Best Solar Companies in Reno, NV

Statewide, average solar panel costs in Nevada range from $11,155 to $22,310. Prices in Reno are comparable, ranging from $11,830 to $23,659. 

The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. The average Nevada household needs a system with a capacity of 7.2 kW to fully offset their electricity costs. You might need a smaller or larger system, depending on your household energy use.

Average solar panel costs by system size in Reno

In our experience, the best solar companies in Nevada have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some tips for choosing a solar company.

1. Look out for scams

One of the most common solar scams involves fake companies that sell panel systems without any intention of really installing them. Another scam is falsely claiming to be affiliated with state agencies. The Nevada State Contractors Board is helpful for dealing with any potential solar scams.

Shady sales reps sometimes exaggerate potential energy savings or fail to disclose the full costs associated with solar panel installation and maintenance. Always verify claims, research companies and ask for references.

2. Read reviews

Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags — complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.

Local experience matters, too. Companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Reno are better at navigating the local regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

3. Ask questions

Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect pricing? What happens if your system needs maintenance?

Carefully review the proposal and contract. If you don't understand the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

4. Compare costs

Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others — this may indicate lower quality.

» TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

5. Check certifications

Nevada contractors need the proper classification to perform solar panel installations. Ask for their license number and verify it through the Nevada State Contractors Board’s online database.

The Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) has a National Solar Licensing Database that lists the latest licensing, certification and other requirements impacting the solar industry. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

The State of Nevada Public Utilities Commission has additional helpful information for residents going solar in the state.

Think of solar like buying a car: you can pay cash, but most people finance or lease.

• Solar loan: A solar loan works like any other type of loan, with relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright.
• Solar leases: You get to use the panels but don’t own them. Solar leases can be good if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. Agreements typically last 20 to 25 years.
• Power purchase agreements: Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment. A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per-kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis.

» SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

Solar panels are generally worth it in Nevada if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. For most, the biggest drawback is the high upfront cost of installing the equipment.

Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

With rising electricity costs, more Nevada homeowners are finding solar makes financial sense in the long run. On average, Nevada homeowners with solar panels can avoid $51,532 in total utility costs over 25 years.

Nevada has supported solar through net metering since 1997, with current policies allowing homeowners to earn credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.

As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering. Use NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is another free solar savings estimator.

» STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

With the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) ending much sooner than expected, it makes sense to take advantage of as many local Nevada solar incentives as possible.

The federal solar tax credit expires at the end of 2025.

For instance, statewide net metering allows you to draw power from the grid when your solar panels aren’t producing enough energy. In return, you can sell excess energy back to the grid for credits on future electric bills.

These credits can then be used to offset your electricity bill when your solar panels are not producing enough energy. Residents who choose to participate in net metering in Nevada are currently compensated at 75% of the retail rate. This rate will not change unless modified by legislation.