Manager, Vivint Solar View Bio
Las Vegas is one of the sunniest places in the country and property owners are taking advantage of the city’s great solar potential making Vegas one of the top users of solar electricity in the U.S. While changes to the local utility company’s net metering program in 2015 slowed residential solar deployment, in 2017, the Nevada legislature voted to resurrect this important state policy bringing back the state’s rooftop solar market. However, with recent changes to the local utility company’s incentive program, residential solar is facing a steep downward trend.
3 Facts to Know About Solar in Las Vegas
-
According to a 2019 report from Environment America Research & Policy Center, Las Vegas is one of the top 10 cities in the nation for total installed solar with 104.1 MWs of installed solar capacity. The top 20 cities account for four percent of all solar capacity in the country while representing just 0.1 percent of the total U.S. land area.
-
Las Vegas sees the sun 85 percent of the time from sunrise to sunset and enjoys 210 days of sunshine a year. It is one of the top three sunniest places in the nation, beat only by Yuma, AZ and Redding, CA.
-
Las Vegas is home to the largest solar rooftop system in the U.S. Sitting atop the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, the newly built 8.3 MW system installed and owned by NRG Energy, boasts 26,000 modules and has the capacity to power 25 percent of the entire electricity demand of the complex.
Photo courtesy NRG Energy
IN-DEPTH: Solar in Las Vegas
Various factors influence how great the return on investment will be for a solar system. A 2019 study conducted by North Carolina University’s NC Clean Energy Technology Center breaks down those factors into three categories: the first-year average monthly savings before a loan payment, the value of investing relative to a long-term investment in the stock market, and the “levelized cost” of the system comparable to the cost of electricity from the local utility company. After ranking 50 major U.S. cities, Las Vegas came in 5th in the country.
Electricity prices in Las Vegas
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the average residential electricity rate in Las Vegas is currently about $.12 cents per kWh, making it on par with the average U.S. rate.
Per capita, the state of Nevada used 233 million BTUs of energy in 2014, placing it 42nd in the nation for energy consumption. However, Nevada only has only three major cities with populations larger than 225,000 with Las Vegas being the largest city in the state by far with 603,488 people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. With the largest population in the state, a four-mile long strip of brightly lit casinos, a 24/7 lifestyle, and the constant need for air conditioning to offset the high temperatures, Las Vegas is the biggest consumer of electricity in the state.
Photovoltaic potential in Las Vegas
Areas in the city that are more popular for solar include the higher income areas such as Summerlin, Anthem, Henderson, and Green Valley Ranch.
Throughout Las Vegas there are 391 non-residential solar systems and 16,277 residential solar systems.
There is nowhere in this city where solar doesn’t have tremendous potential. For a flat plate tilted at latitude anywhere in Las Vegas, people can access between 6.64 and 6.21 kWh/m2 per day. That is some of the highest solar panel resource in the country. According to Whitesides, typical types of structures in Las Vegas that are good for solar include carports, standing ballasted roofs, and tile roofs.
Policies & incentives
The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) in Nevada mandates that by 2025, 50 percent of energy used by the local utility company, NV Energy, be from renewable energy sources, with a six percent carve out for solar. The net-metering program, established in 1997, the same year as the RPS, allowed system owners to sell surplus electricity back to NV Energy at a price that would offset the homeowner’s consumption on a one-to-one basis. This generated a lot of interest in solar and Las Vegas became a leader in solar system installations.
In 2015, Senate Bill 374 set a net metering capacity limit of 235 MWs. In August of 2015, that limit was reached and a new net-metering tariff was created by NV Energy and approved by the PUC. The new tariff essentially eliminated net metering by changing incentive rates to be much lower than before. Whereas this did not affect commercial sectors (which typically use electricity as it’s generated), the residential sector was impacted significantly.
In 2017, new legislation was approved through Assembly Bill 405 that created a tiered net metering rate, essentially bringing rooftop solar back to the state. The rate structure decreases over time as the amount of electricity produced by net metering systems hits 80-megawatt benchmarks, going from 95 percent of the retail rate to 75 percent.
Policies and RebatesRenewable energy systems for commercial, industrial and agricultural sectors are exempt from property taxes.
To achieve the RPS, the PUC of Nevada established a program that allows energy providers to buy and sell portfolio energy credits (PECs).
Permitting & interconnection ease
Solar expert Justin Whitesides notes that permitting within the city is generally easy with its same-day permitting process. He also says that Homeowners Associations could also make installation a struggle with their own set of restrictions on solar systems and their appearance.
Whitesides says that the biggest obstacle facing solar in Las Vegas is the utility company. Aside from the new tariff changes, sometimes it can take three to four months for the utility to set a Renewable Energy Credit (REC) meter. Without the REC meter, customers can’t turn on their newly installed solar system.
