Solar Panel Cost Guide in Montgomery, GA (2024 Update)
- Montgomery Solar Installation Cost: $15,966
- 25-Year Savings: $24,775
- Payback Period: 11.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Montgomery
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Montgomery.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Montgomery it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Montgomery is around 6.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $15,966 for a solar installation, or $22,831 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Montgomery see about $22,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installer in Montgomery, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Montgomery
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-14,373 |
| 3 years | $-11,186 |
| 5 years | $-8,000 |
| 7 years | $-4,813 |
| 9 years | $-1,627 |
| 11 years | $1,560 |
| 13 years | $4,746 |
| 15 years | $7,933 |
| 17 years | $11,119 |
| 19 years | $14,306 |
| 21 years | $17,492 |
| 23 years | $20,679 |
| 25 years | $23,865 |
Top Solar Installers in Montgomery
Putting up solar panels by yourself can be a difficult task, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you go with a solar contractor too, which can save you more money after your initial investment.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
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 Montgomery
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Montgomery
For many Montgomery homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Montgomery, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $3,740. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Montgomery average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar system can play a part in determining the cost. Montgomery’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle 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 | $3.89 | $16,336 | $18,748 | 11.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.81 | $21,363 | $25,416 | 11.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.74 | $26,180 | $32,294 | 11.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.67 | $30,788 | $39,381 | 11.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.59 | $35,186 | $46,678 | 10.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.52 | $39,375 | $54,184 | 10.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.44 | $43,354 | $61,899 | 10.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.37 | $47,124 | $69,824 | 10.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you read it through carefully 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 what services you can expect from them.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project 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 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 Montgomery, GA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Montgomery?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,700 for a 5-kW system and $37,400 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. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Montgomery?
Solar panels aren’t free in Montgomery, 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 can further reduce the cost.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Montgomery?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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 larger 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.