Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chinle, AZ (2024 Update)
- Chinle Solar Installation Cost: $12,035
- 25-Year Savings: $21,009
- Payback Period: 9.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chinle
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Chinle.
In Chinle, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.Because a 5.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Chinle, the average price of going solar will be about $12,035 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely look different based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average Chinle homeowners see about $21,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a top solar company in Chinle, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Chinle
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,324 |
| 3 years | $-6,903 |
| 5 years | $-3,481 |
| 7 years | $-60 |
| 9 years | $3,361 |
| 11 years | $6,783 |
| 13 years | $10,204 |
| 15 years | $13,625 |
| 17 years | $17,046 |
| 19 years | $20,468 |
| 21 years | $23,889 |
| 23 years | $27,310 |
| 25 years | $30,732 |
Top Solar Installers in Chinle
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra labor and know-how. That's why almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another great thing about using a reliable solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar investment.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Chinle, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Chinle
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chinle
The cost of installing a solar system in Chinle can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Chinle, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a solid route because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Chinle is the company you get to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different costs.Additionally, some companies in Chinle have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $3.19 | $13,410 | $20,061 | 10.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.13 | $17,536 | $27,092 | 9.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.07 | $21,490 | $34,295 | 9.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.01 | $25,272 | $41,670 | 9.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.95 | $28,883 | $49,216 | 9.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.89 | $32,321 | $56,935 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.82 | $35,587 | $64,825 | 8.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.76 | $38,682 | $72,888 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Chinle, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Chinle, AZ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chinle?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $15,350 for a 5-kW system and $30,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Chinle have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.