Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during grid outages and storms.
- Lower energy bills: Generating some or all of your own electricity will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that make it possible for you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Sahuarita Homeowners?
Arizona's public agencies and power companies offer a variety of solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of available 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: trico.coopIncentive Amount:
$0.40 per expected first year kWh savings
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 Sahuarita
The purchase price and efficiency of solar panels often rely on the provider that installed them. Here are some essential aspects to remember while searching for a solar company.
Licensing and Training
The Arizona Registrar of Contractors grants separate 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. Solar providers can also earn certificates from standards organizations and trade groups. The most recognized 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 Sahuarita
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.
Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar contractor offers these extras, so look for a provider that installs them if it's crucial for you.
A majority of Sahuarita homeowners opt for solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $15,350 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,091 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $851 |
Thin-Film | $498 |
Solar Battery | $699 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,619 |
Financing Solar Energy in Sahuarita
There are many ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. We recommend paying with cash or using a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to cut your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. 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, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. We recommend working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Ask each agent about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your spending limits.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Sahuarita.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal tax credit for solar panels on the full cost of the solar system, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own rebates, financing programs, and incentives that could save you more money.
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 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Solar Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Sahuarita
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy readily available in Sahuarita?
Will a solar PV system boost my Sahuarita home price?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a dark, rainy, or wooded area?
How can I assess my site's solar potential?
What is the average payback period for Sahuarita solar panels?
Should I get quotes from multiple Sahuarita solar companies?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.