Solar Panels Cost 11k-21k in Columbus, GA | December, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $11k-$21k in Columbus, GA | December, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Columbus, GA in 2024?

Going solar in December, 2024 in Columbus, GA costs about $3.39/W.

According to the price, solar panel installations will cost you approximately $3,390 per 1000 watts (1 kW) of production capacity. When you subtract the 30% federal tax credit, you will spend around $11,865, in Columbus, for a 5 kW solar system. Please consider, a 5kW system might not be sufficient to satisfy your energy demands.

On the left, choose your county to see the typical roof size and the maximum generation capacity for solar panels on homes in your area. Below, you'll find a full outline of the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Columbus: $11,865US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Columbus: 7 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Columbus: $17,372US Average: $16,152

Solar Potential in Columbus

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Columbus.

Roof size 858sq. ft.
Capacity 12kW DC
Electricity 15kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Columbus, GA & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

For Columbus energy consumers, the typical electric bill is $143.01 per month, with a usage of 1,072 kWh. Small residences, including lofts or apartments, are also encompassed in the statistics noted in the prior sentence.

The rate of electricity in Columbus, GA, averaging, is 13.35¢ per kWh in December 2024.

If you’re a typical energy user in Columbus you must have a 9 kW or more sized system to meet all of your power needs. At this time, a 9 kW solar system will cost you approximately $30,510, but the federal tax credit reduces the price by 30%, making it $21,357.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Columbus

To the left and below, you can find a detailed cost breakdown for different solar panel system sizes installed in Columbus. As expected, with a more extensive solar system, you'll see a greater initial expense, but the benefits are higher electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.

The solar panel calculator, located to the right and below, gives a detailed cost and benefit analysis based on a typical $143.01 electric bill for Columbus. Change the $143.01 to your average bill payment for custom results.

System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $974 a year
Est. Price
$11,865
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,496 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $81
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.24 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 103 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 5,539 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,169 a year
Est. Price
$14,238
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 8,995 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $97
  • Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.69 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 123 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 6,646 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,364 a year
Est. Price
$16,611
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 10,495 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $114
  • Full payback in 10 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.13 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 144 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 7,754 mi less a year
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,559 a year
Est. Price
$18,984
Savings from a 8kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 11,994 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $130
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.58 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 164 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,862 mi less a year
System Size 9kW
Roof Size Min. space required
644 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,754 a year
Est. Price
$21,357
Savings from a 9kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 13,493 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $143
  • Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.94 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 181 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,753 mi less a year

Columbus Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

Eligible rural small businesses and agricultural operations might have their solar energy or wind turbine installation costs covered by the REAP Grant, ranging from 80% to 100%. Believe you might be eligible? Use our REAP Grant eligibility tool to check your eligibility.

With the accessibility of a 30% federal income tax credit, solar energy becomes a viable solution for most homeowners, notably in numerous parts of the country. There are also a range of state and local efforts aimed at boosting solar energy use.

Georgia has 7 solar rebate and incentive initiatives available from multiple utilities and government agencies.

Solar incentives in GA

Coweta-Fayette EMC - SmartChoice Home Program

Value:Up to $50

SmartChoice is an incentive program for residential Coweta-Fayette Electric Membership Corporation customers. Eligible participants may receive rebates or other financial assistance to purchase and install certain renewable or energy-efficient equipment. Specific eligible projects and rebates will vary from time to time. Current offers include home EV chargers, heat pumps, solar water heaters, and smart thermostats. Rebates are flat amounts and vary based on the type of project. Additional information is available from the CFEMC website.

Georgia Green Loans Save & Sustain Program

Value:Varies

Georgia Green Loans (GGL) is a microlender funded through grants from the 2009 federal stimulus package. Today, they offer specialized financing to Georgia businesses looking to make energy efficiency capital improvements. Eligible projects for loan funding include insulation/weatherization, HVAC, renewable energy, and appliances meeting ENERGY STAR certification. Available loan principal ranges from $500 to $50,000 with a five-year maximum repayment term. Interest rates may vary but will remain consistently low. Additional information is available through the GGL website.

Central Georgia EMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Through partnerships with local banks, residential Central Georgia EMC customers may be eligible for rebates on energy efficiency improvement projects. Incentives through the program may also fund the building of new homes built to certain green standards. Qualifying projects will vary from time to time. Interested customers should visit the CGEMC website to view and apply for current offers.

Walton EMC - HomePlus Loan Program

Value:Varies

Through a partnership with the GEMC credit union, Walton EMC customers may be eligible for special financing to fund energy efficiency improvement projects and equipment. A variety of upgrades qualify, including insulation/weatherization, windows, HVAC, and new renewable equipment including solar PV/thermal/heating systems. Interest rates may vary, but they will remain consistently low. The application process includes standard credit checks, a property title review, and an audit of the customer's bill payment record. Additional information is available through the Walton EMC website.

