Solar Panel Cost Guide in Windsor, MI (2023 Update)
- Windsor Solar Installation Cost: $12,136
- 25-Year Savings: $21,559
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Windsor
We break down average solar pricing in Windsor.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Windsor is 2.81 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Windsor is around 6.2 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,136 for a solar installation, or $17,354 before the 30% 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 system you choose, your solar contractor and more. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $21,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in your area for a custom estimate.
Solar savings over time in Windsor
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,789 |
| 3 years | $-8,093 |
| 5 years | $-5,397 |
| 7 years | $-2,702 |
| 9 years | $-6 |
| 11 years | $2,690 |
| 13 years | $5,385 |
| 15 years | $8,081 |
| 17 years | $10,777 |
| 19 years | $13,472 |
| 21 years | $16,168 |
| 23 years | $18,863 |
| 25 years | $21,559 |
Top Solar Installers in Windsor
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar installation company since putting up a solar system yourself can be a challenging project. Plus, if you're unsure what kind of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you find the right equipment for you after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 Windsor
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Windsor
For many Windsor homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Windsor, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power generation 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. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In general, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. 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
Most solar companies in Windsor provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the growing popularity of green energy solutions in Windsor, you'll have plenty of options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. The company's size sometimes plays the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing because of greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $20,484 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $27,627 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $34,927 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $42,385 | 8.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $49,999 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $57,772 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $65,701 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $73,788 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you opt for will impact not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should consider, such as:
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
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 Windsor, MI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Windsor?
The average cost of solar panels in Windsor is about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Windsor?
You can't get solar panels for free in Windsor. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Windsor have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.