1. How does solar protect Pennsylvania homeowners from rising electricity rates?

Going solar with The Solar Squad means producing your own power instead of buying as much from your utility. In PA utility rates from providers like PPL, Met-Ed, PECO, and West Penn Power tend to increase over time ... your solar production offsets that exposure. Solar doesn’t eliminate your utility, but it stabilizes a large portion of your annual electric cost rather than letting it climb unchecked.

For example, two recent Solar Squad installation in Central PA, offsets a projected $48,969 in long-term utility costs compared to historical rate trends. While another offsets a whooping $86,698 is long-term utility costs compared to historical rate trends!! Of course, you actual results vary based on your electricity usage, and system design. *Actual Clients shown below

2. Does solar really lock in my electric costs over time?

Yes!! Residential solar in Pennsylvania allows homeowners to produce electricity at a predictable, fixed production cost for the life of the system. While electricity rates from providers like PPL, Met-Ed, PECO, and West Penn Power can rise over time, the cost of producing energy from your solar system remains stable.

Solar does not eliminate your utility bill entirely, many bills have admin fees you will be responsible for, thats on them ... but it significantly reduces exposure to future rate increases.

Over 25+ years, that long-term price stability can provide meaningful savings and protection against inflation-driven electricity rate changes.

3. Why are homeowners in Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, State College, Clearfield and across Pennsylvania choosing solar?

Homeowners across Pennsylvania ... including Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, State College, Clearfield, and surrounding communities are turning to residential solar to reduce exposure to rising electricity rates and gain greater control over their long-term energy costs.

Utility bills can fluctuate based on rate adjustments, supply costs, and most notably inflation. Solar allows families to produce a portion of their own electricity at a predictable production cost, lowering dependence on the traditional power grid.

Beyond savings, many Pennsylvania homeowners choose solar for long-term financial stability, energy independence, and increased home value.

The Solar Squad focuses on clear education, realistic projections, and transparent system design so families can make decisions based on real numbers — not pressure.

4. What makes The Solar Squad different from other solar companies?

The Solar Squad is a vertically integrated solar installation company serving Pennsylvania.

That means we handle every step of the process in-house ... from consultation and system design to permitting, installation, utility interconnection, and long-term support.

Many solar companies rely on third-party contractors for key stages of the project. We do not. You work directly with our internal team from start to finish, with one company accountable for your system and its performance.

Homeowners across Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, State College, York, Clearfield, and surrounding communities choose The Solar Squad because we provide:

• In-house installation crews
• Direct communication — one phone number, one email, one team
• Clear system design and realistic production estimates, no B.S. or phony projections
• Ongoing local system support after installation

Our focus is transparency, quality control, and long-term accountability ... not simply closing a sale like many in the solar sales world.

5. Do you use subcontractors or third-party installers?

Nope, never. The Solar Squad does not use subcontractors or third-party installation crews for residential solar projects in Pennsylvania.

Every specialist involved in your project ... from design and permitting to installation and final interconnection ... is part of our internal team.

We maintain full control over workmanship, installation standards, and project timelines.

By keeping the entire process in-house, we ensure:

• Consistent installation quality
• Clear accountability to us and only us
• Direct communication with your installer
• Long-term service support from the same company that installed your system

This approach allows Pennsylvania homeowners to know exactly who is responsible for their solar system — before, during, and long after installation.

6. Why does an all in-house installation team matter?

In residential solar installation, communication and quality control directly impact system performance. When design, permitting, installation, and long-term support are handled by one internal team, standards are consistent and accountability is clear.

At The Solar Squad, every phase of your solar project is managed by our in-house professionals.

That means:

• Defined installation standards
• Direct communication between departments
• Faster problem resolution
• No third-party handoffs
• Clear responsibility from start to finish

Many solar companies separate sales from installation or rely on subcontracted crews.

An in-house model eliminates that disconnect.

