Nevada’s solar energy production has undoubtedly grown in recent years, making it one of the top solar-producing states in the country. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Nevada ranks 6th in the nation’s electricity generation from utility- and small-scale resources combined. According to this report, solar energy accounts for 23% of Nevada’s total energy generation, with collective renewable energy accounting for 37%.
This tremendous solar potential comes from the abundance of sunshine in the Silver State, which lasts up to 300 days yearly. Nevada’s solar installation policies have also played a considerable role in making Nevada a top solar state. Keep reading to learn more about Nevada’s solar energy production.
Nevada’s Solar Energy Data at a Glance
Nevada’s utility-scale, residential, and commercial solar projects have significantly contributed to its solar industry. According to the Solar Energy Information Administration, the state has a total installed solar capacity of 5,409MW as of Q1 2023. This is enough to power 911,561 homes.
The total solar investment in Nevada stands at $9.7 billion, with the price of installing solar systems falling by 54% over the last 10 years. The report also indicates that Nevada’s solar industry has created 7,562 jobs, with 112 solar companies established over this period. This includes 15 manufacturers, 52 developers/installers, and 45 associated companies. The number of people with solar in Nevada stands at 101,257 in the same period.
Factors that Have Contributed to Nevada’s Solar Energy Growth
Nevada’s huge solar capacity has resulted from factors such as solar irradiance, solar-friendly policies, and the establishment of utility-scale solar projects. The growth of solar companies and manufacturers has also played a significant role in increasing solar-generated power in the Silver State. Let’s have a closer look at these factors:
High Solar Irradiance
Nevada receives a lot of sunlight throughout the year. Cities like Las Vegas have up to 300 days of solar yearly, which ranks it second in the cities with the highest solar photovoltaic (PVC) capacity per year. Other cities, like Carson City, also receive high solar irradiance yearly, contributing to Nevada’s substantial solar power generation capacity.
Solar-Friendly Policies
Nevada’s solar-friendly policies have also played a massive role in its robust solar production. Incentives like net metering policies and the Federal Solar Tax Credit contribute the highest to this growth. With net metering, Nevada homeowners can get credit for their excess solar energy at 75% of the retail rate from their utility companies.
The federal solar tax credit allows a reduction of up to 30% of the cost of solar panel installations from federal income taxes. This is a national program meant to incentivize homeowners to install solar systems in their homes.
Go Solar in Nevada with Solar Optimum
There’s every reason to install solar systems in Nevada. Its abundant sunlight and solar-friendly policies make it reasonable and affordable to go solar. And by partnering with an experienced solar installer, you can make sure you get a solar system that suits your home or business.
Solar Optimum is your best choice when installing residential or commercial solar systems in Nevada. We’re an award-winning elite certified solar panel company specializing in all aspects of solar energy installation; home energy assessment, design, installation, and maintenance. If you would like to know more about our services and how we can help you, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