Coweta-Fayette EMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Varies

SmartChoice is an incentive program for residential Coweta-Fayette Electric Membership Corporation customers. Through the program, any homeowner on the CFEMC grid is entitled to a no-cost energy audit. Available auditing tools are comprehensive, even considering air leakage from the HVAC system. Depending on a customer's audit results, they may be entitled to rebates or other financial incentives on new equipment or improvements. Available rebate offers will vary from time to time. Rebates may also be applied to the construction of new energy-efficient homes. Additional information is available from the CFEMC website

Central Georgia EMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Home Plus Loan Program

Value:Varies

Through partnerships with local banks and lenders, residential and business customers of the Central Georgia Electric Membership Company (CGEMC) may be eligible for special financing on energy efficiency improvements. The property must meet certain ENERGY STAR standards to be eligible for loan funding. Interest rates remain uniquely low but will vary from time to time. The application process for residential customers involves an energy efficiency audit by a CGEMC representative. Projects not recommended by the auditor may not be recommended for financing. Additional information is available from the CGEMC website.

Georgia Interfaith Power and Light - Energy Improvement Grants

Value:Varies

Places of worship, including religious schools, seeking to make energy efficiency improvements may be eligible for grant funding from Georgia Interfaith Power & Light. The maximum allowed grant is $10,000 before application fees. Institutions must match grant funding through creation care/building funds, tithes, or other means. Allowable projects include (but are not limited to) windows, insulation/weatherization, and new solar PV/wind energy devices. New HVAC systems are not eligible. Once a grant is awarded, the institution must submit a follow-up report one year later. Additional information is available from the GIPL website.

Are solar panels worth it in Georgia?

Intending to stay in your house beyond the solar payback period? Solar panels are a wise investment in Columbus. Installing a 5 kW solar system in Columbus, GA will, on average, save you $22,457.4 over 20 years, and you can expect to break even in about 7 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Columbus, GA

The lack of solar panels or an alternative energy backup means you'll forgo the earlier mentioned savings and be completely reliant on your electric utility for power. Recent media examples have shown that full reliance on your utility company isn't always ideal.

Customers in Columbus have experienced an average of 1.52 utility outages per year in recent times. Each outage lasts an average of 138.87 minutes. In the case of major events such as heavy rain and flooding, vandalism, or grid management errors, this period can increase substantially.

With or without a backup battery, a solar panel system could relieve the stress of future power disruptions you might encounter.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Muscogee County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Columbus, GA?

Your Energy Needs - The cost per watt is decreased with larger solar panel systems, even though the initial cost is greater. Setting up a solar panel system that can cover the electric bill is advantageous to consumers because of the money saved.

Make & Model - Similar to many other products, there are different makes and models of solar panels and mounting equipment on the market. Your contractor’s potential system preferences make it more important to select a reputable installer. Higher quality makes and models often provide a more positive long-term experience for buyers.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels are generally accepted as the standard in the industry, and deservedly so. Even though they are more expensive, they generate more energy. The majority of installers work with panels constructed from this material.

Your Property - No two homes or properties are the same. Elements such as trees, uneven ground, or additional obstacles might complicate the installation process. These days, the majority of solar installers can assess your home with satellite images and factor in these considerations in the preliminary cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Various wages are offered to employees by various companies, and these expenses are transferred to the consumers. Higher wages frequently lead to companies getting better reviews for their work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Local permitting and utility interconnection fees, which differ by region, will influence your final installation cost. Experienced local installers will incorporate these numbers into your first quotes to avoid any surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other GA cities

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Who are the best solar installers in Columbus?

Freedom Forever

Temecula, CA(800) 685-1850

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Eagle Solar and Light

Birmingham, AL(205) 202-2208

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.

Alternative Energy Southeast

Athens-Clarke County unified government, GA(770) 691-0966

Services

  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Velo Solar

Atlanta, GA(404) 640-5974

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Micrometer Engineering

Scottsdale, AZ(602) 790-5749

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Core Development Group

(201) 825-2195

Services

  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Solar Sun World

Eatonton, GA(706) 318-0784

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Go Solar Power

West Palm Beach, FL(877) 558-1882

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

SunPro Solar

Mandeville, LA(866) 599-3643

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Power Home Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.

Dividend Finance

Cincinnati, OH(415) 805-7000

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Palmetto Solar

Charleston, SC(855) 339-1831

Services

  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Entero Energy

Austin, TX(512) 551-0742

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Silver Sun Solar

Deltona, FL(407) 832-42452

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Sunnova Energy

Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

Services

  • Reparation of batteries.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

City Electric Supply

Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.

LightEdison

Denver, CO(888) 966-6377

Services

  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of batteries.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.

Empire Solar Group

Salt Lake City, UT(800) 467-4562

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Solar Plus

Atlanta, GA(470) 378-1182

Services

  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Precision Renewables

(435) 602-4120

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Columbus, GA Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • As of December, 2024, the average per-watt cost for solar panels in Columbus, GA is $3.39/W. Post federal tax credit, a 5 kW solar panel system installation in Columbus, GA will roughly cost $11,865.
  • Homeowners in Georgia can take advantage of 7 different rebates and incentives from a variety of utility companies and government agencies. Additionally, almost everyone is entitled to the 30% federal income tax credit.
  • Although cash payments yield the greatest savings, numerous financing options for solar panels now exist that are also cost-effective. Many installers will detail information about their financing partners in the initial quotes they provide.
  • Yes, in Columbus, GA, 5 kW solar panel systems usually pay off in 7 years, providing an average electricity cost savings of $22,457.4 over a 20-year period.
Alex Zdanov
Last Reviewed By: Alex Zdanov
Published: 2024-12-08