Solar Panel Cost Guide in Allendale, MI (2024 Update)

  • Allendale Solar Installation Cost: $16,853
  • 25-Year Savings: $20,977
  • Payback Period: 12.9 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated June 24, 2024

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Allendale

Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Allendale.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Allendale, the average cost of solar panels is 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.

Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Allendale homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Allendale can save about $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.

To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Allendale

YearReturn 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 Allendale

Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a difficult undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren’t sure what type of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.

If you're searching for a solar company in Allendale, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:

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See all of the solar companies in Allendale

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Allendale

The cost of installing a solar system in Allendale 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 equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it’s important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Allendale, 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 more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Allendale have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system.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 how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Finally, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can affect how much you pay. Allendale’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Allendale know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use 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$15,29113.4 years
8 kW$4.14$23,191$20,84313.2 years
10 kW$4.06$28,420$26,62312.9 years
12 kW$3.98$33,422$32,62912.7 years
14 kW$3.90$38,196$38,86312.4 years
16 kW$3.82$42,744$45,32412.1 years
18 kW$3.74$47,064$52,01311.9 years
20 kW$3.65$51,156$58,92911.6 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar panel company you opt for will impact not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:

  • Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
  • Warranty: Companies typically offer different types of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the completion timeline.
  • Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
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EcoWatch's Allendale, MI Solar Cost FAQs

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

The average cost of solar panels in Allendale 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 consume.

Are solar panels free in Allendale?

A solar panel system isn’t free in Allendale, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.

How will solar panels impact the value of my home?

Solar panels can increase the value of your home considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."

How long do solar panels last in Allendale?

On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.