Nevada Solar Panels
Pricing & Installation Data

Find out if solar panels are right for your home in Nevada.

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Solar Panels in Nevada

Nevada proudly occupies the sixth spot among states for solar energy production in the United States. While it may not hold the title of the sunniest state, it does host the largest solar plant in the U.S., the Copper Mountain Solar Facility. The monumental scale and efficiency of the Copper Mountain facility serve as an emblem of solar power's potential 

The allure of decreased electricity expenses, appealing tax incentives, and a sustainable lifestyle are motivating a growing number of both residential and commercial property owners to embrace solar systems.

The burgeoning popularity of solar power and other renewable energy sources invites careful consideration. Whether your goal is to shrink your carbon footprint or minimize your utility bills, we are here to guide you through the crucial factors. Our aim is to equip you with the insights necessary to make the most beneficial energy decision.

Cost of Solar in Nevada

The average price for a home solar panel system in Nevada is $15,240 for a 6kW system or about per watt. Systems will vary depending on the solar installation company the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your system. When shopping for solar panels you should consider getting multiple quotes from various installers.

Average Cost
6 kW System
Average Cost
10 kW System
Estimated
Tax Credit
(10 kW System)
Average
Cost/Watt
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Nevada$15,240$25,400$7,620$2.54
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Most Costly State(Michigan)$22,680$37,800$11,340$3.78
Least Costly State(Arizona)$14,640$24,400$7,320$2.44

Costs by Solar System Size in Nevada

For most, the ideal solar system size is the sweet spot between price and capacity. The goal is to generate enough electricity to cover your home's demand while keeping overall costs low as possible.

I.E. Get the best bang for your buck.

System SizeSystem CostCost After Federal Tax Credit
5 kW$12,700$8,785
6 kW$15,240$10,542
7 kW$17,780$12,299
8 kW$20,320$14,056
10 kW$25,400$17,570

Pros and Cons of Solar in Nevada

Even in the sun-rich state of Nevada, solar installations come with their set of challenges. Before committing, it's vital for Nevadans to contemplate both the benefits and potential downsides of equipping their homes with solar systems. Evaluating these aspects can guide you in determining if solar is the right choice for your Silver State residence.

While everyone in Nevada might view these pros and cons differently, our aim is to outline the most prevalent considerations, empowering you to make a decision that best suits your individual needs.

Nevada Solar Pros

  • Reduce or eliminate electric bills
  • Energy independence from the grid
  • Reduce your carbon footprint
  • Increase home value (4.1% on average)
  • Nevada ranks 6th in solar in the U.S.
  • Net metering is available is a majority of the state
  • There are many solar buy-back plans available

Nevada Solar Cons

  • Not viable for all roofs or homes
  • Installation costs
  • Financial liability
  • No statewide solar tax credit

EnergyBot's Take

For many homeowners in Nevada, the long-term benefits, both environmental and financial, make solar panels a worthwhile investment. However, the decision should be based on individual circumstances, such as energy consumption patterns, future plans for the home, and available finances. Before making a decision, it's advisable to get quotes from multiple solar providers and consider consulting with a solar energy expert.

Leasing vs Buying Solar Panels in Nevada

There are several ways you can purchase and/or finance your solar panel installation in Nevada. Your goals and financial situation will dictate which option is best for you.

Cash Purchase

The most straightforward option. You pay upfront for the entire cost of the rooftop solar system. No interest, and fewer headaches, but many people are hesitant about spending several tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket.

Solar Loan

The most common method for buying solar systems. Like many other types of large purchases, you can finance your solar system through a bank or solar loan provider.

This sounds great, and many other solar loan salespeople will leverage the low payment to justify the costs. You will likely hear something like "You pay $250 a month on your electric bill, with a solar loan you will pay $200 and have free electricity."

Do your due diligence before you sign on the dotted line. There are many horror stories of variable loan terms, ballooning interest rates, and harsh missed payment penalties.

Solar Lease

Leasing solar panels generally involves less money out of pocket upfront. But, it's important to note - you do not own your solar energy system. You essentially renting the solar system. A solar provider will install the equipment and charge you a fixed monthly fee.

