Solar Panel Cost Guide in Westmont, PA (2023 Update)
- Westmont Solar Installation Cost: $12,513
- 25-Year Savings: $14,200
- Payback Period: 11.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Westmont
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Westmont.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Westmont generally cost around 2.55. The average solar panel system size in Westmont is around 7.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,513 for a solar installation, or $17,894 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Westmont homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Despite the significant upfront cost, the average Westmont homeowner can save around $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Westmont for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Westmont
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,444 |
| 3 years | $-9,307 |
| 5 years | $-7,170 |
| 7 years | $-5,033 |
| 9 years | $-2,896 |
| 11 years | $-759 |
| 13 years | $1,378 |
| 15 years | $3,515 |
| 17 years | $5,652 |
| 19 years | $7,789 |
| 21 years | $9,926 |
| 23 years | $12,063 |
| 25 years | $14,200 |
Top Solar Installers in Westmont
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with a solar panel installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and bring down the cost of maintenance over time.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
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 Westmont
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Westmont
For many Westmont homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Westmont, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,550 per kilowatt in Westmont. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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 in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Westmont average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Westmont provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Westmont is the company you get to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, you'll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in Westmont have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $11,740 | 12.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $15,939 | 11.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $20,281 | 11.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $24,765 | 11.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $29,393 | 11.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $34,163 | 11.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $39,076 | 10.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $44,132 | 10.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will impact not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
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 Westmont, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Westmont?
The average cost of solar panels in Westmont 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 stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Westmont?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of 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 savings from going solar.
Do solar panels increase your home value?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Westmont is currently $79,804, so you can expect a value of about $3,272 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Westmont is a fruitful investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.