Michigan Solar Panels
Pricing & Installation Data

Find out if solar panels are right for your home in Michigan.

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Solar Panels in Michigan

As of the second quarter in 2023, The Great Lakes State is able to power 223,888 homes just with solar alone. This is possible due to a number of large projects as well as policy changes with the help of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). 

Large projects like the Assembly Solar in Lennon and the Demille Solar Farm in Lapeer have popped up only recently. Together, contributing to a total solar capacity of 1,308 MW as of Q2 2023. 

The SEIA is actively involved in Michigan to help foster solar growth. They monitor new initiatives like the MI Power Grid and collaborate with local organizations to foster community solar and other solar developments. 

Cost of Solar in Michigan

The average price for a home solar panel system in Michigan is $22,680 or about $3.78 per watt. Systems will vary depending on the solar installation company the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your system. When shopping for solar panels you should consider getting multiple quotes from various installers.

Average Cost
6 kW System
Average Cost
10 kW System
Estimated
Tax Credit
(10 kW System)
Average
Cost/Watt
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Michigan$19,020$31,700$9,510$3.17
U.S.Average$18,771$31,285$9,385.50$3.13
Most Costly State(Michigan)$22,680$37,800$11,340$3.78
Least Costly State(Arizona)$14,640$24,400$7,320$2.44

Costs by Solar System Size in Michigan

For most, the ideal solar system size is the sweet spot between price and capacity. The goal is to generate enough electricity to cover your home's demand while keeping overall costs low as possible.

I.E. Get the best bang for your buck.

System SizeSystem CostCost After Federal Tax Credit
5 kW$15,850$8,785
6 kW$19,020$10,542
7 kW$22,190$12,299
8 kW$25,360$14,056
10 kW$31,700$17,570

Pros and Cons of Solar in Michigan

Regrettably, solar energy isn't without its flaws. Our aim is to help you make the most informed choice for your situation. That's why we've gathered a list of advantages and disadvantages you might consider when analyzing a solar installation in your home state. We recommend considering all aspects.

Your perspective is important, and what you perceive as a downside might just overshadow the numerous benefits for you. We're here to lay out the pros and cons, empowering you to form your own judgment.

Michigan Solar Pros

  • Reduce or eliminate electric bills
  • Energy independence from the grid
  • Reduce your carbon footprint
  • Increase home value (4.1% on average)
  • Michigan ranks in the top half nationally in solar in the U.S. in Q1 2023
  • Solar buy back option are available

Michigan Solar Cons

  • Not viable for all roofs or homes
  • Installation costs
  • Financial liability
  • Fewer savings than other states
  • No statewide solar tax credit

EnergyBot's Take

We are on the fence about Michigan. While there are some solar incentives, whether solar makes sense for you more highly depends on your situation more than other states. We’ll explain how solar may be an option for some, but may not be available for all.

In a state like Michigan, solar viability will more heavily depend on other factors. If your roof requires additional support to hold the solar system, the solar system could easily not make financial sense due to those construction costs. Also ensuring that your home receives adequate sunshine, free of shade, and ideally faces south. 

Some can still expect a payback of 10 years on their solar system.  If other costs are required or if you don’t have adequate sunshine then that can easily increase. Solar has a life expectancy of 20 to 25 years on average for solar panels, making a 10 year payback great if everything else aligns.

While it could make more sense for some, Michigan is a state where other factors could strongly sway the needle in one direction or the other. However, if you prioritize energy independence and renewable energy, other factors outside the financial could sway the decision. 

Because of this, we strongly recommend talking with a local solar installer to get an estimate.

If you are on the fence you can use this tool to get an accurate cost breakdown for your home based on your historical energy usage.

Leasing vs Buying Solar Panels in Michigan

There are several ways you can purchase and/or finance your solar panel installation in Michigan. Your goals and financial situation will dictate which option is best for you.

Cash Purchase

The most straightforward option. You pay upfront for the entire cost of the rooftop solar system. No interest, and fewer headaches, but many people are hesitant about spending several tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket.

Solar Loan

The most common method for buying solar systems. Like many other types of large purchases, you can finance your solar system through a bank or solar loan provider.

