*Cost data based on quotes for fully-installed solar panel systems submitted on our platform. Prices are shown after applying the 26% federal tax credit.
As of Jan 2021, the average cost of solar panels in San Antonio is $2.48 per watt making a typical 6000 watt (6 kW) solar system $11,007 after claiming the 26% federal solar tax credit now available.
This is lower than the average price of residential solar power systems across the United States which is currently $2.80 per watt.
The size of a solar panel system also plays a role in how much the installation will cost.
Larger solar installations will typically have a lower cost per watt, because the panels can be purchased at a ‘bulk price’. However, these larger solar systems will still have a higher total cost, because they are made up of more individual panels.
System size* | Avg cost per watt |
Avg system cost
(After tax credit) show before tax |
---|---|---|
4kW | $2.66 | $7,885 |
5kW | $2.58 | $9,529 |
6kW | $2.48 | $11,007 |
7kW | $2.46 | $12,735 |
8kW | $2.50 | $14,787 |
9kW | $2.42 | $16,099 |
10kW | $2.39 | $17,698 |
Best unit price
$430.00 ($1.15 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,322.67
($2.53 p/w)
LG375Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$320.00 ($0.96 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,134.34
($2.41 p/w)
LG335N1K-V5 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
19.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$562.50 ($1.50 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,560.46
($2.37 p/w)
LG375A1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$473.34 ($1.30 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$12,620.04
($2.47 p/w)
LG365Q1K-V5 overview
Rated power
365 watts
Efficiency
21.1
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$291.18 ($0.88 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$11,683.48
($2.36 p/w)
VBH330RA03K overview
Rated power
330 watts
Efficiency
19.7
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Mono-crystalline Silicon
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$340.00 ($1.00 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$14,280.00
($2.80 p/w)
VBHN340SA17 HIT+ overview
Rated power
340 watts
Efficiency
20.3
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$432.00 ($1.31 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$11,872.63
($2.40 p/w)
VBHN330SA17E overview
Rated power
330 watts
Efficiency
19.7
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$297.60 ($0.89 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,706.10
($2.53 p/w)
VBHN335SA17 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
20
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$600.00 ($1.83 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,791.09
($2.40 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-COM overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$800.00 ($2.22 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,153.12
($2.41 p/w)
SPR-X22-360 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
22.2
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,614.71
($2.57 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-D-AC overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$620.00 ($1.90 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,529.55
($2.55 p/w)
SPR-E20-327 overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$205.00 ($0.58 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$10,952.04
($2.20 p/w)
CS3U-355PB-AG overview
Rated power
355 watts
Efficiency
17.7
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
polycrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$240.01 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.8kW system
$11,309.38
($2.36 p/w)
CS3W-400PB-AG overview
Rated power
400 watts
Efficiency
17.9
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
polycrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$207.90 ($0.66 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$11,510.92
($2.28 p/w)
CS3K-315MS overview
Rated power
315 watts
Efficiency
18.96
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono-crystalline Silicon
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$247.00 ($0.75 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$11,866.07
($2.40 p/w)
CS1H-330MS BLACK overview
Rated power
330 watts
Efficiency
19.57
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Mono-crystalline Silicon
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$172.00 ($0.56 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$10,734.55
($2.20 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-305M overview
Rated power
305 watts
Efficiency
18.4
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$165.00 ($0.53 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$10,951.28
($2.21 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-310M overview
Rated power
310 watts
Efficiency
18.7
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$196.11 ($0.65 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$11,160.29
($2.19 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-300M overview
Rated power
300 watts
Efficiency
18.1
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$228.00 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$10,747.02
($2.18 p/w)
LR4-60HPH-380M overview
Rated power
380 watts
Efficiency
20.9
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
4.89 155 Reviews
Greg W, 2 weeks ago
I recently had solar installed on my house through Freedom Solar. Spencer Sobolik was my representative and he was with me through every step. Anytime I had a question, he was spot on with an answer. He explained to me in-depth everything that was going to happen. The installers were very efficient and very clean and I am very pleased with the appearance of the system. I’m also very happy to see me electric meter running backwards. Of note, when I talked with one of my friends who already had solar through another company, he was amazed at the level of service I received and at how much cleaner my system looked than his. I highly recommend Spencer Sobolik and Freedom Solar.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,000 ($3.40 per watt)
Greg W, 2 weeks ago
I recently had solar installed on my house through Freedom Solar. Spencer Sobolik was my representative and he was with me through every step. Anytime I had a question, he was spot on with an answer. He explained to me in-depth everything that was going to happen. The installers were very efficient and very clean and I am very pleased with the appearance of the system. I’m also very happy to see me electric meter running backwards. Of note, when I talked with one of my friends who already had solar through another company, he was amazed at the level of service I received and at how much cleaner my system looked than his. I highly recommend Spencer Sobolik and Freedom Solar.
