Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tobyhanna, PA (2024 Update)
- Tobyhanna Solar Installation Cost: $16,902
- 25-Year Savings: $12,170
- Payback Period: 17.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tobyhanna
We break down average solar pricing in Tobyhanna.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Tobyhanna, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Tobyhanna homeowner needs a 6.8-kilowatt system, which would cost about $16,902 with the federal tax credit, or $24,170 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.Even with the large upfront cost, the average Tobyhanna homeowner can save around $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tobyhanna
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,556 |
| 3 years | $-12,865 |
| 5 years | $-10,174 |
| 7 years | $-7,483 |
| 9 years | $-4,792 |
| 11 years | $-2,101 |
| 13 years | $591 |
| 15 years | $3,282 |
| 17 years | $5,973 |
| 19 years | $8,664 |
| 21 years | $11,355 |
| 23 years | $14,047 |
| 25 years | $16,738 |
Top Solar Installers in Tobyhanna
Installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Tobyhanna, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Tobyhanna
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tobyhanna
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Tobyhanna: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $3,550 per kilowatt in Tobyhanna.The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Tobyhanna average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Tobyhanna, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will influence your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger 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 | $5,939 | 18.1 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $8,316 | 17.7 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $10,892 | 17.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $13,667 | 17.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $16,641 | 16.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $19,813 | 16.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $23,185 | 16.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $26,755 | 15.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Tobyhanna, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer in 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Tobyhanna, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Tobyhanna?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Tobyhanna?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels do I need 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 typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.