This sounds great, and many other solar loan salespeople will leverage the low payment to justify the costs. You will likely hear something like "You pay $250 a month on your electric bill, with a solar loan you will pay $200 and have free electricity."

Do your due diligence before you sign on the dotted line. There are many horror stories of variable loan terms, ballooning interest rates, and harsh missed payment penalties.

Solar Lease

Leasing solar panels generally involves less money out of pocket upfront. But, it's important to note - you do not own your solar energy system. You essentially renting the solar system. A solar provider will install the equipment and charge you a fixed monthly fee.

Most solar lease contracts last for a couple of decades, during which time the provider will keep an eye on the system's hardware and performance. At the end of your lease, you can choose to:

  • Renew your lease agreement
  • Purchase the system
  • End your lease agreement

Solar leases can be complicated. Not all are bad, but in many cases the lease terms in not in favor of the buyer. Before you decide on a solar lease make sure to read your contract thoroughly. If you don't understand something, ask an expert.

Power Purchase Agreements

A power purchase agreement (PPA) is a financial agreement where a solar company will design and install a solar system on your home or business with little or no cost upfront. Instead of paying a monthly fee like a lease, the agreement includes a fixed price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity generated.

For example, you agree to pay $0.12 per kWh of electricity generated for the next 20 years. The solar company will install and maintain your system and sell the power back to you that you use. They may also collect payment for any additional energy they put back into the grid.

Just like a lease, you do not own the panels. When the contract is up, they will either be removed or your contract may have other terms for you to buy or renew your power purchase agreement.

Power purchase agreements can be complicated. Before you sign make sure you review the contract and if possible have an expert in power purchase agreements review the details.

Michigan Solar Incentives

In addition to the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit, you may be eligible for solar incentives that could significantly reduce the cost of solar panel installation. Some incentives are statewide and others are more local. Your city, utility, or other local company could offer hundreds or thousands of dollars in incentives to install solar systems.

This table shows the available incentives in Michigan. But, just because you don't see it here doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Check with your local utility for other potential incentives.