4.87 126 Reviews
Marquetta Quinn, over 1 month
In early fall we had SOLAR CENTEX come out. Sabrina Arnold was amazing. She explained things in a way that my husband & I could understand. She also showed us how to track our energy usage on apps on our phone. so easy & cool. We had the installers out in October. the gentlemen were so polite & professional. really impressed by their workmanship. But here's the best part-- we love watching day by day the energy going back into the grid! Seriously doesn't get better than this. No electric bill at all! our bill shows a $35.00 credit! i really hope you give Solar Centex a call. It might be the best decision you ever do. Sincerely, Marquetta Quinn
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$13,000 ($2.60 per watt)
Marquetta Quinn, over 1 month
In early fall we had SOLAR CENTEX come out. Sabrina Arnold was amazing. She explained things in a way that my husband & I could understand. She also showed us how to track our energy usage on apps on our phone. so easy & cool. We had the installers out in October. the gentlemen were so polite & professional. really impressed by their workmanship. But here's the best part-- we love watching day by day the energy going back into the grid! Seriously doesn't get better than this. No electric bill at all! our bill shows a $35.00 credit! i really hope you give Solar Centex a call. It might be the best decision you ever do. Sincerely, Marquetta Quinn
4.83 147 Reviews
Hope Johnson, over 1 month
Tim Cammer, Jonathan D'Antonio, and the installation crew went above and beyond what was necessary to give us an excellent product at an exceptional value, with excellent customer service. The product is already paying for itself with no net loss to our family's budget. They were willing to travel an exceptionally long distance to our home in Yoakum with no complaints. Jonathan D'Antonio completed difficult negotiations with the City of Yoakum so that the city fees were minimal. The installation crews installed the panels safely with no hiccups, and Jonathan D'Antonio (the operations manager) personally inspected the installation before we turned it on. I highly recommend this company.
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Hope Johnson, over 1 month
Tim Cammer, Jonathan D'Antonio, and the installation crew went above and beyond what was necessary to give us an excellent product at an exceptional value, with excellent customer service. The product is already paying for itself with no net loss to our family's budget. They were willing to travel an exceptionally long distance to our home in Yoakum with no complaints. Jonathan D'Antonio completed difficult negotiations with the City of Yoakum so that the city fees were minimal. The installation crews installed the panels safely with no hiccups, and Jonathan D'Antonio (the operations manager) personally inspected the installation before we turned it on. I highly recommend this company.
