Solar Panel Cost Guide in Dexter, MI (2024 Update)
- Dexter Solar Installation Cost: $17,419
- 25-Year Savings: $16,484
- Payback Period: 15.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Dexter
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Dexter.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Dexter typically cost about 4.The average Dexter homeowner needs a 6.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $17,419 with the federal tax credit, or $24,909 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely look different based on your specific situation and what company you choose to go with.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $18,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in your area for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in Dexter
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,131 |
| 3 years | $-13,554 |
| 5 years | $-10,977 |
| 7 years | $-8,400 |
| 9 years | $-5,824 |
| 11 years | $-3,247 |
| 13 years | $-670 |
| 15 years | $1,906 |
| 17 years | $4,483 |
| 19 years | $7,060 |
| 21 years | $9,636 |
| 23 years | $12,213 |
| 25 years | $14,790 |
Top Solar Installers in Dexter
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using a solar panel installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Dexter
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Dexter
The cost of installing a solar system in Dexter can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,060.There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to get can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable option because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Dexter, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The company’s size sometimes plays the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to greater resources and better 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 names.
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 | $10,204 | 15.9 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $14,060 | 15.6 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $18,144 | 15.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $22,455 | 15.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $26,993 | 14.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $31,758 | 14.3 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $36,751 | 14.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $41,972 | 13.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for renewable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can check your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- 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 Dexter, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Dexter?
The average cost of solar panels in Dexter 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 certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Dexter?
Solar panels aren’t free in Dexter, 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 can further reduce the cost.
Does Dexter have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated 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.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.