Solar Panel Cost Guide in Gun Plain, MI (Mar 2023)
- Gun Plain Solar Installation Cost: $11,684
- 25-Year Savings: $22,821
- Payback Period: 8.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Gun Plain
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Gun Plain.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Gun Plain it's 2.81 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 5.9-kW system would cost about $11,684 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Gun Plain homeowners. The cost 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 solar panels is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Gun Plain can save about $22,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a vetted solar company in your area for a personalized quote.
Solar savings over time in Gun Plain
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,304 |
| 3 years | $-7,543 |
| 5 years | $-4,783 |
| 7 years | $-2,023 |
| 9 years | $738 |
| 11 years | $3,498 |
| 13 years | $6,258 |
| 15 years | $9,019 |
| 17 years | $11,779 |
| 19 years | $14,539 |
| 21 years | $17,300 |
| 23 years | $20,060 |
| 25 years | $22,821 |
Top Solar Installers in Gun Plain
Installing solar panels yourself can be a stressful undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be best for your family.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. Here are our suggestions:
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 Gun Plain
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Gun Plain
There are a number of factors that can influence your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 nearly $2,810. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Gun Plain, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, 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
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a solid route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce 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 green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Gun Plain, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your total costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and bulk 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 lower 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 | $2.92 | $12,274 | $22,552 | 8.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $30,384 | 8.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $38,373 | 8.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $46,520 | 8.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $54,824 | 8.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $63,285 | 8.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $71,904 | 7.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $80,680 | 7.6 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 find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds 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 go, as well as important factors like 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 Gun Plain, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Gun Plain?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-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.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is without a doubt one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How will installing solar panels impact my home value?
Installing solar panels on your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Gun Plain is currently $148,905, so you can look forward to a value of about $6,105 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Gun Plain is a fruitful investment.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last 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.