Solar Panel Cost Guide in Benson, AZ (Mar 2023)
- Benson Solar Installation Cost: $9,427
- 25-Year Savings: $26,853
- Payback Period: 6.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Benson
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Benson.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Benson generally cost about 2.61. The average solar panel system size in Benson is around 5.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $9,427 for a solar installation, or $13,481 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs will look different based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $27,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Benson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,976 |
| 3 years | $-5,074 |
| 5 years | $-2,171 |
| 7 years | $731 |
| 9 years | $3,634 |
| 11 years | $6,536 |
| 13 years | $9,439 |
| 15 years | $12,341 |
| 17 years | $15,244 |
| 19 years | $18,146 |
| 21 years | $21,049 |
| 23 years | $23,951 |
| 25 years | $26,853 |
Top Solar Installers in Benson
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to use a solar installation company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. A solar company can also help save you money over time by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Benson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Benson
There are several factors that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,610 per kilowatt in Benson. The model of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will greatly affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Furthermore, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Benson to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Benson is the company you choose to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in Benson know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.71 | $11,400 | $30,768 | 6.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.66 | $14,908 | $41,317 | 6.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.61 | $18,270 | $52,011 | 6.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.56 | $21,486 | $62,852 | 6.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.51 | $24,555 | $73,839 | 6.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.45 | $27,478 | $84,972 | 6.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.40 | $30,255 | $96,251 | 6.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.35 | $32,886 | $107,677 | 5.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Benson, AZ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Benson?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,050 for a 5-kW system and $26,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Benson?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
How will having solar panels impact my property value?
Solar panels can increase your property's value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing solar panels."
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.