The Solar Squad was built around the idea of delivering a family-level experience with professional-grade standards ... combining personal service with disciplined installation practices.

7. How do I know if my home is a good candidate for solar?

Determining whether your home is a good candidate for residential solar in Pennsylvania depends on several technical and financial factors. At The Solar Squad, we evaluate:

• Roof orientation and pitch
• Shade exposure throughout the year
• Roof age and condition
• Historical electricity usage
• Local utility rates (PPL, Met-Ed, PECO, West Penn Power)
• Available roof space for proper system sizing

Using this information, we design a system based on real production modeling and realistic savings projections — not generic approval guidelines.

Many large solar sales organizations rely primarily on financing or underwriting criteria to determine eligibility, not The Solar Squad!

Our in-house team performs a technical and financial analysis first, ensuring the system makes practical sense for your home before moving forward.

We offer free solar evaluations so Pennsylvania homeowners can review system design, expected production, and projected economics with no obligation.

8. Will solar increase my electric bill or lower it?

When properly designed, a residential solar system in Pennsylvania reduces the amount of electricity you purchase from your utility provider.

Your total energy cost shifts from being fully utility-dependent to being partially self-produced. In most cases, homeowners see a reduction in their overall monthly energy expense pretty quickly. However, you will typically still receive a utility bill for fixed service or administrative fees, as well as any remaining grid usage.

The goal of solar is not to add a new expense ... it is to restructure your energy costs into a more predictable and often much lower long-term monthly obligation based on your home’s actual usage and system performance.

Every Solar Squad proposal includes a detailed production model and cost comparison so you can clearly see how your total energy expense changes before making a decision.

9. What happens when utility companies raide their electricity rates?

When utilities announce rate hikes in Pennsylvania, which does happen almost yearly, most homeowners feel it immediately in their monthly bill.

Solar changes that dynamic.

Because your system produces much of your electricity at a fixed production cost, only the portion you still buy from the utility is exposed to those increases. The more your home produces, the less impact rate hikes have on your household budget.

Instead of being 100% exposed to every increase, you’re insulated, and that insulation compounds year after year.

10. What solar financing options are available with The Solar Squad?

The Solar Squad offers multiple ways to go solar in Pennsylvania — so you can choose what fits your financial goals.

We provide:

Solar PPA (Power Purchase Agreement)
• $0 down options available
• Pay only for the power your system produces
• Lock in a lower rate compared to rising utility prices

Solar Loans (through partners like Hearth)
• Own your system
• Fixed monthly payments
• Flexible terms
• Fast pre-qualification with no hard credit impact

Cash Purchase
• Highest long-term savings potential
• Full system ownership
• No financing costs

During your free solar evaluation, we walk through real numbers so you can compare savings, payment structure, and long-term value ... transparently.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. We help you choose what makes the most financial sense for your home.

We beleive in our trusted partner Hearth to give homeowners multiple financing options — including $0-down choices — so you can choose what fits your budget. Pre-qualification is fast and does not impact your credit score.

11. How does HEARTH financing work for solar?

Hearth is a trusted solar loan platform that allows Pennsylvania homeowners to explore financing options quickly and securely online.

Here’s how it works:

• Complete a short application in about 90 seconds
• Pre-qualify with a soft credit check (no impact to your credit score)
• View multiple loan offers and terms immediately
• Choose the option that fits your monthly budget

There is no obligation to accept an offer.

You simply get visibility into your options before making any decisions.

APPLY HERE IN 90 SECONDS WITHOUT IMPACTING YOUR CREDIT SCORE ...

12. Can I go solar with no upfront cost?

Yes ! Many Pennsylvania homeowners go solar with no upfront payment through financing options offered by The Solar Squad.

Depending on your home, usage, and financing selection, you may be able to install solar with $0 down and begin offsetting your electric costs immediately. Instead of a large upfront investment, your energy costs are restructured into a predictable monthly payment.

