Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lock Haven, PA (2024 Update)
- Lock Haven Solar Installation Cost: $17,515
- 25-Year Savings: $14,689
- Payback Period: 16.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lock Haven
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Lock Haven.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Lock Haven, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Lock Haven homeowner needs a 7.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,515 with the federal tax credit, or $25,046 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs may differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To receive a free quote from a top solar installer in Lock Haven, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Lock Haven
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,037 |
| 3 years | $-13,082 |
| 5 years | $-10,127 |
| 7 years | $-7,172 |
| 9 years | $-4,218 |
| 11 years | $-1,263 |
| 13 years | $1,692 |
| 15 years | $4,647 |
| 17 years | $7,602 |
| 19 years | $10,557 |
| 21 years | $13,512 |
| 23 years | $16,467 |
| 25 years | $19,422 |
Top Solar Installers in Lock Haven
Putting up solar panels yourself can be a dangerous task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you’re unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Lock Haven:
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 Lock Haven
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lock Haven
For many Lock Haven homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Lock Haven, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,550.The kind of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably influence costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more pricey. Further, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Lock Haven homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Lock Haven, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car 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 | $7,708 | 16.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $10,675 | 16.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $13,841 | 16.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $17,205 | 15.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $20,769 | 15.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $24,531 | 15.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $28,492 | 14.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $32,652 | 14.5 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 picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which model 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 peruse their list of options before making your decision.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
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 Lock Haven, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Lock Haven?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
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.