Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cullman, AL (2024 Update)
- Cullman Solar Installation Cost: $22,596
- 25-Year Savings: $15,752
- Payback Period: 17.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cullman
We go over average solar pricing in Cullman.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Cullman it’s 3 per watt.To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Cullman, most homeowners require a 9.2-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $22,596, or $32,312 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you may look different based on your energy needs and what company you choose to go with.Despite the high initial cost, the average Cullman homeowner can save around $14,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Cullman that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Cullman
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-20,873 |
| 3 years | $-17,427 |
| 5 years | $-13,981 |
| 7 years | $-10,536 |
| 9 years | $-7,090 |
| 11 years | $-3,644 |
| 13 years | $-198 |
| 15 years | $3,248 |
| 17 years | $6,694 |
| 19 years | $10,140 |
| 21 years | $13,586 |
| 23 years | $17,031 |
| 25 years | $20,477 |
Top Solar Installers in Cullman
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since installing a solar system yourself can be a time-consuming project. Some solar companies, particularly local ones, can help you make the most of incentives in Cullman, optimizing your ROI.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers 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 Cullman
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cullman
Although the average cost of a solar system in Cullman is $22,596, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems 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 solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Cullman average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Cullman homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Cullman is the company you get to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Cullman have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $5,264 | 18.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.56 | $19,935 | $7,409 | 18.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.49 | $24,430 | $9,750 | 17.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.42 | $28,730 | $12,287 | 17.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.35 | $32,834 | $15,019 | 17.2 years |
| 16 kW | $3.28 | $36,743 | $17,946 | 16.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.21 | $40,456 | $21,068 | 16.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.14 | $43,974 | $24,387 | 16.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before deciding.
- Contract: When looking through your solar company’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
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 Cullman, AL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Cullman?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,450 for a 5-kW system and $34,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Cullman, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you’ll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.