4.82 226 Reviews
Al L, over 1 month
I highly recommend Sunlux Solar. I contracted with Sunlux for 34 panels and a new roof a little over 3 months ago. I am extremely pleased with both my solar panel installation and my new roof. My salesperson (Chris) was very honest, informative and professional. There was no sales pressure at all. He explained the entire project in detail and satisfactorily answered all my questions. He was extremely patient with me when I called him numerous times with questions I had pertaining to my internet solar research I conducted as I was educating myself on solar. I got several quotes prior to choosing Sunlux. Although Sunlux was a little more expensive than others (not much), I chose Sunlux because of the professionalism Chris displayed and because they are a large professional company who is dedicated to customer service. I believe in "you get what you pay for" and I am extremely pleased with Sunlux, as I got much more than I paid for. I am very happy I chose them for my project. My project manager (Berlyn) was outstanding. She was constantly communicating with me by either phone, email or text. She kept me apprised of every step of the project and was always responsive to me whenever I called her. She always got back to me immediately. She was professional, polite, informative and defiantly dedicated to customer service. She always made sure I knew what was happening, kept me in the loop, and that I was pleased. It was a pleasure working with Berlyn. The project took a little over 3 months to complete, but that was due to permitting issues and not the fault of Sunlux. None the less, Berlyn was in constant contact with the building authorities and moved things right along. The installers were very professional, polite and defiantly demonstrated pride in their work. The installation was clean, seamless and it looks fantastic. All the electrical is hidden in my attic and out of sight (except for my inverter). My roofer was Troy Roofing who was subcontracted through Sulux. Although I am not a fan of subcontractors, Sunlux changed my opinion about subcontractors. They were in contact with the roofer the entire time and I never had to deal with the roofer directly. Troy Roofing did an exceptional job on my roof. The guys worked 3 hard long days in 100 degree weather. They demonstrated pride in their work and they did an excellent job. I highly recommend Troy Roofing. In summary, I am extremely pleased with Sunlux Solar and the outstanding job they did. They totally exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend them for your solar project. You will not regret it. I commend their staff Chris (my salesperson) for his professionalism and honestly. There were no surprises. Moreover, I commend Berlyn (my project manager) for commitment to customer service, her professionalism and her organizational skills. She was on top of my project every step of the way and she was a pleasure to work with. Al
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$15,150 ($3.03 per watt)
Al L, over 1 month
I highly recommend Sunlux Solar. I contracted with Sunlux for 34 panels and a new roof a little over 3 months ago. I am extremely pleased with both my solar panel installation and my new roof. My salesperson (Chris) was very honest, informative and professional. There was no sales pressure at all. He explained the entire project in detail and satisfactorily answered all my questions. He was extremely patient with me when I called him numerous times with questions I had pertaining to my internet solar research I conducted as I was educating myself on solar. I got several quotes prior to choosing Sunlux. Although Sunlux was a little more expensive than others (not much), I chose Sunlux because of the professionalism Chris displayed and because they are a large professional company who is dedicated to customer service. I believe in "you get what you pay for" and I am extremely pleased with Sunlux, as I got much more than I paid for. I am very happy I chose them for my project. My project manager (Berlyn) was outstanding. She was constantly communicating with me by either phone, email or text. She kept me apprised of every step of the project and was always responsive to me whenever I called her. She always got back to me immediately. She was professional, polite, informative and defiantly dedicated to customer service. She always made sure I knew what was happening, kept me in the loop, and that I was pleased. It was a pleasure working with Berlyn. The project took a little over 3 months to complete, but that was due to permitting issues and not the fault of Sunlux. None the less, Berlyn was in constant contact with the building authorities and moved things right along. The installers were very professional, polite and defiantly demonstrated pride in their work. The installation was clean, seamless and it looks fantastic. All the electrical is hidden in my attic and out of sight (except for my inverter). My roofer was Troy Roofing who was subcontracted through Sulux. Although I am not a fan of subcontractors, Sunlux changed my opinion about subcontractors. They were in contact with the roofer the entire time and I never had to deal with the roofer directly. Troy Roofing did an exceptional job on my roof. The guys worked 3 hard long days in 100 degree weather. They demonstrated pride in their work and they did an excellent job. I highly recommend Troy Roofing. In summary, I am extremely pleased with Sunlux Solar and the outstanding job they did. They totally exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend them for your solar project. You will not regret it. I commend their staff Chris (my salesperson) for his professionalism and honestly. There were no surprises. Moreover, I commend Berlyn (my project manager) for commitment to customer service, her professionalism and her organizational skills. She was on top of my project every step of the way and she was a pleasure to work with. Al
4.76 334 Reviews
Yunny, 3 days ago
We have been big fans of Longhorn Solar since the very beginning. When we first started this process, we had gotten a few bids for our potential system and Longhorn had the lowest bid out of any of the other companies. Of course the other bidders were willing to match Longhorn's pricing, but I appreciated that Longhorn gave us the most competitive pricing from the get-go. Even though we have had our panels for 4 years, we continue to get the absolute best service from them - they follow up on our system and check in every so often to make sure we are still happy with out system. It's been a great experience and a lot of our neighbors have also used them for their service, dependability and fair pricing.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,200 ($3.44 per watt)
Yunny, 3 days ago
We have been big fans of Longhorn Solar since the very beginning. When we first started this process, we had gotten a few bids for our potential system and Longhorn had the lowest bid out of any of the other companies. Of course the other bidders were willing to match Longhorn's pricing, but I appreciated that Longhorn gave us the most competitive pricing from the get-go. Even though we have had our panels for 4 years, we continue to get the absolute best service from them - they follow up on our system and check in every so often to make sure we are still happy with out system. It's been a great experience and a lot of our neighbors have also used them for their service, dependability and fair pricing.