Solar Companies in Las Vegas
- Est. 2008
- 2708 Highland Drive
Las Vegas, Nevada 89109 - 702-309-9300
1 Sun Solar is a licensed electrical contractor that serves residential and commercial sectors in the Clark County area. It offers full-service electrical contracting and specializes in solar energy and solar panel installation.
- Est. 2005
- 1900 Joella St.
Las Vegas, NV 89108 - 702-648-5333
American Solar Electric installs solar lights for streets, trails and more. It uses the highest quality products while also making installation and maintenance affordable for its customers.
- Est. 1982
- 6434 S. Arville St.
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Spring Valley - 702-492-0957
Bombard is one of Nevada’s biggest commercial electrical contractors building electrical systems for casinos and resorts on the Las Vegas strip. Since 2006, Bombard has focused on delivering solar energy solutions and has installed more than 1,000 renewable energy projects for a total of 200 MWs.
- Est. 2001
- 7730 S Decatur Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89139-0106 - (702) 791-5899
Celestial Solar Pool Heating in Las Vegas offers free in-home estimates and boasts excellent standing with the Nevada State Contractors License Board. It doesn’t use subcontractors or day workers instead employing factory trained solar installers with backgrounds in roofing and plumbing.
- Est. 2009
- Cooper Roofing & Solar, LLC
1200 S. Commerce, Ste 110
Las Vegas, NV 89102 - 702-688-7940
Cooper Roofing and Solar does new construction, repairs, re-roofings, residential, commercial and custom projects. It is experienced with a variety of roofing and its highly skilled employees receive ongoing training.
- Est. 2010
- 8125 Eagle Clan Ct.
Las Vegas, NV 89121 - 702-531-0201
Cordan Solar serves customers throughout Southern Nevada and offers installation, maintenance and repair services for solar energy systems. This family-owned business prides itself on quality customer service and a highly trained workforce.
- Est. 1985
- 4340 W. Hacienda Ave.
Las Vegas, NV 89118 - 702-798-0995
GG Systems does electrical, low-voltage, energy management, fire protection and solar installation projects. It works for both commercial and residential customers and is focused on delivering high-quality specialty electrical systems.
- Est. 2008
- 3863 S. Valley View Blvd., #2
Las Vegas, NV 89103 - 702-467-6527
GoSolar Total Energy Solutions, serving commercial and residential sectors, prides itself on its high-quality workmanship. It doesn’t subcontract work to third parties, completing all installations and maintenance by its own team of technicians.
- Est. 1987
- 5440 Cameron St., Ste. 105
Las Vegas, NV 89118 - 844-765-8855
Green Solar Technologies operates across parts of the U.S., including Las Vegas. It uses American made products for its solar energy systems and works to make solar an affordable and mainstream option for home and business owners.
- Est. 2015
- 339 Hollins Hall St., Ste. D
Las Vegas, NV 89145 - 702-930-6418
Houston Electric works on large and small electrical projects, including residential and commercial solar energy installation and repair. All of its electricians are certified at the highest level of electrical education providing high-quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.
- Est. 2007
- 4817 Elmhurst Lane
Las Vegas, NV 89108-1320 - 702-473-5181
Infinity Solar provides Las Vegas customers with pool, residential and commercial water heating solutions. Infinity Solar carries high-quality, durable products that can withstand Hurricane type winds and guarantees client satisfaction.
- Est. 2001
- 4325 W. Patrick Lane, Ste. 145
Las Vegas, NV 89118-6863 - 877-437-6527
Jersey Electric and Solar is a Las Vegas based company offering customers clean, cost-effective solar energy solutions. It carries a variety of products from different manufacturers and works with clients to design the best system for their needs.
- Est. 1994
- PO Box 97402
Las Vegas, NV 89193 - 702-660-6665
Mr. Electric serves customers across the country including Las Vegas. While mostly known for other types of residential and commercial electrical projects the company also works on installing solar energy systems.
- Est. 1977
- 6030 W. Quail Ave.
Las Vegas, NV 89118 - 800-868-1209
Natural Energy operates throughout California and Las Vegas and installs solar electric, solar pool heating, and solar hot water solutions. It also works in the commercial sector. Home and business owners can call to receive free consultation.
- Est. 2010
- 149 N Gibson Road
Henderson, NV 89074 - 702-539-3516
Locally owned and operated, Next Generation Electrical Technologies is a fully bonded and licensed electrical contractor. It has more than 40 years of electrical construction experience, including solar, and focuses on new and remodel installations for residential, commercial, and industrial sectors.
- Est. 2005
- 3400 W. Desert Inn Road, #3
Las Vegas, NV 89102 - 702-739-6190
Nu-Lite Solutions offers a host of services including electrical design and installation, solar design and installation, home automation, energy efficiency products, and energy audits. This locally owned business that works to design a plan that’s affordable and completed in a timely manner.
- Est. 1998
- 3955 W. Sunset Road, Suite 104
Las Vegas, NV 89118 - 800-274-5836
Performance Solar serves Southern California, Southern Arizona, and Las Vegas. It specializes in solar pool heating solutions and offers free in-home estimates.
