PennsylvaniaSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Pennsylvania averages 3.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 8.5 years. Homeowners can save $34,800 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
3.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$18,900
before incentives
Payback Period
8.5 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$34,800
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Pennsylvania
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3.15/W) | $18,900 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,670 |
| Net Cost | $13,230 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
18.36¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$139/mo
Solar Incentives in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania SRECs
Pennsylvania's Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard creates markets for Solar Renewable Energy Credits.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Pennsylvania
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18101 | Allentown | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 19101 | Philadelphia | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 19301 | Paoli | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 19601 | Reading | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 17201 | Chambersburg | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 17301 | Gettysburg | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 17601 | Lancaster | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 19001 | Abington | 3.9 hrs | $1,289 | 10.3 yrs |
| 17101 | Harrisburg | 3.8 hrs | $1,256 | 10.6 yrs |
| 18001 | Brodheadsville | 3.8 hrs | $1,256 | 10.6 yrs |
| 18201 | Hazleton | 3.8 hrs | $1,256 | 10.6 yrs |
| 15201 | Pittsburgh | 3.7 hrs | $1,222 | 10.9 yrs |
| 16001 | Butler | 3.7 hrs | $1,222 | 10.9 yrs |
| 16101 | New Castle | 3.7 hrs | $1,222 | 10.9 yrs |
| 18701 | Wilkes-Barre | 3.7 hrs | $1,222 | 10.9 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Pennsylvania
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Pennsylvania?
A typical 6kW solar system in Pennsylvania costs approximately $18,900 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,670), the net cost is approximately $13,230.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Pennsylvania?
The average solar payback period in Pennsylvania is 8.5 years, faster than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Pennsylvania have net metering?
Pennsylvania has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Pennsylvania get for solar?
Pennsylvania averages 3.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.7 hours below the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 8,322 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA