Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sierra Vista, AZ (2024 Update)

  • Sierra Vista Solar Installation Cost: $11,093
  • 25-Year Savings: $27,864
  • Payback Period: 7.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sierra Vista

Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Sierra Vista.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Sierra Vista generally cost around 3.The average Sierra Vista homeowner needs a 5.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,093 with the federal tax credit, or $15,863 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you choose to go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average Sierra Vista homeowners see about $27,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Sierra Vista

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-9,434
3 years $-6,115
5 years $-2,796
7 years $523
9 years $3,842
11 years $7,162
13 years $10,481
15 years $13,800
17 years $17,119
19 years $20,438
21 years $23,757
23 years $27,076
25 years $30,395

Top Solar Installers in Sierra Vista

Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra time and know-how. Because of that, most homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.

Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

See all of the solar companies in Sierra Vista

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sierra Vista

There are many criteria that can determine your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.

Solar Equipment

One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $3,070 per kilowatt in Sierra Vista.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Sierra Vista average.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Sierra Vista homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can play a part in determining how much it costs. Sierra Vista’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.

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 $29,938 7.7 years
8 kW $3.13 $17,536 $40,261 7.6 years
10 kW $3.07 $21,490 $50,756 7.4 years
12 kW $3.01 $25,272 $61,423 7.3 years
14 kW $2.95 $28,883 $72,262 7.1 years
16 kW $2.89 $32,321 $83,273 7.0 years
18 kW $2.82 $35,587 $94,456 6.8 years
20 kW $2.76 $38,682 $105,811 6.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are numerous companies available in Sierra Vista, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
  • Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

Best Social Impact

Palmetto Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Certified B Corp
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Quality of installation may vary by location

EcoWatch's Sierra Vista, AZ Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sierra Vista?

The average cost of solar panels in Sierra Vista is about $15,350 for a 5-kW system and $30,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Can you get solar panels for free in Sierra Vista?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Sierra Vista. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Sierra Vista?

The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.

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.

Follow us