Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sunnyvale, TX (2023 Update)
- Sunnyvale Solar Installation Cost: $14,484
- 25-Year Savings: $20,403
- Payback Period: 10.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sunnyvale
We go over average solar pricing in Sunnyvale.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Sunnyvale typically cost about 2.69. Using this figure, a typical 7.7-kW system would cost about $14,480 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Sunnyvale depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Sunnyvale homeowner can save around $17,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Sunnyvale that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Sunnyvale
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,368 |
| 3 years | $-14,135 |
| 5 years | $-13,903 |
| 7 years | $-13,670 |
| 9 years | $-13,438 |
| 11 years | $-13,205 |
| 13 years | $-12,973 |
| 15 years | $-12,740 |
| 17 years | $-12,507 |
| 19 years | $-12,275 |
| 21 years | $-12,042 |
| 23 years | $-11,810 |
| 25 years | $-11,577 |
Top Solar Installers in Sunnyvale
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Another great thing about choosing a reputable solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.
If you'd like to switch to solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
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 Sunnyvale
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sunnyvale
For many Sunnyvale homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Sunnyvale, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,690. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Sunnyvale provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, 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 interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you select will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $15,463 | 10.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $20,918 | 10.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $26,525 | 10.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $32,282 | 10.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $38,189 | 10.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $44,247 | 9.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $50,456 | 9.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $56,815 | 9.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they understand how exactly the installation process will go, as well as important factors like the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you opt for.
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 Sunnyvale, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sunnyvale?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly 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 higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Sunnyvale?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Sunnyvale?
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 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.