Solar Panel Cost Guide in Semmes, AL (2023 Update)
- Semmes Solar Installation Cost: $14,636
- 25-Year Savings: $36,692
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Semmes
We go over average solar pricing in Semmes.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Semmes it's 2.45 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 8.5-kW system would cost about $14,629 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Semmes based on a few factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Semmes can save about $23,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Semmes
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,789 |
| 3 years | $-9,093 |
| 5 years | $-5,398 |
| 7 years | $-1,703 |
| 9 years | $1,992 |
| 11 years | $5,687 |
| 13 years | $9,382 |
| 15 years | $13,078 |
| 17 years | $16,773 |
| 19 years | $20,468 |
| 21 years | $24,163 |
| 23 years | $27,858 |
| 25 years | $31,553 |
Top Solar Installers in Semmes
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Taking advantage of an installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Plus, if you aren't sure what brand 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.
Working with a vetted solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 Semmes
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Semmes
The cost of installing a solar system in Semmes can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher 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 $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, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Semmes average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Semmes homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it's important to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Semmes, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and find a company that offers 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 | $2.55 | $10,702 | $25,384 | 7.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.50 | $13,994 | $34,120 | 7.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.45 | $17,150 | $42,993 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.40 | $20,168 | $52,004 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.35 | $23,050 | $61,151 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.30 | $25,794 | $70,436 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.25 | $28,400 | $79,858 | 6.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.21 | $30,870 | $89,417 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Semmes, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. While 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 take a look at their list of offerings before deciding.
- Contract: When looking through your solar company's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
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 Semmes, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Semmes?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $12,250 for a 5-kW system and $24,500 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Semmes?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Semmes, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can 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.