Solar Panel Cost Guide in Attalla, AL (2023 Update)

  • Attalla Solar Installation Cost: $15,864
  • 25-Year Savings: $32,854
  • Payback Period: 8.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Attalla

Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Attalla.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Attalla generally cost around 2.45. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Attalla, most homeowners require a 9.2-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $15,864, or $22,686 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.

How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Attalla depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. With typical savings of about $20,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Attalla find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.

To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installer in Attalla, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Attalla

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-13,915
3 years $-10,018
5 years $-6,120
7 years $-2,223
9 years $1,675
11 years $5,572
13 years $9,470
15 years $13,367
17 years $17,264
19 years $21,162
21 years $25,059
23 years $28,957
25 years $32,854

Top Solar Installers in Attalla

Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra labor and know-how. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies offer can be valuable as well, especially if you don't quite know what kind of solar equipment you need.

If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Attalla, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

See all of the solar companies in Attalla

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Attalla

Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Attalla: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.

Solar Equipment

One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,450 per kilowatt in Attalla. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a solid choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Attalla, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Attalla are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $2.55 $10,702 $20,910 8.5 years
8 kW $2.50 $13,994 $28,154 8.3 years
10 kW $2.45 $17,150 $35,536 8.1 years
12 kW $2.40 $20,168 $43,054 8.0 years
14 kW $2.35 $23,050 $50,710 7.8 years
16 kW $2.30 $25,794 $58,503 7.6 years
18 kW $2.25 $28,400 $66,434 7.5 years
20 kW $2.21 $30,870 $74,501 7.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:

  • Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you go with.
  • Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch's Attalla, AL Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Attalla?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $12,250 for a 5-kW system and $24,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Attalla?

You can't get solar panels for free in Attalla. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?

Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Attalla is currently $86,600, which means you could be looking at a value of about $3,551 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Attalla is a rewarding investment.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.

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