Solar Panel Cost Guide in Scottdale, PA (2024 Update)
- Scottdale Solar Installation Cost: $17,475
- 25-Year Savings: $8,492
- Payback Period: 20.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Scottdale
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Scottdale.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Scottdale, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Scottdale is around 7.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,475 for a solar installation, or $24,989 before the 0 federal solar 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 making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.With average savings of about $11,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Scottdale find going solar has a decent ROI.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Scottdale
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,392 |
| 3 years | $-14,226 |
| 5 years | $-12,060 |
| 7 years | $-9,894 |
| 9 years | $-7,729 |
| 11 years | $-5,563 |
| 13 years | $-3,397 |
| 15 years | $-1,231 |
| 17 years | $935 |
| 19 years | $3,101 |
| 21 years | $5,266 |
| 23 years | $7,432 |
| 25 years | $9,598 |
Top Solar Installers in Scottdale
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a challenging project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar contractor too, which can save you more money over time.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Scottdale
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Scottdale
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Scottdale: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Scottdale, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,550 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Scottdale provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system.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’re only able to 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 significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.The company’s size sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion 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 | $2,449 | 21.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $3,663 | 21.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $5,075 | 20.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $6,687 | 20.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $8,497 | 19.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $10,506 | 19.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $12,714 | 19.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $15,120 | 18.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Scottdale, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Scottdale?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, 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. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Scottdale?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it often 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 incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Does Scottdale have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.