Solar Panel Cost Guide in Birch Run, MI (2024 Update)
- Birch Run Solar Installation Cost: $17,618
- 25-Year Savings: $17,087
- Payback Period: 15.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Birch Run
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Birch Run.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Birch Run, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Birch Run is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,618 for a solar installation, or $25,194 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 Birch Run homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Birch Run can save about $18,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Birch Run
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,364 |
| 3 years | $-13,856 |
| 5 years | $-11,349 |
| 7 years | $-8,842 |
| 9 years | $-6,334 |
| 11 years | $-3,827 |
| 13 years | $-1,319 |
| 15 years | $1,188 |
| 17 years | $3,695 |
| 19 years | $6,203 |
| 21 years | $8,710 |
| 23 years | $11,217 |
| 25 years | $13,725 |
Top Solar Installers in Birch Run
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. In addition, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
Working with a licensed solar company can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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
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 Birch Run
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Birch Run
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Birch Run is $17,618, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,060.The brand and type of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Birch Run to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time because of interest.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Birch Run is the company you choose to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, you’ll have many options for solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
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 | $10,607 | 15.6 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $14,597 | 15.3 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $18,814 | 15.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $23,259 | 14.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $27,932 | 14.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $32,831 | 14.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $37,958 | 13.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $43,313 | 13.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer 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 keep in mind, such as:
- Warranty: A quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy 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.
- Contract: When looking over your solar company’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 Birch Run, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Birch Run?
The average cost of solar panels in Birch Run is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real 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.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Birch Run have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Birch Run?
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.