Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clifton, AZ (2025 Update)
- Clifton Solar Installation Cost: $11,303
- 25-Year Savings: $20,688
- Payback Period: 9.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clifton
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar in Clifton.
In Clifton, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Clifton, most homeowners require a 5.3-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $11,303, or $16,163 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Clifton based on a few factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.Even with the high upfront cost, the average Clifton homeowner can save about $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Clifton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,254 |
| 3 years | $-8,157 |
| 5 years | $-6,059 |
| 7 years | $-3,962 |
| 9 years | $-1,865 |
| 11 years | $232 |
| 13 years | $2,330 |
| 15 years | $4,427 |
| 17 years | $6,524 |
| 19 years | $8,621 |
| 21 years | $10,719 |
| 23 years | $12,816 |
| 25 years | $14,913 |
Top Solar Installers in Clifton
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra time and expertise. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are often included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar company as well, which can save you more money over time.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Clifton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clifton
There are many criteria that can play into 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
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Clifton, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,070 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Clifton, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Clifton, which can reduce, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Clifton, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $3.19 | $13,410 | $21,153 | 9.7 years |
| 8 kW | $3.13 | $17,536 | $28,547 | 9.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.07 | $21,490 | $36,114 | 9.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.01 | $25,272 | $43,853 | 9.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.95 | $28,883 | $51,763 | 9.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.89 | $32,321 | $59,845 | 8.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.82 | $35,587 | $68,100 | 8.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.76 | $38,682 | $76,526 | 8.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Clifton, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Clifton, AZ Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Clifton?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $15,350 for a 5-kW system and $30,700 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 above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Clifton?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Clifton. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,152.08 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.