Solar Panel Cost Guide in Valley Green, PA (2023 Update)
- Valley Green Solar Installation Cost: $11,781
- 25-Year Savings: $13,173
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Valley Green
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Valley Green.
In Valley Green, solar panels cost about 2.55 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 6.6-kW system would cost about $11,781 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Valley Green based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Valley Green that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Valley Green
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,783 |
| 3 years | $-8,787 |
| 5 years | $-6,790 |
| 7 years | $-4,794 |
| 9 years | $-2,798 |
| 11 years | $-801 |
| 13 years | $1,195 |
| 15 years | $3,191 |
| 17 years | $5,188 |
| 19 years | $7,184 |
| 21 years | $9,180 |
| 23 years | $11,177 |
| 25 years | $13,173 |
Top Solar Installers in Valley Green
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. 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 Valley Green
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Valley Green
There are several factors that can affect your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have 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 panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Valley Green, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Valley Green, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. While solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Valley Green homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Valley Green, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Valley Green are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of 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 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 | $11,551 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,686 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,965 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $24,386 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $28,951 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $33,658 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $38,508 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $43,500 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the cost.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
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 Valley Green, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Valley Green?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally 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 additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Valley Green?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your property 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 financial benefits from going solar.
Does Valley Green have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.