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3 best solar companies in Montgomery, Alabama
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 3 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Montgomery. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
To perform a high-quality solar panel installation in Montgomery, Alabama, you'll need a certified, skilled and experienced solar installer. We've put together a list of the top solar companies in Montgomery to help you find the right one.
Prior to choosing an installer, ask others for suggestions, vet potential companies and get multiple quotes to determine the best company for your requirements. You can look for a local solar company in Montgomery or select a well-known national brand.
Although solar panels are a big upfront investment, you can cut your energy bills over the long term. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy lets Montgomery homeowners to save approximately $2,000 per year.
Solar companies do not all have the same services and products. You should assess different companies and get quotes before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Montgomery
When looking into Montgomery solar companies, look for those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should read through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Keep an eye out for frequent negative feedback as a potential warning sign.
Vulcan Solar Power, LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Eagle Solar & Light
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Small Tech Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Montgomery?
The Montgomery region gets plenty of sunlight, which is ideal for homeowners to take advantage of solar energy. Here are some of the major reasons to go solar:
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar panels reduces your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to operate your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation is one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can power electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the optimal way to verify your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: You can lower your energy bills by adopting solar energy. Power from solar panels replaces the electricity bought from utility companies.
Facts about Montgomery
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 Montgomery?
Based on our survey conducted in October 2023, the typical national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The cost of installing solar panels differs based on several factors, including your location, sunlight access, roof orientation, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you choose any extras like animal guards, batteries or solar trackers.
According to statistics from NASA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the EIA the average expense to install solar panels in Montgomery is $21,348.
How much can you save by going solar in Montgomery?
Though installing solar panels requires a major investment to start, you can see significant savings on your energy bills in the long term.
Money savings in Montgomery from going solar
In Montgomery, you can anticipate saving money once you've fully switched to solar. But it takes time to make back the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage impact how soon you'll get a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to earn back its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, Montgomery's average payback period for solar is 10 years.
- Annual solar savings in Montgomery: Montgomery homeowners can expect to save around $2,003 per year on average by switching to solar power, according to our analysis of data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After fully switching to solar power, you can anticipate savings of around $35,083 over 25 years, according to our calculations from the EIA and NASA.
Energy savings in Montgomery from going solar
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also reduces your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the projected CO2 emission reductions achievable by going solar.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 91 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 2275 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Montgomery?
Several solar incentives are available to Montgomery homeowners. Some programs are open to all Alabama residents, while others vary by municipality, city and utility company.
Accessible solar incentives to Alabama homeowners, per DSIRE, include:
| 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 Dixie Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Contact member services representative |
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 Montgomery solar installer?
Before choosing a solar panel installation professional, reflect on these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
Your solar panel system's size is contingent upon your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Larger homes use more electricity and may require larger solar panel systems. An undersized system might not manage to fully energize your house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local laws could affect your solar project. You’ll need to secure the required permits through your local building department and book an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Trees, rain and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require extra panels with a higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
To conserve excess power, a lot of panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature is invaluable during storms and helps to prevent power loss. However, using battery storage may lead to increased setup expenses.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You can select from several types of solar panels, each differing in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These factors not only affect the price, but also how quickly you’ll need to replace panels and the amount of space the panels take up 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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