Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ada, MI (2025 Update)

  • Ada Solar Installation Cost: $17,551
  • 25-Year Savings: $23,157
  • Payback Period: 12.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

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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 Ada

We break down average solar pricing in Ada.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Ada, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Ada is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,551 for a solar installation, or $25,098 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what company you go with.Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Ada homeowner can save about $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.

To get a free quote from a highly rated solar company in Ada, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Ada

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-16,297
3 years$-13,790
5 years$-11,282
7 years$-8,775
9 years$-6,268
11 years$-3,760
13 years$-1,253
15 years$1,255
17 years$3,762
19 years$6,269
21 years$8,777
23 years$11,284
25 years$13,792

Top Solar Installers in Ada

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Since solar panels are exposed to the elements every day, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.

If you're looking for a solar company in Ada, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:

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See all of the solar companies in Ada

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ada

There are several factors that can determine your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.

Solar Equipment

One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $4,060 per kilowatt in Ada.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only 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 power bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Ada homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.Even though solar loans make switching to solar energy more accessible for Ada homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating in Ada, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Ada have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.22$17,734$16,56712.9 years
8 kW$4.14$23,191$22,54312.7 years
10 kW$4.06$28,420$28,74812.4 years
12 kW$3.98$33,422$35,17912.2 years
14 kW$3.90$38,196$41,83811.9 years
16 kW$3.82$42,744$48,72511.7 years
18 kW$3.74$47,064$55,83811.4 years
20 kW$3.65$51,156$63,17911.2 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose significantly impacts your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. Although 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 offerings before deciding.
  • Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
  • Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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EcoWatch's Ada, MI Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ada?

This is a difficult 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Ada?

You can’t get solar panels for free in Ada. However, you may still be able to get 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.

Does Ada have a net metering program?

Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

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 larger 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.