Solar Panel Cost Guide in Brookfield, WI (2023 Update)
- Brookfield Solar Installation Cost: $13,148
- 25-Year Savings: $27,625
- Payback Period: 8.1 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Brookfield
We break down average solar pricing in Brookfield.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Brookfield it's 2.6 per watt. The average Brookfield homeowner needs a 7.2-kilowatt system, which would cost about $13,140 with the federal tax credit, or $18,790 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Brookfield homeowners. The cost 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. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $21,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Brookfield that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Brookfield
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-13,012 |
| 3 years | $-12,740 |
| 5 years | $-12,469 |
| 7 years | $-12,197 |
| 9 years | $-11,925 |
| 11 years | $-11,653 |
| 13 years | $-11,381 |
| 15 years | $-11,110 |
| 17 years | $-10,838 |
| 19 years | $-10,566 |
| 21 years | $-10,294 |
| 23 years | $-10,022 |
| 25 years | $-9,750 |
Top Solar Installers in Brookfield
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra time and expertise. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a vetted solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
See all of the solar companies in Brookfield
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Brookfield
The cost of installing a solar system in Brookfield can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The largest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,600 per kilowatt in Brookfield. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Brookfield to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of renewable energy solutions in Brookfield, you'll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Brookfield know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $2.70 | $11,357 | $22,506 | 8.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $30,300 | 8.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $38,239 | 8.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $46,323 | 7.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $54,553 | 7.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $62,929 | 7.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $71,450 | 7.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $80,117 | 7.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project completion timeline.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a substantial role in the company you go with.
Best Social Impact
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
EcoWatch's Brookfield, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Brookfield?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Brookfield, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses 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.