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Best 5 Solar Companies in Falls, PA
The best solar company in Falls is SunPower.
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- Updated 2024-04-18 00:00:00
The Falls community is purposeful about safeguarding the planet and practicing eco-friendly lifestyles. That's why many homeowners are purchasing panels from the top solar professionals for their homes. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $810 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installation team can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. Discover Falls' best solar companies and learn vital decision-making tips on this page.
5 Best Solar Companies in Falls
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
SunPower
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
SunPower Builders
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Sunrun Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Exact Solar
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Public Service Solar, LLC
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Ranking Methodology
We assessed a multitude of Falls solar installers, using the following criteria to select the best:
- Customer reviews and feedback: Most Falls solar providers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio shows a company's dependability and responsiveness to issues.
- Certifications and licenses: Each contractor on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Falls community for a decade or longer.
- Panel brands and quality: The premier solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from reliable, innovative manufacturers.
- Warranty and service offerings: Solar companies should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each company responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer satisfaction.
- Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should use their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and optimize its performance.
Facts about Falls
- Average Max Temperature:60°F
- Solar Payback Period:15 years
- Average Daily Sunlight:53%
- Homes Powered by Solar:34
- Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,290
- Solar Power per Capita:65.9%
Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple benefits. Here are some highlights.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery backup or storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.
- Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
- Lower energy bills: Producing some or all of your own power will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Falls Homeowners?
Pennsylvania agencies and electric companies offer numerous solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of applicable solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type:Loan Program
Incentive Amount:
Residential loans/loan guarantees: $100,000
Commercial loans/loan guarantees: $2 million
Grants: Lesser of 10% of project costs or $500,000
Incentive Type:Loan Program
Incentive Amount:
Manufacturer loans: $40,000 per job created within 3 years
Manufacturer grants: $5,000 per job created within 3 years
Loans for geothermal systems: $3 per square foot of space served up to $5 million; also limited to 50% of eligible costs for residential systems.
Loans for wind energy production projects: $5 million
Grants for wind energy production projects: $1 million
Grants for feasibility studies: 50% of cost up to $175,000
Loan guarantee grants: Up to 75% of deficient funds up to $5 million
Incentive Type:Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Website:https://pennaeps.com/
Incentive Amount:
Varies based on market conditions; during 2015 the market price for PA-sourced SRECs has ranged from approximately $32 - $55/MWh ($0.032 - $0.055/kWh) although individual trades have taken place at substantially lower and higher prices.
Incentive Type:Grant Program
Incentive Amount:
Vary by project, but program generally requires matching funds at least equivalent to DCED funding
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:https://www.ecowatch.com/solar/ev-appliance-solar-tax-credit-calculator
Incentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Falls
Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar system. Consider each of these criteria in your business search.
Licensing and Training
There are no state-level contracting licenses issued in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, so each city or county can set its own requirements and terms. Solar providers can also earn accreditations from standards organizations and trade groups. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Falls
The style of solar panels you purchase dictates how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.
You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can increase your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar contractors provide these extras, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's a priority for you.
You can expect to pay about $17,750 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Falls. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Falls solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,133.57 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $884.19 |
Thin-Film | $516.91 |
Solar Battery | $725.49 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,720.57 |
Financing Solar Energy in Falls
Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar loans. We suggest making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each business you're considering about the payment plans it offers. A staff member can help you determine the optimal option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Falls.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.5 years |
2 kW | 5.0 years |
5 kW | 12.5 years |
10 kW | 25.0 years |
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar in Falls
On average, Falls homeowners shell out approximately $1,290 per year on power bills. Once you pay off your solar array, you could save $809.47 per kilowatt you produce.
Yes, solar energy is readily available in Falls. A growing number of area homes generate or access solar power on-site or through utility grids, and Pennsylvania has about 4231 jobs making up its solar economy.
Yes, new solar systems lead to higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could boost your property value by $12,000.
Your solar job's duration will depend on its complexity and size, as well as Falls' permit and inspection procedures. It could take a couple of weeks to two months on average.
A typical Falls solar home has a 6.6-kW panel array, but you might need a smaller system if your energy needs are higher. Solar experts will consider your property's power usage and roof shading to suggest the appropriate system for you.
The average payback period for a solar loan in Falls is 15.3 years. By paying off extra principal each month, you can shorten the payback period and own your system faster.
A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a contract between you and your provider. They install, own, and maintain the panels, and you purchase the generated electricity from them for 10–25 years. There will usually be options to buy out early to own your system and extend the agreement.
In contrast, solar loans can come from specialty lenders, installer, the government and local banks. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are greater, and you'll be responsible for taking care of the system, you'll also have total ownership and can apply for many more financial rewards.
Sources
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