Solar Panel Cost Guide in Milwaukee, WI (2024 Update)
- Milwaukee Solar Installation Cost: $19,244
- 25-Year Savings: $27,877
- Payback Period: 11.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Milwaukee
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Milwaukee.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Milwaukee, the average cost of solar panels is 4 per watt.The average Milwaukee homeowner needs a 7.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $19,244 with the federal tax credit, or $27,519 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Milwaukee homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite fruitful, with a net average savings of about $22,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Milwaukee
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-17,949 |
| 3 years | $-15,358 |
| 5 years | $-12,767 |
| 7 years | $-10,176 |
| 9 years | $-7,585 |
| 11 years | $-4,994 |
| 13 years | $-2,403 |
| 15 years | $188 |
| 17 years | $2,779 |
| 19 years | $5,370 |
| 21 years | $7,961 |
| 23 years | $10,552 |
| 25 years | $13,143 |
Top Solar Installers in Milwaukee
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel installer since trying to install solar panels on your own can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Local solar installers can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives you can take advantage of and by providing warranties and repairs.
If you're looking for a solar installer in Milwaukee, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Milwaukee
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Milwaukee
Even though the average cost of a solar system in Milwaukee is $19,244, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,880.The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, extra products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Milwaukee average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over time, but they can also be a big investment. That’s why many Milwaukee homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Milwaukee, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Milwaukee have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $4.04 | $16,948 | $17,578 | 12.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.96 | $22,163 | $23,872 | 12.0 years |
| 10 kW | $3.88 | $27,160 | $30,383 | 11.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.80 | $31,940 | $37,112 | 11.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.72 | $36,503 | $44,058 | 11.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.65 | $40,849 | $51,221 | 11.1 years |
| 18 kW | $3.57 | $44,977 | $58,601 | 10.9 years |
| 20 kW | $3.49 | $48,888 | $66,199 | 10.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model 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 select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two 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 positive reviews from past customers.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and how long it will take.
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Milwaukee, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Milwaukee?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $19,400 for a 5-kW system and $38,800 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. 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 in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities 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 Milwaukee have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Milwaukee?
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.