Solar Panel Cost Guide in Middleton, WI (2023 Update)
- Middleton Solar Installation Cost: $13,231
- 25-Year Savings: $26,430
- Payback Period: 8.3 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Middleton
We go over average solar pricing in Middleton.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Middleton it's 2.6 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Middleton is around 7.3 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $13,231 for a solar installation, or $18,920 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The actual cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. Even with the high initial cost, the average Middleton homeowner can save about $21,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Middleton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,645 |
| 3 years | $-8,472 |
| 5 years | $-5,299 |
| 7 years | $-2,126 |
| 9 years | $1,047 |
| 11 years | $4,220 |
| 13 years | $7,392 |
| 15 years | $10,565 |
| 17 years | $13,738 |
| 19 years | $16,911 |
| 21 years | $20,084 |
| 23 years | $23,257 |
| 25 years | $26,430 |
Top Solar Installers in Middleton
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Going with a solar company can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Middleton, optimizing your ROI.
Working with a licensed solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. 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 Middleton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Middleton
The cost of installing a solar system in Middleton can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by about $2,600. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Middleton, where sunlight isn't as abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Middleton provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Middleton is the company you hire to install your PV system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions 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 | $21,357 | 8.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $28,768 | 8.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $36,323 | 8.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $44,025 | 8.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $51,872 | 8.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $59,865 | 7.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $68,003 | 7.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $76,287 | 7.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you choose.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
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 Middleton, WI Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Middleton?
The average cost of solar panels in Middleton is about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly 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 energy bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Middleton, 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.
How long do solar panels last in Middleton?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases 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.