- Est. 1984
- 4350 North Walnut Road
North Las Vegas, NV 89081 - 800-564-0362
Petersen Dean Roofing and Solar prides itself on installing American made products, creating jobs for local communities. Customers can choose from different packages and the company will design, permit, and install the system. Battery back up systems are also available.
- Est. 2007
- 817 S. Main St.
Las Vegas NV 89101 - 702-351-6151
RA Energie, founded by Dr. Herve Mazzocco, is member of the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE), the American Solar Energy Society, and other respected groups. RA Energie does solar carports, residential and commercial solar and off-grid solar powered advertising signs in Las Vegas.
- Est. 1996
- 5692 La Costa Canyon Ct., #105
Las Vegas, NV 89139 - 702-614-4900
Robco Electric’s team of installers has been working in the field of solar for more than 30 years. Photovoltaic systems in the Las Vegas are their specialty and they pride themselves on an educating their clients about solar and its benefits.
- Est. 2014
- North Las Vegas, NV
- 810-553-6856
Solar Envy is a veteran-owned business serving the Greater Las Vegas area. Their team of professional installers also works to maintain and repair panels, ensuring that customers have a working system when they need it.
- Est. 2003
- 921 American Pacific Dr., Unit 307
Henderson, NV 89014 - 702-564-5003
Southwest Electric is a commercial electrical contractor in Nevada that also works within the residential sector. It offers quality customer service and affordable pricing for solar installations and repairs.
- Est. 2009
- 4305 Dean Martin Dr, #150
Las Vegas, NV 89103 - 702-586-9800
Sol-Up offers residential and commercial solar installation for Las Vegas and surrounding areas. Sol-Up uses satellite images of rooftops to design effective systems.
- Est. 2015
- 7401 W. Washington Ave., # 1098
Las Vegas, NV 89128 - 855-945-6449
Sunlogix offers residential solar solutions to people living in California, Utah, and Las Vegas. It takes you through the evaluation, design and installation process to help people save money by using energy from the sun.
- Est. 2005
- 7180 Dean Martin Dr., Ste. 100
Las Vegas, NV 89118
SunPower by Renewable Energy Electric serves people across Arizona, California and Nevada. Renewable Energy Electric is a SunPower Master Dealer and it installs residential and commercial solar panels with its dedicated team of 74 employees and full-service electrical contracting services.
- Est. 1995
- 6560 Spencer St., #A1-105
Las Vegas, NV 89119 - 702-362-3611
Suntrek promotes a new way of life with clean, renewable energy and free from fossil-fuel dependence. It works to make solar energy accessible and affordable for all families to saving money while helping them to decrease their carbon footprint.
- Est. 2008
- 137 N. Gibson Road, Ste. 100
Henderson, NV 89014 - 702-558-1500
Today’s Energy Store is a local owned and operated company that uses solar energy experts to provide customers with solar systems and energy efficiency services. From air sealing, insulation, windows, and solar PV, its experienced team can help anyone looking for a more efficient home.
- Est. 2013
- 4775 West Teco Ave., Suite 125
Las Vegas, NV 89118 - 702-413-7343
Universal Solar Direct serves all of Clark County with residential solar. It prides itself on using the most up-to-date and effective solar systems from world leaders in manufacturing. It also has state certified professionals who file all paperwork for permits, incentives, H.O.A.s, and more.
- Est. 2007
- 5440 Cameron St., Ste. 105
Las Vegas NV 89118 - 702-997-7870
VIP Electric is a local company that can handle a wide range of electrical projects for both commercial and residential sectors. It employs qualified solar panel installers who can help customers take advantage of clean, affordable energy from the sun.
- Est. 2010
- 3320 Wynn Road, Ste. B
Las Vegas, NV 89102 - 702-339-1554
Vegas Pro Electrical Services is a local electrical contractor company that installs and repairs a host of electrical projects, including solar systems. It has a fleet of fully stocked vans to get work done fast and it also offers 24-hour emergency services.
LAS VEGAS LIBRARY OF SOLAR RESOURCES
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas Solar Energy Initiative – Find out how the local university is working to promote and support the development of solar in the state and city through its innovative Solar Solutions Center. The new Center helps prepare future renewable energy leaders and establish UNLV as a nationally renowned center for solar energy deployment.
- NV Energy Net Metering – Explore the PUCs net-metering rate changes and discover how the utility company will work to grandfather net-metering customers. Review the 12-year rate change forecast for Southern Nevada and find answers to most of your net-metering questions.
- NV Energy SolarGenerations – NV Energy’s solar incentives program is outlined here for interested Las Vegas customers. Find out how to apply for the program, review the program handbook, study legislation and regulations, and check on the program’s status.
- Nevada State Contractors Board – Clark County Contractor Listing – Explore a comprehensive list of licensed contractors in the Clark County area from general engineering to solar contracting (number C-37 in the list).