Solar Panel Cost Guide in Auburn, AL (2023 Update)
- Auburn Solar Installation Cost: $15,246
- 25-Year Savings: $33,345
- Payback Period: 7.8 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Auburn
See how much it might cost to go solar in Auburn.
In Auburn, solar panels cost about 2.45 per watt on average. Because a 8.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Auburn, the average price of going solar will be about $15,246 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Auburn can save around $21,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Auburn
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,303 |
| 3 years | $-9,415 |
| 5 years | $-5,528 |
| 7 years | $-1,641 |
| 9 years | $2,246 |
| 11 years | $6,134 |
| 13 years | $10,021 |
| 15 years | $13,908 |
| 17 years | $17,796 |
| 19 years | $21,683 |
| 21 years | $25,570 |
| 23 years | $29,457 |
| 25 years | $33,345 |
Top Solar Installers in Auburn
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra time and expertise. Because of that, most people choose a solar panel installer. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy use, but going with a solar installer can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you apply for incentives available in your area.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Auburn, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 Auburn
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Auburn
The cost of installing a solar system in Auburn can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,450. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Auburn to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time because of interest. Although solar loans make going solar more accessible for Auburn homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you select will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $22,098 | 8.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $29,738 | 8.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $37,515 | 7.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $45,430 | 7.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $53,482 | 7.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $61,671 | 7.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $69,997 | 7.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $78,461 | 7.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose greatly affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- 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 Auburn, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Auburn?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,250 for a 5-kW system and $24,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.