The state of solar in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has a self-stated mission of becoming the greenest city in America, and the city is making a go of it. It currently ranks 15th among the largest cities in the U.S. based on the quality of its energy efficiency policies and programs according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE).^*American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Philadelphia, PA scorecard. Philadelphia was also ranked among the 2020 Shining Cities for installed solar capacity.

How much solar energy does Philadelphia produce?

As of 2019, Philadelphia has 16.91 MW of total installed solar capacity, equating to 16.47 kW per capita. The city ranked first in the U.S. for per capita growth from 2018 to 2019. The city-wide program Solarize Philly has brought in 6,500 applicants over the past four years, resulting in 750 new residential solar installations with an average system size of 5 kW. The city also embraces community solar, with a 63 MW array at Temple University.^*Community Energy. Temple University SolarPhiladelphia, PA.

What are the advantages of going solar in Philadelphia?

The potential electricity cost savings are the primary advantage of going solar. Philadelphia sees about 207 sunny days per year, which is just above the national average.^*Best Places. Climate in Philadelphia, PA. However, the city and state of Pennsylvania also have excellent policies to reduce the cost of solar system installation.

Net metering allows solar customers to earn credits for any excess energy their systems produce. According to state legislation, credits for net metering must be equal to the retail rate of electricity.^*The availability of net metering varies by location and is subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information. With electricity rates 13.2% higher than the national average, most solar customers in Philadelphia see a relatively high return on investment in a solar system.

Property owners can also take advantage of the Philadelphia Solar Rebate, a one-time payment incentive the city offers to increase solar savings. According to the Philadelphia Energy Authority (PEA), the rebate saves $0.20 per watt for residential solar installation projects.^*Incentives are subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.

How much does solar cost in Philadelphia?

The cost of a home solar system can vary, even in the same city, due to a range of factors. These include:

• Quality and size of the solar system

• Local weather and HOA

• Available unshaded roof space

• Household's energy needs

To help you understand the price of going solar in your area, we've analyzed SunPower price quotes, as well as quotes gathered by third-party sources for thousands of homeowners across the country.^*Local Solar Installers 2020/2021, Solar Reviews 2021, Energy Sage 2021, Wood Mackenzie 2020, National Renewable Energy Laboratory 2020 In Philadelphia, we found that the cost of owning a 5 kW solar system ranges from $11,500 to $20,100, or in other words, from $2.30 to $4.02 per watt. And that's before considering the benefits of any available tax credits or incentives.

In addition to the beforementioned Philadelphia Solar Rebate and net metering, the federal investment tax credit (ITC) provides qualified customers a credit of 26% of the total solar installation cost, which can be used to offset tax debt.^*Tax credits are subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.

There is also the Pennsylvania solar renewable energy certificate (SREC) program. It is a performance-based incentive that allows you to reduce your solar costs even further. For every megawatt-hour of electricity your solar system generates, you generate one SREC that you can sell.^*Local incentives and rebates vary and are subject to change. Visit dsireusa.org for detailed solar policy information.

Supply and demand determine the price of an SREC. As of May 2021, the price of an SREC in Philadelphia is around $23.^*SRECTrade. Pennsylvania. May 2021.

What's the best way to go solar in Philadelphia?

When going solar, one of your objectives should be optimal cost-efficiency over the long run. If your solar system lacks quality and durability, it will not provide optimal power output and longevity.

Your solar system should also meet your needs for energy production, available roof space, appearance, and budget. For example, if you want to earn credits through net metering or sell solar renewable energy certificates, you need a system that produces more energy than your day to day needs.

Reputable solar companies will help you choose the perfect solar system through in-person or online consultations and custom solar designs. During the consultation, and before signing a contract, you should receive a system design, monthly electric bill savings estimate, price quote, and an overview of available incentives and tax credits.

SunPower can guide you through the process of going solar in Philadelphia. Simply request a free consultation with our solar experts today to start the process of switching to clean, solar energy. Then, we'll contact you to schedule a good time for the consultation. You're also welcome to call us directly at (800) 786-7693.