Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lower Swatara, PA (2024 Update)
- Lower Swatara Solar Installation Cost: $16,690
- 25-Year Savings: $12,837
- Payback Period: 16.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lower Swatara
We break down average solar pricing in Lower Swatara.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Lower Swatara it’s 4 per watt.The average Lower Swatara homeowner needs a 6.7-kilowatt system, which would cost about $16,690 with the federal tax credit, or $23,867 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Lower Swatara can save about $14,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in Lower Swatara for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Lower Swatara
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,413 |
| 3 years | $-12,859 |
| 5 years | $-10,304 |
| 7 years | $-7,750 |
| 9 years | $-5,196 |
| 11 years | $-2,641 |
| 13 years | $-87 |
| 15 years | $2,467 |
| 17 years | $5,022 |
| 19 years | $7,576 |
| 21 years | $10,131 |
| 23 years | $12,685 |
| 25 years | $15,239 |
Top Solar Installers in Lower Swatara
Many homeowners decide to use a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels on your own can be a lot of work. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel installer can protect your investment and reduce the cost of maintenance over time.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. 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 Lower Swatara
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lower Swatara
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Lower Swatara is $16,690, 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 keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,550.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Lower Swatara, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Lower Swatara have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, 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 | $6,671 | 17.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $9,292 | 17.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $12,112 | 16.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $15,131 | 16.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $18,348 | 16.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $21,765 | 15.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $25,380 | 15.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $29,194 | 15.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will be a major factor in determining 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 a few important things you should consider, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. While 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 deciding.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good 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.
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
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 Lower Swatara, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Lower Swatara?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go 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 switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Lower Swatara?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.