Solar Panel Cost Guide in Danby, MI (2023 Update)
- Danby Solar Installation Cost: $12,136
- 25-Year Savings: $21,552
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Danby
We go over average solar pricing in Danby.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Danby is 2.81 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Danby is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,136 for a solar installation, or $17,354 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Danby can save around $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To get a free quote from a vetted solar company in Danby, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Danby
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,789 |
| 3 years | $-8,094 |
| 5 years | $-5,399 |
| 7 years | $-2,704 |
| 9 years | $-9 |
| 11 years | $2,687 |
| 13 years | $5,382 |
| 15 years | $8,077 |
| 17 years | $10,772 |
| 19 years | $13,467 |
| 21 years | $16,162 |
| 23 years | $18,857 |
| 25 years | $21,552 |
Top Solar Installers in Danby
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to go with a solar company since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. The expertise that solar installers provide can be useful as well, particularly if you aren't sure what type of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Danby
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Danby
The cost of installing a solar system in Danby can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation use 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 $2,810. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Danby, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Danby, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's a good idea to include 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
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can impact the cost. Danby's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — 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 choose a company that has 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 | $2.92 | $12,274 | $20,512 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $27,665 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $34,974 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $42,441 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $50,066 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $57,847 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $65,786 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $73,883 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you hire.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
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 Danby, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Danby?
The average cost of solar panels in Danby is about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Danby?
You can't get solar panels for free in Danby. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How much can I save on power bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,092.89 per year.
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 goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.