Solar Panel Cost Guide in Forestdale, AL (2024 Update)

  • Forestdale Solar Installation Cost: $22,260
  • 25-Year Savings: $35,701
  • Payback Period: 10.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated June 24, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Forestdale

Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Forestdale.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Forestdale, the typical cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.The average Forestdale homeowner needs a 9.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $22,260 with the federal tax credit, or $31,832 before the 0 tax credit is applied.

Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Forestdale homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Forestdale

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-20,413
3 years$-16,718
5 years$-13,022
7 years$-9,327
9 years$-5,632
11 years$-1,937
13 years$1,758
15 years$5,453
17 years$9,148
19 years$12,844
21 years$16,539
23 years$20,234
25 years$23,929

Top Solar Installers in Forestdale

Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and handiness. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Another great thing about going with a reliable solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Forestdale, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Forestdale

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Forestdale

There are many factors that can affect your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Forestdale, where sunlight is 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 a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid route because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you choose will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$3.63$15,244$18,55411.3 years
8 kW$3.56$19,935$25,12911.1 years
10 kW$3.49$24,430$31,90010.8 years
12 kW$3.42$28,730$38,86610.6 years
14 kW$3.35$32,834$46,02810.4 years
16 kW$3.28$36,743$53,38510.2 years
18 kW$3.21$40,456$60,93810.0 years
20 kW$3.14$43,974$68,6869.8 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are numerous companies available in Forestdale, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
  • Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, durability and energy 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.
  • Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2
  • 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 Forestdale, AL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Forestdale?

The average cost of solar panels in Forestdale is about $17,450 for a 5-kW system and $34,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Forestdale?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.

How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?

It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Forestdale, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.

How long do solar panels last in Forestdale?

Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use 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.