Solar Panel Cost Guide in Orchard Mesa, CO (2023 Update)
- Orchard Mesa Solar Installation Cost: $9,622
- 25-Year Savings: $19,193
- Payback Period: 8.4 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Orchard Mesa
We go over average solar pricing in Orchard Mesa.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Orchard Mesa typically cost around 2.69. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Orchard Mesa, most homeowners require a 5.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $9,622, or $13,759 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Orchard Mesa can save about $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Orchard Mesa
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-8,470 |
| 3 years | $-6,164 |
| 5 years | $-3,859 |
| 7 years | $-1,554 |
| 9 years | $751 |
| 11 years | $3,056 |
| 13 years | $5,362 |
| 15 years | $7,667 |
| 17 years | $9,972 |
| 19 years | $12,277 |
| 21 years | $14,582 |
| 23 years | $16,888 |
| 25 years | $19,193 |
Top Solar Installers in Orchard Mesa
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. Another perk of utilizing a solar installer is that they can help you make the most of your ROI by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Orchard Mesa, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Orchard Mesa
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Orchard Mesa
Although the average cost of a solar system in Orchard Mesa is $9,622, your final cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation need 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 $2,690. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Orchard Mesa, 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 a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable option because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Orchard Mesa are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $2.80 | $11,750 | $22,074 | 8.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $29,733 | 8.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $37,543 | 8.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $45,504 | 8.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $53,615 | 8.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $61,877 | 7.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $70,289 | 7.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $78,852 | 7.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Orchard Mesa, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you choose.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the cost.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Orchard Mesa, CO Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Orchard Mesa?
The average cost of solar panels in Orchard Mesa is about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Orchard Mesa?
You can't get solar panels for free in Orchard Mesa. However, you may still be able to get 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.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Orchard Mesa, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Orchard Mesa?
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 amount 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.