Solar Panel Cost in Pittsburgh, PA
Updated 2026 guide to solar panel prices, savings, and payback period in Pittsburgh.
Estimated Solar Savings
Solar Panel System Costs in Pittsburgh, PA
Below are estimated costs for different solar panel system sizes in Pittsburgh, including the 30% federal solar tax credit.
| System Size | Cost Before Incentives | Federal Tax Credit (30%) | Net Cost | Est. Annual Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $11,800 | -$3,540 | $8,260 | 5,548 kWh |
| 6 kWMost Popular | $17,700 | -$5,310 | $12,390 | 8,322 kWh |
| 8 kW | $23,600 | -$7,080 | $16,520 | 11,096 kWh |
| 10 kW | $29,500 | -$8,850 | $20,650 | 13,870 kWh |
| 12 kW | $35,400 | -$10,620 | $24,780 | 16,644 kWh |
What Affects Solar Panel Cost in Pittsburgh?
The average cost of solar panels in Pittsburgh, PA is approximately $295/watt before incentives. For a typical 6kW residential system, that means a total cost of about $17,700 before the federal tax credit.
After applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), your net cost drops to approximately $12,390.Pittsburgh homeowners typically see a payback period of 8 years and save an estimated $32,000 over 25 years.
Factors that affect your cost in Pittsburgh:
- System size: Larger systems cost more but have a lower cost per watt
- Equipment quality: Premium panels and inverters cost more but offer better efficiency
- Roof complexity: Steep roofs, multiple levels, or shading can increase installation costs
- Local labor rates: Installation costs vary within the Pittsburgh metro area
- Local permits: Permitting costs and requirements vary by municipality in Pittsburgh
- Incentives: State and local programs can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost
Solar Incentives Available in Pittsburgh
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit
30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC)
Pennsylvania homeowners can claim the 30% federal ITC and earn additional income through the state's SREC market.
State & Local Incentives
Pennsylvania Solar Renewable Energy Credits
SRECPennsylvania's Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard creates demand for SRECs from residential solar installations.
Solar Energy Program Grants
RebateSome Pennsylvania utilities offer solar rebate programs for customers in their service territories.
Property Tax Exemption
Property TaxPennsylvania allows local jurisdictions to exempt solar energy systems from property tax increases.
Net Metering
Pennsylvania requires electric distribution companies to offer net metering for residential solar systems up to 50 kW. Credits are provided at the full retail rate.
AvailableSRECs
Pennsylvania has an SREC market driven by its Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard. Solar system owners earn one SREC per MWh and can sell them to utilities or on the open market.
Est. Value: $20-$40 per SREC
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Solar Panel Cost FAQ - Pittsburgh, PA
The average cost of solar panels in Pittsburgh is approximately $2.95 per watt before incentives. A typical 6kW residential system costs about $17,700 before the 30% federal tax credit, bringing the net cost to around $12,390.
The typical payback period for solar panels in Pittsburgh is approximately 8 years. After that, you'll enjoy free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of your system's life, saving an estimated $32,000 over 25 years.
Pittsburgh homeowners can take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, which reduces your system cost by 30%. Pennsylvania also offers net metering, SRECs, and various state-level incentive programs. Check our incentives page for the complete list.
Pittsburgh homeowners can save an estimated $32,000 over 25 years by going solar. Actual savings depend on your electricity usage, system size, roof orientation, and available incentives. With electricity rates averaging $0.16/kWh in Pennsylvania, solar provides significant long-term savings.
Solar Costs in Other Pennsylvania Cities
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