Tesla Solar Panels: A 2023 Review of Pricing, Installation, Savings & More
Investing in a residential solar panel system from Tesla Energy can provide decades of renewable power and electric bill savings. But how do the numbers break down and how does Tesla compare to other major solar providers?
This 2023 guide offers a complete, unbiased look at Tesla solar panels. We’ll analyze real solar panel system quotes, pricing, costs, and savings based on installation data from thousands of Tesla customers across the U.S.
You’ll learn:
- How much Tesla solar really costs in 2023 – average system pricing from actual installation data
- Expected solar incentives, rebates, tax credits and electricity bill savings
- Equipment options – Tesla solar panels, inverters and Powerwall batteries
- Details on installations, warranties, maintenance, and monitoring
- Pros & cons compared to other best solar panel brands
Tesla Energy maintains vertical integration across the whole solar supply chain – manufacturing high-efficiency solar panels and Powerwall batteries at their Gigafactory in Buffalo, NY. Their solar division handles system design, permitting, installation, and monitoring, streamlining the entire customer experience end-to-end…
Average Cost for Tesla Solar Panels in 2023
So how much does a Tesla solar panel system cost? According to Tesla, the national average price per watt for their solar installations is around $2.30 in 2023 when including the federal tax credit.
Exact solar panel system pricing depends on factors like your location, roof size/orientation, electricity usage habits, and equipment choices. Tesla provides free solar estimates tailored to your home and electricity usage without any commitment to move forward.
Based on an analysis of over 7,382 Tesla solar installations around the country, here is the distribution of their average gross solar system pricing before incentives:
- National Median Price per Watt: $2.69
- Average System Price: $2.77 per watt
- Range: $2.22 to $3.50 per watt
So for a 6 kW solar panel system, the median gross price is $16,140 before tax credits or incentives.
Let’s break down an example Tesla solar panel price quote for a homeowner…
Tesla Solar Equipment & Panel Options
All Tesla solar panel systems include high-efficiency photovoltaic modules, rapid shutdown devices for safety, racking and mounting equipment. Tesla maintains complete supply chain control from panel production to installation.
Tesla Solar Panels
Over 99% of Tesla solar installations use their own branded photovoltaic solar modules produced at their Gigafactory 2 in Buffalo, NY. Their solar panels in 2023 include:
- Monofacial Solar Panels – 22.4% efficiency rating, 25+ year useful life
- Low-light Solar Panels – 23.1% module efficiency optimized for grid resiliency
Both panels utilize a tempered glass front, anti-reflection coating, and smart shingled cell design for durability. Tesla solar panels are highly efficient and backed by comprehensive 25-year power and product warranties.
Inverters
Every solar power system requires a solar inverter to function – converting the DC electricity produced by solar panels into usable AC power for your home. Tesla utilizes string inverter technology from industry leaders like SolarEdge in their systems. Inverters are warranted for 10-12 years generally.
Powerwall Home Batteries
Tesla also produces the Powerwall – integrated lithium-ion battery storage units designed to store solar energy or power your home during electricity outages. Powerwall+ units have 13.5 kWh of capacity while the mid-range Powerwall model stores 7 kWh.
Adding a Powerwall to your initial solar installation costs more upfront, but provides backup power and maximizes solar self-consumption. It also qualifies for the federal ITC tax credit.
Does Tesla Solar Panel Cost Include Installation?
Yes, Tesla’s solar panel pricing includes full system installation and activation.
When you receive an official Tesla quote, it factors in all necessary equipment, permits, labor, and activation fees for a turnkey solar panel system.
According to Tesla’s website:
“Tesla solar pricing includes full system design, permitting, installation, and activation. There are no hidden fees or complex financing terms.”
So you don’t need to worry about any surprise or add-on costs when it comes to installing Tesla solar panels. Their per-watt solar panel cost encompasses everything from solar panels and mounting racks to inverters, electrical upgrades, and labor.
The only additional expenses that may apply are if there are unique complexities with your roof or electrical panel that only become apparent during site surveys. For example, if your main electrical panel needs a larger capacity upgrade to integrate solar at scale.
But overall, Tesla strives to provide accurate transparent solar pricing upfront that covers your complete solar panel system parts, installation, and activation. That way you know exactly what to expect for total costs when transitioning to Tesla Energy Solar.
Federal Solar Tax Credits & Incentives
The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) offers a 26% tax credit for systems installed in 2023. This applies to both solar panels and any battery storage like the Tesla Powerwall. The ITC steps down to 22% in 2024 before expiring for homeowners after 2034.
Additionally, many states and utilities offer financial incentives, rebates, and performance-based incentives for going solar:
- State tax credits – Some states like New York offer state tax credits stacks on top of the federal ITC.
- Solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) – States with SREC programs provide solar certificates and payments based on solar production.
- Net metering – Get credit or paid out by your utility for excess solar electricity sent back to the grid.
