Solar Panel Cost Guide in Las Cruces, NM (2023 Update)
- Las Cruces Solar Installation Cost: $10,104
- 25-Year Savings: $27,341
- Payback Period: 6.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Las Cruces
We go over average solar pricing in Las Cruces.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Las Cruces, the average cost of solar panels is 2.68 per watt. Since a 5.4-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Las Cruces, the average price of going solar will be about $10,112 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are only estimates, and the cost of going solar for you may look different based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $26,000 over 20 years on power bills.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Las Cruces for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Las Cruces
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,277 |
| 3 years | $-7,624 |
| 5 years | $-5,971 |
| 7 years | $-4,318 |
| 9 years | $-2,665 |
| 11 years | $-1,012 |
| 13 years | $641 |
| 15 years | $2,294 |
| 17 years | $3,947 |
| 19 years | $5,600 |
| 21 years | $7,253 |
| 23 years | $8,906 |
| 25 years | $10,559 |
Top Solar Installers in Las Cruces
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. Local solar installation companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can benefit from and by providing warranties and repairs.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Las Cruces
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Las Cruces
For many Las Cruces homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Las Cruces, 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
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Las Cruces, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,680 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Las Cruces, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Las Cruces homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Las Cruces, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to 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 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 | $2.79 | $11,706 | $30,009 | 7.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.73 | $15,308 | $40,312 | 6.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.68 | $18,760 | $50,766 | 6.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.63 | $22,062 | $61,369 | 6.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.57 | $25,213 | $72,122 | 6.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.52 | $28,215 | $83,026 | 6.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,067 | $94,080 | 6.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.41 | $33,768 | $105,283 | 6.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will affect not only your overall 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:
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the project timeline.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from previous customers.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry 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.
EcoWatch's Las Cruces, NM Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Las Cruces?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,400 for a 5-kW system and $26,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How much can I save on energy bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Las Cruces, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
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 larger 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.