Best 5 Solar Companies in Avondale, AZ

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Avondale

The more comprehensive your company research is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately perform. Here are some key items to keep in mind while searching for a solar installer.

Licensing and Training

In Arizona, the Registrar of Contractors grants distinctive licenses for solar PV and thermal contractors. To install solar thermal systems, a contractor must be a licensed plumber, and for solar PV systems, they must be a licensed electrician. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most respected are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, backed by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Avondale

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. 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.

If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more efficient and user-friendly. Not every solar company offers these extras, so look for a provider that sells them if it's a priority for you.

Most Avondale homeowners choose solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $15,350 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Avondale

Choosing the ideal financing plan will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements, and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in specific circumstances. Ask each business you're vetting about the payment plans it offers. A representative can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Avondale.

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.