Sun Valley Solar Solutions View Bio
From private homes to public organizations, more and more people in Phoenix are taking advantage of the savings that solar energy provides thanks to the city’s almost endless sunshine. And with skyrocketing utility costs that are among the highest in the nation, it’s no wonder that residents and businesses alike are looking for some relief. This guide provides information on how homeowners in Phoenix can get that relief. Readers will find information on incentives that solar system users receive, the laws that govern the technology, and the companies that install solar systems to residential clients in Phoenix.
Phoenix averages more than 300 sunny days every year. Sunlight is our abundant natural resource. It’s also clean and totally renewable. Every Arizona resident has the same choice: continue buying power from the utilities and be totally at the whim of their pricing structures or make your own electricity and lock in decades of clean electricity at a much cheaper and predictable cost.
3 Facts to Know About Solar in Phoenix
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In 2012, the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport unveiled the largest solar rooftop project ever completed in Arizona. Made up of 16,000 solar panels, the City of Phoenix estimates that the system will save the airport $4.7 million dollars in electricity costs within the next 20 years.
Photo Credit: SunPower
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Phoenix is one of the leading cities for solar energy, thanks to the 300 days of sunlight the area receives annually.
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To demonstrate its commitment to developing renewable energy, the City of Phoenix has installed 32 MW of renewable energy on its properties. Projects have been completed at public facilities such as the Burton Barr Library, the Phoenix Children’s Museum, and the Metro Facilities Building.
Burton Barr Library has a 148kW solar array carport.
Source: Phoenix.gov
IN-DEPTH: Solar in Phoenix
According to the Environment America Research & Policy Center, Phoenix ranks third in the nation for total solar PV installed — which amounts to 236 MWs by the end of 2018. In addition, a report issued by the NC Clean Energy Technology Center ranks Phoenix 11th on its list of cities that have the best solar system return on investment.
The price of installing a solar energy system varies dramatically depending on a large list of variables, including size of the home, amount of electricity the occupant(s) use, the type and age of major appliances, efficiency additions such as windows and insulation, as well as the home owner’s personal energy savings goals. A skilled consultant will factor all of these variables into a system design and present the homeowner with options that can offset a percentage of their bill or virtually all of it.
Electricity prices
Residents in Arizona pay more than average for their electric bills. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration information, in 2018 the average monthly electric bill in Arizona was $131.31. With the national average of $117.65, Arizona’s need for air conditioning is pushing residents’ bills up 5.6 percent higher than average.
The shift to demand-based pricing in 2015 by our second-largest utility provider – Salt River Project power and water – definitely slowed momentum. Under demand-based plans, customers continue to pay fees for their total electricity usage (though generally at lower kWh rates), but are also assessed demand fees based on their highest energy consumption peak during the billing cycle. We managed to beat SRP’s demand rates by combining solar with a proven demand-management system that can help customers avoid costly demand peaks.
Photovoltaic potential
With 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s not surprising that the photovoltaic potential in the city is high. In fact, according to Green Building Advisor, a 1-kW solar electricity system in Phoenix yields 1,617 kWh of energy each year.
Policies & incentives
In 2003, the Maricopa Association of Governments, or MAG, created policies to make the permitting process for solar and wind energy systems uniform, which included updates to requirements for plans, diagrams, signage, and warnings. As a result of these changes to the MAG Building Code Standards, the process for receiving permits has become quicker and more efficient, allowing more Phoenix residents to take advantage of the benefits of solar power.
Solar customers in the city also must have systems that adhere to state policies on how devices must be connected to the electricity grid and how much excess power solar systems must create for homeowners to be eligible for credits on their bills.
While the regulatory efforts have made it easier for more Phoenix homeowners to get solar systems, it’s the incentives that have really made solar electricity a viable option. The following are financial incentives that property owners enjoy.
In general, the price of solar has definitely come down in recent years. Just seven years ago, for example, customers could expect to pay as much as $6 per kilowatt, while today most residential solar energy system come in at less than $3 per kilowatt. That’s more than 50 percent less in just seven years.
