Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sandstone, MI (2025 Update)
- Sandstone Solar Installation Cost: $17,403
- 25-Year Savings: $21,643
- Payback Period: 12.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sandstone
We go over average solar pricing in Sandstone.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sandstone, the typical cost of a solar system is 4 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 6.1-kW system would cost about $17,403 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll pay for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar panels you choose, your solar contractor and more.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To get a free quote from a top solar installer in Sandstone, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Sandstone
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,149 |
| 3 years | $-13,642 |
| 5 years | $-11,135 |
| 7 years | $-8,627 |
| 9 years | $-6,120 |
| 11 years | $-3,612 |
| 13 years | $-1,105 |
| 15 years | $1,402 |
| 17 years | $3,910 |
| 19 years | $6,417 |
| 21 years | $8,925 |
| 23 years | $11,432 |
| 25 years | $13,939 |
Top Solar Installers in Sandstone
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels yourself can be time-consuming. The expertise that solar companies provide can be valuable as well, especially if you don’t quite know what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
See all of the solar companies in Sandstone
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sandstone
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Sandstone: 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 cost of a solar system in Sandstone, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home’s energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past energy bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $4,060 for each additional kilowatt you need.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install 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
Most solar companies in Sandstone offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it’s vital to take that into consideration as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Sandstone, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fit into your budget.
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 | $15,275 | 13.4 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $20,821 | 13.2 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $26,594 | 12.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $32,595 | 12.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $38,824 | 12.4 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $45,279 | 12.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $51,962 | 11.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $58,873 | 11.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, 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:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the durability of your solar panels, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- 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 project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s crucial to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
EcoWatch's Sandstone, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sandstone?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Sandstone?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.