Solar Panel Cost Guide in West Hanover, PA (2023 Update)
- West Hanover Solar Installation Cost: $11,989
- 25-Year Savings: $12,837
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in West Hanover
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in West Hanover.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in West Hanover typically cost about 2.55. Using this figure, a typical 6.7-kW system would cost about $11,995 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Despite the large upfront cost, the average West Hanover homeowner can save around $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in West Hanover
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,906 |
| 3 years | $-11,741 |
| 5 years | $-11,575 |
| 7 years | $-11,410 |
| 9 years | $-11,244 |
| 11 years | $-11,079 |
| 13 years | $-10,913 |
| 15 years | $-10,748 |
| 17 years | $-10,582 |
| 19 years | $-10,417 |
| 21 years | $-10,251 |
| 23 years | $-10,086 |
| 25 years | $-9,920 |
Top Solar Installers in West Hanover
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra energy and know-how. Because of that, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Local solar companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can take advantage of and by offering warranties and repairs.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't certain which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in West Hanover:
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 West Hanover
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in West Hanover
For many West Hanover homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in West Hanover, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. 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 looking for a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in West Hanover, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in West Hanover, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in West Hanover are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $11,039 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,004 | 12.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $19,112 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $23,363 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $27,756 | 11.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $32,293 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $36,972 | 11.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $41,794 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 West Hanover, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in West Hanover?
The average cost of solar panels in West Hanover 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in West Hanover?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it typically 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 way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located 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 $739.24 per year.
How long do solar panels last in West Hanover?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.