Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cedar Springs, MI (2023 Update)
- Cedar Springs Solar Installation Cost: $12,156
- 25-Year Savings: $22,348
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cedar Springs
We break down average solar pricing in Cedar Springs.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Cedar Springs is 2.81 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.2-kW system would cost about $12,156 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Cedar Springs can save around $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar installer in Cedar Springs for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in Cedar Springs
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,776 |
| 3 years | $-8,016 |
| 5 years | $-5,255 |
| 7 years | $-2,495 |
| 9 years | $266 |
| 11 years | $3,026 |
| 13 years | $5,786 |
| 15 years | $8,547 |
| 17 years | $11,307 |
| 19 years | $14,067 |
| 21 years | $16,828 |
| 23 years | $19,588 |
| 25 years | $22,348 |
Top Solar Installers in Cedar Springs
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it involves extra time and knowledge. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you may need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers nearby:
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 Cedar Springs
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cedar Springs
Though the average cost of a solar system in Cedar Springs is $12,156, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,810. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, 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 solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Cedar Springs, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's a good idea to factor 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
The final key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Cedar Springs, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because they have access to more resources and bulk 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 discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger 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 | $21,249 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $28,647 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $36,202 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $43,915 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $51,785 | 8.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $59,812 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $67,997 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $76,339 | 7.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: When looking over your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system component breaking or the company going out of business.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Cedar Springs, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Cedar Springs?
The average cost of solar panels in Cedar Springs is about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Cedar Springs?
A solar panel system isn't free in Cedar Springs, 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 you can take advantage of.
Does Cedar Springs 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 utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Cedar Springs?
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.