Solar Panels in Pittsburgh. Do They Work?

Solar power is one of the fastest growing energy solutions across the United States. In regions like Arizona, Nevada, and California, solar panels thrive under abundant sunshine, often delivering homeowners a payback period of just five to seven years. In these sunny states, the economics of solar are compelling: quick ROI, substantial utility bill reductions, and minimal performance degradation over time. However, when considering solar power in a cloudier city like Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the equation becomes a bit more complicated. Solar Panels in Pittsburgh.. Does it still make sense to invest? Let’s dive deeper into how solar works, Pittsburgh’s solar potential, and whether the investment really pays off.

How Solar Panels Work and Why Sun Matters

Solar panels, or photovoltaic (PV) panels, convert sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials. The more direct sunlight they receive, the more energy they can produce. In sunny climates, panels operate at peak efficiency for most of the day, quickly generating enough power to offset installation costs.

However, in less sunny regions, panels rely more heavily on diffuse sunlight (the indirect light present even on overcast days). Modern panels are more efficient than ever, capable of producing electricity even without bright sunshine, but less sunlight means slower overall production, which naturally extends the time needed to achieve a positive ROI.

Solar Potential in Pittsburgh: Cloudy but Still Viable

Pittsburgh is often associated with gray skies, and historical weather data backs this up. According to the National Weather Service, Pittsburgh averages about 160 sunny days per year, compared to the U.S. average of 205 sunny days. The city receives roughly 4.55 kWh/m2/day of solar radiation annually lower than desert states but still workable for solar power.

Thanks to technology improvements, panels today can still capture a meaningful amount of energy even during Pittsburgh’s many overcast days. Solar companies routinely design systems to optimize production based on regional sunlight averages, ensuring panels can still perform reliably in Western Pennsylvania’s climate.

Cost to Install Solar Panels in Pittsburgh

According to EnergySage, the average cost of solar panels in Pittsburgh in 2025 is about $2.75 per watt. For a standard 7-kilowatt (kW) residential system, the total installation cost before incentives is roughly $19,250.

Homeowners are eligible for a 30% federal solar tax credit, reducing the system’s effective cost to about $13,475. Pennsylvania does not currently offer additional state incentives, but Pittsburgh homeowners can also take advantage of net metering, which credits them for excess energy sent back to the grid.

Power Savings and ROI in Pittsburgh

A 7 kW solar system in Pittsburgh can generate approximately 9,110 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year. At an average electricity rate of $0.17 per kWh, that’s about $1,548 in annual savings.

ROI Calculation:

• Net installation cost: $13,475
• Annual energy savings: $1,548
• Simple payback period: 8.7 years

After the payback period, the homeowner enjoys nearly free electricity for the remaining life of the system (minus minor maintenance costs). Over a standard 25 year panel warranty, the total utility savings could exceed $38,700, even accounting for gradual panel degradation.

Solar Panel Degradation Over Time

Solar panels degrade slowly, typically at around 0.5% efficiency loss per year. After 25 years, panels generally retain 87.5% of their original output. This degradation is factored into production forecasts, meaning Pittsburgh homeowners can still expect significant energy savings over the system’s lifespan.

It’s important to note, though, that if you extend ROI beyond 20 – 25 years, the energy yield may be noticeably lower. Some manufacturers now offer panels with warranties guaranteeing at least 90% production after 25 years, but homeowners should be aware that degradation is inevitable.

Solar Panel Warranty – What You Need to Know

Lifespan of Solar Panels

Modern solar panels are engineered for longevity. Most manufacturers estimate a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, during which panels maintain a significant portion of their original efficiency. For instance, a 20 year old panel typically operates at about 90% of its initial capacity.

Solar Panel Warranty

Manufacturers offer two primary types of warranties:

• Product Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship, usually lasting 10 to 25 years.
• Performance Warranty: Guarantees that panels will produce a certain percentage of their original output over time, often ensuring 80 – 90% efficiency at year 25.

