Best Solar Companies in Reno, NV

With professional installation, solar panel systems in Nevada cost anywhere from $7,636 to $21,817.

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 total solar installation costs by system size in Reno

Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many people finance through a loan. Similarly, leasing solar equipment could be a good option if you don’t want to take on debt or be responsible for system maintenance.

• 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.
• Leasing options: You get to use the panels but don’t own them. Solar leases can be good if you have limited savings. 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.
• Home equity loans or lines of credit (HELOC): Eligible homeowners can borrow against equity in their house to finance a solar panel system. These often have variable interest rates, meaning monthly payments can increase over time.

» SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

Going solar in Washoe County

Nevada is a pro-solar state in terms of both regulations and economics. As far back as 1997, the state allowed net metering for rooftop solar customers, but it dramatically cut back its payment rates and raised participation fees in 2015. That didn't last long, though: In 2017, Nevada reinstated net metering under largely similar terms as before the 2015 changes.

» BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Nevada ranked second in 2024

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 hiring tips:

• Look out for scams: One of the most common solar scams involves fake companies that panel systems without any intention of really installing them. The other one is falsely claiming to be affiliated with state agencies. The Nevada State Contractors Board is helpful for dealing with any potential solar scams.
• 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).
• 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. Companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Reno are better at navigating the local regulations, permits and available financial incentives.
• Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? Then, carefully review the proposal. If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

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

» TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the best financial incentive for most homeowners going solar in Reno. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels.

The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

Statewide portfolio energy credits and net billing can also help justify the upfront costs of going solar. The Nevada Energy Portfolio Standard lets residents with renewable energy systems earn portfolio credits, which may be sold to utility companies.

» MORE: Nevada solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

What to know about net metering in Reno

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.

» GREENEST STATES: Nevada ranked 26th in 2024

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.

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 in Reno and elsewhere, more homeowners are finding solar energy is financially worth it in the long run. On average, Nevada homeowners with solar panels can avoid $82,838 in total utility costs over 25 years.

» STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons