Solar Panel Cost Guide in Three Rivers, MI (2024 Update)
- Three Rivers Solar Installation Cost: $17,287
- 25-Year Savings: $19,777
- Payback Period: 13.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Three Rivers
We break down average solar pricing in Three Rivers.
The average cost of solar panels in Three Rivers is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Three Rivers is around 6.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,287 for a solar installation, or $24,720 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Three Rivers based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Three Rivers see about $20,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Three Rivers
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,034 |
| 3 years | $-13,526 |
| 5 years | $-11,019 |
| 7 years | $-8,512 |
| 9 years | $-6,004 |
| 11 years | $-3,497 |
| 13 years | $-989 |
| 15 years | $1,518 |
| 17 years | $4,025 |
| 19 years | $6,533 |
| 21 years | $9,040 |
| 23 years | $11,548 |
| 25 years | $14,055 |
Top Solar Installers in Three Rivers
Many homeowners choose to hire a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be time-consuming. Companies can also provide access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for your family.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Three Rivers, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Three Rivers
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Three Rivers
There are several criteria that can affect your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,060.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Three Rivers, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Three Rivers offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.It’s wise to include 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
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can impact your pricing. Three Rivers’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Three Rivers are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, 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 | $13,575 | 14.2 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $18,555 | 13.9 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $23,762 | 13.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $29,197 | 13.3 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $34,859 | 13.1 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $40,748 | 12.8 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $46,864 | 12.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $53,208 | 12.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the durability of your solar panels, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
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 Three Rivers, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Three Rivers?
The average cost of solar panels in Three Rivers 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 such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Three Rivers have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Three Rivers?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level 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.