Solar Panel Cost Guide in Jackson, AL (Mar 2023)
- Jackson Solar Installation Cost: $14,938
- 25-Year Savings: $33,098
- Payback Period: 7.8 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated March 14, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Jackson
We go over average solar pricing in Jackson.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Jackson, the average cost of solar panels is 2.45 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Jackson, most homeowners require a 8.7-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs about $14,938, or $21,361 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true price you pay can be above or below the average in Jackson depending on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Jackson can save around $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Jackson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,016 |
| 3 years | $-9,173 |
| 5 years | $-5,331 |
| 7 years | $-1,488 |
| 9 years | $2,355 |
| 11 years | $6,198 |
| 13 years | $10,041 |
| 15 years | $13,884 |
| 17 years | $17,726 |
| 19 years | $21,569 |
| 21 years | $25,412 |
| 23 years | $29,255 |
| 25 years | $33,098 |
Top Solar Installers in Jackson
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra effort and knowledge. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose a solar panel installer. The payback period on a solar system will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy use, but working with a solar company can shorten it. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. 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 Jackson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Jackson
Though the average cost of a solar system in Jackson is $14,938, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.
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 greater efficiency or power generation 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. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Jackson average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Jackson to be prohibitively steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in a higher cost over time because of interest. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
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 installation companies in Jackson, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Jackson know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $22,402 | 8.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $30,144 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $38,023 | 7.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $46,039 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $54,193 | 7.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $62,483 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $70,911 | 7.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $79,476 | 7.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose considerably affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you'd like plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
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 Jackson, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Jackson?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient 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 less efficient solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Jackson?
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 don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your property 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 financial benefits from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Jackson?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.