Arizona homeowners can receive a tax credit for 25 percent of the amount of a renewable energy system on their property. The credit maximum is $1,000. Systems that are eligible for this incentive include solar photovoltaic, domestic water heating, and swimming pool and spa heating systems, as well as wind turbines.
Those who install solar PV, heating, thermal electric, and pool heating systems on their property can receive a 100 percent tax exemption on the equipment.
Permitting & interconnection ease
Although the process of obtaining solar power has become easier, permitting and interconnection rules must be followed in order to get permission to build and operate a PV system. The City of Phoenix requires that homeowners fill out paperwork and pay fees applicable for their building project, while SRP and Arizona Public Service have interconnection agreements that potential solar users must sign.
Solar Companies in Phoenix
- Est. 2010
- 2465 W. 12th St., Ste. 6
Tempe, AZ 85281 - 480-699-1481
This licensed and bonded company provides solar energy solutions to homeowners. In addition, they perform energy evaluations that include assessing insulation, ductwork, and utility bills.
- Est. 2001
- 1230 W. 23rd St.
Tempe, AZ 85282 - 480-994-1440
American Solar & Roofing has worked with over 5,000 customers since it opened in 2001. Through its efficient process, the company can design and install solar systems within 45 days.
- Est. 2013
- 9393 N. 90th St., Ste. 102-353
Scottsdale, AZ 85258 - 480-390-4822
Operated by experienced solar installers, this company is a full-service provider. Aneva Solar guarantees that its systems will operate for at least 20 years.
- Est. 1981
- 20801 N. 19th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85027-3554 - 800-730-6768
Guarantees solar system installations within three months or less. Services include obtaining approval from homeowners associations, permitting authorities, and utility companies; system designs; and logistical analyses.
- Est. 2006
- 1415 E. University Drive, #A109
Tempe, AZ 85281 - 480-446-3600
Provides solar energy solutions to homeowners and businesses, including electricity and water heating systems. Customers are educated on how the process works, whether or not solar energy is the right option for their home, and how to obtain rebates and tax credits on systems.
- Est. 2004
- 21402 N. 7th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 855-248-8884
The professionals at Arizona Solar Solutions have AriSEIA Qualified Contractor Certified and AriSEIA Certified PV Installer designations. The company provides residential and commercial customers with solar systems, as well as monitoring services.
- Est. 2015
- 1022 W. 23rd St.
Tempe, AZ 85282 - 888-525-2786
Homeowners in the Phoenix and Tempe areas can take advantage of the NABCEP-certified solar services provided by this company. Customers can receive their installations with no money down.
- Est. 2012
- 1217 W. Hatcher Road, Ste. #25
Phoenix, AZ 85021 - 623-82-2262
Designs and installs residential and commercial photovoltaic systems. Helps customers secure financing.
- Est. 2007
- 623-434-3340
Whether a project is large or small, Black Platinum Solar & Electric provides systems designed to accommodate clients’ specific usage requirements. The company is an Arizona Public Service, Qualified Solar Installer.
- Est. 1999
- P.O. Box 54657
Phoenix, AZ 85078 - 602-485-7901
This company installs new solar systems, as well as provides repairs for existing systems. Other services offered include electrical system updates, lighting design, and surge protection.
- Est. 2010
- 2606 W. Townley Ave., Ste. 7
Phoenix, AZ 85021 - 602-334-4959
Homeowners can receive solar electric systems, as well as solar water heaters, through this installer. Also offers insulation, and duct and air sealing.
- Est. 1989
- 2411 W. Lone Cactus Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 623-582-1740
Deer Valley Plumbing Contractors installs solar water heating systems. Homeowners can also have their water lines re-piped.
- Est. 1976
- 11062 N. 24th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85029 - 602-899-1564
Services include solar hot water systems. The company also provides toilet, drain, and sewer repair.
- Est. 2008
- 625 W. Deer Valley Road, Ste. 103-202
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 602-302-7640
Provides solar water heating and air conditioning solutions. Project managers oversee the work for commercial and residential clients.