Every home is evaluated individually. We review system design, projected production, and total energy costs so you clearly understand your payment structure and expected savings before moving forward.

13. How long does the solar process take from start to finish?

Most residential solar projects in Pennsylvania take 8–12 weeks on average, depending on your municipality, utility company, and inspection timelines, some municiplaties have slower approval processes.

The typical process includes:

Free consultation and savings review
Site survey and engineering
Custom system design and planset
Local permitting approval
Professional installation (usually 1–3 days)
Utility inspection and interconnection

Permitting and utility approval timelines vary by township and provider (PPL, Met-Ed, PECO, West Penn Power), The Solar Squad handles though has professionals handling every step in-house through our own fully staffed departments.

Because our design, permitting, and installation teams work together, we avoid delays caused by third-party handoffs.

Our relationships and local experience often allow projects to move faster and more smoothly than companies relying on outside contractors.

You stay informed — we handle the coordination.

14. What happens after my solar system is installed?

Installation isn’t the end of our relationship — it’s the beginning.

After your system is activated, The Solar Squad continues to support you with:

• Ongoing system monitoring
• Performance tracking
• Assistance with utility billing questions
• Service support if anything needs attention

Because we install and service our systems in-house, you always know who to call. There’s no third-party service department or outsourced support team.

Solar is a 25+ year asset. We’re here for the long haul.

15. Why is solar considered a smart financial decision for homeowners today?

Solar shifts your energy costs from an unpredictable expense to a more controlled, long-term asset.

Utility rates in Pennsylvania have historically trended upward, and homeowners have little influence over those increases. By producing your own electricity, you reduce exposure to rate volatility and create a more stable energy cost structure.

For many families, solar improves long-term budgeting, protects against inflation-driven utility hikes, and generates meaningful savings over the 25+ year life of the system.

It’s not just about lowering a bill — it’s about improving financial predictability.

16. What happens if I move after going solar?

Solar systems are considered a permanent home improvement and typically transfer to the new homeowner during the real estate transaction — similar to a roof, HVAC system, or kitchen upgrade. It's not complicated at all.

The transfer process is routine and handled as part of standard closing procedures.

It does not create unusual complications when structured properly.

Many buyers view solar as a benefit because the home already generates electricity and often offers more predictable energy costs. Some national housing studies suggest solar-equipped homes can sell for a premium, though actual value depends on market conditions and system details.

In simple terms ... moving is not a barrier to going solar.

17. What happens if my solar system produces more electricity than I use?

In Pennsylvania, most residential solar systems are connected to the grid under net metering rules. When your system produces more electricity than your home is using, the excess power is sent back to the grid.

In return, you receive energy credits from your utility provider (such as PPL, Met-Ed, PECO, or West Penn Power). These credits can offset electricity you use later — such as at night or during lower-production months.

Over the course of a year, production and usage tend to balance out.

Proper system sizing ensures you are not dramatically over- or under-producing.

Net metering allows Pennsylvania homeowners to maximize the value of their solar production. Just another awesome reason to go solar and save.

18. Do solar panels work during cloudy days or winter in Pennsylvania?

Yes!! Solar panels generate electricity from daylight — not just direct sunshine.

While production is higher on clear summer days, modern solar systems continue to generate power during cloudy conditions and throughout Pennsylvania winters. Cold temperatures can actually improve panel efficiency, even if total daylight hours are shorter.

Snow typically slides off panels as they warm in the sun, and annual production estimates already account for seasonal variation.

Solar is designed for year-round performance in Pennsylvania’s climate.

19. What warranties come with your solar systems?

Solar systems are built to last decades and include multiple layers of protection:

• Panel performance warranties (often 25 years or more)
• Inverter manufacturer warranties
• Workmanship warranties covering installation quality

At The Solar Squad, because we install in-house, accountability remains clear.

If service is needed, you contact the same company that installed your system.

We review warranty details during your evaluation so you understand coverage and long-term protection before moving forward.

