Solar Panel Cost Guide in St. Clair Shores, MI (2024 Update)
- St. Clair Shores Solar Installation Cost: $17,270
- 25-Year Savings: $13,167
- Payback Period: 17.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in St. Clair Shores
See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in St. Clair Shores.
The average cost of a solar panel system in St. Clair Shores is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.1-kW system would cost about $17,270 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in St. Clair Shores depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in St. Clair Shores for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in St. Clair Shores
Year | Return on Investment |
---|---|
1 years | $-15,878 |
3 years | $-13,093 |
5 years | $-10,308 |
7 years | $-7,524 |
9 years | $-4,739 |
11 years | $-1,954 |
13 years | $830 |
15 years | $3,615 |
17 years | $6,400 |
19 years | $9,185 |
21 years | $11,969 |
23 years | $14,754 |
25 years | $17,539 |
Top Solar Installers in St. Clair Shores
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra effort and expertise. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. Another great thing about choosing a vetted solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar investment.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
See all of the solar companies in St. Clair Shores
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in St. Clair Shores
The cost of installing a solar system in St. Clair Shores can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,060.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally speaking, 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
Most solar installers in St. Clair Shores provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in St. Clair Shores is the company you get to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, you’ll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.Additionally, some companies in St. Clair Shores are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of 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 | $7,069 | 17.9 years |
8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $9,880 | 17.5 years |
10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $12,918 | 17.2 years |
12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $16,184 | 16.8 years |
14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $19,677 | 16.5 years |
16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $23,397 | 16.2 years |
18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $27,345 | 15.8 years |
20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $31,520 | 15.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years 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.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: When looking through your solar installer’s contract, ask for clarification about any terms you’re not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
EcoWatch's St. Clair Shores, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in St. Clair Shores?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in St. Clair Shores?
You can’t get solar panels for free in St. Clair Shores. However, you may still be able to install 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in St. Clair Shores?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in St. Clair Shores?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.