Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mequon, WI (2024 Update)
- Mequon Solar Installation Cost: $18,679
- 25-Year Savings: $25,960
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mequon
We go over average solar pricing in Mequon.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Mequon generally cost around 4.Using this figure, a typical 6.9-kW system would cost about $18,679 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you may vary based on factors unique to your home and what company you go with.Even with the large upfront cost, the average Mequon homeowner can save around $21,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar installer in Mequon, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Mequon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,383 |
| 3 years | $-14,792 |
| 5 years | $-12,201 |
| 7 years | $-9,610 |
| 9 years | $-7,019 |
| 11 years | $-4,428 |
| 13 years | $-1,837 |
| 15 years | $754 |
| 17 years | $3,345 |
| 19 years | $5,936 |
| 21 years | $8,527 |
| 23 years | $11,117 |
| 25 years | $13,708 |
Top Solar Installers in Mequon
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
Working with a licensed solar company can make going solar easier. 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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Mequon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mequon
The cost of installing a solar system in Mequon can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The largest one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $3,880. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Mequon homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Mequon, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.04 | $16,948 | $16,620 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $22,595 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $28,787 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $35,196 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $41,823 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $48,667 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $55,728 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $63,006 | 10.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not 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.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
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
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Mequon, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Mequon?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Mequon?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Mequon. 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 prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Mequon have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 cover 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.