Solar Panel Cost Guide in Carson City, NV (2024 Update)
- Carson City Solar Installation Cost: $13,086
- 25-Year Savings: $19,287
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Carson City
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Carson City.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Carson City, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Since a 6.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Carson City, the average price of going solar will be about $13,086 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installation company in Carson City, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Carson City
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,914 |
| 3 years | $-9,572 |
| 5 years | $-7,229 |
| 7 years | $-4,886 |
| 9 years | $-2,544 |
| 11 years | $-201 |
| 13 years | $2,142 |
| 15 years | $4,485 |
| 17 years | $6,827 |
| 19 years | $9,170 |
| 21 years | $11,513 |
| 23 years | $13,855 |
| 25 years | $16,198 |
Top Solar Installers in Carson City
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel installer since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a lot of work. Because solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Carson City
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Carson City
There are a number of factors that can play into your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation 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 $3,080.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Carson City, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Carson City to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time due to interest.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Carson City is the company you hire to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there’s no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of 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 | $3.20 | $13,453 | $16,197 | 11.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.14 | $17,593 | $21,941 | 11.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.08 | $21,560 | $27,857 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.02 | $25,355 | $33,946 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.96 | $28,977 | $40,207 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.90 | $32,426 | $46,641 | 10.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.83 | $35,703 | $53,247 | 10.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.77 | $38,808 | $60,026 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand 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:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Carson City, NV Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Carson City?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $15,400 for a 5-kW system and $30,800 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 needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Carson City?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to 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.
Does Carson City have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Carson City?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.