Solar Panel Cost Guide in Reno, NV (2025 Update)
- Reno Solar Installation Cost: $13,491
- 25-Year Savings: $22,503
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Reno
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Reno.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Reno, the typical cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Reno, most homeowners require a 6.3-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $13,491, or $19,292 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $20,000 over 20 years on power bills.
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Solar savings over time in Reno
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,302 |
| 3 years | $-9,926 |
| 5 years | $-7,549 |
| 7 years | $-5,173 |
| 9 years | $-2,796 |
| 11 years | $-420 |
| 13 years | $1,957 |
| 15 years | $4,333 |
| 17 years | $6,710 |
| 19 years | $9,086 |
| 21 years | $11,463 |
| 23 years | $13,840 |
| 25 years | $16,216 |
Top Solar Installers in Reno
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring a solar panel installer can make switching to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
Working with a licensed solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Reno
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Reno
Though the average cost of a solar system in Reno is $13,491, your actual cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant 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 around $3,080 per kilowatt in Reno.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Reno, 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 in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular choice because they lower 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 a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
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 installation companies operating in Reno, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger 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 | $3.20 | $13,453 | $18,708 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.14 | $17,593 | $25,290 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.08 | $21,560 | $32,043 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.02 | $25,355 | $38,969 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.96 | $28,977 | $46,068 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.90 | $32,426 | $53,339 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.83 | $35,703 | $60,782 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.77 | $38,808 | $68,398 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a good company.
EcoWatch's Reno, NV Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Reno?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $15,400 for a 5-kW system and $30,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in Reno?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last 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 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.