20. Will my solar system work during a power outage?

Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons. This protects utility workers who may be repairing nearby lines.

If backup power during outages is important to you, battery storage solutions can be added.

Batteries allow you to store excess energy and power essential circuits when the grid is down.

We help homeowners evaluate whether battery storage makes sense based on goals, budget, and outage frequency in your area.

21. How long do solar panels last?

Most modern solar panels are designed to produce electricity for 25–30 years or longer.

Panel performance gradually declines at a very slow rate over time, typically a fraction of a percent per year. Even after 25 years, panels commonly produce a strong percentage of their original output.

Because solar is a long-term asset, we focus on equipment quality, proper installation, and accurate production modeling to ensure durable performance in Pennsylvania conditions.

22. Is solar worth it in Pennsylvania?

For many Pennsylvania homeowners, solar is worth considering because electricity rates have historically increased over time.

Whether it makes financial sense depends on:

• Your current electricity usage
• Your utility provider
• Roof orientation and shade
• Financing structure

When properly designed, solar can reduce long-term energy costs and provide predictable pricing compared to rising utility rates.

We evaluate real numbers ...not assumptions ... so you can determine whether it makes sense for your home specifically.

23. How much do solar panels cost in Pennsylvania?

The cost of residential solar in Pennsylvania depends on system size, roof configuration, equipment selection, and financing structure.

Rather than quoting a flat, one-size-fits-all price, we design solar systems based on your home’s actual electricity usage and production needs. Larger systems that offset more energy naturally cost more upfront, but they also generate greater long-term savings.

If a solar company provides a generic estimate without reviewing your usage history, roof characteristics, and utility details, the proposal may not reflect your true costs or savings potential. Accurate system design starts with real data — not assumptions.

During your evaluation, we provide a clear cost breakdown, projected production, and long-term comparison to your utility expenses so you can make an informed decision.

Solar pricing is not one-size-fits-all ... Don't get caught getting promised one thing, then switched ... proper solar design starts with accurate usage.

When Someone Knocks On Your Door

or Cold Calls You About Solar

Solar is growing quickly across Pennsylvania ... and with that growth comes a wide range of companies and sales approaches.

Some representatives are knowledgeable and professional. Others may not fully explain how projects are structured behind the scenes.

If someone approaches you about going solar, here are a few thoughtful questions every Pennsylvania homeowner should consider asking:

1. “Are you the installation company, or a sales organization?”

Many door-to-door representatives work for marketing firms or independent sales groups rather than the company that will actually install your system.

It’s important to understand whether the company presenting the proposal will also be responsible for permitting, installation, and long-term service — or whether the project will be transferred to another installer after signing.

Knowing who ultimately stands behind your system matters.

2. “Who handles installation, service, and long-term support?”

Solar is a long-term asset. Installation quality and ongoing service responsiveness are critical.

Ask whether the company manages these phases in-house or relies on subcontractors and third-party crews. Clear accountability reduces confusion and helps ensure consistent standards throughout the project lifecycle.

3. “Will you still be involved after I sign?”

It’s reasonable to ask whether the representative you’re speaking with remains involved once the agreement is executed.

Some sales roles conclude at contract signing, while project management and service are handled separately. Understanding that structure helps set expectations.

Why These Questions Matter

Solar is not an impulse purchase — it is a 20–25 year decision tied to your home, finances, and energy costs.

Taking a few minutes to understand who is responsible for design, installation, and long-term support can prevent misunderstandings and ensure you’re making a well-informed decision.

The Solar Squad Approach

The Solar Squad is a Pennsylvania-based solar installation company with in-house teams managing design, permitting, installation, and ongoing support.

We do not transfer projects or outsource critical stages of the process.

From your initial consultation through long-term system monitoring, you work with one accountable team.

Clear communication. Defined standards. Long-term support.

Kim started The Solar Squad because she believed Pennsylvania homeowners deserved better.