Private solar panel installation. Step 2: Consider Energy Efficiency First

Solar Power Company Serving RIO Rancho, NM.

Reliable and efficient solar power company in RIO Rancho – contact the experts.

Have you ever considered solar power in RIO Rancho as an energy solution for your home or business?

Due to a general lack of information, most people never make the switch to solar power for fear of the assumed steep upfront costs. However, in a location like RIO Rancho, which averages an incredible 330 days of sunshine per year, you can recoup this initial investment sooner than expected. The power savings begin to take effect right away.

Federal, state, and local governments also have sizeable renewable energy tax credits on solar power installations that further reduce the overall cost of your system.

When you choose our solar panel RIO Rancho solutions, we guarantee: 24/7 lifetime system monitoring Professional installation with labor warranties Lifetime solar panel manufacturer warranties Lifetime enphase microinverter warranties

Explore our latest offers to save massively on your residential or commercial solar panel installation.

RIO Rancho Solar Power Can Help You Save Money

Solar power solutions reduce energy costs by up to 50%

When you install solar power in RIO Rancho, the cost-savings are instant and will more than cover the approximate 656kWh per month power usage. From the very beginning, solar panels can help you to reduce your monthly electricity bills by up to 50%. Indeed, some of our customers even have a negative net power usage enabling them even to supply power to the grid.

We will help you to calculate how many solar panels you need to offset your power usage effectively.

Enjoy steady monthly power costs with solar energy

Utility companies rely on fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas to supply power to private homes and businesses. The cost of these raw materials can fluctuate, which leads to unpredictable electricity costs that are dependent on market performance.

Solar power frees you from worrying about these varying electricity costs, so you can budget effectively and avoid any nasty surprises.

Solar installations require little to no maintenance

Our solar installations need little to no maintenance or repair, which helps you to recoup your investment sooner.

We’re confident that the excellence of our solar products will give you enhanced service and include warranties in our service contracts, which guarantee no-cost repairs should a breakdown occur.

Renewable Energy Rebates and Home Benefits with RIO Rancho Solar Panels

Enjoy Federal and State RE tax credits

Several federal and state incentives exist to encourage New Mexico property owners to make energy-efficient upgrades like solar photovoltaic and solar hot water systems. These incentives come as renewable energy (RE) credits, sales tax savings, rebates, income tax deductions, and net-metering.

When you install solar power in RIO Rancho, you can benefit from the 26% RE federal tax credit, which reduces the overall cost of your system. For residential and commercial solar installations, this reduction applies to systems like hot water installations, fuel cells, small wind energy systems, and geothermal heat pumps.

If the tax liability is less than the federal tax credit, the excess amount is carried forward to the following taxable year. You can also benefit from state property tax exemptions like gross receipt tax, further saving you money.

NM State RE Tax Credits also allow for a 10% personal income tax reduction for amounts not exceeding 9,000 applicable to homeowners, sole proprietors, and agricultural enterprises that purchase and install certified solar thermal and photovoltaic systems.

Examples include: Active solar hot water and hot air systems Grid-tied commercial PV systems Grid-tied residential PV systems Off-grid systems

Unfortunately, solar hot tub or pool installations are not eligible.

Increase the value of your home and enjoy monthly power savings

When you install solar panels with us, you instantly increase the value of your home by building home equity. All our systems last for 25 years and come with little to no maintenance or repair costs, giving you a permanent and affordable clean energy solution. We also provide flexible financing that allows you to purchase your system over time, while still giving you full solar owner benefits. Please speak to our experts to explore the residential and commercial solar panel RIO Rancho solutions available to you.

Key Takeaways

Here are the top three things that you need to know about ground-mounted solar panels and energy production:

While rooftop solar arrays are the most common choice for homeowners, there are many reasons to consider a ground-mounted solar panel system.

Generally, ground mount solar panels cost a bit more than rooftop solar on a per-watt basis because of additional labor and permitting that may be required for the installation. That being said, if your property isn’t ideal for rooftop solar, installing a ground-mounted system can actually save you more money in the long run.

Rooftop solar arrays are restricted by the characteristics of the roof on which they are installed. If your roof isn’t at the right angle, doesn’t face south, or has obstructions like chimneys or skylights, then your solar array will be less productive. On the other hand, ground-mounted solar panels can be located wherever the conditions are best.

In addition, if your home uses a lot of electricity, your roof might not be big enough for a solar energy system that meets your electricity needs. In contrast, ground-mounted solar systems can be sized to match your electricity consumption without the space restrictions of a rooftop system.

Not all ground-mounted solar panel systems are created equal

There are two basic types of ground-mounted solar panel systems:

Standard ground-mounts use metal framing driven into the ground to hold your solar panels up at a fixed angle. Some standard ground-mounted solar panel systems can be manually adjusted a few times a year to account for seasonal shifts of the sun.

Pole-mounted solar systems support multiple solar panels on a single pole and elevate panels higher off the ground than a standard ground mount. Pole-mounted solar often incorporates tracking systems, which automatically tilt the solar panels to capture the optimal amount of sunshine.

Tracking systems can increase the production of your solar panels by 25 percent or more. If you decide to add a tracking system to your ground-mounted solar array, you have the option of either a single-axis or a dual-axis system. Single-axis tracking systems move your solar panels over the course of the day to follow the sun as it moves through the sky. Dual-axis tracking systems can also adjust based on seasonal variations in the sun’s position.

Ground-mounted solar panel systems offer benefits for all homeowners

Even if you are a good candidate for a rooftop solar energy system, there are many benefits to choosing a ground-mounted solar panel system.

First, ground-mounted solar panel systems are very easy to place, because they can be located on open land. They don’t require drilling into your roof, and the bracings used in standard ground-mount systems are lightweight and easy to remove. (If you opt for a pole-mount, they will usually be installed more securely.)

Second, a ground-mount solar panel system can be more productive per panel than a rooftop solar array. Because they’re not dependent on your roof, ground-mounted solar panels are set at the perfect angle to optimize energy production. This means you can generate more electricity than a comparably-sized rooftop system, and save more money in the long run.

Finally, ground-mounted solar panels are very easy to access for cleaning and maintenance. If you live in an area that receives a lot of snow in the winter, being able to easily sweep the snow off of your solar panels is a major convenience.

Most installers offer a ground-mount system option, and the cost of standard ground-mounted solar is comparable with a rooftop solar energy system installation. If you decide to include a tracking system in your installation, you will pay an additional upfront cost, but the resulting increase in electricity production can make tracking systems cost-effective for many homeowners.

What makes a solar panel fit for ground-mounting?

If you’re considering a ground-mounted solar system over a rooftop system, you’ll want to be aware of the benefits and drawbacks associated with these systems. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your needs and what parameters you and your solar provider have to work within.

Advantages of ground-mounted solar

One advantage of free standing solar panels is their ability to maximize sunlight exposure. Your rooftop may not be ideally oriented (i.e., south-facing with a slope between 30 – 40 degrees), but you’ll be able to choose the orientation of your ground-mounted system to increase energy production. Ground-mounted systems also tend to operate more efficiently because they have more air circulation beneath the panels, allowing them to stay cool. Finally, if your system requires any maintenance, it will be much easier for your installer to access a ground-mounted system, typically reducing potential labor costs.

What Factors Impact Solar Panel Costs?

Several key factors determine the total cost of solar panels—namely, your home’s electrical demand and panel choice. There are hardware costs, such as the materials included in your system, and soft costs, which are fees related to labor, permits, and other essentials needed to get the system installed. Learn about cost factors below.

High-Impact Solar Panel Cost Factors

Here are some cost factors that influence your solar panels’ price:

• Household electrical demand: This is the amount of electricity your household uses per month. Homes with mostly gas appliances will use less energy than homes with electric ones. If you have high monthly energy consumption, you’ll need a larger system to match your needs.
• Purchasing options: Customers can pay with one lump sum, take out a loan, lease, or enter a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Each option affects how much you’ll pay in the long run.
• System size: The most influential factor in your solar system installation cost is the system size. The bigger the system, the higher the price tag. However, buying a solar system is similar to buying other products in bulk. A higher-wattage system has a lower average cost per watt. Thus, when you purchase a larger system, the overall cost is higher but you have a lower cost per unit.

