37,892 10.4 years
18 kW $2.35 $29,560 $43,271 10.1 years
20 kW $2.29 $32,130 $48,793 9.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably impacts 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:

  • Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.

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 Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Upper Providence, PA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Upper Providence?

This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Upper Providence?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 option if you want to get the most savings.

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

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 give you credit toward your future energy bills.

How long do solar panels last in Upper Providence?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.

Follow us