Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mason, MI (2023 Update)
- Mason Solar Installation Cost: $12,142
- 25-Year Savings: $17,263
- Payback Period: 10.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mason
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Mason.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Mason typically cost about 2.81. The average Mason homeowner needs a 6.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,136 with the federal tax credit, or $17,354 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you may differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Mason can save about $18,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Mason
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,044 |
| 3 years | $-11,848 |
| 5 years | $-11,652 |
| 7 years | $-11,456 |
| 9 years | $-11,260 |
| 11 years | $-11,063 |
| 13 years | $-10,867 |
| 15 years | $-10,671 |
| 17 years | $-10,475 |
| 19 years | $-10,279 |
| 21 years | $-10,083 |
| 23 years | $-9,887 |
| 25 years | $-9,691 |
Top Solar Installers in Mason
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Using a solar company can make your switch 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 because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Mason
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mason
There are several criteria 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 cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production 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. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Mason to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it's vital to consider that as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of renewable energy solutions in Mason, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Mason know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 | $16,307 | 10.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $22,058 | 10.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $27,966 | 10.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $34,031 | 10.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $40,254 | 9.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $46,634 | 9.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $53,171 | 9.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $59,866 | 9.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because picking a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you hire.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a good 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- 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.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
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 Mason, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Mason?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different 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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Mason?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
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.