Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sparks, NV (2023 Update)
- Sparks Solar Installation Cost: $11,038
- 25-Year Savings: $18,956
- Payback Period: 9.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sparks
We go over average solar pricing in Sparks.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Sparks generally cost around 2.52. Using this figure, a typical 6.3-kW system would cost about $11,043 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Sparks homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $18,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar installer in Sparks for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Sparks
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,938 |
| 3 years | $-10,738 |
| 5 years | $-10,538 |
| 7 years | $-10,338 |
| 9 years | $-10,138 |
| 11 years | $-9,938 |
| 13 years | $-9,738 |
| 15 years | $-9,538 |
| 17 years | $-9,338 |
| 19 years | $-9,138 |
| 21 years | $-8,938 |
| 23 years | $-8,738 |
| 25 years | $-8,538 |
Top Solar Installers in Sparks
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar panel company since trying to install solar panels by yourself can be hard. Plus, warranties and repairs from your solar panel company can protect your investment and bring down the cost of maintenance over time.
Working with a professional 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
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
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Sparks: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,520. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Sparks average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Sparks provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you select will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Sparks are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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
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.