- Est. 1960
- 2702 N. 3rd St., Ste. 2040
Phoenix, AZ 85004 - 800-368-7767
This company’s licensed professionals have experience installing a variety of solar products, including electric, heating, thermal air conditioning, and pool pump systems. Also provides solar monitoring so homeowners can review their energy service and how much money they’re saving.
- Est. 2014
- 2212 E. Williams Field Road, Ste. 220
Gilbert, AZ 85295 - 866-634-5291
Provides solar solutions and helps customers acquire the maximum financial incentives they’re eligible for. Uses a five-step process from solar proposal to post-installation inspection.
- 840 N. 43rd Ave.
- Phoenix, AZ 85009
Est. 2010 - 877-612-0886
Custom solar solutions available to residential and commercial property owners, as well as nonprofit organizations. The company offers services such as design, savings projection, needs analysis, financing, and material procurement.
- Est. 1986
- PO Box 54310
Phoenix, AZ 85078 - 602-493-1135
This family-owned and operated business provides commercial and residential solar services that are installed by its licensed and bonded installers. Customers can buy or lease systems.
- Est. 2009
- 2425 W. 12th St., #4
Tempe, AZ 85281 - 480-398-2740
Since 2009, Green Choice Solar has provided the latest solar technology systems to its customers. The company handles everything from design to permitting to maintenance.
- Est. 2009
- 1212 E. Baseline Road
Tempe, AZ 85283 - 602-926-1650
Helps customers take advantage of lower utility bills through the use of solar electric and hot water systems. Provides assistance with obtaining federal and state incentives to help pay for equipment and installation.
- Est. 1975
- 945 W. Deer Valley Road, Ste. #100
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 800-281-3189
Harmon Solar is a locally owned, licensed general contractor with the experience needed to install solar systems in a variety of structural situations. Before installation, technicians identify any problems that may hinder the solar system’s performance, such as leaks in a roof.
- Est.
- 2305 W. Huntington Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282-3129 - 602-454-7000
Provides solar electric systems, as well as pool and water heating systems. Technicians are trained and certified by the Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association.
- Est. 1994
- 3402 E. Wier Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85040 - 602-276-6343
Solar energy solutions are available for commercial and residential customers through Indicom Electric Company. Also has services for homeowners such as ceiling fan, hot tub, and smoke detector installation.
- Est. 1986
- 523 W. Galvin St.
Phoenix, AZ 85086 - 602-547-1598
North Canyon Solar installs solar water heating systems in Phoenix. Helps customers receive rebates on their systems.
- Est. 1979
- 4091 E. Huntington Drive, Ste. B
Flagstaff, AZ 86004 - 928-526-8017
Provides on-grid, off-grid, and backup solar power solutions. Also installs a variety of solar water pumping products.
- Est. 1995
- 2010 W. Parkside Lane, Ste. 150
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 623-582-9420
Award winning, full-service contractors that provide services to the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. Services include installation of solar photovoltaics and hot water systems.
- Est. 1986
- 9625 N. 21st Drive, #9
Phoenix, AZ 85021 - 602-363-7327
This company has installed over 2,500 solar water heating systems since opening in 1986. Systems are covered by five-, six-, and 10-year warranties.
- Est. 1981
- 20819 N. 25th Place, Ste. B107
Phoenix, AZ 85050 - 623-806-8806
Develops, engineers, and installs new solar PV electrical, water heating, LED lighting, and thermal air conditioning systems. The company also repairs existing solar systems.
- Est. 1988
- Est. 1988
Glendale, AZ 85308 - 623-581-5357
Phoenix Solar Specialists has highly skilled solar installers who are always keeping abreast of the latest developments in the technology. Offers durable solar panels that perform in even the harshest weather conditions.
- Est. 2015
- N. 27th St., Ste. 215
Phoenix, AZ 85032 - 602-510-4932
This company has a five-step process that allows customers to get their solar systems up and running within 60 days. Systems are affordable and have no hidden fees.
- Est. 2011
- 20 E. University Drive, Ste. 304
Tempe, AZ 85281 - 480-264-0690
Offers on-grid or off-grid photovoltaic electric systems. In addition, customers can further make their homes energy-efficient with the company’s solar hot water systems.