Medium-Impact Solar Panel Cost Factors

Below are some of the medium-impact cost factors:

• Amount of sunlight: The more daily sunlight your home receives, the more significant your potential savings. Homeowners that live in areas with year-round inclement weather or cloudy days will experience lower energy production and cost savings.
• Labor: Labor costs vary by location and are more expensive in areas with higher costs of living. Different solar providers also charge different prices. Labor will be included in your initial quote.
• Panel quality: The equipment you choose greatly impacts your electricity production. You’ll want to find the most efficient solar panels that fit your budget. expensive equipment doesn’t always mean higher savings, while the cheapest option can sacrifice value. Find the right balance between quality and price.
• Panel size: A larger solar system costs more because it requires more labor and more equipment. However, it can yield greater savings.
• Tax incentives: Federal and state solar incentives can reduce installation costs.

Low-Impact Solar Cost Panel Factors

Here are some other cost factors that pose a minimal impact on solar’s overall price:

• Location: Solar panels cost more in some states than others, largely due to regional electricity costs. Peak sunlight hours are also a factor.
• Permitting and interconnection: Required permits and local interconnection fees to the power grid will add a slight extra cost to your solar panel installation total.

Cost by Type of Solar Panel

The type of solar panel plays an important role in the total system cost. For example, monocrystalline panels are more efficient but more expensive than polycrystalline panels. efficient panels are typically needed for homes with limited roof space.

• Monocrystalline solar panels: Monocrystalline panels offer the best efficiency ratings and energy production but have the highest price tag. Wholesale pricing for monocrystalline panels ranges between 450.00–450.50 per watt before installation costs.
• Polycrystalline solar panels: Polycrystalline panels offer lower pricing but less energy production than monocrystalline panels. Expect to pay
  

  Cost by Type of Solar System

  The solar energy system type also impacts price. There are three system options: grid-tied, grid-tied plus storage, and off-grid.

• Grid-tied system: A grid-tied system, also known as on-grid or utility-interactive, is the most cost-effective since it doesn’t require a battery, eliminating a large expense and lowering installation costs.
• Grid-tied system plus storage: A hybrid system means your panels are tied to the utility grid along with solar battery backup(s). This costs more than grid-only. Your initial system price will include one or more solar batteries. For example, Tesla Powerwall start at 9,200 for a standalone battery but jump to 14,200 when included with a Tesla Solar panel system.
• Off-grid system: An off-grid system is the most expensive because you’ll have to source all of your electricity independently. This requires high-capacity battery storage and a backup generator. Based on our research, off-grid system costs range between 45,000 and 65,000.

.75–450.00 per watt at wholesale.

We recommend full payment if you have the up-front capital to afford it. This is the most cost-effective option and yields the quickest return on investment (ROI).

A solar loan is an excellent second option if you don’t have the financial ability to pay for the solar system up-front. A solar loan still lets you experience maximum energy bill savings and solar incentive eligibility.

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Solar Incentives and Rebates

We surveyed 1,000 homeowners that received solar quotes. We found 52% of respondents did not install solar panels because it was too expensive. An excellent way to reduce your overall system cost is by applying for federal, state, and local incentives. These tax credits, rebates, and solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) vary by state and payout rate.

Here is an overview of common solar incentives:

• Federal solar tax credit: The federal tax credit lets you apply 30% of your total solar installation cost to your federal taxes. There’s no cap on its value, meaning for a 6-kW system priced at the national average of 20,650, you’d subtract 5,370 from your taxes. This reduces your system cost to 12,530.
• Net-metering: You could earn additional savings from net-metering. an incentive where you send excess energy back to the power grid for monthly electric bill credits. Net-metering programs are offered on the state level or through certain utility companies throughout the state.
• Property tax exemptions: Since solar panels boost home value, they also increase your property taxes. These exemptions eliminate property taxes for a certain timeframe, or permanently, depending on your state’s legislation.
• Sales tax exemptions: Some states exempt state or local sales tax from solar panel sales, helping reduce your solar investment.
• Solar renewable energy credits (SRECs): Some states offer SRECS to help meet their renewable portfolio standards (RPS). These regulations require a certain percentage of generated electricity to come from renewable sources. Homeowners receive one credit for every 1,000 kWh of solar electricity their system generates. You can apply this credit to reduce your electricity bill or sell them for profit.
• State tax credits: Similar to the federal tax credit, homeowners receive a certain percentage of their total costs back to apply to their state tax liability.

