Solar panel cost in Erie, PA (2026)
A typical Erie home needs about a 8.6 kW system (~21 panels), costing roughly $25,370 upfront or $24,770 after state incentives. The 30% federal credit ended for purchases on Dec 31, 2025 (a lease/PPA can still pass it through). At 4.09 peak sun hours and Pennsylvania's 17.1¢/kWh rate, it pays back in about 14.1 years and saves an estimated $34,924 over 25 years.
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| Annual electricity use | 10,316 kWh |
| Annual solar production | 10,271 kWh |
| Gross system cost | $25,370 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $600 |
| 30% via lease/PPA instead | ~$7,611 value |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 3.6 tons (~59 trees) |
Estimates only — not a quote or financial advice. See our methodology.
What makes Erie different
Erie (population ~99,475) gets 4.09 peak sun hours per day — that's 3% less sunny than the Pennsylvania average of 4.2. Slightly less local sunlight means panels produce a touch less than the state average, so sizing and orientation matter. Electricity rates, net metering, and incentives are set at the Pennsylvania level: residents pay about 17.1¢/kWh, and full retail net metering + srec market.
| City peak sun hours | 4.09 hrs/day |
| Recommended system size | 8.6 kW (~21 panels) |
| Installed price per watt | $3/W |
| Gross system cost | $25,370 |
| Federal tax credit (purchase) | Ended Dec 31, 2025 |
| State / local incentives | – $600 |
| Net cash cost | $24,770 |
| 30% credit via lease/PPA | ~$7,611 value |
| Annual energy produced | 10,271 kWh |
| Estimated year-1 savings | $1,756 |
| Payback period | 14.1 years |
| 25-year net savings | $34,924 |
| CO₂ avoided per year | 3.6 tons (~59 trees) |
Compare with the Pennsylvania state average (8.4 kW, $24,180 net, 13.7-yr payback). Modeled estimates, June 2026 — not a quote. See methodology.
Compare real solar quotes in Erie, PA
See actual prices from vetted local installers — including lease and PPA options that still capture the 30% credit in 2026. Free, no obligation.