Solar Panel Cost Guide in East Buffalo, PA (2024 Update)
- East Buffalo Solar Installation Cost: $17,159
- 25-Year Savings: $8,098
- Payback Period: 21.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in East Buffalo
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in East Buffalo.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in East Buffalo, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in East Buffalo, most homeowners require a 6.9-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $17,159, or $24,537 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in East Buffalo based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in East Buffalo can save about $11,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in East Buffalo
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,052 |
| 3 years | $-13,837 |
| 5 years | $-11,621 |
| 7 years | $-9,406 |
| 9 years | $-7,191 |
| 11 years | $-4,976 |
| 13 years | $-2,761 |
| 15 years | $-546 |
| 17 years | $1,670 |
| 19 years | $3,885 |
| 21 years | $6,100 |
| 23 years | $8,315 |
| 25 years | $10,530 |
Top Solar Installers in East Buffalo
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners choose to use a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a time-consuming project. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel installer can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance over the lifespan of your panels.
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 East Buffalo
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in East Buffalo
There are several factors that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s important to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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 will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many East Buffalo homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.It’s wise to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you select will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in East Buffalo are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 | $3.69 | $15,506 | $2,240 | 21.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $3,384 | 21.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $4,727 | 21.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $6,269 | 20.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $8,009 | 20.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $9,949 | 19.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $12,087 | 19.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $14,424 | 18.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably impacts 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: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 East Buffalo, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in East Buffalo?
The average cost of solar panels in East Buffalo 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 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 East Buffalo?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it usually 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 option if you want to get the most savings.
Is it worth going solar in East Buffalo?
Solar panels can be a great investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in East Buffalo?
Even 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 how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose 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.