4.73 46 Reviews
Aaron, over 1 month
Yesterday was an exciting day for us! Why? We got our 1st NEGATIVE electric bill! We were told this would happen after 1 year but it’s been 6 months and last month wasn’t all that sunny all the time. It all started from a friend that told me to get solar. I gave him every excuse under the sun, but I let him get me a bid anyway because he was a friend I would do anything for. I got the bid for our ~13KW system. I laughed. I said thanks, but no thanks. Unfortunately, it did peak my curiosity and I went to one of those sites and asked for bids. I got 4 more bids from all over North East Texas companies. They all gave me similar bids for ~13KW systems for around the same price. I still wasn’t satisfied, so I tried one more local company because I truly believe in buying local small business whenever possible, even if it is a little more expensive. I found Wright Way. Not only did Rudy come to my house, but he answered probably 30 questions I had via phone or email promptly in a straight forward manner unlike the other sales pitches I had received. He came to my house not only to do an full assessment including roof line, tree coverage, attic insulation, and energy usage, but also came back when he delivered me two proposals. One of the proposals I sort of demanded based on my previous experiences, and another one that he had developed. He also proposed to me the same ~13KW system in line with everyone else which I specifically asked for because I was still ignorant and I had been told by over 6 “experts” that is what I needed. What really intrigued me, was that Rudy listened to me. Rudy only gave me that first proposal because I specifically asked for it. He also brought me what HE recommended for our situation, knowing that of course overall cost would be a deciding factor. I open it up, and I see ~7KW system. Again, I laughed… “Really Rudy?” Rudy knew the kind of person that I was, so he explained to me more about our home electricity and what actually consumes the electricity. He gave ME homework to do since I had been asking all of the wrong questions. After doing extensive research, and actually talking to 3 previous customers of his, we pulled the trigger. The cost was still an issue, but after doing extensive math, showing the savings in electricity usage each month would more than cover the loan payments, it was a no brainer and by this point, I trusted Rudy’s recommendation. Before install Rudy came over a 3rd time to check some specifics because what we were going to do was not only install solar strategically to maximize sun, but also replace the water heaters to the hybrid Rheem water heaters of which I had never heard. Installation was quick and the team was great. I would highly recommend them to anybody! (Original review truncated due to length limitations).
