Solar Panel Cost Guide in Grand Bay, AL (2023 Update)
- Grand Bay Solar Installation Cost: $14,636
- 25-Year Savings: $33,262
- Payback Period: 7.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Grand Bay
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Grand Bay.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Grand Bay generally cost about 2.45. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Grand Bay, most homeowners require a 8.5-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $14,629, or $20,919 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Grand Bay
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,789 |
| 3 years | $-9,093 |
| 5 years | $-5,398 |
| 7 years | $-1,703 |
| 9 years | $1,992 |
| 11 years | $5,687 |
| 13 years | $9,382 |
| 15 years | $13,078 |
| 17 years | $16,773 |
| 19 years | $20,468 |
| 21 years | $24,163 |
| 23 years | $27,858 |
| 25 years | $31,553 |
Top Solar Installers in Grand Bay
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Grand Bay:
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 Grand Bay
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Grand Bay
There are a number of criteria 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 performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Grand Bay, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,450 for each additional kilowatt you need. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Grand Bay average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Grand Bay homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's important to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you opt for to install your solar system can play a part in determining your pricing. Grand Bay's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $22,973 | 7.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $30,906 | 7.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $38,975 | 7.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $47,182 | 7.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $55,526 | 7.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $64,007 | 7.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $72,625 | 7.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $81,380 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Many companies offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through 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 part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you hire.
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 Grand Bay, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Grand Bay?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Grand Bay have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Grand Bay?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher 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.