Solar panel prices in Arizona depend on the size of the system, the type of solar panel, and local incentives in each part of the state. In total, you'll pay $2.54 per watt , or $2,540 per kilowatt . Price includes installation but does not include potential savings from federal, state and local incentives. For example, after the federal solar tax credit, the price drops to $1.78 per watt .
The cost of installing solar panels in Arizona and across the country will likely continue to decline in the coming years. The Energy Department plans to halve solar prices by 2030, which would ease trade and shorten the time it takes to recoup installation costs.
The cost depends on the order size
Tax benefits aside, let's take a look at the cost of Arizona panels based on system size. How many solar panels you need depends on many factors. It is therefore best to commission a specialist to do the calculation. The type of panels, your home's exposure to sunlight, and the amount of energy your home uses each year are important. However, for a typical Arizona home, a 3 to 10 kW system is common.
Solar Panel System Costs
Depending on the solar company in Arizona, you can choose between several types of solar panels, most commonly monocrystalline or polycrystalline panels. Monocrystalline panels are often more efficient and save money over time, but the initial cost is higher. You can also opt for thin cell solar panels, which are lighter and more flexible and suitable for a variety of systems and racks.
In general, the cost of solar panels in the country, depending on the type, is as follows:
- Monocrystalline panels: $1.00 to $1.50 per watt.
- Polyurethane panels: $0.70 to $1.00 per watt.
- Thin film modules: $0.43 to $1.20 per watt.
Cost depends on the brand of solar modules
When determining the true cost of a solar panel, you need to consider the purchase price, installation speed, long-term maintenance costs, and warranty coverage. Among the top solar module brands for 2023, key competitors include SunPower's Maxeon modules, Panasonic Solar, Q Cells, Canadian Solar and REC Solar. Here's what you can expect on average per watt.
- SunPower (Maxion): $3.30 per watt.
- Panasonic Solar: $3.03 per watt.
- Q cells: $2.74 per watt.
- Canadian solar energy: $2.90 per watt.
- REC Solar: $2.98 per watt.
The costs are covered by the solar installation company.
The best solar companies in Arizona are often distinguished by their price transparency. Since there are many government tax breaks to take advantage of, these companies have the opportunity to help homeowners reduce their costs by taking advantage of them.
Although the cost of solar panels varies greatly depending on the size of your home and the brand you choose, some companies are more expensive than others. For example, SunPower, our top-rated brand in the state, has higher upfront costs than others but offers a wider range of financing options. Here's what to expect from the state's biggest brands.
- SunPower: $3.30 per watt.
- ADT Solar: $3.00 per watt.
- Maximum for solar energy: $3.28 per watt.
- Palmetto Solar: $2.99 per watt.
Permit and connection fees
Arizona counties determine the cost of individual permits to build the system and connect it to the grid. The cost ranges from $150 to $600 , but the average is around $300 . Maricopa County, for example, requires a $300 permit fee for residential solar installations.