Some cities, municipalities, and local utility companies offer additional savings for a new solar system, energy storage, or energy efficiency upgrades.

Check our state solar incentives guides below for more information about credits and rebates in your area:

• Arizona Solar Incentives
• California Solar Incentives
• Colorado Solar Incentives
• Florida Solar Incentives
• Illinois Solar Incentives
• Maryland Solar Incentives
• Massachusetts Solar Incentives
• Nevada Solar Incentives
• New Jersey Solar Incentives
• New York Solar Incentives
• Pennsylvania Solar Incentives
• Texas Solar Incentives

.70 per watt at wholesale pricing.

Are Solar Panels Worth It?

Our survey revealed that 94.6% of homeowners said installing solar panels was worth it, and most respondents said the transition reduced their energy bills. Although solar panels are worth the investment for many homeowners, there are situations when they won’t benefit your home.

Solar is a balancing act between a hefty up-front cost and potential savings. One advantage of solar panels is that they pay for themselves over time. The average payback period for a solar PV system is six to 10 years. If you have access to SRECs and net-metering, you not only break even during this timeframe but also generate additional savings.

Below are ways that going solar can be worth it for you:

• Homes with plenty of sun exposure: An ideal house that maximizes the potential of solar energy should be obstruction-free, so no tall trees or surrounding buildings. In addition, the roof should be south-facing and have a steep slope that can hold a solar panel at a 15- to 40-degree angle. Homes that receive little light or have limited roof space will not benefit from a system, making it a less valuable investment for those homeowners.
• Increased home value:Going solar increases your home’s value. According to a Zillow study, homes with solar energy systems sell for 4.1% more on average than those without, equaling an additional 9,274 on the total resale price for median-value homes.
• Lower utility bills: Using solar power in your home reduces the need for costly fossil fuels and taps into a less expensive resource. Homes that use more electric-powered appliances would benefit from a solar conversion.
• Net-metering: Excess energy from your solar panel installation can be stored in a solar battery or returned to the power grid. You can accumulate enough credits through net-metering programs and SRECs to receive a monetary return.
• Unlimited sustainable energy: Solar energy provides a renewable energy solution that helps protect the environment. Harnessing solar energy’s power provides homeowners unlimited access to clean energy. Without relying on expensive fossil fuels, homeowners can take full advantage of a natural energy source with lower energy costs. As a result, customers will reduce their carbon footprint, helping to reduce harmful emissions that contribute to climate change.
• Solar tax breaks: As previously stated, there are plenty of solar incentives provided by local and state governments. We encourage you to ask your chosen solar installers to see what tax breaks they can help you obtain.

How Long Does It Take To Break Even With Solar?

On average, homeowners break even after six to 10 years. Determining your solar break-even point depends on a few numbers, namely the total system plus installation cost, any applied incentives, and your annual electricity bill savings.

Use the following steps to calculate your break-even point:

• Subtract the value of any applied incentives or rebates from your total solar panel system plus installation cost. That’s your first number.
• Then, add up how much you save annually in electricity costs by comparing pre-solar utility bills with post-solar utility bills. That’s your second number.
• Divide the first number by the second number for the number of years it will take you to break even. Every year after that should be counted as a financial gain.

Let’s demonstrate this calculation: If your system and installation cost amount to 20,000, but 30% was deducted due to incentives, your first number is 14,000. Pretend your annual electricity savings comes out to 5000,500. Divide 14,000 by 5000,500, and you’ll see that it takes just over five and a half years for you to break even.

What Are the Hidden Costs and Disadvantages of Solar?

As with any other home improvement project, there are some hidden costs and downsides to solar energy that are not often discussed.

Solar’s highest hidden cost is including solar batteries with your system, which often runs from 8,500–10,000. The cost of a Tesla Powerwall battery is slightly higher given how reputable the company and product are. Though you can opt out of installing a solar battery, some homeowners choose to include it for backup power protection.

