Solar Panel Cost Guide in East Lampeter, PA (2024 Update)

  • East Lampeter Solar Installation Cost: $16,331
  • 25-Year Savings: $12,580
  • Payback Period: 16.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in East Lampeter

We break down average solar pricing in East Lampeter.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in East Lampeter, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Since a 6.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in East Lampeter, the average price of going solar will be about $16,331 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.

To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in East Lampeter

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-14,986
3 years $-12,295
5 years $-9,604
7 years $-6,912
9 years $-4,221
11 years $-1,530
13 years $1,161
15 years $3,852
17 years $6,544
19 years $9,235
21 years $11,926
23 years $14,617
25 years $17,308

Top Solar Installers in East Lampeter

Trying to install solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.

If you're on the hunt for a solar company in East Lampeter, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Lampeter

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in East Lampeter

There are several criteria that can play into your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in East Lampeter, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,550 for each additional kilowatt you need.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose 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 over time on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the East Lampeter average.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are offered by most installers in East Lampeter, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it’s crucial to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout East Lampeter, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.

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 $6,688 17.5 years
8 kW $3.62 $20,278 $9,315 17.1 years
10 kW $3.55 $24,850 $12,141 16.8 years
12 kW $3.48 $29,224 $15,166 16.5 years
14 kW $3.41 $33,398 $18,389 16.1 years
16 kW $3.34 $37,374 $21,811 15.8 years
18 kW $3.27 $41,152 $25,432 15.5 years
20 kW $3.19 $44,730 $29,252 15.1 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of options before making your decision.
  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
  • Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's East Lampeter, PA Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in East Lampeter?

The average cost of solar panels in East Lampeter 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 like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in East Lampeter?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.

How long do solar panels last in East Lampeter?

Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.

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