Solar Panel Cost Guide in Comstock Park, MI (2023 Update)
- Comstock Park Solar Installation Cost: $12,147
- 25-Year Savings: $23,157
- Payback Period: 8.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Comstock Park
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Comstock Park.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Comstock Park, the average cost of solar panels 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.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Comstock Park homeowner. The price 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 installing a solar system is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Comstock Park can save around $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Comstock Park
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,894 |
| 3 years | $-8,386 |
| 5 years | $-5,879 |
| 7 years | $-3,371 |
| 9 years | $-864 |
| 11 years | $1,643 |
| 13 years | $4,151 |
| 15 years | $6,658 |
| 17 years | $9,166 |
| 19 years | $11,673 |
| 21 years | $14,180 |
| 23 years | $16,688 |
| 25 years | $19,195 |
Top Solar Installers in Comstock Park
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since putting up a solar system yourself can be a challenging project. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're looking for a solar company in Comstock Park, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Comstock Park
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Comstock Park
Although the average cost of a solar system in Comstock Park is $12,156, your actual 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 residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in Comstock Park, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,810 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Comstock Park homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of clean energy solutions in Comstock Park, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It's best to do some research and go with the company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fits within your budget.
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 | $22,027 | 8.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $29,683 | 8.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $37,498 | 8.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $45,469 | 8.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $53,598 | 8.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $61,885 | 8.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $70,328 | 7.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $78,929 | 7.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will affect not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, such as:
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you go with.
- Contract: It's important to read your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
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 Comstock Park, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Comstock Park?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Comstock Park?
You can't get solar panels for free in Comstock Park. 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.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Comstock Park?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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.