Solar Panel Cost Guide in Somerset, MI (2025 Update)
- Somerset Solar Installation Cost: $17,293
- 25-Year Savings: $23,094
- Payback Period: 12.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Somerset
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Somerset.
In Somerset, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 6.1-kW system would cost about $17,293 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Somerset can save around $22,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Somerset for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Somerset
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-16,039 |
| 3 years | $-13,531 |
| 5 years | $-11,024 |
| 7 years | $-8,517 |
| 9 years | $-6,009 |
| 11 years | $-3,502 |
| 13 years | $-995 |
| 15 years | $1,513 |
| 17 years | $4,020 |
| 19 years | $6,528 |
| 21 years | $9,035 |
| 23 years | $11,542 |
| 25 years | $14,050 |
Top Solar Installers in Somerset
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. In addition, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
See all of the solar companies in Somerset
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Somerset
Though the average cost of a solar system in Somerset is $17,293, your actual cost may differ. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $4,060. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you’re looking to get 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
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Somerset, which can lower, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can impact how much it costs. Somerset’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come with an above-average cost. It’s best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fits within 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 | $16,840 | 12.8 years |
| 8 kW | $4.14 | $23,191 | $22,909 | 12.6 years |
| 10 kW | $4.06 | $28,420 | $29,204 | 12.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.98 | $33,422 | $35,727 | 12.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.90 | $38,196 | $42,477 | 11.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.82 | $42,744 | $49,455 | 11.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.74 | $47,064 | $56,660 | 11.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.65 | $51,156 | $64,092 | 11.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar system running for years to come and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you’d like to install plays a part in which company you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Reputation: Long-running 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 adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
EcoWatch's Somerset, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Somerset?
The average cost of solar panels in Somerset is about $20,300 for a 5-kW system and $40,600 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Somerset?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable 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 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 will installing solar panels impact the value of my home?
Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Somerset is currently $221,253, which means you can expect a value of about $9,071 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Somerset is a rewarding investment.
How long do solar panels last in Somerset?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them once you've had 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.