Solar Panel Cost Guide in Northport, AL (Mar 2023)
- Northport Solar Installation Cost: $15,401
- 25-Year Savings: $35,927
- Payback Period: 7.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Northport
We go over average solar pricing in Northport.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Northport, the average cost of solar panels is 2.45 per watt. The average Northport homeowner needs a 9.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $15,401 with the federal tax credit, or $22,023 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. With average savings of about $22,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Northport find installing solar panels can be quite rewarding.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Northport
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,348 |
| 3 years | $-9,241 |
| 5 years | $-5,135 |
| 7 years | $-1,029 |
| 9 years | $3,077 |
| 11 years | $7,184 |
| 13 years | $11,290 |
| 15 years | $15,396 |
| 17 years | $19,502 |
| 19 years | $23,608 |
| 21 years | $27,715 |
| 23 years | $31,821 |
| 25 years | $35,927 |
Top Solar Installers in Northport
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra effort and expertise. Because of that, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also have access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be best for your family.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Northport, we've organized 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 Northport
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Northport
Though the average cost of a solar system in Northport is $15,401, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a 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 some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation use 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. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In general, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Northport to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, nearly every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose will affect your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $23,609 | 7.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $31,754 | 7.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $40,035 | 7.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $48,454 | 7.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $57,009 | 7.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $65,702 | 7.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $74,533 | 6.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $83,500 | 6.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. Although 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 make sure you peruse their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the durability of your solar panel system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Northport, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Northport?
The average cost of solar panels in Northport 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 stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Northport?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Northport?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.