Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fairhope, AL (2023 Update)
- Fairhope Solar Installation Cost: $14,695
- 25-Year Savings: $32,840
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fairhope
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Fairhope.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Fairhope generally cost around 2.45. The average Fairhope homeowner needs a 8.6-kilowatt system, which would cost about $14,698 with the federal tax credit, or $21,018 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Fairhope homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Fairhope can save about $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Fairhope
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,041 |
| 3 years | $-9,732 |
| 5 years | $-6,423 |
| 7 years | $-3,114 |
| 9 years | $195 |
| 11 years | $3,504 |
| 13 years | $6,812 |
| 15 years | $10,121 |
| 17 years | $13,430 |
| 19 years | $16,739 |
| 21 years | $20,048 |
| 23 years | $23,357 |
| 25 years | $26,666 |
Top Solar Installers in Fairhope
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Plus, if you're not certain what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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
For many Fairhope homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Fairhope, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,450. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Fairhope, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Fairhope offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Fairhope, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within your budget.
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
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, 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 to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from previous customers.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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
What is the average cost of installing 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 certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Fairhope?
You can't get solar panels for free in Fairhope. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Fairhope?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to 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.