Solar Panel Cost Guide in Corpus Christi, TX (2023 Update)

  • Corpus Christi Solar Installation Cost: $13,313
  • 25-Year Savings: $25,332
  • Payback Period: 8.6 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Corpus Christi

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Corpus Christi.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Corpus Christi it's 2.69 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 7.1-kW system would cost about $13,313 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Corpus Christi

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,767
3 years $-8,675
5 years $-5,584
7 years $-2,492
9 years $599
11 years $3,691
13 years $6,783
15 years $9,874
17 years $12,966
19 years $16,058
21 years $19,149
23 years $22,241
25 years $25,332

Top Solar Installers in Corpus Christi

When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to hire a solar company since installing a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.

You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in Corpus Christi:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Corpus Christi

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Corpus Christi

For many Corpus Christi homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Corpus Christi, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Corpus Christi, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,690 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Corpus Christi, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited 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

Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Corpus Christi to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can affect the cost. Corpus Christi's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Corpus Christi have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 $2.80 $11,750 $21,056 9.0 years
8 kW $2.74 $15,365 $28,376 8.8 years
10 kW $2.69 $18,830 $35,847 8.6 years
12 kW $2.64 $22,144 $43,468 8.4 years
14 kW $2.58 $25,308 $51,240 8.3 years
16 kW $2.53 $28,320 $59,163 8.1 years
18 kW $2.47 $31,182 $67,236 7.9 years
20 kW $2.42 $33,894 $75,460 7.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies to choose from in Corpus Christi, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before making 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 completed and what the project timeline is.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
  • Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

EcoWatch's Corpus Christi, TX Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Corpus Christi?

The average cost of solar panels in Corpus Christi is about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Corpus Christi?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.

How will having 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 Corpus Christi is currently $137,529, so you can expect a value of about $5,639 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Corpus Christi is a rewarding investment.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.

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