Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ida, MI (2024 Update)

  • Ida Solar Installation Cost: $17,071
  • 25-Year Savings: $17,589
  • Payback Period: 14.5 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ida

See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Ida.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Ida, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.0-kW system would cost about $17,071 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Ida homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Ida can save about $19,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Ida

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-15,817
3 years $-13,310
5 years $-10,802
7 years $-8,295
9 years $-5,788
11 years $-3,280
13 years $-773
15 years $1,735
17 years $4,242
19 years $6,749
21 years $9,257
23 years $11,764
25 years $14,272

Top Solar Installers in Ida

Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra effort and know-how. That's why almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you sign a contract with a solar company too, which can save you more money after your initial investment.

If you're looking for a solar installer in Ida, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Solar Veteran

Michigan Solar Solutions

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Outstanding customer service
  • Offers products from leading manufacturers
  • Slightly limited service offerings
  • No leases or PPAs

Outstanding Local Installer

Strawberry Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Outstanding customer service
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Educational, no-pressure sales approach
  • Limited warranty coverage
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Limited brands of solar equipment available

See all of the solar companies in Ida

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ida

There are several criteria that can affect your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Ida, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $4,060 for each additional kilowatt you need.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Ida, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Ida, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The remaining significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Ida, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Ida are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $4.22 $17,734 $11,637 15.1 years
8 kW $4.14 $23,191 $15,971 14.8 years
10 kW $4.06 $28,420 $20,532 14.5 years
12 kW $3.98 $33,422 $25,321 14.2 years
14 kW $3.90 $38,196 $30,337 13.9 years
16 kW $3.82 $42,744 $35,580 13.6 years
18 kW $3.74 $47,064 $41,051 13.4 years
20 kW $3.65 $51,156 $46,749 13.1 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of companies to choose from in Ida, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies have access to different panels.
  • Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
  • Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has satisfied reviews from previous customers.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Solar Veteran

Michigan Solar Solutions

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Outstanding customer service
  • Offers products from leading manufacturers
  • Slightly limited service offerings
  • No leases or PPAs

Outstanding Local Installer

Strawberry Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Outstanding customer service
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Educational, no-pressure sales approach
  • Limited warranty coverage
  • No leases or PPAs
  • Limited brands of solar equipment available

EcoWatch's Ida, MI Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ida?

This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?

The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to take into account are the quality and durability of your solar panels.

Is it worth going solar in Ida?

Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.

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