Solar Panel Cost Guide in Comstock Northwest, MI (2024 Update)

  • Comstock Northwest Solar Installation Cost: $17,318
  • 25-Year Savings: $21,176
  • Payback Period: 13.1 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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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 Comstock Northwest

We break down average solar pricing in Comstock Northwest.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Comstock Northwest, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Comstock Northwest, most homeowners require a 6.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $17,318, or $24,765 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.

These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you will most likely differ based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with.Even with the high upfront cost, the average Comstock Northwest homeowner can save about $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.

Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar panel company in your area for a custom estimate.

Solar savings over time in Comstock Northwest

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-16,065
3 years $-13,557
5 years $-11,050
7 years $-8,542
9 years $-6,035
11 years $-3,528
13 years $-1,020
15 years $1,487
17 years $3,995
19 years $6,502
21 years $9,009
23 years $11,517
25 years $14,024

Top Solar Installers in Comstock Northwest

Although you can install solar panels on your own, it takes extra labor and know-how. That's why most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Another good thing about going with a reputable solar installer is that it'll provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.

There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Outstanding customer service
  • Offers products from leading manufacturers
  • Slightly limited service offerings
  • No leases or PPAs

Outstanding Local Installer

Strawberry Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Comstock Northwest

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Comstock Northwest

There are a number of criteria that can affect your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.

Solar Equipment

One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $4,060 per kilowatt in Comstock Northwest.Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Comstock Northwest, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, 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

If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular choice because they lower your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.It’s wise to add the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Comstock Northwest, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Comstock Northwest know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

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 $14,918 13.6 years
8 kW $4.14 $23,191 $20,346 13.3 years
10 kW $4.06 $28,420 $26,000 13.1 years
12 kW $3.98 $33,422 $31,883 12.8 years
14 kW $3.90 $38,196 $37,992 12.5 years
16 kW $3.82 $42,744 $44,329 12.3 years
18 kW $3.74 $47,064 $50,893 12.0 years
20 kW $3.65 $51,156 $57,685 11.8 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Warranty: If you care about the longevity of your solar system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
  • Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
  • Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • 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

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Outstanding customer service
  • Offers products from leading manufacturers
  • Slightly limited service offerings
  • No leases or PPAs

Outstanding Local Installer

Strawberry Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • 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 Comstock Northwest, MI Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Comstock Northwest?

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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.

Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?

Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Does Comstock Northwest have a net metering program?

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

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.

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.

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