Name State Category Type
Energy Efficiency Grants MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Nonrefundable Business Activity Tax Credit MI Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Wind Turbine & Solar PV Incentive Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Community Energy Project Grants MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Photovoltaic Demonstration Projects Solicitation MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Biomass Workshop and Event Grants MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Renewable Energy Program Grants MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption MI Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Large-Scale Photovoltaic Demonstration Project Grants MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Interconnection Standards MI Regulatory Policy Interconnection
Small Business P2 Loan Program MI Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy Star Home Grant Program MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Alternative Energy Personal Property Tax Exemption MI Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Energy Efficiency in State Buildings MI Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Building Energy Code MI Regulatory Policy Building Energy Code
Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF) MI Regulatory Policy Public Benefits Fund
City of Ann Arbor - Green Power Purchasing MI Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Lansing Board of Water and Light - Renewables Portfolio Goal MI Regulatory Policy Renewables Portfolio Standard
City of Lansing - Green Power Purchasing Policy MI Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
City of Grand Rapids - Green Building Requirements for Municipal Buildings MI Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
City of Grand Rapids - Green Power Purchasing Policy MI Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Model Ordinance for Wind Energy Systems MI Regulatory Policy Solar/Wind Permitting Standards
Net Metering MI Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Energy Efficient Home Improvements Tax Credit MI Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Renewable Energy Standard MI Regulatory Policy Renewables Portfolio Standard
Renewable Energy Renaissance Zones MI Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Biomass Gasification and Methane Digester Property Tax Exemption MI Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
MichCon (Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency (DTE Energy) MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Consumers Energy - Experimental Advanced Renewable Program MI Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Great Lakes Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DTE Energy (Electric) - Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DTE Energy (Electric) - Residential Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Consumers Energy (Gas) - Commercial Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Consumers Energy (Electric) - Residential Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DTE Energy - Solar Currents Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Refundable Photovoltaic Manufacturing Tax Credit MI Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Alpena Power Company (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Alpena Power Company (Efficiency United) - Energy Efficiency Assistance Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Alpena Power Company (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Copy of Alpena Power Company (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Xcel Energy (Efficiency United) - Residential Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Xcel Energy (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Electric Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Xcel Energy (Efficiency United) - Energy Efficiency Assistance Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Bayfield Electric (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Bayfield Electric (Efficiency United) - Energy Efficiency Assistance Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Optimization (Electric) - Residential Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Cloverland Electric Company (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Cloverland Electric Company (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Indiana Michigan Power (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Indiana Michigan Power (Efficiency United) - Energy Efficiency Assistance Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Indiana Michigan Power (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Daggett (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Michigan Gas Utilities (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Michigan Gas Utilities (Efficiency United) - Energy Efficiency Assistance Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Xcel Energy (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Electric Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Xcel Energy (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Gas Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
WE Energies (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
WE Energies (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Upper Peninsula Power Company (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Upper Peninsula Power Company (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
SEMCO Energy (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
SEMCO Energy (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Smart - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program (16 Municipalities) MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Michigan - Residential Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program (Appliances) MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Wisconsin Public Service (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Electric Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Michigan - Residential Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebate Program (Heating and Water Heating) MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DTE Energy - Residential New Construction Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Alger Delta Electric - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Ontonagon County REA - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Presque Isle Electric Cooperative - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Thumb Electric Cooperative - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Escanaba - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Marquette Board of Light & Power - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Newberry Water & Light Board - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Small Business Investment Tax Credit MI Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Coldwater Board of Public Utilities - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Consumers Energy (Electric) - Commercial Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Consumers Energy (Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Wisconsin Public Service (Efficiency United) - Commercial and Industrial Gas Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Wisconsin Public Service (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Gas Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Xcel Energy (Efficiency United) - Residential Energy Efficiency Gas Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Coldwater Board of Public Utilities - Commercial & Industrial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Michigan Local PACE Program MI Financial Incentive PACE Financing
Upper Peninsula Power Company - Residential Programs MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Optimization (Electric) - Commercial Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Optimization Standard MI Regulatory Policy Energy Efficiency Resource Standard
DTE Energy (Gas) - Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DTE Energy - Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Optimization (Electric) - Residential Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Smart - Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program (17 Municipalities) MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Michigan Saves - Home Energy Loan Program MI Financial Incentive Loan Program
Michigan Saves - Business Energy Financing MI Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy Revolving Loan Fund - Passive Solar MI Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy Revolving Loan Fund MI Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy Revolving Loan Fund - Clean Energy Advanced Manufacturing MI Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Thumb Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Efficiency United (Gas) - Home Performance Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lansing Board of Water & Light - Hometown Energy Savers Commercial Rebates MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lansing Board of Water & Light - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebates MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Detroit Public Lighting Department - Residential Energy Wise Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Detroit Public Lighting Department - Commercial and Industrial Energy Wise Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DTE Energy (Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
City of Ann Arbor - PACE Financing MI Financial Incentive PACE Financing
City of Detroit - SmartBuildings Detroit Grant Program MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
City of Detroit - SmartBuildings Detroit Green Fund Loan MI Financial Incentive Loan Program
Cherryland Electric Cooperative - Residential Rebate Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
BetterBuildings for Michigan MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Michigan Accelerating Technologies (MATch) Energy Grant MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Consumers Energy - Experimental Advanced Renewable Program MI Financial Incentive Feed-in Tariff
Net Metering MI Regulatory Policy Net Metering
Renewable Energy Program Grants MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Loans for Businesses MI Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy Efficiency Grants MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Alternative Energy Property Tax Exemption MI Financial Incentive Property Tax Incentive
Fuel Transformation Program MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Charge Up Michigan Program MI Financial Incentive Grant Program
Consumers Energy - PowerMIDrive Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
DTE Energy (Electric) - Charging Forward Program MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Indiana Michigan Power - EV Incentive MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Lansing Board of Water and Light - Plug-in Electric Vehicle Rebates MI Financial Incentive Rebate Program
Energy Storage Target MI Regulatory Policy Energy Storage Target
Tax-Exempt Financing for Green Buildings, Renewable Energy & Brownfield Redevelopment US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Conservation Security Program (CSP) Production Incentive US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Federal Excise Tax Exemption for Gasohol US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Modified Accelerated Cost-Recovery System (MACRS) US Financial Incentive Corporate Depreciation
Energy Star Financing and Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA Rural Housing Service Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Exemption
Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) US Financial Incentive Performance-Based Incentive
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit (PTC) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Small Business Administration Loan Programs US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Energy-Efficient Mortgages US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs - Funding Opportunities US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Green Power Purchasing Goal for Federal Government US Regulatory Policy Green Power Purchasing
Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Deduction
Energy-Efficient New Homes Tax Credit for Home Builders US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Energy-Efficient Appliance Manufacturing Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Industry Recruitment/Support
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Veterans Housing Guaranteed and Insured Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Federal Appliance Standards US Regulatory Policy Appliance/Equipment Efficiency Standards
Energy Goals and Standards for Federal Agencies US Regulatory Policy Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) US Financial Incentive Loan Program
U.S. Department of Treasury - Renewable Energy Grants US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - High Energy Cost Grant Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
USDA - Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Repowering Assistance Biorefinery Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Title I Property Improvement Loans US Financial Incentive Loan Program
USDA - Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance (EA/REDA) Program US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) US Financial Incentive Grant Program
Fannie Mae Green Financing – Loan Program US Financial Incentive Loan Program
Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Corporate) US Financial Incentive Corporate Tax Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit (Personal) US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit
Previously-Owned Clean Vehicle Tax Credit US Financial Incentive Personal Tax Credit

