Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tomball, TX (2023 Update)
- Tomball Solar Installation Cost: $14,443
- 25-Year Savings: $22,858
- Payback Period: 9.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tomball
We break down average solar pricing in Tomball.
In Tomball, solar panels cost about 2.69 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 7.7-kW system would cost about $14,443 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $18,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Tomball, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tomball
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,951 |
| 3 years | $-9,967 |
| 5 years | $-6,983 |
| 7 years | $-3,998 |
| 9 years | $-1,014 |
| 11 years | $1,970 |
| 13 years | $4,954 |
| 15 years | $7,938 |
| 17 years | $10,922 |
| 19 years | $13,906 |
| 21 years | $16,890 |
| 23 years | $19,874 |
| 25 years | $22,858 |
Top Solar Installers in Tomball
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel installer since installing solar panels by yourself can be hard. The expertise that solar installers offer can be helpful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Tomball
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tomball
There are a number of factors that can influence your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,690. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Tomball, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
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 Tomball is the company you choose to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, you'll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $17,439 | 10.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $23,554 | 9.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $29,819 | 9.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $36,235 | 9.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $42,801 | 9.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $49,518 | 9.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $56,386 | 8.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $63,404 | 8.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will affect not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
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 Tomball, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Tomball?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, 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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Tomball?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Tomball?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.