Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mobile, AL (2023 Update)
- Mobile Solar Installation Cost: $14,629
- 25-Year Savings: $36,435
- Payback Period: 7.2 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mobile
We break down average solar pricing in Mobile.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Mobile it's 2.45 per watt. To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in Mobile, 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.
These figures are only averages, and your own solar costs will most likely differ based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you choose to go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $23,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Mobile
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,586 |
| 3 years | $-8,501 |
| 5 years | $-4,416 |
| 7 years | $-331 |
| 9 years | $3,754 |
| 11 years | $7,839 |
| 13 years | $11,924 |
| 15 years | $16,009 |
| 17 years | $20,094 |
| 19 years | $24,180 |
| 21 years | $28,265 |
| 23 years | $32,350 |
| 25 years | $36,435 |
Top Solar Installers in Mobile
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it takes extra effort and handiness. Because of that, most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar installers offer can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Mobile
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mobile
The cost of installing a solar system in Mobile can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels in Mobile, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,450 for each additional kilowatt you need. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down 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 energy bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Mobile average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Mobile offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panels can play a role in determining your pricing. Mobile's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $25,199 | 7.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $33,873 | 7.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $42,684 | 7.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $51,633 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $60,718 | 6.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $69,941 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $79,301 | 6.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $88,798 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
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 Mobile, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Mobile?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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 other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Mobile?
You can't get solar panels for free in Mobile. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,196.68 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Mobile?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.