Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pottstown, PA (2024 Update)
- Pottstown Solar Installation Cost: $16,365
- 25-Year Savings: $14,367
- Payback Period: 15.7 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Pottstown
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Pottstown.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Pottstown generally cost about 4.The average Pottstown homeowner needs a 6.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $16,365 with the federal tax credit, or $23,402 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more.Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Pottstown homeowner can save about $15,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installer in Pottstown, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Pottstown
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,122 |
| 3 years | $-12,636 |
| 5 years | $-10,150 |
| 7 years | $-7,664 |
| 9 years | $-5,178 |
| 11 years | $-2,692 |
| 13 years | $-206 |
| 15 years | $2,280 |
| 17 years | $4,766 |
| 19 years | $7,252 |
| 21 years | $9,738 |
| 23 years | $12,224 |
| 25 years | $14,710 |
Top Solar Installers in Pottstown
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you’re not certain what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. 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 Pottstown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pottstown
There are a number of factors that can influence your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $3,550. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Pottstown, where sunlight is relatively 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 more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Pottstown have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Pottstown is the company you choose to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger 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 | $8,293 | 16.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $11,455 | 16.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $14,816 | 15.7 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $18,375 | 15.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $22,134 | 15.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $26,091 | 14.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $30,247 | 14.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $34,601 | 14.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you need plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
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 Pottstown, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Pottstown?
The average cost of solar panels in Pottstown 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 model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Pottstown?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $793.31 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.