Solar Panel Cost Guide in Elizabeth, PA (2024 Update)
- Elizabeth Solar Installation Cost: $17,320
- 25-Year Savings: $11,492
- Payback Period: 18.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Elizabeth
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Elizabeth.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Elizabeth, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Because a 7.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Elizabeth, the average price of going solar will be about $17,320 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual 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.Despite the large initial cost, the average Elizabeth homeowner can save around $13,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installer in Elizabeth, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Elizabeth
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,960 |
| 3 years | $-13,241 |
| 5 years | $-10,521 |
| 7 years | $-7,801 |
| 9 years | $-5,081 |
| 11 years | $-2,361 |
| 13 years | $358 |
| 15 years | $3,078 |
| 17 years | $5,798 |
| 19 years | $8,518 |
| 21 years | $11,238 |
| 23 years | $13,958 |
| 25 years | $16,677 |
Top Solar Installers in Elizabeth
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Elizabeth
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Elizabeth
For many Elizabeth homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Elizabeth, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $3,550 per kilowatt in Elizabeth.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Elizabeth, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Elizabeth homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s important to take that into consideration as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you select will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $5,097 | 18.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $7,193 | 18.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $9,488 | 18.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $11,982 | 17.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $14,675 | 17.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $17,567 | 17.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $20,657 | 16.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $23,947 | 16.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system 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 tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
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 Elizabeth, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Elizabeth?
The average cost of solar panels in Elizabeth 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.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Elizabeth?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get 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.
Is it worth going solar in Elizabeth?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.