Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sandia Heights, NM (2024 Update)
- Sandia Heights Solar Installation Cost: $15,361
- 25-Year Savings: $30,917
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sandia Heights
Here’s how much it might cost to go solar in Sandia Heights.
The average cost of solar panels in Sandia Heights is 4 per watt.Because a 5.6-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Sandia Heights, the average price of going solar will be about $15,361 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.Even with the high upfront cost, the average Sandia Heights homeowner can save around $28,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Sandia Heights, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sandia Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,272 |
| 3 years | $-12,095 |
| 5 years | $-9,918 |
| 7 years | $-7,740 |
| 9 years | $-5,563 |
| 11 years | $-3,386 |
| 13 years | $-1,209 |
| 15 years | $969 |
| 17 years | $3,146 |
| 19 years | $5,323 |
| 21 years | $7,500 |
| 23 years | $9,677 |
| 25 years | $11,855 |
Top Solar Installers in Sandia Heights
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Local solar companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can take advantage of and by offering warranties and repairs.
Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Sandia Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sandia Heights
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Sandia Heights: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar panel system in Sandia Heights, 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 figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,930 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Sandia Heights, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable choice because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Sandia Heights, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and choose a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into 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 | $4.09 | $17,166 | $27,312 | 9.6 years |
| 8 kW | $4.01 | $22,448 | $36,856 | 9.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.93 | $27,510 | $46,620 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.85 | $32,352 | $56,605 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.77 | $36,973 | $66,809 | 8.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.69 | $41,375 | $77,233 | 8.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.62 | $45,557 | $87,878 | 8.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.54 | $49,518 | $98,743 | 8.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar panels, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies offer different panels.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
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 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 $19,650 for a 5-kW system and $39,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Sandia Heights?
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 electricity 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 take a 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 get 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.