Solar Panel Cost Guide in Brownsville, TX (2023 Update)
- Brownsville Solar Installation Cost: $13,294
- 25-Year Savings: $19,682
- Payback Period: 10.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Brownsville
We go over average solar pricing in Brownsville.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Brownsville generally cost about 2.69. The average solar panel system size in Brownsville is around 7.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,294 for a solar installation, or $19,010 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Brownsville 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. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Brownsville, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Brownsville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,975 |
| 3 years | $-9,337 |
| 5 years | $-6,699 |
| 7 years | $-4,061 |
| 9 years | $-1,423 |
| 11 years | $1,215 |
| 13 years | $3,853 |
| 15 years | $6,491 |
| 17 years | $9,129 |
| 19 years | $11,767 |
| 21 years | $14,405 |
| 23 years | $17,043 |
| 25 years | $19,682 |
Top Solar Installers in Brownsville
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. The payback period on a solar system will vary based on factors like your location and energy consumption, but working with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
Working with a professional solar installer 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 Brownsville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Brownsville
Cost is usually 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 Brownsville: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,690. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Brownsville, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. Although solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Brownsville homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panels can impact how much it costs. Brownsville's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.80 | $11,750 | $16,288 | 10.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $22,019 | 10.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $27,900 | 10.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $33,932 | 9.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $40,115 | 9.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $46,448 | 9.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $52,932 | 9.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $59,566 | 9.1 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 brands and price points. To help you decide on the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to install plays a part in which company you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Brownsville, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Brownsville?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Brownsville?
You can't get solar panels for free in Brownsville. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How will installing solar panels impact the value of my home?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Brownsville is currently $86,910, so you can look forward to a value of about $3,563 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Brownsville is a rewarding investment.
How long do solar panels last in Brownsville?
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 level 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.
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.