Warranty Costs: While warranties themselves don’t typically incur direct costs, any maintenance or repairs not covered such as labor for removal and reinstallation could impact your annual energy savings. For example, if unforeseen issues arise that aren’t covered, the $1,548 estimated annual savings from a 7 kW system in Pittsburgh could be partially offset.

Roofing Concerns – Solar Panels Hidden Costs

Solar panel installation typically requires drilling into the roof structure to mount the racking system. While professional installers use flashing and sealants to prevent leaks, penetrating your roofing materials inherently introduces risks.

If your roof is nearing the end of its useful life, you should replace it before installing solar panels. Otherwise, you may face high costs later on to remove and reinstall the panels when it’s time for a new roof.

Average Roof Lifespans:

• Asphalt shingles: 20 to 30 years
• Metal roofing: 40 to 70 years
• Tile or slate: 50+ years

Given that most asphalt roofs last about 25 years, and solar panels are also a 25+ year investment, synchronizing roof replacement with solar installation is a smart move.

Key Roofing Risks:

• Water leaks due to poor sealing
• Added roof load (especially on older structures)
• Limited roofer experience: many roofers are not familiar with working around installed solar panels, making future repairs more difficult and costly

Always ensure your solar installer offers a warranty covering roof leaks caused by the mounting system. In Pittsburgh, several reputable companies, like EIS Solar, emphasize proper installation to protect both the panels and your home. Read more here on a Metal Roof vs Shingle Roof in Pittsburgh.

Storm Damage Home Repairs in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, with occasional severe storms that pose risks to solar installations.

Potential Damages:

• Wind: High winds can exert substantial pressure on panels, leading to micro cracks or even structural failures if installations aren’t adequately secured.
• Hail: While panels are tested for hail resistance, large hailstones can cause significant damage, reducing efficiency or rendering panels inoperative.

Mitigation Strategies:

• Quality Installation: Ensuring that panels are installed using robust mounting systems can enhance resistance to wind and hail.
• Insurance: Homeowners should verify that their insurance policies cover storm related damages to solar installations.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodic inspections can identify and address minor damages before they escalate. 

Read more here – Storm Damage Home Repairs in Pittsburgh.

Is Solar in Pittsburgh Worth It?

Despite its cloudier climate, solar energy can still make financial sense in Pittsburgh but the decision isn’t as straightforward as in sunnier states.

Pros:

• 30% federal tax credit dramatically lowers upfront costs
• Net metering policies boost financial returns
• Long-term energy savings outweigh the initial investment
• Solar increases property value for eco conscious buyers

Cons:

• Payback period is longer (8 – 12 years)
• Lower annual energy production compared to sunnier states
• Roof condition must be carefully considered
• Potential complexities during future roof repairs or replacements
• Storm risks and warranty fine print must be understood
• Could be a longer term code violation if they begin to fail, degrade, or fall apart

Homeowners who plan to stay in their home for at least 10 to 15 years are best positioned to benefit from a Pittsburgh solar installation. 

Interesting read on Solar Panel expansion at the Pittsburgh Airport.

Final Thoughts – Smart Solar Planning Pays Off

Solar Panels in Pittsburgh; success depends on understanding the local climate, calculating your long-term ROI carefully, factoring in roof and storm risks, and planning around your roof’s lifespan. While the initial payoff is slower than in sun soaked states, the combination of modern panel efficiency, federal tax credits, and Pittsburgh’s net metering laws make solar a viable and increasingly popular choice for eco conscious homeowners.

If you’re thinking about installing solar panels and want to avoid expensive roofing surprises, be sure to consult both a qualified roofer and a reputable solar installer. Taking the time to plan carefully can ensure your investment delivers clean energy savings for decades to come.

Thinking about selling your Pittsburgh house instead of taking on costly upgrades like solar or a new roof? Contact Buys Houses today we buy homes as-is, saving you time, money, and hassle!