Solar Panel Cost Guide in Porter, MI (Mar 2023)
- Porter Solar Installation Cost: $11,802
- 25-Year Savings: $19,102
- Payback Period: 9.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Porter
Here's how much it might cost to install solar panels in Porter.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Porter it's 2.81 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Porter is around 6.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $11,802 for a solar installation, or $16,877 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you will most likely differ based on factors unique to your home and what company you choose to go with. With average savings of about $20,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Porter find investing in solar can pay off big.
To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Porter
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,566 |
| 3 years | $-8,094 |
| 5 years | $-5,621 |
| 7 years | $-3,149 |
| 9 years | $-677 |
| 11 years | $1,796 |
| 13 years | $4,268 |
| 15 years | $6,740 |
| 17 years | $9,212 |
| 19 years | $11,685 |
| 21 years | $14,157 |
| 23 years | $16,629 |
| 25 years | $19,102 |
Top Solar Installers in Porter
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Hiring a solar company can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar installer 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 Porter
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Porter
For many Porter homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Porter, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant 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 electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,810 per kilowatt in Porter. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Porter, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited 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
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Porter homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will influence your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Porter have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $18,648 | 9.9 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $25,179 | 9.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $31,867 | 9.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $38,713 | 9.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $45,716 | 9.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $52,876 | 9.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $60,194 | 8.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $67,668 | 8.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar system 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 difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a quality company.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good 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 service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which type 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: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it carefully so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
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 Porter, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Porter?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Porter?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to 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.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Porter, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
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 requires 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 household 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.