Solar Panel Cost Guide in Atlanta, GA (2024 Update)
- Atlanta Solar Installation Cost: $17,761
- 25-Year Savings: $23,806
- Payback Period: 12.4 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Atlanta
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Atlanta.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Atlanta, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Atlanta is around 6.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,761 for a solar installation, or $25,398 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Atlanta 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.With typical savings of about $20,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Atlanta find going solar can be quite rewarding.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Atlanta
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,168 |
| 3 years | $-12,981 |
| 5 years | $-9,794 |
| 7 years | $-6,607 |
| 9 years | $-3,420 |
| 11 years | $-233 |
| 13 years | $2,954 |
| 15 years | $6,141 |
| 17 years | $9,328 |
| 19 years | $12,515 |
| 21 years | $15,702 |
| 23 years | $18,889 |
| 25 years | $22,076 |
Top Solar Installers in Atlanta
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be challenging. Plus, if you aren’t sure what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Atlanta, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 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 Atlanta
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Atlanta
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Atlanta: 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
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Atlanta homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to add 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
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to green energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Atlanta, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and go with the company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.89 | $16,336 | $15,428 | 12.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $20,989 | 12.6 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $26,760 | 12.4 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $32,740 | 12.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $38,930 | 11.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $45,329 | 11.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $51,937 | 11.4 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $58,756 | 11.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before deciding.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- 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 project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 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 Atlanta, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Atlanta?
The average cost of solar panels in Atlanta is about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Atlanta?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Does Atlanta have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Atlanta?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.