Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tuscumbia, AL (2024 Update)
- Tuscumbia Solar Installation Cost: $22,620
- 25-Year Savings: $19,154
- Payback Period: 16.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tuscumbia
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Tuscumbia.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Tuscumbia, the average cost of solar panels is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 9.3-kW system would cost about $22,620 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.Despite the large initial cost, the average Tuscumbia homeowner can save about $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Tuscumbia for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Tuscumbia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-21,191 |
| 3 years | $-18,331 |
| 5 years | $-15,471 |
| 7 years | $-12,612 |
| 9 years | $-9,752 |
| 11 years | $-6,892 |
| 13 years | $-4,033 |
| 15 years | $-1,173 |
| 17 years | $1,687 |
| 19 years | $4,546 |
| 21 years | $7,406 |
| 23 years | $10,266 |
| 25 years | $13,125 |
Top Solar Installers in Tuscumbia
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra labor and expertise. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Companies can also provide access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for you.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Tuscumbia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tuscumbia
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Tuscumbia: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $3,490. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are available from most installers in Tuscumbia, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Tuscumbia is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs.The company’s size sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $7,458 | 16.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.56 | $19,935 | $10,334 | 16.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.49 | $24,430 | $13,407 | 16.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.42 | $28,730 | $16,674 | 15.8 years |
| 14 kW | $3.35 | $32,834 | $20,137 | 15.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.28 | $36,743 | $23,796 | 15.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.21 | $40,456 | $27,650 | 14.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.14 | $43,974 | $31,699 | 14.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you opt for.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the overall cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 Tuscumbia, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Tuscumbia?
The average cost of solar panels in Tuscumbia 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 type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Tuscumbia?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Tuscumbia, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location 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 $756.73 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily 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 get 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.