Solar Panel Cost Guide in Zapata, TX (2024 Update)
- Zapata Solar Installation Cost: $16,203
- 25-Year Savings: $27,371
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Zapata
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Zapata.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Zapata typically cost around 3.The average Zapata homeowner needs a 7.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $16,203 with the federal tax credit, or $23,170 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can be above or below the average in Zapata based on several factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Zapata
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,687 |
| 3 years | $-11,656 |
| 5 years | $-8,625 |
| 7 years | $-5,593 |
| 9 years | $-2,562 |
| 11 years | $470 |
| 13 years | $3,501 |
| 15 years | $6,532 |
| 17 years | $9,564 |
| 19 years | $12,595 |
| 21 years | $15,627 |
| 23 years | $18,658 |
| 25 years | $21,689 |
Top Solar Installers in Zapata
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Because solar panels are exposed to rain, snow, hail and wind, depending on the climate, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar 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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Zapata
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Zapata
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Zapata: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, 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 nearly $3,330. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In general, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. 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
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Zapata homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.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’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can influence the cost. Zapata’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Zapata know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage 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 end up saving you 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 | $3.46 | $14,545 | $20,378 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $27,543 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $34,895 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $42,434 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $50,159 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $58,070 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $66,168 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $74,452 | 9.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Zapata, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Zapata, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Zapata?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally 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 additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Zapata?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside 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 tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,164.10 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know 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 house 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.