Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fairhope, AL (Mar 2023)
- Fairhope Solar Installation Cost: $14,698
- 25-Year Savings: $32,838
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fairhope
We go over average solar pricing in Fairhope.
In Fairhope, solar panels cost about 2.45 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 8.6-kW system would cost about $14,698 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Fairhope homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With average savings of about $21,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Fairhope find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Fairhope
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,796 |
| 3 years | $-8,993 |
| 5 years | $-5,190 |
| 7 years | $-1,388 |
| 9 years | $2,415 |
| 11 years | $6,218 |
| 13 years | $10,021 |
| 15 years | $13,824 |
| 17 years | $17,626 |
| 19 years | $21,429 |
| 21 years | $25,232 |
| 23 years | $29,035 |
| 25 years | $32,838 |
Top Solar Installers in Fairhope
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a stressful project, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Fairhope
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fairhope
Though the average cost of a solar system in Fairhope is $14,698, your final cost may differ. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Fairhope, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by about $2,450 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Fairhope, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable option because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Fairhope, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $22,583 | 8.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $30,386 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $38,325 | 7.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $46,402 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $54,616 | 7.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $62,967 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $71,455 | 7.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $80,080 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Fairhope, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can research your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to get plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies offer different panels.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
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 Fairhope, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fairhope?
The average cost of solar panels in Fairhope is about $12,250 for a 5-kW system and $24,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Fairhope?
Solar panels aren't free in Fairhope, 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.
Does Fairhope have a net metering program?
Each state has some form 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 energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Fairhope?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.