Solar Panel Cost Guide in Rockford, MI (2023 Update)
- Rockford Solar Installation Cost: $12,156
- 25-Year Savings: $22,348
- Payback Period: 8.8 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Rockford
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Rockford.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Rockford is 2.81 per watt. Because a 6.2-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Rockford, the average price of going solar will be about $12,156 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Rockford depending on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. Despite the significant initial cost, the average Rockford homeowner can save about $21,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Rockford, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Rockford
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,776 |
| 3 years | $-8,016 |
| 5 years | $-5,255 |
| 7 years | $-2,495 |
| 9 years | $266 |
| 11 years | $3,026 |
| 13 years | $5,786 |
| 15 years | $8,547 |
| 17 years | $11,307 |
| 19 years | $14,067 |
| 21 years | $16,828 |
| 23 years | $19,588 |
| 25 years | $22,348 |
Top Solar Installers in Rockford
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to use a solar installation company since handling can be a difficult project. The expertise that solar companies offer can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment you need.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Rockford, the EcoWatch team has organized a list of our top suggestions here:
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 Rockford
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Rockford
There are many criteria that can affect your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems 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 generation require 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 $2,810. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Rockford average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can affect the cost. Rockford's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Rockford are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 end up saving you 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 | $21,249 | 9.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $28,647 | 9.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $36,202 | 8.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $43,915 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $51,785 | 8.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $59,812 | 8.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $67,997 | 8.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $76,339 | 7.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will affect not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry various brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a high 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 service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost 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 Rockford, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Rockford?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient 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 cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration 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 think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already pretty low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses 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 house 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.