Tennessee / Collegedale
Is solar worth it in Collegedale?
City of Chattanooga - (TN) averages 12.3¢/kWh. With 4.9 peak sun hours a day, a typical 7.3 kW system makes ~10,337 kWh a year and saves about $1,274 in year one.
No federal tax credit is included. The 30% homeowner credit (IRS §25D) ended for systems installed after Dec 31, 2025. What changed in 2026 →
How Collegedale compares
That is about the same as the Tennessee average of 13.2 years, mainly because Collegedale's rate is below the state average of 12.5¢/kWh. Your own payback depends on your bill: enter your ZIP and monthly bill above for your number.
| Nearby city | Rate | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Ridge | 12.3¢ | 13.1 yrs | $26,372 |
| Chattanooga | 12.3¢ | 13.1 yrs | $26,372 |
| Cleveland | 12.3¢ | 13.1 yrs | $26,372 |
| Red Bank | 12.3¢ | 13.1 yrs | $26,372 |
| Soddy-Daisy | 12.3¢ | 13.6 yrs | $25,484 |
| Athens | 12.2¢ | 13.7 yrs | $24,884 |
| McMinnville | 11.8¢ | 14.2 yrs | $23,363 |
| Winchester | 12.5¢ | 12.9 yrs | $27,050 |
Questions
How long does solar take to pay off in Collegedale, TN?
About 13.1 years for a typical 7.3 kW system at 12.3 cents/kWh, assuming $2.75/W installed, full net metering and 3% yearly rate increases, with no federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Collegedale?
Often, if you plan to stay long-term. Our estimate is $1,274 saved in year one and $26,372 net over 25 years after paying for the system.
How much does a solar system cost in Collegedale?
A 7.3 kW system sized for an average home (863 kWh/month) is about $20,075 before any local rebates, at $2.75 per watt. Real quotes vary by roof and installer.
Is there a federal solar tax credit in 2026?
Not for homeowners who buy their system. The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (IRS section 25D) does not apply to installations completed after December 31, 2025. State rebates, SRECs and utility incentives may still apply.
Get real installer quotes in Collegedale
Your number above is an estimate. Real bids usually land within 15%. Free, no obligation.
We may earn a referral fee from partners. Disclosure