Solar Panel Cost Guide in Linden, MI (2023 Update)
- Linden Solar Installation Cost: $12,254
- 25-Year Savings: $23,050
- Payback Period: 8.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Linden
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Linden.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Linden, the average cost of a solar system is 2.81 per watt. Since a 6.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Linden, the average price of going solar will be about $12,254 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. With typical savings of about $22,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Linden find going solar can pay off big.
To receive a free quote from a vetted solar installer in Linden, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Linden
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,842 |
| 3 years | $-8,018 |
| 5 years | $-5,194 |
| 7 years | $-2,369 |
| 9 years | $455 |
| 11 years | $3,279 |
| 13 years | $6,104 |
| 15 years | $8,928 |
| 17 years | $11,752 |
| 19 years | $14,577 |
| 21 years | $17,401 |
| 23 years | $20,226 |
| 25 years | $23,050 |
Top Solar Installers in Linden
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels on your own can be challenging. Companies can also offer access to a large variety of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be right for you.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Linden
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Linden
There are many factors that can influence your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $2,810 per kilowatt in Linden. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Linden, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Linden homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you choose to install your solar system can affect your pricing. Linden's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. The company's size sometimes plays the most significant 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 promotion 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 | $21,704 | 9.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $29,253 | 8.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $36,960 | 8.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $44,824 | 8.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $52,845 | 8.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $61,024 | 8.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $69,360 | 8.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $77,853 | 7.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will affect not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should consider, including:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has 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: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
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 Linden, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Linden?
The average cost of solar panels in Linden is about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Linden?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get 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 financial benefits from going solar.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my energy bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,132.59 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.