Solar Panel Cost Guide in Centre, AL (2023 Update)
- Centre Solar Installation Cost: $15,898
- 25-Year Savings: $35,622
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Centre
We go over average solar pricing in Centre.
The average cost of a solar system in Centre is 2.45 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 9.3-kW system would cost about $15,898 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in your area for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Centre
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,837 |
| 3 years | $-9,716 |
| 5 years | $-5,594 |
| 7 years | $-1,472 |
| 9 years | $2,649 |
| 11 years | $6,771 |
| 13 years | $10,892 |
| 15 years | $15,014 |
| 17 years | $19,136 |
| 19 years | $23,257 |
| 21 years | $27,379 |
| 23 years | $31,500 |
| 25 years | $35,622 |
Top Solar Installers in Centre
Many homeowners opt for a solar installer since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be hard. Plus, if you're not certain what kind of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in Centre:
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 Centre
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Centre
The cost of installing a solar system in Centre can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels 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 higher efficiency or power generation 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. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Centre, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Centre to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time because of interest. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Centre, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $22,659 | 8.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $30,486 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $38,450 | 7.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $46,552 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $54,791 | 7.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $63,167 | 7.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $71,680 | 7.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $80,331 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you go with will impact not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should take into account, such as:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to get plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
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 Centre, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Centre?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Centre?
A solar panel system isn't free in Centre, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Centre?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.