Solar Panels Cost $23k-$35k in Franklin County, TN | August, 2025
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How much do solar panels cost in Franklin County, TN in 2025?
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To have solar panels installed in Franklin County, TN in August, 2025 averages out to $4.22/W.
Applying the rate, we are able to come to the conclusion that for every 1000 watts (1 kW) your solar system can generate you will have to spend $4,220 to get your system installed. In Franklin County, you will spend about $14,770 for a 5 kW solar installation once the 30% federal income tax credit is factored in. However, it’s vital to take into account that a more extensive system may be necessary to fulfill your energy demands.
To the left, you can choose your county to view the average roof size and the maximum capacity of solar panels for houses in your area. Displayed below is an outline of the costs, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system installed in your county.
Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Franklin County: $14,770US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Franklin County: 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.
Franklin County: $21,802US Average: $17,429
Solar Potential in Franklin County
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Franklin County.
Roof size 769sq. ft.
Capacity 10.75kW DC
Electricity 13kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Franklin County, TN & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
Energy consumers in Franklin County typically pay 178.76 per month for electricity, with an average monthly usage of1,372 kWh. Smaller residences, such as lofts or apartments, are also included in the numbers referenced in the earlier sentence.
The average rate for electricity in Franklin County, TN during August, 2025 is 13.03¢ per kWh.
Installing a a 12 kW solar panel system will cost around $50,640 upfront, but with the federal income tax credit, you can get 30% back, reducing the cost to $35,448.
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Franklin County
On the left side below, you can find a detailed price breakdown for different solar panel system sizes set up in Franklin County. Even though a bigger solar installation carries a higher price tag, it also provides greater electricity savings and higher income tax credits.
Using the solar panel cost calculator located to the right and below, you can view a detailed cost and benefit analysis based on an average electric bill of $178.76 in Franklin County. If you want more customized results, just adjust the $178.76 to whatever your average electricity bill is.
System Size
Roof Size Min. space required
Electricity Value Annual Production
Est. Price
System Size 8kW
Roof Size Min. space required
572 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,514 a year
Est. Price
$23,632
Savings from a 8kWthis system
Est. yearly production 11,647 kWh
Est. monthly savings $126
Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.77 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 173 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 9,328 mi less a year
System Size 9kW
Roof Size Min. space required
644 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,703 a year
Est. Price
$26,586
Savings from a 9kWthis system
Est. yearly production 13,103 kWh
Est. monthly savings $142
Full payback in 12 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.24 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 195 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 10,494 mi less a year
System Size 10kW
Roof Size Min. space required
715 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,893 a year
Est. Price
$29,540
Savings from a 10kWthis system
Est. yearly production 14,559 kWh
Est. monthly savings $158
Full payback in 14 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.71 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 216 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 11,660 mi less a year
System Size 11kW
Roof Size Min. space required
787 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,082 a year
Est. Price
$32,494
Savings from a 11kWthis system
Est. yearly production 16,015 kWh
Est. monthly savings $173
Full payback in 15 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 5.18 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 238 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 12,826 mi less a year
System Size 12kW
Roof Size Min. space required
858 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,271 a year
Est. Price
$35,448
Savings from a 12kWthis system
Est. yearly production 17,470 kWh
Est. monthly savings $179
Full payback in 17 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 5.35 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 246 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 13,233 mi less a year
Franklin County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2025
If you run a small business or farm in a rural area, you could receive REAP Grant support that covers 80% to 100% of your solar or wind turbine installation costs. Believe you fit this category? Check your qualification with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.
Adding residential solar panels comes with a 30% federal tax credit, available to most homeowners, making it a good option for numerous areas across the country. Alongside federal efforts, state and local programs help to encourage the use of solar power.
Tennessee features 2 solar rebate and incentive initiatives available from different utilities and government organizations.
Solar incentives in TNIncentive Description Value
Sales Tax Credit for Clean Energy Technology
Value:Varies
New devices used in the generation, storage, or distribution of "green energy" in Tennessee may be eligible for state sales/use tax exemptions. Qualifying equipment should use solar, wind, geothermal, or hydrogen fuel cell technology and be installed in a Department of Environment-certified facility. To claim the exemption, the installing contractor should submit application paperwork to the Department of Revenue at the time of purchase. The buyer must then fill out a corresponding form. Approved exemptions will be paid as a refund to the contractor.
Pathway Energy Efficiency Loan Program
Value:Varies
Tennessee's Energy Efficiency Loan Program (EELP) is operated by Pathway Lending, a private non-profit operating in multiple states. Through the program, small businesses, local nonprofits, and local governments may obtain special financing for new renewable energy investments and energy efficiency improvements. Repayment plans last up to six years and are typically based on energy savings at below-market interest. To apply, an organization must submit successful proposals and complete an energy audit. Additional information is available from the Pathway Lending website.
Are solar panels worth it in Franklin County, TN?
When you plan to live in your home beyond the payback period of your solar system, solar panels are an excellent choice in Franklin County. A 5 kW system in Franklin County, TN will enable you to save you, on average, $28,132.4 over a 20 period and the average break even point is 7 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Franklin County, TN
In addition to forgoing the savings, the absence of solar panels or another backup energy source results in full dependence on your electric utility for your power needs. Recent news stories have demonstrated that complete dependence on your utility is not always ideal.
Over the past few years, the utilities in Franklin County have reported an average of 2.25 outages per customer annually. Usually, outages have an average duration of 142.8 minutes. However, during critical events like landslides, overloaded power grids, or construction accidents, these times can extend dramatically.
Take a look at the component below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Franklin County.
Whether or not a backup battery is included, a solar panel system could ease the impact of future power outages you might experience.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Franklin County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Franklin County, TN?
Your Energy Needs - The upfront cost for larger solar panel systems is larger, but the cost per watt decreases as the system size increases. Many people find it advantageous to set up a solar energy system that can fully cover their entire electric bill. This ensures optimal savings.
Make & Model - Similar to other items, solar panels come in a variety of makes and models. As your installer may prefer certain systems, it's essential to choose a reputable contractor. Higher quality makes and models often result in a more satisfactory long-term experience for buyers.
Solar Panel Type - For numerous good reasons, monocrystalline panels are now the standard in the industry. They are associated with a higher price, but they provide more energy. Most solar panel installers opt for this kind of material.
Your Property - Elements such as trees, sloping terrain, or other obstructions might complicate the installation process. Using satellite imagery, solar installers can now assess your home and include these considerations into the initial cost estimate.
Labor Rates - Different companies have varying pay scales for their employees, and these costs are ultimately passed on to consumers. Businesses that invest in higher wages often see higher reviews for their work and customer service.
Permitting & Interconnection - Local permitting and utility level interconnection fees change by area and will affect your final install price. Experienced local installers will incorporate these numbers into your first quotes to prevent any surprises.
See what solar panels cost in other Franklin County cities
The average solar panel cost in Franklin County, TN as of August, 2025 is estimated at $4.22/W. In Franklin County, TN, installing a 5 kW solar panel system will set you back approximately $14,770 after federal tax incentives.
Utilities and government agencies in Tennessee are currently offering 2 different rebates and incentives. Furthermore, almost all individuals are entitled to the 30% federal income tax credit.
Opting to pay in cash provides the highest savings, but there are now various financing options for solar panels that are financially beneficial. Many installers will detail information about financing options in their initial quotes.
Yes, on average, 5 kW solar panels in Franklin County, TN pay for themselves in 7 years, with homeowners saving approximately $28,132.4 on electricity over 20 years.
Savings from 
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