Solar Panel Cost Guide in LaGrange, MI (2023 Update)
- LaGrange Solar Installation Cost: $11,795
- 25-Year Savings: $19,235
- Payback Period: 9.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in LaGrange
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in LaGrange.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in LaGrange generally cost around 2.81. Because a 6.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in LaGrange, the average price of going solar will be about $11,802 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average LaGrange homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in LaGrange see about $20,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in LaGrange
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,691 |
| 3 years | $-11,484 |
| 5 years | $-11,278 |
| 7 years | $-11,071 |
| 9 years | $-10,864 |
| 11 years | $-10,657 |
| 13 years | $-10,450 |
| 15 years | $-10,243 |
| 17 years | $-10,036 |
| 19 years | $-9,830 |
| 21 years | $-9,623 |
| 23 years | $-9,416 |
| 25 years | $-9,209 |
Top Solar Installers in LaGrange
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Using an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. 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 LaGrange
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in LaGrange
There are a number of factors that can determine your total 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 system you need, 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 around $2,810. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like LaGrange, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are provided by most installers in LaGrange, which can lower, or in some cases totally 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
The solar panel installer you pick will impact your total cost to make the switch to solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, 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 | $18,774 | 9.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $25,347 | 9.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $32,077 | 9.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $38,964 | 9.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $46,009 | 9.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $53,211 | 8.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $60,571 | 8.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $68,088 | 8.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: When looking over your solar company's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 LaGrange, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in LaGrange?
The average cost of solar panels in LaGrange 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 certain factors such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in LaGrange, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.