Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hudsonville, MI (2023 Update)
- Hudsonville Solar Installation Cost: $11,665
- 25-Year Savings: $22,840
- Payback Period: 8.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hudsonville
We break down average solar pricing in Hudsonville.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Hudsonville typically cost around 2.81. The average Hudsonville homeowner needs a 5.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,664 with the federal tax credit, or $16,680 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hudsonville
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,550 |
| 3 years | $-11,320 |
| 5 years | $-11,090 |
| 7 years | $-10,859 |
| 9 years | $-10,629 |
| 11 years | $-10,399 |
| 13 years | $-10,169 |
| 15 years | $-9,939 |
| 17 years | $-9,709 |
| 19 years | $-9,479 |
| 21 years | $-9,249 |
| 23 years | $-9,019 |
| 25 years | $-8,789 |
Top Solar Installers in Hudsonville
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Going with a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Plus, if you aren't sure what brand of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Hudsonville
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hudsonville
There are a number of criteria that can affect your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Hudsonville, 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
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Hudsonville, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment 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 size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.92 | $12,274 | $22,637 | 8.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $30,497 | 8.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $38,514 | 8.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $46,689 | 8.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $55,022 | 8.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $63,512 | 7.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $72,159 | 7.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $80,963 | 7.6 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 choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- 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 adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: It's important to look over your solar installer's contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about your solar system's energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
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 Hudsonville, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hudsonville?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Hudsonville?
Solar panels aren't free in Hudsonville, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Does Hudsonville have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How long do solar panels last in Hudsonville?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of 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 once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use 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.