Solar Panel Cost Guide in Thornapple, MI (2023 Update)
- Thornapple Solar Installation Cost: $12,060
- 25-Year Savings: $22,444
- Payback Period: 8.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Thornapple
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Thornapple.
In Thornapple, solar panels cost about 2.81 per watt on average. The average Thornapple homeowner needs a 6.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,058 with the federal tax credit, or $17,243 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Thornapple can save about $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a highly rated solar panel company in Thornapple for a customized estimate.
Solar savings over time in Thornapple
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,945 |
| 3 years | $-11,715 |
| 5 years | $-11,485 |
| 7 years | $-11,255 |
| 9 years | $-11,025 |
| 11 years | $-10,795 |
| 13 years | $-10,565 |
| 15 years | $-10,335 |
| 17 years | $-10,105 |
| 19 years | $-9,875 |
| 21 years | $-9,645 |
| 23 years | $-9,415 |
| 25 years | $-9,185 |
Top Solar Installers in Thornapple
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Going with a solar company can make your swap to solar power much easier. The payback period of solar panels will vary depending on factors like your roof configuration and energy usage, but going with a solar company can help you reach a break-even point sooner. Your provider will be able to help you get the most out of 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 Thornapple
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Thornapple
The cost of installing a solar system in Thornapple can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power production use 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. The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Also, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Thornapple have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Thornapple is the company you choose to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets. Additionally, some companies in Thornapple are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $21,492 | 9.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $28,971 | 8.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $36,607 | 8.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $44,401 | 8.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $52,351 | 8.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $60,460 | 8.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $68,725 | 8.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $77,148 | 7.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Thornapple, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies carry various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: If you care about the durability of your solar system, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
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 Thornapple, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Thornapple?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally 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 additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Thornapple?
You can't get solar panels for free in Thornapple. However, you may still be able to get them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Thornapple have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Thornapple?
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 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.