Solar Panel Cost Guide in Vernon, PA (2023 Update)
- Vernon Solar Installation Cost: $12,674
- 25-Year Savings: $17,078
- Payback Period: 10.6 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Vernon
We go over average solar pricing in Vernon.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Vernon it's 2.55 per watt. Since a 7.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Vernon, the average price of going solar will be about $12,674 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Vernon that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Vernon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,483 |
| 3 years | $-9,103 |
| 5 years | $-6,723 |
| 7 years | $-4,343 |
| 9 years | $-1,963 |
| 11 years | $417 |
| 13 years | $2,798 |
| 15 years | $5,178 |
| 17 years | $7,558 |
| 19 years | $9,938 |
| 21 years | $12,318 |
| 23 years | $14,698 |
| 25 years | $17,078 |
Top Solar Installers in Vernon
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar panel installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Vernon:
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 Vernon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Vernon
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Vernon: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
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 about $2,550. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof 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
Most solar companies in Vernon offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Vernon 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 cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Vernon is the company you get to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on 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 | $14,014 | 11.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $18,971 | 10.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $24,071 | 10.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $29,313 | 10.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $34,699 | 10.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $40,227 | 10.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $45,898 | 9.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $51,712 | 9.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies to choose from in Vernon, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- 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 most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer 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 Vernon, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Vernon?
The average cost of solar panels in Vernon 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 certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $838.42 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.