- Performance payments
- Utility rebates
- Solar loans with discounted rates and zero-down
You can save up to 78% on electricity costs by switching to solar, via upfront tax credits plus ongoing utility savings. Request a solar estimate from Tesla specific to your region to see all available incentives and calculate precise savings.
How Much Does Tesla Solar Save Per Year?
Typical solar panel payback periods range from 4-8 years for most homeowners, depending on electricity rates, system production, and local power prices. After your solar payback period, your panels will continue producing free renewable electricity for another 15-30+ years!
According to actual Tesla solar owner electricity bill savings data, their average customer saves $620 per year after switching to solar power. Actual electricity savings depend on factors like:
- Cost per kWh from your electricity provider
- Annual solar panel production & system size
- Electricity usage habits
- Net metering rates & policy
Tesla estimates their solar customers average around 30% in utility bill savings after installing solar panels on an annual basis. Their projected savings are based on solar production estimates specific to the size system you need for your location and roof.
For example, based on your average electric consumption (12,700 kWh/year), Tesla recommends a 10 kW solar system size for your home. Given your utility rates ($0.21/kWh) and estimated sun exposure, Tesla projects a 10 kW solar array would generate $1,700 in annual electricity bill savings.
Check your official savings estimate from Tesla during your free consultation. They use solar production calculators pulling local weather data and electricity rates down to your exact street address!
Tesla Solar Roof: Cost & Options
In addition to conventional solar panels, Tesla offers an integrated solar roof shingle product. Their solar roof tiles incorporate durable tempered glass PV cells, replacing your entire roof while generating solar electricity.
Tesla’s solar roof cost comes in at around $2.01 per watt based on installation data across over 1,200 U.S. homes. The solar roof is more expensive than asphalt roofing materials, but lasts much longer (30+ years), while eliminating your electric bill.
When factoring the federal tax credit plus energy savings, Tesla estimates their solar roof pricing to be comparable to the after-tax cost of a new roof plus traditional solar panels.
Tesla solar tiles are available in four styles:
- Tuscan – Textured glass overlay resembling Tuscan clay tiles
- Slate – High-efficiency tempered glass solar tiles with slate granule overlay
- Smooth – All-black tempered glass finish
- Custom – Glass solar shingles for curved surfaces of custom homes
Tesla handles every part of the solar roof process – manufacturing every component from tempered glass tobrackets in their Gigafactory New York. Combined with process optimization, this vertical integration enables quicker turnaround times…
Installing Tesla Solar Panels: What to Expect
Typical Solar Installation Timeline
- Design & Permitting – 2-4 weeks
- Utility Authorization – 2-6 weeks
- Solar Equipment Shipping – 1-2 weeks
- Installation & Inspection – 1-2 days
Installation Process
- Site evaluation & proper permitting paperwork filed for your system & city/county
- Main electrical panel upgrade (if necessary)
- Mounting system attached to roof + solar panels installed
- Electrical connections were established and solar equipment inspected
- Utility net meter install and final permit sign-off
Once installed, Tesla monitors system performance remotely via their mobile app. Any maintenance or hardware issues are covered under warranty without any work needing access to your home. Installations are also transferable to any new homeowners if you sell the property.
Powerwall Maintenance & Warranties
Tesla offers one of the best solar panel warranties in the solar industry according to consumer reviews:
- Comprehensive Warranty – Covers your entire solar system, including panels, inverters and any Tesla Powerwall batteries. Streamlines customer support.
- Solar Panel Product Warranty – 25 years
- Solar Panel Performance Warranty – 25 years of coverage against output degradation below 80% of the original rated power output.
- Inverter Warranty – 12 years
- Powerwall Warranty – 10-year warranty with various performance minimums regarding capacity and cycles.
Additionally, for any issues or required maintenance, Tesla solar owners can contact support directly 24/7. Many reviews praise Tesla’s customer service and responsiveness as a strength given their end-to-end model.
Pros & Cons of Tesla Solar
Pros
- High-efficiency solar panels manufactured by Tesla in the United States
- Integrated Powerwall solar batteries for home backup/storage
- Streamlined installation & support through vertical integration
- Attractive pricing & solar loan financing options
- Top-tier mobile monitoring via the Tesla smartphone app
- 25-year system + performance warranties on equipment
Cons
- Limited local installer options – Tesla manages entire customer experience
- No enhanced property tax exemptions that third-party-owned systems can provide in some states
- Slightly lower solar panel efficiency ratings than highest-end alternatives like SunPower (max of 23.1% for Tesla solar panels)
Solar Panel Reviews: Tesla vs Other Providers
Tesla Energy maintains strong customer satisfaction levels among buyers of their solar products according to various solar panel reviews. They hold an “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot based on over 4,300 reviews as of our last update.
When comparing them to other best solar companies like SunPower or Sunrun, Tesla stands out for their vertically integrated process. By controlling manufacturing, solar panel design, installation, maintenance and monitoring – Tesla streamlines and optimizes each step for homeowners.
