Solar Panel Cost Guide in Saks, AL (2024 Update)
- Saks Solar Installation Cost: $22,478
- 25-Year Savings: $35,477
- Payback Period: 11.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Saks
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Saks.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Saks it’s 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.2-kW system would cost about $22,478 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may look quite different based on your household energy use, the type of solar panels you choose, your solar contractor and more.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in Saks for a personalized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Saks
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-20,630 |
| 3 years | $-16,935 |
| 5 years | $-13,240 |
| 7 years | $-9,545 |
| 9 years | $-5,850 |
| 11 years | $-2,154 |
| 13 years | $1,541 |
| 15 years | $5,236 |
| 17 years | $8,931 |
| 19 years | $12,626 |
| 21 years | $16,321 |
| 23 years | $20,016 |
| 25 years | $23,712 |
Top Solar Installers in Saks
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Plus, if you aren’t sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Saks
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Saks
There are many criteria that can determine your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels 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 better efficiency or power production require 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 $3,490.The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted 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 limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Saks homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Saks, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to 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 | $3.63 | $15,244 | $18,180 | 11.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.56 | $19,935 | $24,631 | 11.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.49 | $24,430 | $31,277 | 11.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.42 | $28,730 | $38,119 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.35 | $32,834 | $45,156 | 10.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.28 | $36,743 | $52,389 | 10.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.21 | $40,456 | $59,817 | 10.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.14 | $43,974 | $67,441 | 9.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you opt for.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar system, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Saks, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Saks?
The average cost of solar panels in Saks is about $17,450 for a 5-kW system and $34,900 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you’re located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,114.15 per year.
How long do solar panels last in Saks?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.