Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chelsea, AL (Mar 2023)
- Chelsea Solar Installation Cost: $15,486
- 25-Year Savings: $35,663
- Payback Period: 7.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chelsea
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Chelsea.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Chelsea it's 2.45 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 9.0-kW system would cost about $15,486 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Chelsea can save around $22,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Chelsea, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Chelsea
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,440 |
| 3 years | $-9,349 |
| 5 years | $-5,257 |
| 7 years | $-1,165 |
| 9 years | $2,927 |
| 11 years | $7,019 |
| 13 years | $11,111 |
| 15 years | $15,203 |
| 17 years | $19,295 |
| 19 years | $23,387 |
| 21 years | $27,479 |
| 23 years | $31,571 |
| 25 years | $35,663 |
Top Solar Installers in Chelsea
Installing solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you're unsure what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Chelsea:
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 Chelsea
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chelsea
For many Chelsea homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Chelsea, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Chelsea have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Chelsea homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in Chelsea, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at various 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 access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle 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 | $23,269 | 7.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $31,300 | 7.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $39,468 | 7.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $47,773 | 7.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $56,215 | 7.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $64,795 | 7.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $73,512 | 7.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $82,366 | 6.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which model 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 ask for their list of options before making your decision.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the longevity of your solar panel system, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Chelsea, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chelsea?
This is a hard 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Chelsea?
A solar panel system isn't free in Chelsea, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Chelsea?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount 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.