Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.
- Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with battery backups and storage systems function through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the power grid for your safety and well-being.
- Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the expensive cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity at home. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on fossil fuels.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Henderson Homeowners?
The state of Nevada offers numerous solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: swgas.comIncentive Amount:
Water Heating: $225
Solar Water Heating: $13/therm
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: swgas.comIncentive Amount:
Varies based on program "step" - see program website.
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: Nvenergy.comIncentive Amount:
Solar (As of 9/24/18):
Residential/Commercial/Industrial (25 kW or smaller): $0.20 / watt-AC
Low Income/Nonprofit/Public Entity (25 kW or smaller): $0.45 / watt-AC
Residential/Commercial/Industrial (greater than 25 kW): $0.0250 / kWh
Low Income/Nonprofit/Public Entity (greater than 25 kW): $0.0550 / kWh
Wind (As of 9/24/18):
Residential/Commercial/Industrial: $0.40 / watt-AC
Low Income/Nonprofit/Public Entity: $0.80 / watt-AC
Incentive Type: Performance-Based Incentive
Website: nvtrec.comIncentive Amount:
Varies; higher value for solar PECs than other technologies
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 Henderson
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar energy system. Consider each of these criteria in your service provider search.
Licensing and Training
Nevada requires a contractor installing a solar photovoltaic system to carry a C-37 license from the Nevada State Contractors Board. Solar thermal system installers should obtain either a C-1 (plumbing and heating) license or the appropriate C-37 endorsement for their work. Solar installers can also obtain certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. 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 Henderson
The kind of solar panels you select decides how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.
If you want to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar company provides these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's important for you.
Most Henderson homeowners opt for solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $15,400 to set up, considering both materials and labor. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,168 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $911 |
Thin-Film | $532 |
Solar Battery | $747 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,802 |
Financing Solar Energy in Henderson
Choosing the best financing plan will influence your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include cash payments, loans, leases, and power purchase agreements. 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 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) enables you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, like an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each company you're vetting about the financing options it offers. A staff member can help you determine the most suitable option for your financial situation.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Henderson.
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.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.0 years |
2 kW | 4.1 years |
5 kW | 10.2 years |
10 kW | 20.3 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Henderson
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy common in Henderson?
Should I anticipate a property value increase after installing solar panels?
How long does the solar panel installation process take?
What upkeep do my solar panels need, and how often do they need it?
What's the average solar system size in Henderson?
How can I maximize my solar panels' 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
How many estimates should I get before making a final solar company decision?
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