Most solar lease contracts last for a couple of decades, during which time the provider will keep an eye on the system's hardware and performance. At the end of your lease, you can choose to:

  • Renew your lease agreement
  • Purchase the system
  • End your lease agreement

Solar leases can be complicated. Not all are bad, but in many cases the lease terms in not in favor of the buyer. Before you decide on a solar lease make sure to read your contract thoroughly. If you don't understand something, ask an expert.

Power Purchase Agreements

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financial agreement where a solar company will design and install a solar system on your home or business with little or no cost upfront. Instead of paying a monthly fee like a lease, the agreement includes a fixed price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity generated.

For example, you agree to pay $0.12 per kWh of electricity generated for the next 20 years. The solar company will install and maintain your system and sell the power back to you that you use. They may also collect payment for any additional energy they put back into the grid.

Just like a lease, you do not own the panels. When the contract is up, they will either be removed or your contract may have other terms for you to buy or renew your power purchase agreement.

Power purchase agreements can be complicated. Before you sign make sure you review the contract and if possible have an expert in power purchase agreements review the details.

Nevada Solar Incentives

In addition to the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, you may be eligible for solar incentives that could significantly reduce the cost of solar panel installation. Some incentives are statewide and others are more local. Your city, utility, or other local company could offer hundreds or thousands of dollars in incentives to install solar systems.

This table shows the available incentives in Nevada. But, just because you don't see it here doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Check with your local utility for other potential incentives.

  • Nevada Energy Net Metering: A program provided by the state’s largest utility company that allows homeowners to offset their electricity bill by selling excess solar power back to the grid.
  • Sunrun Nevada: One of the largest residential solar companies in Nevada monthly and prepaid plans to make solar more affordable.

Name State Category Type
NV Energy - Clean Energy Incentive Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Renewable Energy Systems Property Tax Exemption NV Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Large Scale Renewable Energy Property Tax Abatement (Nevada State Office of Energy) NV Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Nevada Solar and Wind Easement Laws NV Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Access Policy
Nevada Power - PV Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Net Metering NV Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Energy Portfolio Standard NV Regulatory Policy Renewables Portfolio Standard
Solar Contractor Licensing NV Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Contractor Licensing
Fuel Mix and Emissions Disclosure NV Regulatory Policy Generation Disclosure
Boulder City Public Works - Energy Efficient Appliance Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Interconnection Standards NV Regulatory Policy Interconnection
Renewable Energy/Solar Sales Tax Exemption NV Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
Portfolio Energy Credits NV Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
School Reconstruction Policy NV Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Sierra Pacific Power - PV Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Property Tax Abatement for Green Buildings NV Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Nevada Power - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Programs NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Nevada Power - Energy Assistance Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
NV Energy (Southern) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Sierra Pacific Power - Energy Assistance Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Sierra Pacific Power - Agricultural Irrigation Rebate NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Nevada State Energy Reduction Plan NV Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
NV Energy (Southern Nevada) - Business Energy Efficiency Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Nevada Power - Energy Efficient Air Conditioning Rebate Program for Contractors and Homebuilders NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Luminous Efficacy Standards for General Purpose Lights NV Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
NV Energy (Northern Nevada) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Renewable Energy Sales and Use Tax Abatement NV Financial Incentive Sales Tax Incentive
Valley Electric Association - Net Billing NV Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Southwest Gas Corporation - Commercial Energy Efficient Equipment Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Southwest Gas Corporation - Solar Water Heating Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Southwest Gas Corporation - Commercial Energy Audit Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Nevada - Residential Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Valley Electric Association - Solar Water Heating Program NV Financial Incentive Loan Program
NV Energy (Southern Nevada) - SolarGenerations Solar Heating NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
NV Energy (Southern Nevada) - Energy Plus Builder Efficiency Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
NV Energy -Energy Smart Schools Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
NV Energy (Northern Nevada) - Business Energy Efficiency Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Clark County - Solar and Wind Building Permit Guides NV Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
Clark County - Energy Conservation Code NV Regulatory Policy Building Energy Code
NV Energy (Northern Nevada Gas) - SureBet Business Energy Efficiency Rebate Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Direct Energy Assistance Loan (DEAL) NV Financial Incentive Loan Program
NV Energy - Energy Storage Incentive Program NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Nevada Appliance and Equipment Energy Efficiency Standards NV Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Nevada Energy - Residential Electric Vehicle Charging Incentive NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Nevada Energy - Business Electric Vehicle Charging Incentives NV Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Nevada - National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Grant Program NV Financial Incentive Grant Program
Tax-Exempt Financing for Green Buildings, Renewable Energy & Brownfield Redevelopment US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Conservation Security Program (CSP) Production Incentive US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Federal Excise Tax Exemption for Gasohol US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) US Financial Incentive Corporate Depreciation
Energy Star Financing and Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA Rural Housing Service Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Small Business Administration Loan Programs US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy-Efficient Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government US Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Deduction
Energy-Efficient New Homes Tax Credit for Home Builders US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy-Efficient Appliance Manufacturing Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Veterans Housing Guaranteed and Insured Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Federal Appliance Standards US Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Energy Goals and Standards for Federal Agencies US Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
U.S. Department of Treasury - Renewable Energy Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Repowering Assistance Biorefinery Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Title I Property Improvement Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (EA/REDA) Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Personal) US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Tax-Exempt Financing for Green Buildings, Renewable Energy & Brownfield Redevelopment US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Conservation Security Program (CSP) Production Incentive US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Federal Excise Tax Exemption for Gasohol US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) US Financial Incentive Corporate Depreciation
Energy Star Financing and Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA Rural Housing Service Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Small Business Administration Loan Programs US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy-Efficient Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government US Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Deduction
Energy-Efficient New Homes Tax Credit for Home Builders US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy-Efficient Appliance Manufacturing Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Veterans Housing Guaranteed and Insured Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Federal Appliance Standards US Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Energy Goals and Standards for Federal Agencies US Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
U.S. Department of Treasury - Renewable Energy Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Repowering Assistance Biorefinery Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Title I Property Improvement Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (EA/REDA) Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Personal) US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit

