Solar Panel Cost Guide in Belen, NM (2024 Update)
- Belen Solar Installation Cost: $15,284
- 25-Year Savings: $29,255
- Payback Period: 9.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Belen
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Belen.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Belen typically cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 5.6-kW system would cost about $15,284 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Belen depending on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $27,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in Belen for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Belen
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,195 |
| 3 years | $-12,018 |
| 5 years | $-9,841 |
| 7 years | $-7,664 |
| 9 years | $-5,486 |
| 11 years | $-3,309 |
| 13 years | $-1,132 |
| 15 years | $1,045 |
| 17 years | $3,223 |
| 19 years | $5,400 |
| 21 years | $7,577 |
| 23 years | $9,754 |
| 25 years | $11,932 |
Top Solar Installers in Belen
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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
- 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 Belen
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Belen
For many Belen homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Belen, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $3,930. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Belen, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
Most solar installers in Belen have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.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 on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Belen, you’ll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $4.09 | $17,166 | $25,684 | 10.0 years |
| 8 kW | $4.01 | $22,448 | $34,685 | 9.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.93 | $27,510 | $43,907 | 9.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.85 | $32,352 | $53,349 | 9.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.77 | $36,973 | $63,010 | 9.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.69 | $41,375 | $72,892 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.62 | $45,557 | $82,994 | 8.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.54 | $49,518 | $93,316 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Belen, NM Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Belen?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $19,650 for a 5-kW system and $39,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Belen?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Belen?
Each state has some form 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 give you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.