Solar Panel Cost Guide in Odessa, MI (2024 Update)
- Odessa Solar Installation Cost: $17,521
- 25-Year Savings: $21,567
- Payback Period: 13.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Odessa
Here’s how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Odessa.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Odessa, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Odessa homeowner needs a 6.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,521 with the federal tax credit, or $25,055 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.With typical savings of about $21,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Odessa find going solar can be quite rewarding.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Odessa, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Odessa
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,267 |
| 3 years | $-13,760 |
| 5 years | $-11,252 |
| 7 years | $-8,745 |
| 9 years | $-6,238 |
| 11 years | $-3,730 |
| 13 years | $-1,223 |
| 15 years | $1,284 |
| 17 years | $3,792 |
| 19 years | $6,299 |
| 21 years | $8,807 |
| 23 years | $11,314 |
| 25 years | $13,821 |
Top Solar Installers in Odessa
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra effort and expertise. For that reason, most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies provide can be useful as well, particularly if you aren’t sure what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
Working with a vetted solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
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 Odessa
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Odessa
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Odessa: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Odessa, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $4,060 for each additional kilowatt you need.The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will largely influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Moreover, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to think about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Odessa, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Odessa, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Odessa know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $15,058 | 13.5 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $20,532 | 13.3 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $26,233 | 13.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $32,162 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $38,318 | 12.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $44,701 | 12.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $51,312 | 12.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $58,150 | 11.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will be a major factor in determining not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of options before making your decision.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
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 Odessa, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Odessa?
The average cost of solar panels in Odessa 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 such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Odessa?
Solar panels aren’t free in Odessa, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a great 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 consumption 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 get 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.