Solar Panel Cost Guide in Muskegon Heights, MI (2024 Update)

  • Muskegon Heights Solar Installation Cost: $16,349
  • 25-Year Savings: $23,189
  • Payback Period: 11.8 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 Muskegon Heights

We break down average solar pricing in Muskegon Heights.

The average cost of a solar system in Muskegon Heights is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 5.8-kW system would cost about $16,349 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

The true cost of your system can be higher or lower than the average in Muskegon Heights based on several factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average Muskegon Heights homeowners see about $23,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.

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

Solar savings over time in Muskegon Heights

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-15,095
3 years $-12,587
5 years $-10,080
7 years $-7,573
9 years $-5,065
11 years $-2,558
13 years $-50
15 years $2,457
17 years $4,964
19 years $7,472
21 years $9,979
23 years $12,486
25 years $14,994

Top Solar Installers in Muskegon Heights

When going solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy consumption, but working with a solar company can shorten that period. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of incentives available in your area.

If you're looking for a solar company in Muskegon Heights, the EcoWatch team has put together 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 Muskegon Heights

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Muskegon Heights

There are a number of criteria that can determine 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

The size of the solar system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $4,060. The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable choice because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

A final factor to keep in mind when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Muskegon Heights is the company you choose to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due 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 discount can bring their pricing lower 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 $18,255 12.3 years
8 kW $4.14 $23,191 $24,794 12.1 years
10 kW $4.06 $28,420 $31,561 11.8 years
12 kW $3.98 $33,422 $38,556 11.6 years
14 kW $3.90 $38,196 $45,778 11.4 years
16 kW $3.82 $42,744 $53,227 11.1 years
18 kW $3.74 $47,064 $60,903 10.9 years
20 kW $3.65 $51,156 $68,807 10.7 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar panel company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should consider, such as:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies have different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
  • Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.

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 Muskegon Heights, MI Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Muskegon Heights?

The average cost of solar panels in Muskegon Heights is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Muskegon Heights?

Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.

Is it worth going solar in Muskegon Heights?

Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of 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 pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 install 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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