Solar Panel Cost Guide in South Tucson, AZ (2023 Update)
- South Tucson Solar Installation Cost: $9,330
- 25-Year Savings: $22,609
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in South Tucson
We go over average solar pricing in South Tucson.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in South Tucson, the average cost of solar panels is 2.61 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 5.1-kW system would cost about $9,336 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in South Tucson based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. With typical savings of about $24,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in South Tucson find investing in solar can pay off big.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in South Tucson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,774 |
| 3 years | $-4,662 |
| 5 years | $-1,550 |
| 7 years | $1,562 |
| 9 years | $4,674 |
| 11 years | $7,786 |
| 13 years | $10,898 |
| 15 years | $14,010 |
| 17 years | $17,122 |
| 19 years | $20,234 |
| 21 years | $23,346 |
| 23 years | $26,458 |
| 25 years | $29,570 |
Top Solar Installers in South Tucson
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra energy and know-how. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
See all of the solar companies in South Tucson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in South Tucson
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that will push your cost above or below the average in South Tucson: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $2,610 per kilowatt in South Tucson. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the South Tucson average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in South Tucson to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to a higher cost 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 more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can influence how much it costs. South Tucson's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $26,124 | 7.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.66 | $14,908 | $35,125 | 7.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.61 | $18,270 | $44,271 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.56 | $21,486 | $53,564 | 7.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.51 | $24,555 | $63,003 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.45 | $27,478 | $72,588 | 6.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.40 | $30,255 | $82,320 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.35 | $32,886 | $92,197 | 6.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will affect not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
EcoWatch's South Tucson, AZ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in South Tucson?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How will solar panels impact how much my home is worth?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in South Tucson is currently $93,500, so you could be looking at a value of about $3,834 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in South Tucson is a rewarding investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.