Solar Panel Cost Guide in Big Rapids, MI (2023 Update)
- Big Rapids Solar Installation Cost: $12,158
- 25-Year Savings: $21,536
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Big Rapids
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Big Rapids.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Big Rapids typically cost around 2.81. The average solar panel system size in Big Rapids is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,156 for a solar installation, or $17,383 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Big Rapids depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Big Rapids
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,904 |
| 3 years | $-8,396 |
| 5 years | $-5,889 |
| 7 years | $-3,382 |
| 9 years | $-874 |
| 11 years | $1,633 |
| 13 years | $4,140 |
| 15 years | $6,648 |
| 17 years | $9,155 |
| 19 years | $11,663 |
| 21 years | $14,170 |
| 23 years | $16,677 |
| 25 years | $19,185 |
Top Solar Installers in Big Rapids
When going solar, many homeowners opt to hire a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some in Big Rapids:
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 Big Rapids
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Big Rapids
The cost of installing a solar system in Big Rapids can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more power your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $2,810 per kilowatt in Big Rapids. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Big Rapids, which can bring down, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Big Rapids, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. You may notice 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 specials to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.92 | $12,274 | $20,434 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $27,560 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $34,844 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $42,284 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $49,882 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $57,638 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $65,551 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $73,621 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you go with 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 several important things you should consider, such as:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through fully 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 what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can check your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
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 Big Rapids, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Big Rapids?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Big Rapids?
You can't get solar panels for free in Big Rapids. However, you may still be able to install 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.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Big Rapids, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Big Rapids?
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 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.