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Solar Panel Cost in Pennsylvania (2026)

The short answer: in Pennsylvania, solar costs about $2.50–$3.30 per watt installed. A typical 8 kW home system runs roughly $22,000–$26,000. The 30% federal tax credit ended Dec. 31, 2025 for purchased systems, but Pennsylvania's full-retail net metering plus SREC income still help solar pay off.

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Pennsylvania solar cost at a glance

System sizeTypical homeEstimated cost
6 kWSmaller / efficient home~$18,500
8 kWAverage Pennsylvania home~$24,000
10 kWLarger / high-usage home~$30,000

Pennsylvania's average residential electricity rate is around 18¢/kWh and the state gets about 3.9 peak sun hours/day. Rising utility rates are the main thing working in solar's favor now that the federal credit is gone.

Pennsylvania incentives in 2026

  • Full retail net metering — the PA Public Utility Commission requires investor-owned utilities to credit excess solar at the full retail rate (1:1). Note: PPL has proposed changes that could take effect around mid-2026; installing before any approved change may grandfather you into the current 1:1 rate.
  • SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits) — you earn one SREC per 1,000 kWh produced and can sell them for ongoing income (roughly $25–$40 each lately, or about $225–$400/yr for a 6 kW system).
  • No state income-tax credit — Pennsylvania doesn't offer one, so the federal credit's end isn't offset by a state credit here; SRECs + net metering carry the value.

(Programs and rates change — confirm with the PA PUC, your utility, and a tax professional.)

How long does solar take to pay off in Pennsylvania?

With full net metering and SREC income — but no federal credit — most Pennsylvania homeowners see payback in about 10–13 years, then largely free power for the rest of the system's 25+ year life. SREC sales and a higher electric bill shorten that.

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Frequently asked questions

What are SRECs and are they worth it in PA?

SRECs are tradable credits you earn for the solar energy you produce; selling them adds ongoing income on top of bill savings. A typical home earns a few hundred dollars a year at recent prices.

Did Pennsylvania lose the federal solar tax credit?

The 30% federal residential credit ended nationwide on Dec. 31, 2025 for purchased systems. Pennsylvania's net metering and SREC market still apply.

Is net metering changing in Pennsylvania?

Statewide 1:1 net metering remains in place, though some utilities (e.g., PPL) have proposed changes; installing sooner may lock in current terms.

Solar cost in other states: National guide · California · Texas · Florida · Arizona · New York · New Jersey · North Carolina · Massachusetts · Wisconsin

Solar Cost Advisor is a free, neutral tool — we don't sell panels. We help Pennsylvania homeowners understand real solar costs and, if they choose, connect with vetted local installers. Get your free estimate →

Solar Cost Advisor™ is a brand of LTR Advisory LLC. Estimates are general information, not a quote or tax advice. Home