Solar Panel Cost Guide in West Chester, PA (2024 Update)
- West Chester Solar Installation Cost: $16,246
- 25-Year Savings: $16,011
- Payback Period: 15.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in West Chester
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in West Chester.
The average cost of a solar panel system in West Chester is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in West Chester is around 6.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,246 for a solar installation, or $23,232 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy use, the type of solar system you choose, your solar contractor and more.Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in West Chester can save about $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in West Chester
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,955 |
| 3 years | $-12,375 |
| 5 years | $-9,794 |
| 7 years | $-7,214 |
| 9 years | $-4,633 |
| 11 years | $-2,053 |
| 13 years | $528 |
| 15 years | $3,108 |
| 17 years | $5,689 |
| 19 years | $8,270 |
| 21 years | $10,850 |
| 23 years | $13,431 |
| 25 years | $16,011 |
Top Solar Installers in West Chester
Many homeowners choose to hire a solar installation company since trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a lot of work. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are a number of 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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- 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 West Chester
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in West Chester
The cost of installing a solar system in West Chester can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,550.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the West Chester average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it’s important to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in West Chester, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.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 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 | $3.69 | $15,506 | $8,948 | 15.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $12,329 | 15.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $15,908 | 15.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $19,686 | 14.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $23,662 | 14.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $27,838 | 14.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $32,212 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $36,785 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly influences 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:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you’d like plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies have different panels.
- Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the longevity of your solar panels, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's West Chester, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in West Chester?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in West Chester?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Is it worth going solar in West Chester?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in West Chester?
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.