Nevada Solar Companies

There are hundreds of solar companies in Nevada. From solar installers to solar loan providers, and manufacturers. Each is a piece of the puzzle to help you get outfitted with solar panels.

To make things simple, EnergyBot works directly with 3 of the largest solar companies to give you a comprehensive view of the market.

The solar companies we partner with:

  • Project Solar - A nationwide provider of solar panel systems that has a non-sales-oriented approach to building your system. They build your system from their central office and send a local company to complete the solar panel installation.
  • EnergySage - The largest online solar installation network. They work with thousands of installers to help you find the perfect solar system for your home. With thousands of successful solar installations, they can give you a range of bids and pricing options.
  • Tesla - Brains behind some of the most cutting-edge technology in the automotive industry, Tesla also offers sleek and powerful solar systems and battery systems.

We believe comparing these three names in the solar industry will give you the info you need to decide if solar panels are right for you.

Before You Install Solar Panels

Just because solar is a popular discussion right now, doesn’t mean it makes sense for everyone. It is still a large and expensive decision. Installing solar has great financial and environmental benefits but it won’t feel beneficial if you run into issues. Along with studying a 20-year cost comparison for your home, read some more tips to keep in mind when mulling over your decision on your installer, system design, and financial plan.

  • What are the long-term savings and payback period for installing a solar panel system?
  • How will installing solar panels impact my home's value?
  • What is the system’s Return on Investment (ROI)?
  • Are there any specific design or aesthetic considerations for solar panel installation?
  • How do I weigh the environmental benefits against the costs of installation?
  • What are the specific terms and conditions for the installer?

Energy Jobs on the Rise in Nevada

Leveraging the state's abundant sunshine, Nevada is leading the way in retraining workers for solar plant jobs, and people from other states are seeking training here as well. Workers are being trained in solar energy infrastructure construction at the Reno branch of the Laborers’ International Union of North America, a hotspot for job creation. 

Francisco Valenzuela, a worker with previous experience in solar projects, is among those learning more about solar technology. He praises the good pay and the plentiful work available. All with good reason because Solar projects are expected to double Nevada's solar capacity by 2029. The Solar Energy Industries Association predicts about 800,000 new jobs will be needed within a decade to meet the target of 30% of the nation's electricity generation from solar by 2030.

Why Trust EnergyBot

We have helped thousands of customers find electricity plans for their home or business. And we are pretty darn good at it, with over 1,000 5-Star reviews we know how to help you stay powered up.

Now using the same one-of-kind technology and platform we are helping consumers in Nevada decide if solar is right for them. You will notice that sometimes our numbers make solar look less attractive. That's not by accident. We believe you should have full transparency during the solar purchasing process.

We aren't here to sell you something. We are here to help you make the best energy decision for your home or business.

