Best Solar Companies in Alabama
Eagle Solar & Light
Solar Technology Alabama
ShopSolar4.8(186)
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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.
- Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
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| Company | Customer rating | Our pick for | Pro install | Panel warranty | Payment options | Year founded | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | No ratingView profile | Local experience |  | 25 years | Cash, loan | 2016 | Learn more |
 | No ratingView profile | Off-grid systems | | Varies | Cash, loan | 2008 | Learn more |
 | 4.8
186 reviews
186 reviews
| DIY projects |  | Varies | Cash, loan | 2018 | Learn more |
Solar Companies in Alabama Buyers guide
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In this guide
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.
Residential solar panel installations cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more.
Jump to insightThe federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners.
Jump to insightWatch 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 insightWhat 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 $3.14.
Average solar installation cost by system size in Alabama
| 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before federal tax credit | $16,700 | $20,040 | $23,380 | $26,720 | $30,060 | $33,400 |
| After federal tax credit | $11,690 | $14,028 | $16,366 | $18,704 | $21,042 | $23,380 |
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 $42,252 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.
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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:
- DSIRE, “Alabama Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
- EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Alabama.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
- Solar Energy Industries Association, “Alabama Solar.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
- SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Alabama?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
- Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
- Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
- Southern Environmental Law Center, “Alabama Public Service Commission greenlights more large-scale solar.” Accessed Aug. 26, 2024.
Read Alabama solar company reviews
Solar energy solutions. Offers solar energy kits, DIY solar kits and lithium batteries. Small- and large-scale equipment. Online purchasing with shipping to 48 states. Partner installer network. Financing and warranty available.
Low-profile design with no visible hardware. One of the country’s largest solar installers. Easy-to-use app to customize settings. Offers in-house financing options. Price-match guarantee.
Residential solar panel design and installation and energy conservation insulation systems. Service areas extend across 56 cities over 17 states. Financing options available. Offers 25-year warranties.
Sells DIY solar and wind energy kits. Ships across all of the U.S., except Alaska and Hawaii. Accepts PayPal Credit, Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. Offers products from brands like Briggs & Stratton and Sol-Ark.
Area-based solar installer for homes and businesses across the entire United States. Also offers roofing and engineering services. Financing is available through loans. Systems include SunPower components.
Commercial and community solar services throughout the southeastern United States. Solar farm development and industrial solar services. EV charger and solar storage installation services also offered.
Headquartered in New York City and London. Performs solar installation services worldwide. Products from SMA, SunPower and Xantrex. Installs building-integrated panels in addition to roof and ground-mounted systems.
Specializes in agricultural, commercial and residential solar installations. Five-year workmanship warranties on installations. Offers hybrid and off-grid systems as well as battery backup solutions.
Commercial and industrial solar, including large-scale projects plus energy audits, EV charging and lighting systems. Offers installations across all 48 states in the U.S. mainland. Products from Schneider Electric and Siemens.
Residential and commercial solar panel design, installation and maintenance. Serves worldwide, including Middle East, Asia, Europe and the U.S. Financing options and warranties available.
Installs, designs and monitors commercial, industrial and large-scale solar energy systems in 17 states. Pay upfront or take advantage of multiple financing options for business owners, including loans and PPAs.
Solar installer serving businesses in New England, the Mid-Atlantic, the South and the Midwest. Also offers operation and maintenance services for solar energy systems in these areas. Utility-scale installations available.
Commercial solar energy system installation plus EV charging across the continental U.S. Other construction-based services include data center construction, electrical engineering, infrastructure development and procurement.
Commercial and large-scale solar energy system installations plus HVAC services, refrigeration, LED lighting and battery sales. Serves the U.S. and some international areas. Financing options available.
Solar installer for homes and businesses. Carries products from Enphase Energy, Fortress Power, Lion Energy, Sol-Ark and Tesla Powerwall. Warranties include 25 years of power production on panels and 10 to 20 years on inverters.
Commercial and industrial solar installations nationwide. Components from Hyundai, JinkoSolar, Panasonic, REC, SolarEdge and Trina Solar. Projects backed by a 25 year warranty.
Many solar panel brands available. Sells solar panels, backup batteries and solar inverters. Three different financing types offered with multiple lender options. Costs typically range from $8,000 to $32,000.
Headquartered in Knoxville. Provides services to the entire southeastern United States. Offers products from Canadian Solar, LG, SMA, sonnen and Unirac. Five-year workmanship warranty on installations.
Sells DIY solar kits throughout the U.S. Kits can be ground- or roof-mounted and include well-known brands like Enphase, Sol-Ark, IronRidge and SunSpark. Solar loans are available.
Solar parts dealer and installer offering systems for homes, businesses, industrial buildings and cities. Also offers small specialty solar systems. Installations worldwide. Equipment from a variety of manufacturers.
Residential and commercial solar energy installation, including pergolas. Offers services in 28 cities across six states. Works with five major solar lenders to provide financing through loans and leases.
Solar installer offering systems for homes and businesses. Also offers small solar for RVs and boats, as well as wind systems. Installs nationwide. Offers products from Enphase Energy, Kyocera, Schüco and Sharp.
Residential and commercial solar energy system installation, energy storage, EV charging and backup generator sales across the southeastern U.S. Financing is available through loans. Offers Tesla Powerwall components.