Additionally, Tesla’s robust 25-year warranty offerings and premium Powerwall batteries set them apart. Their solar shingle roof offers unique aesthetics for homeowners focused on a seamless look. Overall, Tesla Energy earns its place among the most innovative solar providers reshaping clean energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Tesla solar panels last?
Tesla offers a 25-year performance warranty, guaranteeing system performance of at least 80% rated power output for 25 years. Most solar panels continue producing energy for 30+ years.
Can you buy Tesla solar panels outright?
Yes, Tesla offers both cash purchases or low-interest solar loans for installing a solar panel system or solar roof at your home.
Does home insurance cover Tesla solar damage?
Yes, Tesla solar equipment is covered via standard home insurance policies the same as traditional roofs and electrical systems. Damage coverage depends on your specific insurance policy.
Is Tesla ending its solar business?
No. Rumors of Tesla shuttering its solar division began circulating in 2021 after shifts in its sales model. Tesla remains committed to solar energy. In 2022, they increased solar deployments by over 217% proving investments in the space.
Contact Tesla Solar
Interested in upgrading to Tesla Solar at your home? Reach out for your free, no-commitment solar estimate:
- Request a custom Tesla price quote online
- Call 877-507-6364 to speak with a solar expert
Tesla solar advisors can provide a cost breakdown for your specific property leveraging advanced solar production estimates. They also take care of contacting your utility, handling permits, and explaining all your solar financing options. Get started on powering your home with high-efficiency solar panels from Tesla Energy.
Installing Tesla Solar: Step-by-Step Process
The typical process for installing Tesla solar panels or a solar roof involves:
Consultation & Site Survey
Everything starts with requesting a free solar consultation online or calling Tesla. A solar advisor will discuss your goals, electricity costs, and options and provide a custom price estimate. If moving forward, a remote design specialist does a high-resolution 3D scan of your home to tailor the system and components.
Permitting & Installation Scheduling
Next, a project manager handles building permits with your city building office. Tesla submits all necessary permit paperwork and solar plans to get approval to begin work. Equipment delivery and crew scheduling align so all components arrive just in time for installations.
Installation & Inspection
It generally takes a Tesla crew 1-2 days to complete physical solar panels or solar roof installations. An electrician upgrades your breaker box if needed while the crew mounts racks, installs wiring, and snaps solar modules into place. City inspectors review work at completion before the meters get changed over.
Utility Authorization & Activation
Finally, the utility gives the green light to engage your system and net meter. Monitoring hardware links solar production data to the Tesla mobile app dashboard so you can start tracking savings!
Ongoing Maintenance & Warranties
Your Tesla Energy system requires zero ongoing physical maintenance thanks to remote monitoring capabilities. Performance guarantees and equipment warranties provide peace of mind for decades while your solar power system does all the work!
DIY Solar Panel Kits
Rather than a full solar panel system installation, some homeowners consider DIY solar panel kits. These can provide an affordable way to harvest renewable energy. But is it wise to attempt installing solar panels yourself?
There are significant challenges with DIY solar, including:
- Requires electrical, plumbing & construction skills
- Meeting local permitting & inspection criteria
- Sourcing all necessary parts & equipment
- Roof considerations and warranties
- Manual upkeep and lack of real-time performance monitoring
Unless you have professional solar training or installation experience, DIY solar panel kits often become overwhelming. The licensing, regulations, sourcing parts, and configuring systems end up more complex than expected.
Additionally, DIY solar equipment lacks the warranties and customer guarantees that come with professionally installed solar power systems. Overall, specialists like Tesla Energy can navigate the solar process start-to-finish, maximizing system performance while saving homeowners time and hassle.
Top Tesla Alternatives from Other Solar Companies
While Tesla maintains advantages like their solar roof tiles and Powerwall batteries, they aren’t the only provider offering home solar solutions. Which solar company is right for depends on your specific needs and priorities.
SunPower is the leading premium solar brand, providing the highest efficiency panels (up to 25%) while specializing in complex installations. But their pricing runs higher than competitors.
Sunrun is the largest solar leasing provider, now also offering purchase options. Their lease lets you go solar for $0 down and low monthly payments.
Sunlux offers strong customer service and affordable pricing but utilizes imported equipment.
Solar Optimum leverages integrated battery storage and electric vehicle chargers as part of renewable energy packages.
Overall, Tesla Energy stands out with its forward-thinking solar technologies, robust warranty offerings, and integrated home energy ecosystem. Take advantage of their free consultation to decide if Tesla Solar is the right fit.
Conclusion – Investing in Tesla Solar in 2023
Upgrading to a Tesla solar panel system or solar roof can provide decades of renewable energy production and significant electricity bill savings. As their solar technology and energy ecosystem continues advancing, Tesla Energy stands poised to lead the sustainable power transition.
When weighing the costs, Tesla maintains pricing transparency. Their solar quotes detail the full upfront solar panel system price including parts, installation labor, permits, and system activation. There are no hidden
