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Best Solar Companies in Alabama

We compared 53 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Eagle Solar & Light
    • Solar Technology Alabama
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best Solar Companies in Alabama

      ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. Our research team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear.

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        Alabama solar panel buyers guide

        If you've been thinking about switching to solar power but feel overwhelmed by the options, you're not alone. We’ve heard from over 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018, including several in Alabama. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

        Key insights

        Residential solar panel installations cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more.

        Jump to insight

        The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners.

        Jump to insight

        Watch out for door-to-door solar scams. Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

        Jump to insight

        What to look for in a solar company in Alabama

        In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Here are some hiring best practices to help you choose an installer that delivers top-quality system performance in Alabama.

        • Check certifications: Solar installers have to be licensed electricians in Alabama. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
        • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
        • Compare quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
        • Ask for references: Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Alabama. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.
        • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Alabama.
        • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. Ensure you understand the payment terms, warranty and ongoing services.

        How much does it cost to install solar panels in Alabama?

        Average solar panel costs in Alabama typically range between $11,690 and $33,400. This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence, especially if you want to go off-grid.

        The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. Installers usually set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Alabama, the average cost per watt is $3.34.

        Average solar installation cost by system size in Alabama

        How can I pay for solar panel installation?

        Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance instead. A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest. Leasing solar equipment can minimize the initial cost. But you won’t be eligible for the federal solar ITC because you won’t own the system.

        » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

        Are solar panels worth it in Alabama?

        There’s no way around it: Solar panels are expensive. But for residents like Carrie in Enterprise, it’s definitely worth it.

        “This was a big purchase for us so we had saved for a while and did not need to finance. We just bought straight cash because we don't like payments,” Carrie told us. “And for the money, it is a good value because we use it often so can't complain about that.”

        Another resident, James in Round Rock, told us he gets $0 electric bills since making the switch. On average, Alabamians with solar panels can avoid $65,922 in total utility costs over 25 years.

        Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years..

        We suggest using the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 10.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

        The general consensus is that solar panel investments tend to pay off over time. With electricity costs continuing to rise, more homeowners find solar is worth it in Alabama.

        » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

        Going solar in Alabama

        Most solar installations in Alabama are grid-connected systems. The process typically starts with an energy consultation. During this time, the solar company rep should answer any questions you have and set an overall timeline. The actual solar panel installation labor usually takes less than a week.

        » GREENEST STATES: Alabama ranked 33rd in 2024

        What solar incentives are available in Alabama?

        Alabama has some local solar incentives to make going green more affordable. Still, for many homeowners, the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the best incentive.

        The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000.

        The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

        The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe. However, the credit rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount. So, if you only owed $2,000 the year you went solar, you could claim the remaining $1,000 the next taxable year.

        FAQ

        Should I replace my roof before installing solar panels?

        Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years, which means that your roof should last just as long. You don’t want the expense of taking off your solar panels and then having them reinstalled to fix your roof. So, have your roof inspected before you install solar panels.

        » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

        Can I get free solar panels in Alabama?

        We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Alabama. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can cost you quite a bit of money.

        » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

        What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

        A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components.

        Ultimately, the choice between a broker and an installer comes down to how much you want to be involved. A broker is helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, working directly with a solar installer is best. Just be sure to thoroughly research your options and vet installers before hiring anyone.

        Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panel installations?

        Possibly. There are no state laws in Alabama that prohibit homeowners associations (HOAs) from restricting solar panels.

        How does net metering work in Alabama?

        No statewide policy actually requires utility companies to offer net metering. Local electric companies, like Alabama Power, may still have a net metering program.

        What is a solar array?

        A solar array is an interconnected system of solar equipment that works together to harness the power of the sun and convert it into electricity. Systems include solar panels, mounting equipment, wiring, one or more inverters and sometimes batteries.

        Not sure how to choose?

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          Guide sources

          ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

          1. DSIRE, “Alabama Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
          2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Alabama.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
          3. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Alabama Solar.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
          4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Alabama?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
          5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
          6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
          7. Southern Environmental Law Center, “Alabama Public Service Commission greenlights more large-scale solar.” Accessed Aug. 26, 2024.

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