Nevada Solar FAQs

The cost of solar panel installation in Nevada can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the size and type of the system, the complexity of the installation, your solar installer, and the specific location. However, the average cost of solar panels in the U.S. was about $3.13 per watt, before any incentives or tax credits.

A typical residential solar system is usually around 8 kilowatts (8,000 watts), but varies based on energy use and the size of the house. The US average cost for a 6 kW system is $18,771 and the US average cost for a 10 kW system is $31,285, before incentives. The average price for a home solar panel system in Arizona is $15,600 for a 6kW system or about or about $2.60 per watt, significantly lower than the US average.

The number of solar panels you would need depends on a variety of factors such as:

  1. Your home's energy consumption: The first step is to calculate your household's energy use. You can do this by looking at your electricity bills to see how much electricity you use in a year, usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The average U.S. home uses around 10,400 kWh per year, but this can vary widely based on the size of your home, the efficiency of your appliances, and your personal habits.
  2. The amount of sunlight your location receives: This can vary depending on where you live. For example, if you live in a place that has many sunny days like Arizona, you might require fewer solar panels compared to someone living in a place with less sunlight like Seattle.
  3. The efficiency of the solar panels: Not all solar panels are created equal. Some panels can convert sunlight into electricity more efficiently than others. On average, residential solar panels have an efficiency rating between 15-20%. The higher the efficiency, the fewer panels you would likely need to meet your energy needs.
  4. The size of the solar panels: Solar panels also come in different sizes. A common size for residential use is roughly 65 inches by 39 inches. Each panel typically produces around 250 to 400 watts of power, but this can vary.

To give you a rough estimate, let's say you live in a location that receives about 5 hours of peak sunlight per day, your solar panels have an efficiency of 20%, and each panel has a power rating of 300 watts. If your home uses about 10,400 kWh per year, you would divide this by 365 to get your daily energy use (about 28.5 kWh). You would then divide this by the hours of peak sunlight (5 hours), to get your required power output per hour (about 5.7 kW). If each solar panel produces 300 watts (or 0.3 kW), you would divide 5.7 kW by 0.3 to get the number of solar panels you need, which would be about 19 panels.

  • Lower Electricity Bills:
    Once your solar panels are installed, you can generate your own electricity and reduce your reliance on the grid, which can lower your monthly bills.
  • Environmental Benefits:
    Solar energy is clean and renewable, so using it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants.
  • Increased Home Value:
    Installing solar panels can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Long-Term Savings:
    While the upfront cost of installing solar energy systems can be high, they can pay for themselves over time through lower energy bills and other savings.
  • Location:
    Homes in areas with lots of sunlight are generally better candidates for solar panels. If your home is shaded or doesn't receive much sunlight, it may not be the best choice.
  • Roof Orientation:
    Ideally, your roof should be facing south to get the most sunlight throughout the day.
  • Roof Condition:
    Your roof should be in good condition and able to support the weight of the solar panels. If your roof needs repairs or replacement, it's best to take care of that before your solar installation.

The installation process for solar panels can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation.

Your installer should be able to give you an estimated timeline based on your specific project.

Solar panels generally require very little maintenance. However, it's a good idea to have them inspected every few years to ensure they are working properly and to clean off any debris or dirt that may have accumulated on the panels. Most solar panel installers offer maintenance services for an additional fee.

What type of solar panels should I purchase?

There are two main types of solar panels: Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. There are pros and cons to both. Either type can produce enough solar power for your home. We recommend getting a recommendation from a solar installer for your home. Depending on your budget, location, and other factors they can recommend the most efficient solar panels for your home. 

Securing a residential permit for solar installation in Nevada is a crucial step. The process may vary by local jurisdiction, but generally involves submitting a permit application to the local building department. They will also ask for things like site plans and system specifications. 

Many local governments in Nevada have streamlined this process to encourage solar adoption, and resources are available to assist homeowners. For specific guidelines, homeowners should consult their city or county building department, where staff can provide details on required documentation and fees. The Nevada Governor's Office of Energy also offers information on regulations and incentives, while solar installation companies often have experience navigating local permitting requirements and can provide guidance as well. 

Check out the links below for resources for some of the major cities:

Las Vegas

Solar Construction Process

Permit Process and Fees

Online Building Permits

Henderson

List of Permits

Building Permits Contact

Reno

Solar Info for Reno

Electronic Permit Submittal