Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mahoning, PA (2024 Update)

  • Mahoning Solar Installation Cost: $16,942
  • 25-Year Savings: $12,656
  • Payback Period: 17.1 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 Mahoning

Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Mahoning.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Mahoning it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Mahoning is around 6.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,942 for a solar installation, or $24,227 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

How much you pay can be above or below the average in Mahoning based on a few factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

To receive a free quote from a vetted solar company in Mahoning, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Mahoning

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-15,665
3 years $-13,111
5 years $-10,556
7 years $-8,002
9 years $-5,447
11 years $-2,893
13 years $-339
15 years $2,216
17 years $4,770
19 years $7,324
21 years $9,879
23 years $12,433
25 years $14,988

Top Solar Installers in Mahoning

Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra effort and handiness. That's why almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another perk of working with a solar company is that they can help you optimize your ROI by reducing your future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.

Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

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 Mahoning

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mahoning

Even though the average cost of a solar system in Mahoning is $16,942, your actual cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Mahoning, 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 determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,550 for each additional kilowatt you need.The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Mahoning average.

Solar Financing Terms

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Mahoning to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s important to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The remaining significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of renewable energy solutions in Mahoning, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Mahoning are more knowledgeable 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 end up saving you 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 $6,341 17.7 years
8 kW $3.62 $20,278 $8,852 17.4 years
10 kW $3.55 $24,850 $11,563 17.1 years
12 kW $3.48 $29,224 $14,472 16.7 years
14 kW $3.41 $33,398 $17,579 16.4 years
16 kW $3.34 $37,374 $20,886 16.0 years
18 kW $3.27 $41,152 $24,391 15.7 years
20 kW $3.19 $44,730 $28,095 15.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies to choose from in Mahoning, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Installation Process: When going solar, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you opt for.
  • Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
  • Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.

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 Mahoning, PA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Mahoning?

The average cost of solar panels in Mahoning 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 such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?

Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Do solar panels increase your home value?

Solar panels can increase your home value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.

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