Solar Panel Cost Guide in Mequon, WI (2024 Update)
- Mequon Solar Installation Cost: $18,679
- 25-Year Savings: $25,960
- Payback Period: 12.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Mequon
We go over average solar pricing in Mequon.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Mequon typically cost around 4.The average Mequon homeowner needs a 6.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $18,679 with the federal tax credit, or $26,711 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The actual cost of going solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find going solar is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Mequon can save around $21,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Mequon for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Mequon
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,383 |
| 3 years | $-14,792 |
| 5 years | $-12,201 |
| 7 years | $-9,610 |
| 9 years | $-7,019 |
| 11 years | $-4,428 |
| 13 years | $-1,837 |
| 15 years | $754 |
| 17 years | $3,345 |
| 19 years | $5,936 |
| 21 years | $8,527 |
| 23 years | $11,117 |
| 25 years | $13,708 |
Top Solar Installers in Mequon
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring a solar company can make switching to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a good reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Mequon
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Mequon
For many Mequon homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Mequon, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,880 per kilowatt in Mequon.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, 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 energy bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Mequon homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Mequon, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $4.04 | $16,948 | $16,620 | 12.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $22,595 | 12.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $28,787 | 12.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $35,196 | 11.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $41,823 | 11.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $48,667 | 11.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $55,728 | 11.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $63,006 | 10.9 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:
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a good reputation and is qualified to install your solar system. Another way you can look into your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- 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 how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Mequon, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Mequon?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Mequon?
Solar panels aren’t free in Mequon, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Mequon have a net metering program?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels 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 generally 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.