Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hueytown, AL (Mar 2023)
- Hueytown Solar Installation Cost: $15,624
- 25-Year Savings: $35,704
- Payback Period: 7.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hueytown
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Hueytown.
The average cost of solar panels in Hueytown is 2.45 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 9.1-kW system would cost about $15,624 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Hueytown
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-13,571 |
3 years | $-9,464 |
5 years | $-5,358 |
7 years | $-1,252 |
9 years | $2,854 |
11 years | $6,961 |
13 years | $11,067 |
15 years | $15,173 |
17 years | $19,279 |
19 years | $23,385 |
21 years | $27,492 |
23 years | $31,598 |
25 years | $35,704 |
Top Solar Installers in Hueytown
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra time and expertise. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. A solar installer can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you're looking for a solar company in Hueytown, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Hueytown
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hueytown
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Hueytown: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,450. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In general, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Hueytown, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Hueytown, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have access to greater 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 down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $23,096 | 7.9 years |
8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $31,070 | 7.8 years |
10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $39,180 | 7.6 years |
12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $47,428 | 7.5 years |
14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $55,812 | 7.3 years |
16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $64,334 | 7.2 years |
18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $72,994 | 7.0 years |
20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $81,790 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose significantly 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 offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a good 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.
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 Hueytown, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hueytown?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 larger level 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.