Rooftop Solar Panel Installation in Arizona: Everything You Need to Know
Rooftop solar isn’t just a trend in Arizona. It’s a proven way to lower your electric bills, reduce your reliance on the electric grid, and invest in your home.
At SouthFace Solar & Electric, we’ve been installing rooftop solar in Arizona since 2008. We’ve installed thousands of systems, and we know what works for local homes.
If you’re considering solar for your home in AZ, we wrote this guide for you. It covers everything you need to know, from how it works to what it costs and if it’s worth it.
How Rooftop Solar Panels Work
Rooftop solar works differently depending on whether it’s connected to the electric grid (grid-tied) or not (off-grid).
Grid-Tied Rooftop Solar
Most rooftop solar installations in Arizona are grid-tied. During the day, your panels generate electricity from sunlight. Your home uses that power directly, reducing the amount you need to buy from the utility.
You can also add a battery to store solar energy for use during peak hours, at night or during power outages.
Off-Grid Rooftop Solar
Off-grid solar power systems work the same way grid-tied systems do, but are independent from the utility. You won’t get an electric bill or be affected by grid outages.
But, without a grid connection, you have to generate 100% of the electricity you use yourself. You’ll need a lot of panels and a large battery bank. Most off-grid systems also include a generator.
Benefits of Rooftop Solar Installation in Arizona
Rooftop solar is a smart, tax-free investment. It has long-term financial benefits and, as long as the sun continues to rise every day, you will see a guaranteed return on your investment.
Lower Electric Bills
Arizona’s high solar exposure means systems here generate a lot of electricity. That translates to greater long-term savings.
Increased Home Value
Homes with rooftop solar often sell for more. Buyers value energy savings and are drawn to homes with lower utility costs.
Long-Term Energy Control
Solar gives you more control over your energy access and protects against rising utility rates.
Clean, Renewable Energy
By going solar, you’re reducing your carbon footprint and creating a more sustainable planet for your kids and grandkids.
Rooftop Solar Cost Considerations
In Arizona, rooftop solar typically costs between $2.00 and $2.60 per watt. At $2.60 a watt, you’re looking at about $18,200 for a 7 KW rooftop solar system, before incentives.
But solar installation costs in Arizona can vary a lot, even for two houses in the same neighborhood.
Here’s what impacts price:
- System size (based on energy usage)
- Panel and inverter brands
- Whether you include battery storage
- Installation quality
- Financing and incentives
We offer free, personalized quotes based on your home, energy goals, and budget, and we’ll walk you through the best options to maximize your return.
Incentives Bring Your Costs Down
There are some great solar incentives in Arizona, including:
Federal Solar Tax Credit – Save 30%
You can claim 30% of your solar installation costs as a credit on your federal taxes, bringing the price down significantly.
Heads up! Congress will end this credit after 2025. To qualify, your system must be operational by the end of the year. Go solar now to lock in your savings.
Arizona State Tax Credit – Save $1,000
In Arizona, you can claim an additional $1,000 tax credit for rooftop solar on your state income taxes.
Net Billing
Utilities like APS and SRP offer net billing, which gives you a credit for excess electricity your system sends to the grid. These credits help reduce the electricity you pull from the grid when your panels aren’t producing.
Arizona utilities have reduced what they pay over the years, but for most homes, solar is still worth it with lower buyback rates.
What to Expect During the Installation Process
The timeline for installing rooftop solar in Arizona can vary, but it usually takes around 6 months from start to finish.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Free Assessment & Estimate – We start with a free consultation to answer your questions and help you decide if solar makes sense for your home.
- Site Assessment & Proposal – We’ll visit your home, evaluate your roof and energy usage, and design a system that fits your needs.
- Permitting & Approvals – Our team takes care of all permitting, paperwork, and utility applications, so you don’t have to. We coordinate with local jurisdictions and your electric utility to ensure everything is approved and ready to go.
- Installation Day – Our systems are installed by our own in-house crews. That means consistent quality, expert workmanship, and a smooth installation experience. Most rooftop systems are completed in just one day.
Inspection & Permission to Operate – Once installation is complete, we schedule the necessary inspections and get final approval from your utility. After that, your system is activated, and you start generating your own power!
