Solar Panel Cost Guide in Altoona, PA (2024 Update)
- Altoona Solar Installation Cost: $17,182
- 25-Year Savings: $18,572
- Payback Period: 13.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Altoona
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Altoona.
The average cost of solar panels in Altoona is 4 per watt.The average Altoona homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,182 with the federal tax credit, or $24,570 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average Altoona homeowners see about $17,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installer in Altoona, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Altoona
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,704 |
| 3 years | $-12,749 |
| 5 years | $-9,794 |
| 7 years | $-6,839 |
| 9 years | $-3,884 |
| 11 years | $-929 |
| 13 years | $2,025 |
| 15 years | $4,980 |
| 17 years | $7,935 |
| 19 years | $10,890 |
| 21 years | $13,845 |
| 23 years | $16,800 |
| 25 years | $19,755 |
Top Solar Installers in Altoona
Installing solar panels on your own can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Another good thing about using a vetted solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Altoona
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Altoona
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Altoona is $17,182, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Altoona, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Altoona have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $11,320 | 14.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.62 | $20,278 | $15,491 | 14.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.55 | $24,850 | $19,861 | 13.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.48 | $29,224 | $24,429 | 13.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.41 | $33,398 | $29,197 | 13.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.34 | $37,374 | $34,163 | 13.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.27 | $41,152 | $39,328 | 12.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.19 | $44,730 | $44,691 | 12.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
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
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Altoona, PA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Altoona?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,750 for a 5-kW system and $35,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.