Solar Panel Savings in Aurora, CO
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Aurora, Colorado. Based on 5.4 peak sun hours/day and 15.4¢/kWh average electricity rate.
5.4
Peak Sun Hours/Day
15.4¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
7.7 yr
Payback Period
$25k
25-Year Savings
Aurora Solar Overview
Calculate Your Aurora Solar Savings
Aurora average: $154/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$49,665
Monthly Savings
$121
Federal Tax Credit
$4,806
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Aurora | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,020 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$4,806 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,214 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.67/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Aurora
Sun Hours vs National Average
Aurora gets 20% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 249 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 67.2°F — moderate climate with good solar conditions
- Average roof size: 2,037 sq ft — enough for a 113-panel system
Aurora Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,020 system, that's a $4,806 credit. Valid through 2032.
Colorado State Incentives
Colorado sales tax exemption for solar; Xcel Solar*Rewards program.
Net Metering — Xcel Energy
Xcel Energy offers net metering in Aurora. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Aurora
3.9
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
65
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.9
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 9,461 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Aurora, Colorado
Aurora, Colorado receives an average of 5.4 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 15.4¢ per kWh from Xcel Energy, near the national average, solar provides competitive returns on investment.
A typical 6kW solar system in Aurora produces approximately 9,461 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,454 annually. The system pays for itself in about 7.7 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 17+ years of the system's warranty life.
Aurora has a solar penetration rate of 9.5% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 102 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Colorado
Arvada, CO
Boulder, CO
Colorado Springs, CO
Denver, CO
Fort Collins, CO
Greeley, CO
Lakewood, CO
Pueblo, CO
Thornton, CO
Westminster, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Aurora, CO?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Aurora is approximately $16,020 before incentives ($2.67/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,214. Colorado sales tax exemption for solar; Xcel Solar*Rewards program.
How many peak sun hours does Aurora get?
Aurora, CO receives an average of 5.4 peak sun hours per day and approximately 249 sunny days per year. This is above the national average of 4.5 hours, making it an excellent location for solar energy.
What is the solar payback period in Aurora?
The average solar payback period in Aurora is approximately 7.7 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $25,136.
Does Aurora have net metering?
Yes, Aurora has access to net metering through Xcel Energy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Aurora, CO?
Absolutely. With a 7.7-year payback period and $25,136 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Aurora. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.