Is Solar Worth It in Pennsylvania?
Solar in Pennsylvania is a different calculation than New Jersey. The rates, utilities, and incentive structure aren't the same, and an honest answer reflects that.
Last updated 2026-08-19
PA is not NJ
What's different in Pennsylvania
- Utilities — PECO, PPL, Met-Ed, Penelec, and others serve different parts of the state.
- Electric rates — vary by utility and supplier.
- Net metering — Pennsylvania requires net metering for qualifying systems, but terms can differ by utility. See Net Metering.
- State incentives — Pennsylvania does not currently have a state solar incentive program comparable to New Jersey's SREC-II structure. The economics lean more on electricity savings and the federal credit.
- The federal 30% tax credit — applies to qualifying owned residential systems regardless of state.
What still drives the decision
- Your annual kWh usage — the system follows the usage.
- Your roof — direction, shade, age, available area.
- Your utility rate — the higher your rate, the more each avoided kWh is worth.
- Ownership — owned systems keep the federal credit; leases typically don't (see Ownership vs Leasing).
- Financing — dealer fees and interest can quietly change the real cost.
Where PA can still make sense
Even without a state SREC-style program, owned solar on a suitable PA roof can offset a meaningful chunk of a homeowner's electric bill — especially in higher-rate areas. Worth running honest numbers, not assuming a number. See How Much Does Solar Cost in Pennsylvania?.
For PECO-specific background, see Solar for PECO Customers.
Next step
Want to see how a solar system could work on your home?
Upload your electric bill and request a free solar assessment.
About Charles Brogden
Charles Brogden works directly with homeowners through AllSeason Solar & Roofing, helping customers understand solar system design, equipment, roofing considerations and available solar options.
Serving homeowners throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.