Solar Panel Cost Guide in Montevallo, AL (2025 Update)
- Montevallo Solar Installation Cost: $22,070
- 25-Year Savings: $35,408
- Payback Period: 10.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Montevallo
We break down average solar pricing in Montevallo.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Montevallo, the average cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.0-kW system would cost about $22,070 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you want to get, your solar contractor and more.With average savings of about $21,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Montevallo find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Montevallo
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-20,223 |
3 years | $-16,527 |
5 years | $-12,832 |
7 years | $-9,137 |
9 years | $-5,442 |
11 years | $-1,747 |
13 years | $1,948 |
15 years | $5,644 |
17 years | $9,339 |
19 years | $13,034 |
21 years | $16,729 |
23 years | $20,424 |
25 years | $24,119 |
Top Solar Installers in Montevallo
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra labor and handiness. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
See all of the solar companies in Montevallo
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Montevallo
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Montevallo is $22,070, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few 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 take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation require 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 $3,490.The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will significantly impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Furthermore, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Montevallo provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panels can impact the cost. Montevallo’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
---|---|---|---|---|
6 kW | $3.63 | $15,244 | $18,562 | 11.3 years |
8 kW | $3.56 | $19,935 | $25,140 | 11.1 years |
10 kW | $3.49 | $24,430 | $31,913 | 10.8 years |
12 kW | $3.42 | $28,730 | $38,883 | 10.6 years |
14 kW | $3.35 | $32,834 | $46,047 | 10.4 years |
16 kW | $3.28 | $36,743 | $53,407 | 10.2 years |
18 kW | $3.21 | $40,456 | $60,962 | 10.0 years |
20 kW | $3.14 | $43,974 | $68,713 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you’re considering has it.
EcoWatch's Montevallo, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Montevallo?
The average cost of solar panels in Montevallo is about $17,450 for a 5-kW system and $34,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Montevallo?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford 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 home 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 savings from going solar.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
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 $1,126.87 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.