Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Lowered energy bills: Solar panels allow you to generate your own energy to power your home, minimizing your monthly electricity costs. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant amount of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Embracing solar is a surefire way to minimize your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have dependable energy during grid outages and storms.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Mesa Homeowners?
The state of Arizona offers a range of solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Below 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 Mesa
The price and effectiveness of solar panels often rely on the provider that installed them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.
Licensing and Training
In Arizona, the Registrar of Contractors issues specialty licenses for solar thermal and PV contractors. 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 obtain accreditations from standards organizations and trade groups. The top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Mesa
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 need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your panel array more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar provider offers these extras, so look for a company that installs them if it's essential for you.
Generally speaking, it will cost about $15,350 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Mesa. This table displays more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.
| 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 Mesa
Choosing the optimal financing plan will affect your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements, and loans. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they save you from 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. Like an auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $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 based only on the energy you use, like an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the panels and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each business you're vetting about the financing options it offers. A salesperson 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 Mesa.
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 rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.
| 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 Mesa
How much money could I save by going solar in Mesa?
Is solar energy common in Mesa?
Will solar energy systems increase my Mesa home worth?
How can I determine my home's solar potential?
Is solar installation a quick job?
What size should my new Mesa solar system be?
What is "net metering," and how does it work?
Some states or power companies oblige you to join net metering when purchasing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you sign up, you'll earn a check or bill credit for your excess generation at a wholesale or retail rate.
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