Solar Panel Cost Guide in South Milwaukee, WI (2023 Update)
- South Milwaukee Solar Installation Cost: $12,503
- 25-Year Savings: $28,270
- Payback Period: 7.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in South Milwaukee
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in South Milwaukee.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in South Milwaukee, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.6 per watt. Since a 6.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in South Milwaukee, the average price of going solar will be about $12,503 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of South Milwaukee homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $23,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in South Milwaukee
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,872 |
| 3 years | $-7,611 |
| 5 years | $-4,349 |
| 7 years | $-1,087 |
| 9 years | $2,175 |
| 11 years | $5,437 |
| 13 years | $8,699 |
| 15 years | $11,960 |
| 17 years | $15,222 |
| 19 years | $18,484 |
| 21 years | $21,746 |
| 23 years | $25,008 |
| 25 years | $28,270 |
Top Solar Installers in South Milwaukee
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar panel company since trying to put up solar panels yourself can be challenging. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long term with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar company in South Milwaukee, the EcoWatch team has put together a list of our top suggestions here:
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 South Milwaukee
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in South Milwaukee
The cost of installing a solar system in South Milwaukee can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The biggest one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in South Milwaukee, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy usage, which you can figure out by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,600 for each additional kilowatt you need. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the South Milwaukee average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in South Milwaukee have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. 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 a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will affect your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Companies that only sell high-quality, high-efficiency and high-price products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that offers the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within your budget.
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 | $24,270 | 8.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.65 | $14,851 | $32,652 | 7.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.60 | $18,200 | $41,179 | 7.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.55 | $21,403 | $49,851 | 7.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.50 | $24,461 | $58,669 | 7.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.44 | $27,373 | $67,633 | 7.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.39 | $30,139 | $76,743 | 7.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.34 | $32,760 | $85,998 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when adopting solar energy is the installation process itself. Be sure to align on any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should acquire and what the project timeline is.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you want to get plays a part in which company you should choose, since different companies have access to different panels.
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 South Milwaukee, WI Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in South Milwaukee?
The average cost of solar panels in South Milwaukee is about $13,000 for a 5-kW system and $26,000 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in South Milwaukee?
A solar panel system isn't free in South Milwaukee, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, 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 South Milwaukee have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind 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 offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.