Solar Panel Cost Guide in Catalina, AZ (2024 Update)
- Catalina Solar Installation Cost: $10,974
- 25-Year Savings: $25,679
- Payback Period: 7.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Catalina
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Catalina.
In Catalina, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.The average solar panel system size in Catalina is around 5.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $10,974 for a solar installation, or $15,693 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary based on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.Despite the significant initial cost, the average Catalina homeowner can save around $26,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
To get a free estimate from a vetted solar installer in Catalina, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Catalina
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,309 |
| 3 years | $-5,978 |
| 5 years | $-2,647 |
| 7 years | $684 |
| 9 years | $4,015 |
| 11 years | $7,346 |
| 13 years | $10,678 |
| 15 years | $14,009 |
| 17 years | $17,340 |
| 19 years | $20,671 |
| 21 years | $24,002 |
| 23 years | $27,333 |
| 25 years | $30,664 |
Top Solar Installers in Catalina
When going solar, many homeowners opt to hire a solar installation company since handling can be a difficult project. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar company as well, which can save you more money over time.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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
See all of the solar companies in Catalina
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Catalina
Although the average cost of a solar system in Catalina is $10,974, your actual cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,070.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Catalina, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Catalina to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you select will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fits within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.19 | $13,410 | $27,722 | 8.2 years |
| 8 kW | $3.13 | $17,536 | $37,307 | 8.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.07 | $21,490 | $47,063 | 7.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.01 | $25,272 | $56,991 | 7.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.95 | $28,883 | $67,092 | 7.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.89 | $32,321 | $77,364 | 7.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.82 | $35,587 | $87,808 | 7.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.76 | $38,682 | $98,424 | 7.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a challenge, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can research your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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
EcoWatch's Catalina, AZ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Catalina?
The average cost of solar panels in Catalina is about $15,350 for a 5-kW system and $30,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Catalina?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it often 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
How will having solar panels impact my home value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home 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 a solar system."
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.