Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tunkhannock, PA (2024 Update)
- Tunkhannock 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 Tunkhannock
We break down average solar pricing in Tunkhannock.
In Tunkhannock, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 6.8-kW system would cost about $16,902 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact 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 solar installer you go with.With typical savings of about $14,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Tunkhannock find going solar has a decent ROI.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tunkhannock
| 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 Tunkhannock
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and know-how. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, going with a solar company can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on solar panel installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Tunkhannock
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tunkhannock
There are a number of criteria that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Tunkhannock, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,550 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In general, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Tunkhannock 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 total 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 more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can affect how much you pay. Tunkhannock’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Tunkhannock have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $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 a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: It’s important to read through your solar installer’s contract carefully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
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 Tunkhannock, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Tunkhannock?
The average cost of solar panels in Tunkhannock 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 things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Tunkhannock?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Tunkhannock, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power 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 $714.85 per year.
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 opt to replace them after having 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.