Solar Panel Cost Guide in Port Sheldon, MI (2024 Update)

  • Port Sheldon Solar Installation Cost: $16,853
  • 25-Year Savings: $22,840
  • Payback Period: 12.2 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 Port Sheldon

We go over average solar pricing in Port Sheldon.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Port Sheldon it’s 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 5.9-kW system would cost about $16,853 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Port Sheldon homeowner. The cost 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.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on energy bills.

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

Solar savings over time in Port Sheldon

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-15,600
3 years $-13,092
5 years $-10,585
7 years $-8,078
9 years $-5,570
11 years $-3,063
13 years $-555
15 years $1,952
17 years $4,459
19 years $6,967
21 years $9,474
23 years $11,982
25 years $14,489

Top Solar Installers in Port Sheldon

Installing solar panels by yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Another good thing about going with a reputable solar installer is that it'll likely provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.

Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

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 Port Sheldon

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Port Sheldon

For many Port Sheldon homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Port Sheldon, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that significantly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Port Sheldon, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $4,060 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency 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 much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Port Sheldon homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.It’s a good idea to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installation company you choose will affect your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger 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 $17,177 12.7 years
8 kW $4.14 $23,191 $23,357 12.5 years
10 kW $4.06 $28,420 $29,764 12.2 years
12 kW $3.98 $33,422 $36,399 12.0 years
14 kW $3.90 $38,196 $43,262 11.7 years
16 kW $3.82 $42,744 $50,352 11.5 years
18 kW $3.74 $47,064 $57,669 11.2 years
20 kW $3.65 $51,156 $65,213 11.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are numerous companies available in Port Sheldon, 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:

  • Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar company has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
  • Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • 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 model 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 deciding.

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 Port Sheldon, MI Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Port Sheldon?

This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many 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 be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Port Sheldon?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Port Sheldon. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Is switching to solar power worth it?

Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.

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 usually 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.

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