Solar Panel Cost Guide in Smiths Station, AL (2024 Update)
- Smiths Station Solar Installation Cost: $21,715
- 25-Year Savings: $34,649
- Payback Period: 10.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Smiths Station
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Smiths Station.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Smiths Station it’s 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 8.9-kW system would cost about $21,715 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Smiths Station homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, once 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 utility bills.
To get a free quote from a top solar installation company in Smiths Station, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Smiths Station
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-19,868 |
| 3 years | $-16,172 |
| 5 years | $-12,477 |
| 7 years | $-8,782 |
| 9 years | $-5,087 |
| 11 years | $-1,392 |
| 13 years | $2,303 |
| 15 years | $5,998 |
| 17 years | $9,694 |
| 19 years | $13,389 |
| 21 years | $17,084 |
| 23 years | $20,779 |
| 25 years | $24,474 |
Top Solar Installers in Smiths Station
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Another great thing about choosing a top solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
See all of the solar companies in Smiths Station
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Smiths Station
There are several criteria that can play into your solar system 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 higher efficiency or power generation need 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 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, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your power bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Smiths Station average.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Smiths Station, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of 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 finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will play a role in your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $18,434 | 11.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.56 | $19,935 | $24,969 | 11.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.49 | $24,430 | $31,700 | 10.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.42 | $28,730 | $38,626 | 10.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.35 | $32,834 | $45,748 | 10.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.28 | $36,743 | $53,065 | 10.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.21 | $40,456 | $60,578 | 10.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.14 | $43,974 | $68,286 | 9.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose significantly influences 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:
- Contract: It’s important to read your solar installer’s contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
EcoWatch's Smiths Station, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Smiths Station?
The average cost of solar panels in Smiths Station 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 stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost 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 goals for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Do solar panels increase your property value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t choose a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
How long do solar panels last in Smiths Station?
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 higher amount 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.