Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sturgis, MI (2024 Update)

  • Sturgis Solar Installation Cost: $17,287
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,564
  • Payback Period: 13.7 Years

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By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated January 24, 2025

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Sturgis

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Sturgis.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Sturgis, the typical cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Sturgis is around 6.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,287 for a solar installation, or $24,720 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.

Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Sturgis homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Sturgis can save around $20,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

To receive a free quote from a highly rated solar installation company in Sturgis, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Sturgis

YearReturn on Investment
1 years$-16,034
3 years$-13,526
5 years$-11,019
7 years$-8,512
9 years$-6,004
11 years$-3,497
13 years$-989
15 years$1,518
17 years$4,025
19 years$6,533
21 years$9,040
23 years$11,548
25 years$14,055

Top Solar Installers in Sturgis

Many homeowners choose to use a solar installer since installing solar panels on your own can be challenging. The payback period on an investment in solar panels will vary based on factors like your roof configuration and energy use, but working with a solar installer can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you identify incentives available in your area.

Working with a licensed solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:

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See all of the solar companies in Sturgis

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sturgis

There are several criteria that can determine 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 panels.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. That’s why it’s a priority to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use.The brand and kind of equipment you get for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often have a higher price tag than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Sturgis, which can bring down, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make 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 above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Lastly, the company you hire to install your solar panel system can impact how much it costs. Sturgis’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System sizeCost per system wattSolar system cost25-Year savingsPayback period
6 kW$4.22$17,734$13,36514.3 years
8 kW$4.14$23,191$18,27514.0 years
10 kW$4.06$28,420$23,41213.7 years
12 kW$3.98$33,422$28,77713.4 years
14 kW$3.90$38,196$34,36913.2 years
16 kW$3.82$42,744$40,18812.9 years
18 kW$3.74$47,064$46,23512.6 years
20 kW$3.65$51,156$52,50912.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies to choose from in Sturgis, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of options before making your decision.
  • Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
  • Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar panels, ensuring your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
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EcoWatch's Sturgis, MI Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sturgis?

The average cost of solar panels in Sturgis 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 such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Sturgis?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.

Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?

Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in Sturgis is currently $193,421, which means you can expect a value of about $7,930 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in Sturgis is a worthwhile investment.

How long do solar panels last in Sturgis?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.

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.