Solar Panel Cost Guide in Forest Hills, MI (2025 Update)

  • Forest Hills Solar Installation Cost: $17,551
  • 25-Year Savings: $23,157
  • Payback Period: 12.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Forest Hills

We break down average solar pricing in Forest Hills.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Forest Hills, the average cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Forest Hills is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,551 for a solar installation, or $25,098 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar will differ based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want, your solar contractor and more.Even with the large initial cost, the average Forest Hills homeowner can save around $22,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.

For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Forest Hills

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-16,297
3 years$-13,790
5 years$-11,282
7 years$-8,775
9 years$-6,268
11 years$-3,760
13 years$-1,253
15 years$1,255
17 years$3,762
19 years$6,269
21 years$8,777
23 years$11,284
25 years$13,792

Top Solar Installers in Forest Hills

When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installation company since handling can be a challenging project. Another great thing about using a reliable solar installer is that it'll usually provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your solar system over time.

Working with a licensed solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:

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See all of the solar companies in Forest Hills

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Forest Hills

The cost of installing a solar system in Forest Hills can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.

Solar Equipment

The size of the solar panel system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $4,060. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you’re looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

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 Forest Hills homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Forest Hills, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.22$17,734$16,56712.9 years
8 kW$4.14$23,191$22,54312.7 years
10 kW$4.06$28,420$28,74812.4 years
12 kW$3.98$33,422$35,17912.2 years
14 kW$3.90$38,196$41,83811.9 years
16 kW$3.82$42,744$48,72511.7 years
18 kW$3.74$47,064$55,83811.4 years
20 kW$3.65$51,156$63,17911.2 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar company you go with will influence not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, such as:

  • Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you’re considering has it.
  • Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
  • Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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EcoWatch's Forest Hills, MI Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Forest Hills?

This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Forest Hills?

Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your property 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 savings from going solar.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Forest Hills?

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 power bills.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.

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.