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$16,000 ($3.20 per watt)
Aaron, over 1 month
Yesterday was an exciting day for us! Why? We got our 1st NEGATIVE electric bill! We were told this would happen after 1 year but it’s been 6 months and last month wasn’t all that sunny all the time. It all started from a friend that told me to get solar. I gave him every excuse under the sun, but I let him get me a bid anyway because he was a friend I would do anything for. I got the bid for our ~13KW system. I laughed. I said thanks, but no thanks. Unfortunately, it did peak my curiosity and I went to one of those sites and asked for bids. I got 4 more bids from all over North East Texas companies. They all gave me similar bids for ~13KW systems for around the same price. I still wasn’t satisfied, so I tried one more local company because I truly believe in buying local small business whenever possible, even if it is a little more expensive. I found Wright Way. Not only did Rudy come to my house, but he answered probably 30 questions I had via phone or email promptly in a straight forward manner unlike the other sales pitches I had received. He came to my house not only to do an full assessment including roof line, tree coverage, attic insulation, and energy usage, but also came back when he delivered me two proposals. One of the proposals I sort of demanded based on my previous experiences, and another one that he had developed. He also proposed to me the same ~13KW system in line with everyone else which I specifically asked for because I was still ignorant and I had been told by over 6 “experts” that is what I needed. What really intrigued me, was that Rudy listened to me. Rudy only gave me that first proposal because I specifically asked for it. He also brought me what HE recommended for our situation, knowing that of course overall cost would be a deciding factor. I open it up, and I see ~7KW system. Again, I laughed… “Really Rudy?” Rudy knew the kind of person that I was, so he explained to me more about our home electricity and what actually consumes the electricity. He gave ME homework to do since I had been asking all of the wrong questions. After doing extensive research, and actually talking to 3 previous customers of his, we pulled the trigger. The cost was still an issue, but after doing extensive math, showing the savings in electricity usage each month would more than cover the loan payments, it was a no brainer and by this point, I trusted Rudy’s recommendation. Before install Rudy came over a 3rd time to check some specifics because what we were going to do was not only install solar strategically to maximize sun, but also replace the water heaters to the hybrid Rheem water heaters of which I had never heard. Installation was quick and the team was great. I would highly recommend them to anybody! (Original review truncated due to length limitations).
4.71 40 Reviews
Vicente Costa Neto, 2 weeks ago
I am very satisfied with the service provided, all the way from the sales to the support received. Truly recommend it.
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Vicente Costa Neto, 2 weeks ago
I am very satisfied with the service provided, all the way from the sales to the support received. Truly recommend it.
4.64 32 Reviews
Anonymous, over 1 month
We turned on our solar system on October 30, 2018. Satisfied with Sheldon Wilkinson and Sara with all of their help from the get go. Sheldon answer all of our questions. He has taken the time to stop by to check on us. I'm very satisfied with our system. It is a positive investment. 100% Satisfied with Alba Energy.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,450 ($3.49 per watt)
Anonymous, over 1 month
We turned on our solar system on October 30, 2018. Satisfied with Sheldon Wilkinson and Sara with all of their help from the get go. Sheldon answer all of our questions. He has taken the time to stop by to check on us. I'm very satisfied with our system. It is a positive investment. 100% Satisfied with Alba Energy.
4.62 995 Reviews
Justin, 2 days ago
Even though they were fast at install, I am still not using their equipment due to a mix up between Walkthrough, engineering, and install team. A 125amp breaker is now causing me over a week delay. Heck, Ace is 2miles down the road. I was told it would be installed two days later but then it was extended a week more. So I am just put off a little and really can’t say anything about how well the system works or if sized right. Time will tell I suppose.
Read more
Justin, 2 days ago
Even though they were fast at install, I am still not using their equipment due to a mix up between Walkthrough, engineering, and install team. A 125amp breaker is now causing me over a week delay. Heck, Ace is 2miles down the road. I was told it would be installed two days later but then it was extended a week more. So I am just put off a little and really can’t say anything about how well the system works or if sized right. Time will tell I suppose.
4.58 27 Reviews
J Cox, over 1 month
HESOLAR was fantastic from start to finish with our solar panel installation. Derrick was able to present a very through and competitive bid. Erick performed a site visit to confirm exactly what was needed, and Erick was also on site and involved the day of the installation. Derrick and Eric are the owners, not just salesmen and they have their own employees for the installation, not contractors. The installation of our 21 solar panels went quickly and smoothly. The job was very professionally done, and we are very satisfied customers. Following the installation, they even worked with PEC to get the final inspection completed and we are enjoying the difference in our electric bills. We highly recommend HESOLAR!
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J Cox, over 1 month
HESOLAR was fantastic from start to finish with our solar panel installation. Derrick was able to present a very through and competitive bid. Erick performed a site visit to confirm exactly what was needed, and Erick was also on site and involved the day of the installation. Derrick and Eric are the owners, not just salesmen and they have their own employees for the installation, not contractors. The installation of our 21 solar panels went quickly and smoothly. The job was very professionally done, and we are very satisfied customers. Following the installation, they even worked with PEC to get the final inspection completed and we are enjoying the difference in our electric bills. We highly recommend HESOLAR!