Michigan Saves: This is a non-profit organization that offers financing for solar installations, making it more affordable for residents and businesses in Michigan.

Michigan Solar Companies

There are hundreds of solar companies in Michigan. From solar installers to solar loan providers, and manufacturers. Each is a piece of the puzzle to help you get outfitted with solar panels.

To make things simple, EnergyBot works directly with 3 of the largest solar companies to give you a comprehensive view of the market.

The solar companies we partner with:

  • Project Solar - A nationwide provider of solar panel systems that has a non-sales-oriented approach to building your system. They build your system from their central office and send a local company to complete the solar panel installation.
  • EnergySage - The largest online solar installation network. They work with thousands of installers to help you find the perfect solar system for your home. With thousands of successful solar installations, they can give you a range of bids and pricing options.
  • Tesla - Brains behind some of the most cutting-edge technology in the automotive industry, Tesla also offers sleek and powerful solar systems and battery systems.

We believe comparing these three names in the solar industry will give you the info you need to decide if solar panels are right for you.

Before You Install Solar Panels

Just because solar is a popular discussion right now, doesn’t mean it makes sense for everyone. It is still a large and expensive decision. Installing solar has great financial and environmental benefits but it won’t feel beneficial if you run into issues. Along with studying a 20-year cost comparison for your home, read some more tips to keep in mind when mulling over your decision on your installer, system design, and financial plan.

  • What are the long-term savings and payback period for installing a solar panel system?
  • How will installing solar panels impact my home's value?
  • What is the system’s Return on Investment (ROI)?
  • Are there any specific design or aesthetic considerations for solar panel installation?
  • How do I weigh the environmental benefits against the costs of installation?
  • What are the specific terms and conditions for the installer?

A Solar Farm on Water

Yup! You read that right, floating solar panels. Just north of Grand Rapids, Michigan, there are plans to be one of the first municipalities in the state to develop a floating solar farm by 2024. Plainfield Township is partnering with White Pine Renewables, a San Francisco-based solar developer, for this project. 

While this isn’t a new idea, there’s a reason you don’t see that many floating panels in the ocean. They have many challenges. Weather conditions like storms and high winds can damage the panels, while fluctuating water levels can affect their stability. Maintenance is another concern, as accessing the panels for cleaning or repairs is more complicated than with land-based systems. Accumulation of algae and other aquatic life, can reduce the panels' efficiency. Lastly, the panels may require longer cables to connect to the grid, which can lead to energy loss.

However, Michigan is doing things differently. The solar panels will be installed on a surface water treatment pond, which was formed from an old gravel pit adjacent to the local water treatment plant. Meaning no waves, easier to maintain, and shorter cables.

The initial idea was to go for a ground-mounted solar project, but after a site assessment, it was found that there wasn't enough space near the water treatment facility for such an installation. Therefore, the floating solar option was chosen, despite being more expensive than ground-mounted projects. 

