Solar Panel Cost Guide in Zelienople, PA (2024 Update)
- Zelienople Solar Installation Cost: $17,361
- 25-Year Savings: $15,931
- Payback Period: 15.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Zelienople
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Zelienople.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Zelienople it’s 4 per watt.The average Zelienople homeowner needs a 7.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,361 with the federal tax credit, or $24,826 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $15,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Zelienople
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,724 |
| 3 years | $-12,450 |
| 5 years | $-9,176 |
| 7 years | $-5,902 |
| 9 years | $-2,628 |
| 11 years | $645 |
| 13 years | $3,919 |
| 15 years | $7,193 |
| 17 years | $10,467 |
| 19 years | $13,741 |
| 21 years | $17,015 |
| 23 years | $20,289 |
| 25 years | $23,562 |
Top Solar Installers in Zelienople
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra time and know-how. For that reason, most people choose a solar panel installer. Since solar panels are exposed to the elements every day, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t certain which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Zelienople
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Zelienople
Although the average cost of a solar system in Zelienople is $17,361, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,550.The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down 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. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Zelienople average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a popular route because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Zelienople, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $8,886 | 15.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $12,245 | 15.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $15,804 | 15.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $19,561 | 15.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $23,517 | 14.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $27,672 | 14.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $32,025 | 14.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $36,578 | 13.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will impact not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should consider, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers 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 hire.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
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 Zelienople, PA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Zelienople?
The average cost of solar panels in Zelienople is about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Zelienople have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.
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 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.