Solar Panel Cost Guide in Tecumseh, MI (2023 Update)
- Tecumseh Solar Installation Cost: $11,999
- 25-Year Savings: $18,072
- Payback Period: 10.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Tecumseh
Find out how much it might cost to install solar panels in Tecumseh.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Tecumseh typically cost around 2.81. The average Tecumseh homeowner needs a 6.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $11,999 with the federal tax credit, or $17,159 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Tecumseh homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $19,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installer in Tecumseh, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Tecumseh
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,796 |
| 3 years | $-8,390 |
| 5 years | $-5,984 |
| 7 years | $-3,579 |
| 9 years | $-1,173 |
| 11 years | $1,233 |
| 13 years | $3,638 |
| 15 years | $6,044 |
| 17 years | $8,450 |
| 19 years | $10,855 |
| 21 years | $13,261 |
| 23 years | $15,667 |
| 25 years | $18,072 |
Top Solar Installers in Tecumseh
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to use a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. Solar installers provide key benefits that can help you maximize your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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 Tecumseh
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Tecumseh
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Tecumseh: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production need 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 type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for 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 energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Tecumseh average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular route because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Tecumseh is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. 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 specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car 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 | $17,303 | 10.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $23,385 | 10.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $29,625 | 10.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $36,022 | 9.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $42,577 | 9.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $49,289 | 9.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $56,158 | 9.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $63,184 | 9.0 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 picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
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 Tecumseh, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Tecumseh?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Tecumseh?
Solar panels aren't free in Tecumseh, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Is making the switch to solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for most 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 fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Tecumseh?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher 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.