Solar Panel Cost Guide in Plainfield, MI (2023 Update)
- Plainfield Solar Installation Cost: $12,147
- 25-Year Savings: $22,837
- Payback Period: 8.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Plainfield
We go over average solar pricing in Plainfield.
In Plainfield, solar panels cost about 2.81 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Plainfield is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,156 for a solar installation, or $17,383 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Plainfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,894 |
| 3 years | $-8,386 |
| 5 years | $-5,879 |
| 7 years | $-3,371 |
| 9 years | $-864 |
| 11 years | $1,643 |
| 13 years | $4,151 |
| 15 years | $6,658 |
| 17 years | $9,166 |
| 19 years | $11,673 |
| 21 years | $14,180 |
| 23 years | $16,688 |
| 25 years | $19,195 |
Top Solar Installers in Plainfield
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives you can benefit from and by providing warranties and repairs.
Working with a professional solar company can make going solar easier. 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 Plainfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Plainfield
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in Plainfield: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Plainfield, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,810 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Plainfield, 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 a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Plainfield provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Plainfield is the company you choose to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. Additionally, some companies in Plainfield are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of 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 | $21,716 | 9.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $29,269 | 8.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $36,980 | 8.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $44,848 | 8.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $52,873 | 8.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $61,056 | 8.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $69,396 | 8.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $77,893 | 7.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high 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.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: If you're worried about the durability of your solar panel system, making sure your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
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 Plainfield, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Plainfield?
This is a hard 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. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Plainfield?
You can't get solar panels for free in Plainfield. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Plainfield have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 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.