Solar Panel Cost Guide in Jackson, MI (2024 Update)
- Jackson Solar Installation Cost: $17,403
- 25-Year Savings: $22,451
- Payback Period: 12.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Jackson
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Jackson.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Jackson it’s 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Jackson is around 6.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,403 for a solar installation, or $24,886 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.Even with the large initial cost, the average Jackson homeowner can save about $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar panel company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Jackson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,149 |
| 3 years | $-13,642 |
| 5 years | $-11,135 |
| 7 years | $-8,627 |
| 9 years | $-6,120 |
| 11 years | $-3,612 |
| 13 years | $-1,105 |
| 15 years | $1,402 |
| 17 years | $3,910 |
| 19 years | $6,417 |
| 21 years | $8,925 |
| 23 years | $11,432 |
| 25 years | $13,939 |
Top Solar Installers in Jackson
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Outstanding customer service
- Offers products from leading manufacturers
- Slightly limited service offerings
- No leases or PPAs
Outstanding Local Installer
Strawberry Solar
- 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 Jackson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Jackson
The cost of installing a solar system in Jackson can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Jackson provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s important to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you pick will impact your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $16,066 | 13.1 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $21,876 | 12.9 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $27,914 | 12.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $34,179 | 12.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $40,671 | 12.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $47,390 | 11.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $54,337 | 11.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $61,511 | 11.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Jackson, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you need plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a couple decades are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Outstanding customer service
- Offers products from leading manufacturers
- Slightly limited service offerings
- No leases or PPAs
Outstanding Local Installer
Strawberry Solar
- 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 Jackson, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Jackson?
The average cost of solar panels in Jackson is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration 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 trump the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How will installing solar panels impact my property value?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Jackson is currently $170,539, which means you can expect a value of about $6,992 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Jackson is a rewarding investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.