Is solar worth it in Pennsylvania?

With an average payback period of 12 years and 25-year savings of $30,350, solar panels in Pennsylvania are a solid investment.

How much do solar panels cost in Pennsylvania?

The average cost of a 6kW residential solar system in Pennsylvania is $14,600 before incentives and tax credits.

How much can I save with solar panels in Pennsylvania?

Homeowners in Pennsylvania save an average of $1,214 per year with solar panels, totaling approximately $30,350 over 25 years.

Solar Panel ROI in Pennsylvania

Is solar worth it in PA?

2.1x ROI Score

12 yrs Payback Period

$1,214 Annual Savings

Key Solar Metrics for Pennsylvania

Solar Irradiance	4.61 kWh/m²/day
Estimated Annual Production (6kW system)	7,588 kWh
Average Electricity Rate	$0.160/kWh
Average System Cost	$14,600
Estimated Annual Savings	$1,214/year
Payback Period	12 years
25-Year Savings	$30,350

Pennsylvania vs National Average

Solar Irradiance 4.61 kWh/m²/day -7.1% vs national avg

National Avg Irradiance 5.12 kWh/m²/day baseline

Payback Period 12 years Slower than average

How We Calculated This

Our solar ROI calculations use data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) PVWatts API, which models solar energy production based on location-specific solar irradiance, weather patterns, and panel tilt angles. We assume a standard 6kW residential system with south-facing panels at optimal tilt.

Electricity rates are sourced from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) and represent state-level residential averages. Annual savings are calculated by multiplying estimated production by the local electricity rate. The payback period divides system cost by annual savings. The ROI score represents total 25-year savings divided by system cost.

These estimates do not include federal tax credits (currently 30% ITC), state incentives, SRECs, or utility rebates, which can significantly reduce the effective payback period. Actual results vary based on roof orientation, shading, local weather, and utility rate changes.

Compare with Nearby States

New York 10 yr payback $1,541/yr savings New Jersey 9.6 yr payback $1,478/yr savings Delaware 11.9 yr payback $1,162/yr savings Maryland 10.9 yr payback $1,317/yr savings West Virginia 14.9 yr payback $914/yr savings Ohio 12.4 yr payback $1,115/yr savings

Solar Outlook for Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's solar irradiance of 4.61 kWh/m²/day is 7.1% below the national average. With electricity at $0.160/kWh, the 12-year payback is moderate — though incentives and tax credits can significantly shorten it.

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