Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ross, MI (Mar 2023)
- Ross Solar Installation Cost: $11,979
- 25-Year Savings: $22,640
- Payback Period: 8.7 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ross
Here's how much it might cost to go solar in Ross.
The average cost of a solar system in Ross is 2.81 per watt. The average Ross homeowner needs a 6.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,979 with the federal tax credit, or $17,130 before the 30% 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 installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Ross can save around $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Ross, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ross
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,594 |
| 3 years | $-7,825 |
| 5 years | $-5,055 |
| 7 years | $-2,286 |
| 9 years | $484 |
| 11 years | $3,253 |
| 13 years | $6,023 |
| 15 years | $8,792 |
| 17 years | $11,562 |
| 19 years | $14,331 |
| 21 years | $17,101 |
| 23 years | $19,870 |
| 25 years | $22,640 |
Top Solar Installers in Ross
When going solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar company since overseeing your solar installation yourself can be a time-consuming project. The payback period of solar panels will vary based on factors like your location and energy use, but working with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Ross
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ross
Although the average cost of a solar system in Ross is $11,979, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation 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. In general, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a solid option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Ross, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $21,812 | 9.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $29,398 | 8.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $37,140 | 8.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $45,040 | 8.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $53,098 | 8.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $61,313 | 8.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $69,685 | 8.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $78,215 | 7.8 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. Since choosing a company can be a tough decision, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the total cost, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar panels, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
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 Ross, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ross?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, 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 go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Ross?
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 can't take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home 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 savings from going solar.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a beneficial investment for a majority of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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.