Best 5 Solar Companies in Winchester, NV

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Winchester

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar energy system. Make your choice based on the following key factors.

Licensing and Training

Nevada requires a contractor installing a solar PV system to acquire a C-37 license from the Nevada State Contractors Board. Solar water or pool heating installers should have either a C-1 (plumbing and heating) license or the appropriate C-37 endorsement for their work. Check a company's website for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Winchester

The kind of solar panels you purchase dictates how much energy you can produce. 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 meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar contractors provide these extras, so look for a provider that installs them if it's crucial for you.

If you're a resident of Winchester and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $15,400 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Winchester

There are a plethora of ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), leases, and cash payments. We suggest paying with cash or using a solar loan for the best 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 enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases let you use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Look for contractors that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.

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

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 incentives, rebates, and financing programs that could save you more money.