Solar Panel Cost Guide in Menomonee Falls, WI (2023 Update)
- Menomonee Falls 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 Menomonee Falls
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Menomonee Falls.
In Menomonee Falls, solar panels cost about 2.6 per watt on average. The average Menomonee Falls 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.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what company you go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Menomonee Falls can save around $21,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Menomonee Falls
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,853 |
| 3 years | $-9,262 |
| 5 years | $-6,671 |
| 7 years | $-4,080 |
| 9 years | $-1,489 |
| 11 years | $1,102 |
| 13 years | $3,693 |
| 15 years | $6,284 |
| 17 years | $8,875 |
| 19 years | $11,466 |
| 21 years | $14,057 |
| 23 years | $16,648 |
| 25 years | $19,239 |
Top Solar Installers in Menomonee Falls
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Taking advantage of an installer can make switching to solar power much easier. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
If you'd like to start using solar energy but still aren't sure which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Menomonee Falls:
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 Menomonee Falls
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Menomonee Falls
The cost of installing a solar system in Menomonee Falls can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need to offset your energy usage, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,600. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Menomonee Falls, where sunlight is relatively abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Menomonee Falls homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can play a role in determining how much it costs. Menomonee Falls' solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running smoothly and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
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 Menomonee Falls, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Menomonee Falls?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Menomonee Falls?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
How will having solar panels impact my property value?
Solar panels can increase your property's value significantly as long as you buy or finance your panels and don't go for a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). According to research done by Zillow, the average home value increases by about 4.1% after installing a solar system."
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
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 larger 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.