Best 5 Solar Companies in Albuquerque, NM

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Albuquerque

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar array. Consider all of these aspects in your business search.

Licensing and Training

New Mexico regulations mandate that solar installation supervisors must be master electricians or plumbers, with journeymen leading the piping and wiring work. Each journeyman working on your installation will have at least two years of experience installing solar equipment. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar sector's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Albuquerque

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 produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. 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 want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more effective and convenient to use. Not every solar provider provides these extras, so look for a company that installs them if it's essential for you.

If you're a resident of Albuquerque and want a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $19,650 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Albuquerque

Choosing the correct financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include leases, loans, power purchase agreements, and cash payments. We suggest paying with cash or securing 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 reduce 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 monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, much like an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each company you're considering about the payment options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the optimal option for your financial situation.

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

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on total system costs, 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.