Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dalton, MI (2025 Update)
- Dalton Solar Installation Cost: $16,349
- 25-Year Savings: $23,456
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dalton
We go over average solar pricing in Dalton.
The average cost of solar panels in Dalton is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Dalton is around 5.8 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $16,349 for a solar installation, or $23,379 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Dalton homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average homeowners in Dalton see about $23,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Dalton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,095 |
| 3 years | $-12,587 |
| 5 years | $-10,080 |
| 7 years | $-7,573 |
| 9 years | $-5,065 |
| 11 years | $-2,558 |
| 13 years | $-50 |
| 15 years | $2,457 |
| 17 years | $4,964 |
| 19 years | $7,472 |
| 21 years | $9,979 |
| 23 years | $12,486 |
| 25 years | $14,994 |
Top Solar Installers in Dalton
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra labor and handiness. Because of that, most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Another great thing about choosing a reliable solar installer is that it'll provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
See all of the solar companies in Dalton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dalton
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Dalton: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by around $4,060. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Dalton, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Dalton to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Dalton, and each can charge varying amounts 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 cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you want 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 | $4.22 | $17,734 | $18,533 | 12.2 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $25,165 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $32,025 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $39,112 | 11.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $46,426 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $53,968 | 11.0 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $61,737 | 10.8 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $69,734 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly affects your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a couple decades are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have demonstrated expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from past customers.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s necessary to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
EcoWatch's Dalton, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Dalton?
The average cost of solar panels in Dalton is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Dalton?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you don’t have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Dalton?
Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your power bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the average daily 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 install between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.