Solar Panel Cost Guide in Albany, GA (2023 Update)
- Albany Solar Installation Cost: $11,602
- 25-Year Savings: $24,335
- Payback Period: 8.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Albany
We break down average solar pricing in Albany.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Albany generally cost about 2.55. To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Albany, most homeowners require a 6.5-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $11,602, or $16,591 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Albany homeowner. 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. Despite the large initial cost, the average Albany homeowner can save around $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Albany
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,165 |
| 3 years | $-7,290 |
| 5 years | $-4,415 |
| 7 years | $-1,540 |
| 9 years | $1,335 |
| 11 years | $4,210 |
| 13 years | $7,085 |
| 15 years | $9,960 |
| 17 years | $12,835 |
| 19 years | $15,710 |
| 21 years | $18,585 |
| 23 years | $21,460 |
| 25 years | $24,335 |
Top Solar Installers in Albany
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to go with a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a difficult project. The expertise that solar installers provide can be invaluable as well, particularly if you aren't sure what kind of solar equipment you need.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Albany
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Albany
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Albany: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with 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 $2,550. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Albany homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar panel system can affect your pricing. Albany's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The company's size can sometimes play the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have greater resources and bulk 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 promotion 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 | $2.65 | $11,138 | $22,041 | 8.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.60 | $14,566 | $29,673 | 8.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.55 | $17,850 | $37,449 | 8.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.50 | $20,992 | $45,367 | 7.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.45 | $23,990 | $53,428 | 7.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.40 | $26,846 | $61,631 | 7.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.35 | $29,560 | $69,978 | 7.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.29 | $32,130 | $78,467 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose significantly affects your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Albany, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Albany?
The average cost of solar panels in Albany is about $12,750 for a 5-kW system and $25,500 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Albany?
You can't get solar panels for free in Albany. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Albany?
Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Albany?
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 their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having 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.