Solar Panel Cost Guide in Oneonta, AL (2023 Update)
- Oneonta Solar Installation Cost: $15,829
- 25-Year Savings: $35,498
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Oneonta
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Oneonta.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Oneonta, the average cost of solar panels is 2.45 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Oneonta is around 9.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $15,829 for a solar installation, or $22,635 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can go above or below the average in Oneonta based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. With average savings of about $21,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Oneonta find investing in solar can be quite rewarding.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Oneonta
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,776 |
| 3 years | $-9,670 |
| 5 years | $-5,564 |
| 7 years | $-1,458 |
| 9 years | $2,649 |
| 11 years | $6,755 |
| 13 years | $10,861 |
| 15 years | $14,967 |
| 17 years | $19,073 |
| 19 years | $23,180 |
| 21 years | $27,286 |
| 23 years | $31,392 |
| 25 years | $35,498 |
Top Solar Installers in Oneonta
Putting up solar panels yourself can be a stressful undertaking, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar installers provide can be helpful as well, especially if you don't quite know what type of solar equipment would be right for your home.
There are various 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 Oneonta
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Oneonta
Though the average cost of a solar system in Oneonta is $15,829, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Oneonta, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can affect the cost. Oneonta'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 undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $22,661 | 8.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $30,489 | 7.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $38,454 | 7.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $46,556 | 7.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $54,796 | 7.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $63,172 | 7.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $71,686 | 7.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $80,337 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model 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 select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you need to know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and how long the project will take.
- Contract: Read the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Oneonta, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Oneonta?
The average cost of solar panels in Oneonta 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 things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Oneonta have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Oneonta?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger 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.