Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Branch, MI (2024 Update)
- North Branch Solar Installation Cost: $17,632
- 25-Year Savings: $12,916
- Payback Period: 17.5 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Branch
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in North Branch.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in North Branch, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.Because a 6.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in North Branch, the average price of going solar will be about $17,632 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of North Branch homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Despite the significant initial cost, the average North Branch homeowner can save about $15,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Branch
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,240 |
| 3 years | $-13,455 |
| 5 years | $-10,671 |
| 7 years | $-7,886 |
| 9 years | $-5,101 |
| 11 years | $-2,317 |
| 13 years | $468 |
| 15 years | $3,253 |
| 17 years | $6,037 |
| 19 years | $8,822 |
| 21 years | $11,607 |
| 23 years | $14,391 |
| 25 years | $17,176 |
Top Solar Installers in North Branch
Although you can install solar panels by yourself, it requires extra labor and knowledge. That's why most people choose to hire a solar panel installer. Plus, if you’re unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you're looking for a solar company in North Branch, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 North Branch
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Branch
There are several criteria that can influence your solar system 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 variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $4,060.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like North Branch, where sunlight isn’t as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, 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 significant investment. That’s why many North Branch homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s important to keep that in mind as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final significant cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of clean energy solutions in North Branch, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.The company’s size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have access to greater resources and better 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 companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.22 | $17,734 | $6,559 | 18.3 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $9,200 | 17.9 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $12,068 | 17.5 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $15,164 | 17.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $18,487 | 16.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $22,038 | 16.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $25,816 | 16.1 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $29,821 | 15.8 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. Because choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the completion timeline.
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years 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 quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and energy needs. Although there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to take a look at their list of options before making your decision.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 North Branch, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in North Branch?
The average cost of solar panels in North Branch is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
How will installing solar panels impact my property value?
Solar panels can increase the value of your home considerably as long as you buy or finance your panels and don’t go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% with a solar installation."
How long do solar panels last in North Branch?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.