- Est. 2011
- 627 S. 48th St., Ste. 105
Tempe, AZ 85281 - 623-208-7560
Specialty contractor that specializes in solar. The company also performs building renovations.
- Est. 1973
- 8621 N. 27th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85051 - 623-780-2008
Solar systems are installed by the company’s licensed, bonded, and insured professionals. Other services include electrical repair, retrofitting, and charging stations for electric cars.
- Est. 2013
- 23460 N. 19th Ave., Ste. 150
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 623-252-9181
Offers solar electrical systems for residences and businesses. Offers financing and 25-year warranty for parts and labor.
- Est. 2008
- 22849 N. 19th Ave., Ste. 105
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 623-582-1772
Solar solutions are available with no money down. The company handles details such as permitting, inspections, and utility company approvals.
- Est. 2001
- 5815 N. Black Canyon Hwy., Ste. 203
Phoenix, AZ 85015 - 602-595-4178
Sky Renewable Energy is a full-service solar integrator that works with residential and commercial clients. Beginning with an energy audit, the company creates plans that fit into a customer’s energy needs and budget.
- Est. 2009
- 102 S. 28th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034 - 480-940-1201
Customers who work with Solar Topps can expect help with solar photovoltaic design, engineering, permitting, installation, and ongoing maintenance. The company has professional certifications, such as SunPower certified Advanced Technical Professionals and North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners.
- Est. NA
- 2155 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Ste. 201
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 888-436-0661
Provides quick and efficient solar installation, as well as permitting and monitoring services. The company allows customers to receive discounts for referrals.
- Est. 2013
- 2122 W. Lone Cactus Drive, Ste. 2
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 480-636-1800
When Southface Solar Electric designs solar systems, it takes great care to ensure that the design fits well with a structure’s architecture, as well as with the customers’ needs. Also, customers receive 24/7 monitoring throughout the life of the system.
- Est. 2008
- 3702 E. Roeser Road, Ste. 16
Phoenix, AZ 85040 - 602-535-2221
Staffed by experienced in-house designers and installers, Streamline Solar provides PV products in the Phoenix and Tuscon areas. Financing and leasing is available at no money down.
- Est. 2008
- 23026 N. 16th Lane, #102
Phoenix, AZ 85027 - 623-225-7170
Summerwind Solar was listed on the 2015 Top 500 Solar Contractors list by Solar Power World. Services include installation and financing. Customers also can take advantage of the company’s Refer a Friend program to get discounts.
- Est. 2009
- 2717 W. Dunlap Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85051 - 623-755-8323
Services from this company range from turn-key projects to solar panel installation only. SunHarvest Solar’s services include energy conservation and financial return on investment analyses, design, engineering, and installation.
- Est. 2013
- 170 S. William Dillard Drive, #109
Gilbert, AZ 85233 - 480-264-5521
Titan Solar Power recognizes that transitioning to solar energy can be a complicated process, so the company has created a starter kit that allows customers to start small. Those who want to obtain full solar photovoltaic systems have the option to buy or lease them. In addition, the company also offers emergency systems for use during electric utility power outages.
- Est. 2009
- 4939 W. Ray Road, Ste. #4
Chandler, AZ 85226 - 480-330-1669
Valley Pro Electric handles energy assessments, permitting, scheduling inspections, and system installation. Six months after installation, the company does a checkup on the system’s performance.
PHOENIX LIBRARY OF SOLAR RESOURCES
- Arizona Public Service Electric Company – The Arizona Public Service Electric Company, or APS, is one of the utility companies for residential customers in Phoenix.
- Environmental Programs Energy: Phoenix – This page on the City of Phoenix website outlines solar programs that have been created in the city, as well as the city’s energy goals for the coming years.
- Solar Systems – Has information from the City of Phoenix on requirements for solar energy projects and systems.
- SRP: Salt River Project Power and Water – This is the website for one of the utility companies providing services to Phoenix residents.
- Arizona Solar Center – Includes details on the tax incentives that are available to those with renewable energy systems.