Solar Panel Cost Guide in Manlius, MI (2023 Update)
- Manlius 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 Manlius
We break down average solar pricing in Manlius.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Manlius generally cost about 2.81. The average Manlius homeowner needs a 5.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,684 with the federal tax credit, or $16,708 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Manlius
| 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 Manlius
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra time and knowledge. Because of that, almost all homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Plus, if you're unsure what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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 Manlius
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Manlius
There are a number of criteria 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 performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,810. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you choose 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
Most solar installers in Manlius have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Manlius, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since selecting a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you go with.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the longevity of your solar system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
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 Manlius, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Manlius?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Manlius?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home 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 bang for your buck from going solar.
Is it worth going solar in Manlius?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much 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 get between 20 and 35 panels to account for 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.