Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sandia Heights, NM (2023 Update)
- Sandia Heights Solar Installation Cost: $10,475
- 25-Year Savings: $30,917
- Payback Period: 6.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sandia Heights
We go over average solar pricing in Sandia Heights.
In Sandia Heights, solar panels cost about 2.68 per watt on average. The average Sandia Heights homeowner needs a 5.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $10,468 with the federal tax credit, or $14,969 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and your own solar costs 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 payback for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $28,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Sandia Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,337 |
| 3 years | $-10,061 |
| 5 years | $-9,785 |
| 7 years | $-9,509 |
| 9 years | $-9,233 |
| 11 years | $-8,957 |
| 13 years | $-8,681 |
| 15 years | $-8,405 |
| 17 years | $-8,129 |
| 19 years | $-7,854 |
| 21 years | $-7,578 |
| 23 years | $-7,302 |
| 25 years | $-7,026 |
Top Solar Installers in Sandia Heights
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it involves extra energy and knowledge. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another good thing about using a reliable solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Sandia Heights, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
See all of the solar companies in Sandia Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sandia Heights
The cost of installing a solar system in Sandia Heights can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar 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 about $2,680 per kilowatt in Sandia Heights. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Sandia Heights average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Sandia Heights offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you select will impact your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger 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 | $32,772 | 6.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.73 | $15,308 | $43,996 | 6.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.68 | $18,760 | $55,370 | 6.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.63 | $22,062 | $66,895 | 6.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.57 | $25,213 | $78,569 | 6.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.52 | $28,215 | $90,393 | 5.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,067 | $102,368 | 5.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.41 | $33,768 | $114,493 | 5.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly impacts your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you choose.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
EcoWatch's Sandia Heights, NM Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sandia Heights?
The average cost of solar panels in Sandia Heights is about $13,400 for a 5-kW system and $26,800 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Sandia Heights 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 give you credit toward your future energy bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out 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 house 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.