Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
NEW solar panel credit program benefits Huntsville customers—find out what it means for you
Reading time: 4 minutes
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Have you considered solar panels for your home, business or farm? Maybe you already use solar power and want to maximize your investment.
Good news for all parties—Huntsville Utilities’ new solar credit program, Solar Connect, is giving customers maximum credit for energy they produce, including purchasing excess electricity sent back to the grid.
See why North Alabama’s largest pecan farm recently went solar, and discover the new streamlined application and interconnection process.👇
NEW Solar Connect program by Huntsville Utilities

If solar energy is something you’ve been considering, it’s now easier than ever thanks to a new program, Solar Connect with Huntsville Utilities.
- ⭐️ What’s important: Huntsville Utilities is crediting customers at the calculated wholesale rate (currently $0.06427/kWh) + is the only program of its kind in the TVA region + in Alabama
- Who it’s for: Customers who own or are installing small-scale solar systems up to 50kW (residential / small commercial customers)
- Including systems aging out of TVA programs
- What it does: Connects behind-the-meter systems to the electric distribution system, maximizing bill credits you receive for energy sent back to the grid
“Solar Connect with Huntsville Utilities makes a real difference.”
“The process is easy, seamless from start to finish, integrating smoothly with our systems.”
Joe Newberry, owner of Newberry Pecan Farm
☀️ 3 easy steps to participate:
- Complete an application
- Cost: $100 application fee billed to your account
- Follow the interconnection process
- Undergo an inspection
“If you’ve been considering going solar, now is the time to do it.”
“If you already have solar, take advantage of this program and enroll.”
Todd Long, Huntsville Utilities
View all installation requirements + eligibility parameters to start your solar journey now!
What is solar energy + what is it worth?

Solar power is the most environmentally friendly source of power, according to Solar Energy Industries Association, relying on the renewable energy of the sun. Many choose solar energy at home for that reason, in addition to lowering carbon footprint.
According to energysage, it takes a ~14.64 kW solar panel system to cover the average electric bill in Alabama.
What would that cost you in 2026? Here is a breakdown:
- Cost for an average system in Alabama: $45,998
- 25-year savings: $40,326
- Payback period: 15 Years
- Electricity offset: 80%
DYK: You can get up to a 30% tax credit of solar installation costs.
Solar panels are a significant upfront investment, but many opt in for the longterm ROI and environmental perks.
👀 Live in Madison County and think solar panels are for you? See the 3-step process and learn more here.
Here is what our LinkedIn audience said about their personal solar usage:
- 🏡 48% would invest in solar panels for their home
- 🌾 8% would invest in solar panels for their business or farm
- ✅ 3% already have solar panels
- 🤔 39% are not considering solar panels
Beyond personal household solar, TVA + Huntsville Utilities also rely on solar and other renewable energy sources for about 10% of our community’s energy.
RELATED:
Why this pecan farm owner uses solar
Madison County native Joe Newberry now relies on solar panels at his pecan farm Newberry Pecan Farm, which has operated in Ardmore since 1989.
The business has evolved from being a humble pecan tree nursery to full pecan production operation including shaking, processing and bagging pecans. The farm houses 1,500 pecan trees (40 times what the farm started with!) and owner Joe continues to innovate his family-owned business.
His latest upgrade includes making the switch to solar energy thanks to Huntsville Utilities.
“Running the largest pecan orchard in North Alabama requires electricity.”
“Solar panels now powers a large portion of our daily use, helping Newberry Farms reduce energy costs and build a more efficient and sustainable operation.”
Joe Newberry, owner of Newberry Pecan Farm
If you already have solar, or are considering it, click here to find more details and enroll in Solar Connect.
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