Currently, the cost to install a solar energy system in Nevada is about $2.86 per watt on average. Residential solar energy systems vary in size and therefore wattage based on budget, how much energy is used in the home, and how much un-shaded roof space is available, but in general, a 5 kW (5,000 watt) solar energy system is considered standard and sufficient for the average Nevada home. At $2.86 per watt, that brings the cost of a typical 5 kW system to about $14,300.
Before you succumb to sticker shock, it’s important to look at the long-term financial benefits of adding a solar energy system to your home. Continuing with our example of a 5 kW solar energy system and based on the average energy costs in Nevada, the payback period for the system will be just under nine years.
However, you can expect to save almost $34,000 over 20 years after installing your solar energy system! This figure takes into account the total cost of installing a solar energy system (including incentives) and the money that’s saved as a result, compared to the cost of the same amount of energy at utility company costs, accounting for inflation.
Additionally, as solar energy gains mainstream traction as a viable green energy source, more financing options are becoming available, which allow you to spread out the initial investment into monthly payments rather than one intimidating lump sum.
Adding solar energy can also increase your home equity significantly. Statistics show that on average, solar-equipped homes sell for about $15,000 more than comparable non-solar-equipped homes across the nation. You can rest assured that should you need to sell your home before reaping the 20-year savings we mentioned above, you will still benefit from the solar energy system through a higher home equity.
So, while the upfront costs of installing solar can seem daunting and out of reach at first glance, some simple calculations reveal that installing a solar energy system in your home will be extremely financially beneficial in the long run. Your return will far exceed your investment when it comes to solar energy.