Read over some of these hidden fees and disadvantages here:

• Insurance: You can expect your home insurance to increase with a solar panel system purchase. Your state might require you to get solar panel-specific insurance in addition to your current insurance coverage. Therefore, we advise you to search for a reputable home insurance provider that helps with solar power system coverage before purchasing panels.
• Maintenance: Be aware that your solar panels will require maintenance to keep them in working order. Most installers recommend having panels checked every five years or so. You’ll need a professional to inspect wires and connections to ensure they’re in working condition. Although this won’t be a substantial cost, you should plan for maintenance fees in your ongoing panel costs.
• Panel cleaning: Most solar panels are cleaned naturally with rainfall. However, if you live in an area prone to wildfires or dust, you will need the occasional cleaning. We recommend hiring a pro to avoid potentially dangerous situations such as climbing on your roof.
• Repairs: Solar panels are durable and many have hail and hurricane ratings to provide their durability. Most insurance covers damage due to natural disasters or damaging weather events. There are rare occasions when solar panels require repair work. If they aren’t covered by insurance, you must pay those out-of- costs.
• Roof work : Solar panel installation sometimes requires extra roof work to be completed before the project can even start. Depending on your roof’s condition, this can be the highest or second-highest hidden cost. If your roof is roughly five to 10 years away from needing replacement, you may need to install an entirely new roof. Alternatively, a solar installer might suggest simply fortifying your roof’s eaves. Either way, we advise you to contact a local roofing company for an in-depth roof replacement inspection.
• Utility company charges : You’ll still receive a utility bill after going solar. Though that bill should be around 80 less than before, you’ll likely see some solar-specific charges from utility companies. Namely, you’ll notice a charge when your solar panels take electricity from the power grid instead of adding to it.
• Solar battery: Many homeowners opt to purchase a solar battery with their systems. This device stores excess energy and lets you use this energy to power your home at night, during blackouts, or when utility rates are high.
• System monitoring: If you opt to use a solar company’s active monitoring, there’s sometimes a monthly 10–15 fee included.
• Tree removal: If surrounding trees cast shadows on your panels, you may need tree removal services to ensure their performance. These services cost between 341–450,523 on average.

Step 3: Choose a Contractor

A qualified, licensed solar contractor will provide you with a free home evaluation and comprehensive quote. Obtain and compare multiple bids before beginning.

Who: You How: If you can, get referrals from friends and neighbors. Search for active solar contractors in your area by using the California DG Stats Search tool.

Another great resource is the SCE Solar Marketplace, an easy-to-use, one-stop shopping service; offering customers a reliable resource to search solar vendors, compare of rooftop solar systems, finance options, and receive the benefit of having multiple vendors bid for their business.

Save 500 Off Rooftop Solar and Lower Your Bill

SCE does not endorse or recommend any solar contractor. SCE partners with GRID Alternatives to promote the Disadvantaged Communities. Single-family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) program (as described below). If you receive any claim by any other entity or contractor of an affiliation or partnership with SCE, please report to us by visiting Scam Alert and using one of the contact options.

Step 4: Installation

Your solar generating system must be installed, permitted, and approved for interconnection. Your city or county will perform an onsite inspection and provide the required permit(s). SCE will provide authorization to operate the solar system once proper installation and permitting are completed.

Who: Your contractor How: In most cases, your contractor will coordinate and manage the following activities:

• Apply for interconnection with SCE
• Apply for a building permit with the city or county
• Obtain the permit and direct the installation of the solar system

Step 5: Interconnection to SCE’s Electric Grid

Once your solar system is installed and you have been given the authorization to operate your solar system, you will be interconnected with our electric grid. This means your system supplies energy for your property and can provide any surplus energy generated back to SCE’s grid. When you need more energy than your system can generate, like at night or on cloudy days, you will use energy from SCE’s grid. The difference between the energy you consume from the grid and the energy your system delivers back is then used to calculate your monthly bill. This is known as the Solar Billing Plan.

Who: Your contractor How: Once your contractor has obtained approval for interconnection to our electric grid, your meter will be updated, and you will be immediately signed up for the rate plan.