You need to be aware of what you are getting into when you consider installing solar panels on your home. First, solar energy in Pennsylvania is legal. However, local governments have the right to prohibit solar energy projects. Although solar energy is protected by state law as a legal use of the sun, local governments have the power to establish their own rules. Mount Joy Township is one community where solar power has encountered blowback. Pennsylvania courts have declared that solar energy can be used legally.
Solar panels cost in Pennsylvania
Going solar is one of the best ways you can save money on electricity. A solar power system will cost you about $25,000 in the beginning. However, rebates and tax credit programs can help to lower the cost. A solar power plant can help you save up to $200 per annum, depending on your usage habits. The system can be paid off in 12 years after it is installed. The system can even be worth $16,000.
Pennsylvania solar panels cost between $13,360 to $17,940 per Kilowatt. This price does not include the federal tax credit of 30%. Although the actual cost of a Pennsylvania-based solar energy system will vary, the price is much lower than those in most other states. In Pennsylvania, you can also take advantage of the state's low electricity rates to offset some of the costs.
Incentives for going solar in Pennsylvania
If you're considering installing solar panels on your home in Pennsylvania, you'll be glad to know that the state has a number of incentives that can help you make the switch to solar energy. Pennsylvania's renewable energy credit scheme (also called solar power performance payments or production incentives) is a major financial incentive for solar panel owners in the state. This program provides credits for every megawatt hour of solar energy that you generate and you sell to your local electric distribution company. These credits may be used as offsets for utility bills or sold back to grid.
The state's renewable power program offers financial incentives to commercial and residential properties. Residential solar incentives in Pennsylvania range from $0.75 per Watt of installed capacity, up to a maximum of $7,500. Commercial projects may be eligible for tax credits of between $2,500 and $52,500.
Maintenance costs of solar panels in Pennsylvania
The maintenance cost of solar panels in Pennsylvania is determined by a variety of factors. A building permit is required by the state to allow for installation. Installers will help you get the permit. Because the state does not regulate the licensing of contractors, it is up to the installer to meet the requirements set forth by the local building department.
Solar energy in Pennsylvania is relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to fossil fuels. Depending on your area, you could save up to $1000 a year by installing solar panels. Moreover, the state's climate is very variable, with hot summers and freezing winters. This means you will need higher-efficiency sun panels. In order to produce power in the event that there is a blackout, your solar panels might need to be supplemented with solar batteries. These batteries will increase the cost but they are not expensive.
Pennsylvania's return on investment for solar panels
Pennsylvania is a lower-cost state than other states. That means your investment will go a lot farther than it would cost elsewhere in the country. However, since the state experiences long winters with little sun, your investment may be less valuable than in other states. Despite this, Pennsylvania is slightly above the national average for the return on investment of solar panels.
Pennsylvania is very close to the Equator. It receives less sunshine than the rest of the country. Despite the lower amount of sunlight, the state still gets enough sunlight to power its panels. Snow accumulation can reduce solar power in Pennsylvania because of the high risk of snowfall.