Specializes in commercial, industrial, governmental and utility-scale solar. Performs large-scale engineering and contracting projects worldwide. Large-scale EV charging station design and implementation.
Online solar marketplace. Connects you to solar panel installers and lenders. Online quotes in less than 60 seconds. Nationwide availability. Vetted installer network. Free quotes. Federal tax incentives for panel installation.
Commercial, institutional, municipal and utility-scale solar energy system installations. Also offers construction services, power distribution, communications infrastructure and transportation contracting throughout the U.S.
Residential and commercial solar panel installer offering services across the entire continental United States. Also offers EV charging solutions. Financing options and warranties available.
Specializes in commercial and residential solar installations. Finance with capital leases, operating leases or pay upfront. Offers 25-year manufacturer's warranties on products and variable-term workmanship warranties.
Commercial and industrial solar installations, specializing in utility-scale installation. Carries JA Solar, LONGi, and SMA components. Founded in 1954. Service available nationwide.
Residential, commercial and agricultural DIY solar energy system kits and products shipped across the continental United States. Offers brands like EG4 Electronics and Hoymiles. Schedule a free consultation today.
Commercial solar installation and monitoring across the United States. Founded and headquartered in New Jersey. Finance through PPAs or loans. 25-year manufacturer’s warranty on panels. Been in business since 2009.
Offers several types of plug-and-play DIY solar kits for homeowners to install without additional labor costs. Shipping throughout the United States. All products come with a 30-day return policy and a minimum one-year warranty.
Residential and commercial solar energy system installations plus maintenance, portable solar power and consulting services across the Southeast. Offers workmanship warranties on systems. Products from Enphase, Rolls and SMA.
Residential, commercial and agricultural installation of solar energy systems, solar thermal, whole house fans and electrical upgrades in the Northwest and Southeast. Free estimates available.
Full-service residential and commercial solar installation provider offering 25-year equipment warranties. Performs installation services across all of South Carolina and other parts of the southeastern United States.
Residential, commercial and multifamily solar installations, solar water heating and solar pool heating in the eastern United States. Offers brands like Enphase Energy, SMA and SolarEdge. Finance with a loan.
Commercial solar energy system installation plus energy storage and EV charging across the U.S. Offers a 25-year warranty on solar array equipment. Finance with a solar loan, C-PACE loan, PPA or lease.
Residential solar energy system installations, energy storage, solar monitoring and roofing services in 40 states nationwide. Offers brands like SunPower and Enphase Energy. Finance through a loan, lease or PPA.
Sells DIY kits for installing solar energy systems. Ships to the lower 48 states. Offers a 15-year manufacturer's warranty and 25-year performance warranty on solar panels from AXITEC. Pay upfront or through a loan.
Commercial, nonprofit, military and industrial installation of solar thermal water heating systems in the United States. Offers brands like SOLARHOT. Pay upfront or finance through a loan.
Online retailer of solar DIY kits and other renewable energy products such as solar-powered lights, wind turbine kits, composting supplies and more. Offers free shipping on orders over $75.
Installs solar energy, solar hot water, solar pool heating and lighting for residential and commercial projects of all sizes. Offers installation services across the United States, plus sales and customer service worldwide.
Full-service residential and commercial solar installer offering maintenance, repair, removal, reinstallations and EV charging in North Carolina and other parts of the southeastern United States. Free estimates available.
Residential and commercial solar solutions throughout the Southeast. Battery storage, roofing services and emergency roof repairs also available. Equipment from LG Chem. Provides free estimates.
Specializes in residential and commercial solar installations. Installations backed by 30-year comprehensive third-party warranties. Offers Enphase Energy, Heliocol, Sol-Ark, Tesla Powerwall, Qcells and Unirac components.
Commercial solar installation services. Covers businesses in the lower 48 states. Payment options include solar loans and power purchase agreements. Relies on manufacturer warranties.
Residential and commercial installation service available worldwide, including special custom projects. Uses components by Enphase Energy and SMA. Service inspections available to ensure system fidelity.
Headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, and performing installations nationwide. Installs residential and commercial solar electric systems. Offers grid-tied, off-grid, battery storage and EV charging.
Phoenix, Arizona-based solar installer specializing in residential, commercial and industrial solar installations. Offers services across the entire United States. Also installs EV chargers.
Energy management company offering commercial and residential solar design and installation worldwide. Headquarters in Lehi, Utah. Has completed more than 5,000 projects around the world.
Offers residential and commercial installations across Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. Agricultural solar financing through USDA grants. Offers 20- to 25-year warranties on solar panels.
Commercial solar installation, maintenance and repairs in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Also provides wind energy, EV charging, fiber optics and distribution systems.
Solar installer serving homes in the mid-Atlantic region with solar power and water heating. Offers solar for businesses globally. Financing available through loans. Offers brands like OutBack Power, Sharp and Xantrex.
Based in Kansas. Offers solar energy system installations to businesses across the United States. Founded in 2006. Provides lighting services as well as energy auditing services and assessments.
Residential and commercial solar installations. EV charging and home automation. Free quotes available. Service in 21 states. 80% function warranty for 25 years. Pay with cash or finance with loans, leases or PPAs.
Sells residential and commercial solar energy systems nationwide. Wide selection of brands. Installation is through contractors or DIY. Lifetime tech support in addition to manufacturer’s warranty.
