Is solar really becoming cheaper, or is that information just being pushed by solar sales professionals?
More than ten years ago, back in 2009, the cost of installing a solar panel was $8.50 per watt. In the present day, the solar industry has undergone a substantial transformation, witnessing a remarkable decrease in prices to a mere $2.77 per watt.
So, is solar cheap in some states compared to others?
As of December 2023, EnergySage's marketplace data reveals the six states where solar energy installation costs per watt are the most budget-friendly. In this blog post, we break down the average cost per watt in Arizona, Nevada, Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah, providing insights into the solar energy landscape in each state.
1. Arizona: $2.44/W
Arizona takes the lead as the most cost-effective state for solar energy installation, with an average cost per watt of $2.44.
The following solar companies are making waves in the Arizona solar scene: Arizona Solar Wave, Power Home Remodeling, Rooftop Solar, Saguaro Solar, SunLogix Energy, SunPower, Sunrun, SunUp America, Sunny Energy, and Tesla Solar.
Cost Breakdown for a 10 kW System:
Cost Before Incentives: $24,400
Tax Credit Value: $7,320
Average Cost: $2.44/W
2. Nevada: $2.57/W
Nevada secures the second spot with an average cost per watt of $2.57.
Solar enthusiasts in Nevada can explore options with 1 Sun Solar Electric, ADT Solar, Del Sol Energy, Universal Solar, and Reno Solar.
Cost Breakdown for a 10 kW System:
Cost Before Incentives: $25,700
Tax Credit Value: $7,710
Average Cost: $2.57/W
3. Florida: $2.53/W
Florida embraces solar energy with an average cost per watt of $2.53.
Some noteworthy solar companies operating in the state include ADT Solar, Astrawatt Solar, Blue Raven Solar, Compass Solar Energy, Freedom Solar, SunPower, and Sunrun.
Cost Breakdown for a 10 kW System:
Cost Before Incentives: $25,300
Tax Credit Value: $7,590
Average Cost: $2.53/W
4. Oklahoma: $2.56/W
Oklahoma follows closely behind, offering an average cost per watt of $2.56.
For those considering solar in Oklahoma, options include Astrawatt Solar, Harmon Solar, ION Solar, Okie Solar, Oklahoma Solar Solutions, and Solar Guys.
Cost Breakdown for a 10 kW System:
Cost Before Incentives: $25,600
Tax Credit Value: $7,680
Average Cost: $2.56/W
5. Texas: $2.64/W
Texas, known for its vast landscapes, presents an average cost per watt of $2.64.
Solar companies making strides in the Lone Star State include SunPower, ADT Solar (Previously Sunpro Solar), Blue Raven Solar, Green Home Systems, and Longhorn Solar.
Cost Breakdown for a 10 kW System:
Cost Before Incentives: $26,400
Tax Credit Value: $7,920
Average Cost: $2.64/W
6. Utah: $2.62/W
Utah rounds out our list with an average cost per watt of $2.62.
For Utah residents interested in solar energy, key players in the field include Blue Raven Solar, Creative Energies, and Smart Wave Solar.
Cost Breakdown for a 10 kW System:
Cost Before Incentives: $26,200
Tax Credit Value: $7,860
Average Cost: $2.62/W
Conclusion:
As we transition into 2024, these six states stand out as the most affordable for solar energy installation. Whether you're in Arizona, Nevada, Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, or Utah, exploring solar incentives for 2024 can further sweeten the deal and make renewable energy an even more attractive option for homeowners and businesses alike.
For the latest and most accurate information, EnergySage's marketplace remains a reliable source for comparing solar installers and finding the best deals.
For more information on the federal tax credits for solar installation, check out these resources provided by the IRS.
Specific state and local incentives can be explored here.
Sources:
About the Author:
Jonathan Scheeler with Solar Improve. Jonathan is a professional in real estate, mortgage, and solar industry. As a Mortgage lender, he has financed around $100,000,000 in residential properties, consulted hundreds of home buyers on the topic of solar energy, and owns 10 rental properties in Central Illinois. Jonathan Scheeler is an alumni of Truman State University.
contact: Contact@SolarImprove.com
Solar Improve - Solar Blog Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Consult with solar experts and local authorities for personalized guidance.