Solar Panel Cost Guide in Katy, TX (Mar 2023)
- Katy Solar Installation Cost: $14,367
- 25-Year Savings: $20,952
- Payback Period: 10.2 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Katy
We break down average solar pricing in Katy.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Katy it's 2.69 per watt. The average Katy homeowner needs a 7.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,367 with the federal tax credit, or $20,545 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want, your solar contractor and more. Despite the large initial cost, the average Katy homeowner can save about $18,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Katy
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,955 |
| 3 years | $-10,129 |
| 5 years | $-7,303 |
| 7 years | $-4,478 |
| 9 years | $-1,652 |
| 11 years | $1,173 |
| 13 years | $3,999 |
| 15 years | $6,824 |
| 17 years | $9,650 |
| 19 years | $12,476 |
| 21 years | $15,301 |
| 23 years | $18,127 |
| 25 years | $20,952 |
Top Solar Installers in Katy
Trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a difficult project, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in Katy:
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 Katy
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Katy
For many Katy homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Katy, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
Solar 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 typical energy use. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Katy, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Katy know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $16,008 | 10.6 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $21,645 | 10.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $27,433 | 10.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $33,372 | 10.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $39,461 | 9.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $45,700 | 9.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $52,091 | 9.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $58,632 | 9.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Katy, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Katy?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Katy?
You can't get solar panels for free in Katy. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Katy?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Katy?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher 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.