Solar Panel Cost Guide in Monroeville, AL (2023 Update)
- Monroeville Solar Installation Cost: $14,970
- 25-Year Savings: $33,515
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Monroeville
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Monroeville.
The average cost of solar panels in Monroeville is 2.45 per watt. Because a 8.7-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Monroeville, the average price of going solar will be about $14,972 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Monroeville based on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $21,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Monroeville that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Monroeville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,808 |
| 3 years | $-14,485 |
| 5 years | $-14,162 |
| 7 years | $-13,839 |
| 9 years | $-13,515 |
| 11 years | $-13,192 |
| 13 years | $-12,869 |
| 15 years | $-12,546 |
| 17 years | $-12,222 |
| 19 years | $-11,899 |
| 21 years | $-11,576 |
| 23 years | $-11,253 |
| 25 years | $-10,930 |
Top Solar Installers in Monroeville
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra labor and know-how. For that reason, almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar power, going with a solar company can help with that too. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Monroeville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Monroeville
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Monroeville: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,450. The type of 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. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Monroeville average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Monroeville have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. When considering 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 remaining significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of green energy solutions in Monroeville, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Monroeville know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $22,626 | 8.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $30,442 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $38,395 | 7.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $46,486 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $54,714 | 7.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $63,079 | 7.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $71,581 | 7.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $80,220 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Monroeville, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the durability of your solar panels, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Even though there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
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 Monroeville, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Monroeville?
The average cost of solar panels in Monroeville is about $12,250 for a 5-kW system and $24,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Monroeville?
You can't get solar panels for free in Monroeville. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Monroeville have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated 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 Monroeville?
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 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.