How To Get Free Solar Panels Installed in Pennsylvania
Updated August 30, 2024 | 9 min read
If you are a homeowner in Pennsylvania, there is a good chance that you qualify for a free solar panel installation for your home or business! This guide will help you find out if you qualify and how to get started with finding free solar in PA.
Step 1: Review Your Options
There are several programs that offer free solar panel systems and installations to Pennsylvania residents. Your options depend on a number of factors such as where you live, the type of energy system you need, and your income status.
Based on these factors, you may also qualify for even more financial benefits like rebates and tax credits. The following are some of the most popular and beneficial programs currently available in Pennsylvania…
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Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
The most common path to "free" solar is a Power Purchase Agreement directly between you and a state-licensed solar energy company. Under a "PPA", the solar company absorbs the full cost of the solar panel equipment and installation for you.
The solar company is technically the owner of the equipment, however, they are responsible for providing you with electricity produced from your home for a guaranteed fixed rate (unlike the unpredictable rising costs of traditional utilities). They are also responsible for any continued maintenance or repairs the solar panel systems may require.
This can be a great option if you don’t want to buy or simply can’t afford to buy the solar panels outright. Even though the homeowner isn’t purchasing the actual solar system, they still enjoy the benefits of solar energy systems and save money on their electricity bills.
Find out if you qualify for Pennsylvania savings programs!
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What is the Pennsylvania Sunshine Program?
The PA Sunshine Solar Program was launched in 2008 as part of the Alternative Energy Investment Act by the Department of Environmental Protection. This landmark program allocated $100 Million in rebates directly for homeowners and small businesses who adopt solar electric (photovoltaic), solar hot water projects, and battery backup systems. For PA residents who meet certain eligibility requirements, this can be an excellent way to obtain a state-licensed solar panel installation at no cost.
While PA Sunshine is the leading state program, many local counties offer their own solar incentives program as well, each with unique eligibility requirements. Considering how specific each program is to the details of your home, we strongly suggest you speak with a local solar expert to review all of your best options.
Find out if you qualify for Pennsylvania savings programs!
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Additional Financial Benefits
In addition to these programs, there are many financial benefits for homeowners in Pennsylvania who switch to solar energy. Some of the biggest Pennsylvania solar incentives and benefits are:
Federal Tax Credit: Formerly known as the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), the federal solar tax credit program was extended in 2022 and renamed the Residential Clean Energy Credit. Homeowners who install solar can claim a massive federal solar tax credit worth 30% of the gross system cost (including panels, related equipment, wiring, installation, permits, and fees). That means that if the gross system cost is $20,000, your federal tax credit would be a whopping $6,000!
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs): Solar alternative energy credits are sold separately from the physical electricity that your solar panels produce and distribute back to the grid. These credits come in the form of deductions from your bills or can even be sold for monetary payment based on market value. This is a great way to make some passive income from your solar panels and increase your solar savings!
Property Tax Exemptions: Homeowners with solar can receive a property tax exemption for the increased value of their home with a solar energy system. This allows homeowners to increase their property values without increasing their taxes.
Find out if you qualify for Pennsylvania savings programs!
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Step 2: Find Out if Your Home Qualifies
Depending on where you live, your home may qualify for several different solar savings or free solar installers programs, each with unique advantages. We strongly recommend you speak with a local solar expert regarding your options before installation. If you begin an installation without applying for the right programs, you may lose out on massive savings!
Step 3: Get a State-Licensed Installation
Working with a state-licensed installer is the best way to ensure your start for an energy independence solar system is installed safely, securely, and most importantly, legally. Setting up a cutting-edge solar system and connecting it with your utility company’s grid is no simple DIY project. Be sure only to evaluate options provided by licensed and insured solar panel installers.
Contact our local Pennsylvania solar experts and we’ll walk you through the whole process, from qualification to installation!
Find out if you qualify for Pennsylvania savings programs!
Please enter a zip code
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