Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tallmadge, MI (2024 Update)
- Tallmadge Solar Installation Cost: $16,853
- 25-Year Savings: $22,954
- Payback Period: 12.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tallmadge
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Tallmadge.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Tallmadge 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.
How much you pay can be above or below the average in Tallmadge depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.Even with the high upfront cost, the average Tallmadge homeowner can save about $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tallmadge
| 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 Tallmadge
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra effort and know-how. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. The payback period of solar panels will vary depending on factors like your location and energy usage, but going with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some 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 Tallmadge
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tallmadge
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Tallmadge: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 about $4,060. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Tallmadge average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Tallmadge to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in higher prices over time due to interest.It’s wise to factor 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 the amount of time it’ll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Tallmadge, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Tallmadge have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $17,292 | 12.7 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $23,511 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $29,957 | 12.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $36,631 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $43,532 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $50,660 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $58,015 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $65,598 | 11.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose considerably impacts your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. While there are many options for which kind 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 peruse their list of offerings before deciding.
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 Tallmadge, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Tallmadge?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Tallmadge?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, because it commonly comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback 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 Tallmadge?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and how much 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.