Solar Panel Cost Guide in Barrett, PA (2024 Update)
- Barrett Solar Installation Cost: $16,902
- 25-Year Savings: $12,170
- Payback Period: 17.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Barrett
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Barrett.
In Barrett, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 6.8-kW system would cost about $16,902 before the 0 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 installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.Despite the high upfront cost, the average Barrett homeowner can save about $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Barrett
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,556 |
| 3 years | $-12,865 |
| 5 years | $-10,174 |
| 7 years | $-7,483 |
| 9 years | $-4,792 |
| 11 years | $-2,101 |
| 13 years | $591 |
| 15 years | $3,282 |
| 17 years | $5,973 |
| 19 years | $8,664 |
| 21 years | $11,355 |
| 23 years | $14,047 |
| 25 years | $16,738 |
Top Solar Installers in Barrett
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. The expertise that solar installers provide can be helpful as well, especially if you aren’t sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Barrett, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Barrett
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Barrett
For many Barrett homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Barrett, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly 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 installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag 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. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you go with to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Barrett, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is within your budget.
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 | $5,939 | 18.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $8,316 | 17.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $10,892 | 17.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $13,667 | 17.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $16,641 | 16.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $19,813 | 16.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $23,185 | 16.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $26,755 | 15.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and types of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from past customers.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Barrett, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Barrett?
The average cost of solar panels in Barrett is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the type 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 Barrett?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly 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 get the most savings.
Does Barrett have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility 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 what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses 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.