Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sparks, NV (Feb 2023)
- Sparks Solar Installation Cost: $11,043
- 25-Year Savings: $18,951
- Payback Period: 9.2 Years
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Updated January 20, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sparks
We break down average solar pricing in Sparks.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Sparks it's $3 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.3 would cost about $11,043 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Sparks can save about $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Sparks, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sparks
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,843 |
| 3 years | $-7,443 |
| 5 years | $-5,044 |
| 7 years | $-2,644 |
| 9 years | $-245 |
| 11 years | $2,154 |
| 13 years | $4,554 |
| 15 years | $6,953 |
| 17 years | $9,353 |
| 19 years | $11,752 |
| 21 years | $14,152 |
| 23 years | $16,551 |
| 25 years | $18,951 |
Top Solar Installers in Sparks
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it requires extra energy and knowledge. That's one of the reasons most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are usually included in the cost of installation when you hire a solar contractor as well, which can save you more money after your upfront investment.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Sparks
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sparks
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Sparks is $11,043, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That's why it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will considerably impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Moreover, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that falls within your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. Though solar loans make going solar more accessible for Sparks homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final significant cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in Sparks, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.62 | $11,007 | $17,753 | 9.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.57 | $14,394 | $23,953 | 9.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.52 | $17,640 | $30,294 | 9.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.47 | $20,745 | $36,776 | 9.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.42 | $23,708 | $43,399 | 8.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.37 | $26,531 | $50,163 | 8.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.32 | $29,212 | $57,069 | 8.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.27 | $31,752 | $64,115 | 8.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- 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 completion timeline.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before deciding.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries (coming 2022)
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Sparks, NV Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sparks?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,600 for a 5-kW system and $25,200 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Sparks?
Solar panels aren't free in Sparks, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $958.67 per year.
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 needs 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.