Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sugar Land, TX (2024 Update)
- Sugar Land Solar Installation Cost: $17,743
- 25-Year Savings: $22,855
- Payback Period: 11.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sugar Land
We go over average solar pricing in Sugar Land.
The average cost of a solar system in Sugar Land is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 7.6-kW system would cost about $17,743 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Sugar Land depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $20,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sugar Land
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,913 |
| 3 years | $-12,254 |
| 5 years | $-8,595 |
| 7 years | $-4,936 |
| 9 years | $-1,276 |
| 11 years | $2,383 |
| 13 years | $6,042 |
| 15 years | $9,701 |
| 17 years | $13,360 |
| 19 years | $17,019 |
| 21 years | $20,678 |
| 23 years | $24,337 |
| 25 years | $27,997 |
Top Solar Installers in Sugar Land
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since installing solar panels yourself can be challenging. A solar company can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
If you’d like to make the switch to solar but still aren’t certain which solar installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Sugar Land:
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 Sugar Land
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sugar Land
There are many criteria that can influence your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Sugar Land, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $3,330 for each additional kilowatt you need.The kind of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will largely affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Furthermore, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when searching for a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Sugar Land to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest.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 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Sugar Land, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Sugar Land are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 | $14,769 | 12.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.40 | $19,021 | $20,064 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.33 | $23,310 | $25,547 | 11.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.26 | $27,413 | $31,215 | 11.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.20 | $31,329 | $37,071 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.13 | $35,058 | $43,112 | 11.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.06 | $38,601 | $49,341 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.00 | $41,958 | $55,755 | 10.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer 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 Sugar Land, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Sugar Land?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Sugar Land?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Sugar Land, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
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 $977.13 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out 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 household 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.