Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Lowered energy bills: You can skip the added cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity at home. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Adopting solar is a surefire way to decrease your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Apache Junction Homeowners?
Arizona's public agencies and power companies offer a number of solar incentives to help lower your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of applicable solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of sales tax on eligible equipment
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: azdor.govIncentive Amount:
25%
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Deduction
Incentive Amount:
Total cost, exclusive of taxes, interest and other finance charges
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of increased value
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: srpnet.comIncentive Amount:
$0.30/kWh for annual estimated energy savings (based on SRCC rating)
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Apache Junction
The cost and efficacy of solar panels often rely on the provider that mounted them. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.
Licensing and Training
The Arizona Registrar of Contractors grants distinctive licenses for solar PV and thermal installers. To install solar thermal systems, a contractor must be a licensed plumber, and for solar PV systems, they must be a licensed electrician. Solar companies can also earn certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Apache Junction
Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.
You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can improve your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors provide these extras, so look for a provider that installs them if it's a priority for you.
You can expect to pay about $15,350 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Apache Junction. Use the table in this section to get an idea of the amount Apache Junction solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,167 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $910 |
| Thin-Film | $532 |
| Solar Battery | $747 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,800 |
Financing Solar Energy in Apache Junction
There are a plethora of ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each provider you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A team member can help you determine the best option for your budget.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Apache Junction.
A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to recently-purchased solar equipment purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through local governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 1.7 years |
| 2 kW | 3.3 years |
| 5 kW | 8.3 years |
| 10 kW | 16.5 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Apache Junction
How much money could I save by going solar in Apache Junction?
How widespread is solar energy in Apache Junction?
Will a solar PV system raise my Apache Junction home worth?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a wooded, dark, or rainy area?
How many years does a typical solar system last?
What size should my new Apache Junction solar system be?
How can I enhance my solar array's performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
What's the difference between a PPA and a solar lease?
You don't own the panels with either option, though you can choose to opt out of the contract for a fee.
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