3 best solar companies in Alabaster, Alabama
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Alabaster, Alabama, requires you to hire a solar installer that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To guide your search for the right installer, we've gathered a list of the leading solar companies in Alabaster.
Before deciding on an installer, request recommendations from others, vet the installers you're considering and get quotes from multiple companies to find the one that is the best fit for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Alabaster or choose a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
While solar panels require a large initial investment, you can cut your energy expenses in the long term by making the transition. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), switching to solar energy enables Alabaster homeowners to save a yearly average of about $2,000.
Solar companies do not all offer the same services and products. You should look at different companies and get quotes before arranging your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Alabaster
Focus your search on Alabaster solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and similar review platforms. The company should also have a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reviewing previous customer testimonials can provide insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth noting as a possible warning sign.
Small Tech Solar
Services Offered
Eagle Solar & Light
Services Offered
Solar Technology Alabama
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Alabaster?
Places with different sunshine levels, including rainy or cloudy areas like Alabaster, can still use solar power. The major reasons to adopt solar energy are:
- Save on energy bills: Adopting solar energy lets you cut your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels substitutes for electricity that would otherwise be bought from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of fossil fuels that would be required to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that electricity production is one of the biggest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You have the ability to charge electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the greatest assurance that your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Alabaster
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Alabaster?
Based on our survey carried out in October 2023, the typical national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of solar panel installation is influenced by your sunlight availability, system size, area, roof orientation, labor costs and shading. Selecting extras such as animal guards, solar trackers or batteries will raise the overall cost.
Per statistics from NASA, the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the average expense to install solar panels in Alabaster is $22,070.
How much can you save by going solar in Alabaster?
Installing solar panels means sizable spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through significant reductions in your energy bills down the line.
Money savings in Alabaster from going solar
In Alabaster, you can anticipate saving money once you've fully switched to solar. But it takes time to recover the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage influence how soon you'll get a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to recoup its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, the average payback period for solar installations in Alabaster is 11 years.
- Annual solar savings in Alabaster: Based on calculations that leverage data from NASA, the Department of Energy and the EIA, Alabaster homeowners save around $2,004 per year with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save around $34,602 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Alabaster from going solar
Beyond cost savings, transitioning to solar power also shrinks your carbon footprint and minimizes your environmental impact. Provided below are the projected CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 88 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 2200 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Alabaster?
Homeowners in Alabaster can be eligible for several solar incentives. A few are available statewide for all Alabama residents, and others depend on your municipality, city and utility company.
The following solar incentives are offered to Alabama residents, according to DSIRE:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Personal Tax Deduction Wood-Burning Heating System Deduction | 100% |
Property Tax Incentive Local Option- Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Faclities | See Website |
Loan Program Alabama Power - Residential Heat Pump Loan Program | Varies, up to 100% of project cost for qualifying customers |
Rebate Program Central Alabama Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Water Heater: $235 - $375 Dual Fuel or Mini-Split Heat pumps: $300- $350/ton Converting furnace to heat pump in new manufactured homes: $400-$700 Converting furnace to heat pump in existing manufactured homes: $400/ton |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Alabaster solar installer?
When selecting a solar panel installation professional, first review these important questions.
What size system do you need?
The size of your system relies on your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households typically use more energy and may require a larger system. If the system isn’t large enough, it may lack enough energy to power your entire house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local requirements could affect your solar project. You’ll need to apply for the proper permits through your local building department and schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Surrounding trees, precipitation and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require more panels with a higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A number of solar panel systems feature a solar battery. Solar batteries conserve extra energy, which can be vital for avoiding outages in bad weather. Opting for battery storage could increase the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in efficiency, design and life expectancy. These aspects impact not just the cost, but also how often panels will need to be replaced and the space needed on your roof.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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