Solar Panel Cost Guide in Roanoke, AL (2024 Update)
- Roanoke Solar Installation Cost: $22,026
- 25-Year Savings: $33,186
- Payback Period: 11.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Roanoke
We go over average solar pricing in Roanoke.
The average cost of a solar system in Roanoke is 3 per watt.The average Roanoke homeowner needs a 9.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $22,026 with the federal tax credit, or $31,497 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will look different based on your specific situation and what company you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $21,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Roanoke
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-20,179 |
| 3 years | $-16,484 |
| 5 years | $-12,788 |
| 7 years | $-9,093 |
| 9 years | $-5,398 |
| 11 years | $-1,703 |
| 13 years | $1,992 |
| 15 years | $5,687 |
| 17 years | $9,383 |
| 19 years | $13,078 |
| 21 years | $16,773 |
| 23 years | $20,468 |
| 25 years | $24,163 |
Top Solar Installers in Roanoke
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Another perk of using a solar company is that they can help you optimize your ROI by lowering your future costs of repairs and replacements because of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Roanoke
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Roanoke
There are a number of factors that can affect 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
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it’s crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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 over time on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Roanoke average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Roanoke to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest.While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Roanoke homeowners, they can also raise the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you select will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $17,130 | 11.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.56 | $19,935 | $23,231 | 11.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.49 | $24,430 | $29,528 | 11.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.42 | $28,730 | $36,019 | 11.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.35 | $32,834 | $42,707 | 10.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.28 | $36,743 | $49,589 | 10.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.21 | $40,456 | $56,668 | 10.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.14 | $43,974 | $63,941 | 10.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
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 Roanoke, AL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Roanoke?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,450 for a 5-kW system and $34,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Roanoke?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, because it typically 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 way to go if you want to maximize your savings.
Does Roanoke have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 larger level 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.