Solar Panel Cost Guide in Helotes, TX (2024 Update)
- Helotes Solar Installation Cost: $17,467
- 25-Year Savings: $22,760
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Helotes
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Helotes.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Helotes, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.The average Helotes homeowner needs a 7.5-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,467 with the federal tax credit, or $24,978 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Helotes
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,043 |
| 3 years | $-13,194 |
| 5 years | $-10,346 |
| 7 years | $-7,498 |
| 9 years | $-4,649 |
| 11 years | $-1,801 |
| 13 years | $1,047 |
| 15 years | $3,896 |
| 17 years | $6,744 |
| 19 years | $9,592 |
| 21 years | $12,441 |
| 23 years | $15,289 |
| 25 years | $18,137 |
Top Solar Installers in Helotes
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra energy and knowledge. That's one of the reasons most people choose a solar panel installer. Another perk of working with a solar installer is that they can help you maximize your investment by cutting back on future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Helotes
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Helotes
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Helotes is $17,467, your actual cost may differ. There are quite a few 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 consider.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Helotes, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,330 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Helotes, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
Most solar companies in Helotes offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Helotes is the company you get to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there’s no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.46 | $14,545 | $14,976 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $20,342 | 12.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $25,893 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $31,631 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $37,556 | 11.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $43,667 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $49,964 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $56,448 | 10.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will affect not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you’d like plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: It’s important to read your solar installer’s contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar power, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Helotes, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Helotes?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $16,650 for a 5-kW system and $33,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Helotes?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your home 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 savings from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Helotes?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally 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.