Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tucson Estates, AZ (Mar 2023)
- Tucson Estates Solar Installation Cost: $9,336
- 25-Year Savings: $24,490
- Payback Period: 6.9 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tucson Estates
We go over average solar pricing in Tucson Estates.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Tucson Estates it's 2.61 per watt. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Tucson Estates, most homeowners require a 5.1-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $9,336, or $13,350 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $25,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To get a free quote from a vetted solar company in Tucson Estates, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tucson Estates
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-7,983 |
| 3 years | $-5,277 |
| 5 years | $-2,571 |
| 7 years | $135 |
| 9 years | $2,841 |
| 11 years | $5,547 |
| 13 years | $8,253 |
| 15 years | $10,959 |
| 17 years | $13,665 |
| 19 years | $16,371 |
| 21 years | $19,077 |
| 23 years | $21,783 |
| 25 years | $24,490 |
Top Solar Installers in Tucson Estates
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel installer can protect your investment and bring down the cost of maintenance over time.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Tucson Estates
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tucson Estates
For many Tucson Estates homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Tucson Estates, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,610. The brand of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will considerably impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Plus, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Tucson Estates offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining major cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Tucson Estates, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price 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 choose a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also is 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 | $2.71 | $11,400 | $28,341 | 7.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.66 | $14,908 | $38,080 | 7.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.61 | $18,270 | $47,966 | 6.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.56 | $21,486 | $57,998 | 6.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.51 | $24,555 | $68,175 | 6.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.45 | $27,478 | $78,499 | 6.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.40 | $30,255 | $88,970 | 6.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.35 | $32,886 | $99,586 | 6.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will impact not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, including:
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar energy system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives 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 Tucson Estates, AZ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Tucson Estates?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, 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 Tucson Estates?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 maximize your savings.
Does Tucson Estates have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
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 the amount of 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 buy 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.