Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chestnuthill, PA (2024 Update)
- Chestnuthill Solar Installation Cost: $16,902
- 25-Year Savings: $12,599
- Payback Period: 17.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chestnuthill
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Chestnuthill.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Chestnuthill it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Chestnuthill is around 6.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,902 for a solar installation, or $24,170 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of going solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Even with the large initial cost, the average Chestnuthill homeowner can save around $14,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Chestnuthill
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,613 |
| 3 years | $-13,036 |
| 5 years | $-10,459 |
| 7 years | $-7,882 |
| 9 years | $-5,305 |
| 11 years | $-2,728 |
| 13 years | $-150 |
| 15 years | $2,427 |
| 17 years | $5,004 |
| 19 years | $7,581 |
| 21 years | $10,158 |
| 23 years | $12,735 |
| 25 years | $15,313 |
Top Solar Installers in Chestnuthill
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 Chestnuthill
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chestnuthill
Though the average cost of a solar system in Chestnuthill is $16,902, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need, 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 $3,550. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Chestnuthill, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.It’s a good idea to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can play a part in determining the cost. Chestnuthill’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering 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 | $3.69 | $15,506 | $6,317 | 17.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $8,821 | 17.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $11,523 | 17.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $14,424 | 16.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $17,524 | 16.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $20,822 | 16.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $24,320 | 15.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $28,016 | 15.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will influence not only your overall 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: When reading over your solar company’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
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 Chestnuthill, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chestnuthill?
The average cost of solar panels in Chestnuthill is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Chestnuthill?
Solar panels aren’t free in Chestnuthill, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Chestnuthill?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation 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 often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although 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 decide to replace them once you've had 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.