Where there is no specific pricing information available for a brand then we have used state pricing data for that brand.
Solar panel manufacturer | Avg. cost per watt |
---|---|
Canadian Solar | $2.35 |
LG Solar | $2.70 |
SunPower | $2.81 |
Panasonic | $2.73 |
LONGi Solar | $2.28 |
Tesla is one of the only companies that displays their installed system pricing online. We are encouraging more solar companies to do the same. They have a very poor reputation for customer service on reviews websites like ours however we applaud their move to bring pricing transparency to the residential solar industry.
Type | Size | Cost |
---|---|---|
Grid Tied | 4.08 kW | $8,160 |
Grid Tied | 8.16 kW | $16,320 |
Grid Tied | 12.24 kW | $24,480 |
Grid Tied | 16.32 kW | $32,640 |
Note: Prices for installed Tesla systems are shown before the 26% federal solar tax credit.
The most important difference between buying solar panels and any other purchase is that solar panels last 25-30 years. This is a long, long time and you will need customer service over all that time. The reviews below of the two largest corporate solar installation companies indicate larger corporate solar companies are not delivering this support to their customers.
We recommend you find a small or mid-size, local, family-owned solar company. These companies tend to care more about you and your specific job. You don't want to be on hold to a corporation's call center for the next 25 years!
The cost of solar doesn't just include the equipment and installation costs - it’s also made up of permitting costs, inspection costs, and installer profit margins.
These different components are what make the price of solar fluctuate between installations. Some of the factors that affect solar power system installation costs for specific homes include:
Homes that use more electricity will need more solar panels to cover their energy needs.
Although solar panels do get cheaper on a per-watt basis, the overall cost of the system will increase as more panels are added.
But, the higher a home’s energy usage, the more solar panels can save the homeowners on their energy bills.
The price of solar panels can vary depending on the type of solar panels you choose.
There are two main types of solar panels for residential solar installations: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline solar panels tend to be more efficient and more expensive than other solar panels. Polycrystalline panels have a lower efficiency rating and come at a lower price point.
The type of inverter you buy will also influence the cost of your solar system.
You may see some solar quotes with prices that seem too good to be true.
If you get quoted for a ridiculously cheap price, the installer might be using low-quality equipment or an unsustainable pricing model. You want to use a solar installer that is charging enough so that they can stay in business - as you’ll be relying on them for the next 25 years!
It’s important to make sure that your installer is giving you the best quality at the best price possible. This is why getting multiple solar quotes is so important.
The overall cost of solar can be influenced by the solar incentives available.
Across the U.S., homeowners can apply for the federal solar tax credit, also called the ITC. The solar tax credit makes installing solar more cost-effective by providing homeowners with a tax credit equal to 26% of the cost of their installed solar panel system.
Local solar tax incentives and rebates can end up saving homeowners thousands on a solar installation, especially when they’re used with the federal solar tax credit.
See what solar incentives are available in your area by using our solar panel calculator.
The cost of installing residential solar panels in San Antonio varies with the brand of solar panels and inverters you choose, the installation company you choose to install them, the relative ease or difficulty of installing solar panels on your home, and of course the amount of solar panels you need. The amount of solar panels you need is, in turn, related to your energy usage.
The table below shows the data extracted from a real life quote delivered through the SolarReviews marketplace recently for a fairly typical home in San Antonio.
As you can see the payback period is relatively short and equates to a much better return on investment than he historical returns that have been available from investing in things like shares or property.
System information | Value |
---|---|
System Size (for 100% usage offset) | 10.47 kW |
Annual power generation | 13,042 kWh |
Pay-back time (assuming Cash purchase) | 9.6 Years |
Internal rate of return (IRR) on investment | 5.9% |
Gross cost | $27,803 |
Total Upfront Incentives and Rebates | -$7,228 |
Net Cost of System after rebated and incentives | $20,571 |
Total Cost of Utility Power Avoided over 25 years | $68,858 |
Please note that the investment return figures do not include the possible increase in property value
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