Solar Panel Cost Guide in York, MI (2023 Update)
- York Solar Installation Cost: $12,056
- 25-Year Savings: $13,064
- Payback Period: 12.0 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in York
Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in York.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in York typically cost about 2.81. Using this figure, a typical 6.1-kW system would cost about $12,058 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average York homeowner. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $16,000 over 20 years on power bills.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar company in York for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in York
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,972 |
| 3 years | $-11,805 |
| 5 years | $-11,637 |
| 7 years | $-11,470 |
| 9 years | $-11,302 |
| 11 years | $-11,135 |
| 13 years | $-10,968 |
| 15 years | $-10,800 |
| 17 years | $-10,633 |
| 19 years | $-10,465 |
| 21 years | $-10,298 |
| 23 years | $-10,130 |
| 25 years | $-9,963 |
Top Solar Installers in York
Many homeowners opt for a solar installation company since figuring out how to install solar panels on your own can be hard. Companies can also provide access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for you.
Working with a vetted solar company 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 York
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in York
For many York homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in York, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly 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 some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power generation need 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 many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install 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
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many York homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in York, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Some companies only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into 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 | $2.92 | $12,274 | $12,316 | 12.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.87 | $16,051 | $16,737 | 12.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.81 | $19,670 | $21,314 | 12.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.75 | $23,132 | $26,049 | 11.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.70 | $26,436 | $30,941 | 11.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.64 | $29,584 | $35,991 | 11.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.59 | $32,574 | $41,198 | 11.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.53 | $35,406 | $46,562 | 10.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from past customers.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to install plays a part in which installer you should choose, since different companies provide different panels.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Review the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
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 York, MI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in York?
The average cost of solar panels in York is about $14,050 for a 5-kW system and $28,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does York 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 generates 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.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.