Are Solar Panels Worth It In PA? A Comprehensive Guide to Solar Savings
Updated August 27, 2024 | 8 min read
If you are a homeowner in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering if solar panels are worth it for your home.
In most cases, the answer is yes – but there are some details that you need to know to determine if your home is a good fit for it.
In the following guide, our Pennsylvania solar experts discuss some factors to consider when determining if solar is worth it for you.
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Factors to Consider for Solar Panels in PA
When considering the viability of solar energy for your specific circumstances, it's important to evaluate various factors that can influence whether going solar is worth it for you.
These factors encompass both financial and practical considerations that impact the overall benefits and feasibility of a solar installation. By exploring these key elements, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your energy goals, financial situation, and environmental priorities.
Cost & Value of Solar Panels in Pennsylvania
Electric Consumption
PA residents consume an average of 846 kWh of electricity every month. Though this is slightly less than the national average, it is well above the solar viability threshold. If your home meets or exceeds this average then switching to solar energy is most likely worth it!
In fact, the average cost of traditional electricity in PA is around $0.11 - $0.15 kWh. That's about 43% more expensive than solar energy in PA! See how much you could save with solar in PA with our Solar Savings Calculator.
Cost & Value
The cost of solar panels in PA is slightly cheaper than the national average at $2.55 per watt in PA versus $2.66 everywhere else in the United States.
The average cost of a complete home solar system in PA is between $11,000 - $14,000 for a traditional 5kW residential solar system. This is before applying for any PA solar incentives or solar programs, which can save homeowners thousands when switching to solar.
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Understanding Solar Payback Period in PA
The solar payback period refers to the length of time it takes for the savings on your electricity bills from a solar installation to equal or exceed the initial cost of the system. It typically depends on factors such as the upfront cost, available incentives, electricity usage, and local solar resources.
A shorter payback period means you can start enjoying greater financial benefits sooner, while a longer payback period may require a longer-term perspective for maximizing savings.
Pennsylvania's solar panel payback period averages around 9 years!
The standard range is between 8-14 years. If your financial capacity allows you to make the investment and wait some time for the returns, then solar panels are most certainly worth it.
Exploring PA Solar Incentives
Pennsylvania Solar incentives are financial benefits or discounts that encourage the adoption of solar energy by reducing the upfront costs or providing financial benefits to those who install solar systems.
These incentives can come in various forms, such as tax credits, rebates, grants, and performance-based incentives. They aim to make solar energy more affordable and accessible, ultimately promoting the transition to clean and renewable power sources.
PA has several solar incentives and solar programs available for homes & businesses to help them save money when switching to solar and in some cases, get their solar panels installed for free!
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Conclusion: Is Solar Worth It In Pennsylvania?
In a state that continues to make solar energy more affordable, accessible, and further incentivized, the answer is a resounding yes!
The solar industry in Pennsylvania has witnessed considerable growth in the last five years. Residential solar system installations are rising at an unprecedented rate in the Keystone State as electricity is becoming more expensive each year.
If you are considering solar energy for your home, contact EcoGen America for a free savings quote and explore all of your solar options
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Why Trust EcoGen?
At EcoGen America, we take pride in the credibility of our information and ensure its accuracy by cross-referencing our data with esteemed institutions such as the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Our rigorous validation process underscores our commitment to delivering trustworthy and up-to-date solar content with editorial integrity. Our partners do not direct our editorial content. Learn more