The goal of this solar farm is not to produce excess power but to generate an adequate amount to significantly reduce the energy load of the water treatment plant. A power purchase agreement for 800 kilowatts has been proposed, meaning the township will have zero upfront costs but will continue to buy power from the floating farm for roughly 30 years. The project is expected to save the township about $100,000 in the first five years and over $2 million over the 35-year lifetime of the solar panels. The earliest construction could start is in 2024.

Why Trust EnergyBot

We have helped thousands of customers find electricity plans for their home or business. And we are pretty darn good at it, with over 1,000 5-Star reviews we know how to help you stay powered up.

Now using the same one-of-kind technology and platform we are helping consumers in Michigan decide if solar is right for them. You will notice that sometimes our numbers make solar look less attractive. That's not by accident. We believe you should have full transparency during the solar purchasing process.

We aren't here to sell you something. We are here to help you make the best energy decision for your home or business.

Michigan Solar FAQs

The cost of solar panel installation in Michigan can vary significantly based on a number of factors, including the size and type of the system, the complexity of the installation, your solar installer, and the specific location. However, the average cost of solar panels in the U.S. was about $3.13 per watt, before any incentives or tax credits.

A typical residential solar system is usually around 8 kilowatts (8,000 watts), but varies based on energy use and the size of the house. The US average cost for a 6 kW system is $18,771 and the US average cost for a 10 kW system is $31,285, before incentives. The average price for a home solar panel system in Michigan is $22,680 for a 6kW system or about or about $3.78 per watt.

The number of solar panels you would need depends on a variety of factors such as:

  1. Your home's energy consumption: The first step is to calculate your household's energy use. You can do this by looking at your electricity bills to see how much electricity you use in a year, usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The average U.S. home uses around 10,400 kWh per year, but this can vary widely based on the size of your home, the efficiency of your appliances, and your personal habits.
  2. The amount of sunlight your location receives: This can vary depending on where you live. For example, if you live in a place that has many sunny days like Arizona, you might require fewer solar panels compared to someone living in a place with less sunlight like Seattle.
  3. The efficiency of the solar panels: Not all solar panels are created equal. Some panels can convert sunlight into electricity more efficiently than others. On average, residential solar panels have an efficiency rating between 15-20%. The higher the efficiency, the fewer panels you would likely need to meet your energy needs.
  4. The size of the solar panels: Solar panels also come in different sizes. A common size for residential use is roughly 65 inches by 39 inches. Each panel typically produces around 250 to 400 watts of power, but this can vary.

To give you a rough estimate, let's say you live in a location that receives about 5 hours of peak sunlight per day, your solar panels have an efficiency of 20%, and each panel has a power rating of 300 watts. If your home uses about 10,400 kWh per year, you would divide this by 365 to get your daily energy use (about 28.5 kWh). You would then divide this by the hours of peak sunlight (5 hours), to get your required power output per hour (about 5.7 kW). If each solar panel produces 300 watts (or 0.3 kW), you would divide 5.7 kW by 0.3 to get the number of solar panels you need, which would be about 19 panels.

  • Lower Electricity Bills:
    Once your solar panels are installed, you can generate your own electricity and reduce your reliance on the grid, which can lower your monthly bills.
  • Environmental Benefits:
    Solar energy is clean and renewable, so using it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants.
  • Increased Home Value:
    Installing solar panels can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Long-Term Savings:
    While the upfront cost of installing solar energy systems can be high, they can pay for themselves over time through lower energy bills and other savings.
  • Location:
    Homes in areas with lots of sunlight are generally better candidates for solar panels. If your home is shaded or doesn't receive much sunlight, it may not be the best choice.
  • Roof Orientation:
    Ideally, your roof should be facing south to get the most sunlight throughout the day.
  • Roof Condition:
    Your roof should be in good condition and able to support the weight of the solar panels. If your roof needs repairs or replacement, it's best to take care of that before your solar installation.

The installation process for solar panels can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the system and the complexity of the installation.

Your installer should be able to give you an estimated timeline based on your specific project.

Solar panels generally require very little maintenance. However, it's a good idea to have them inspected every few years to ensure they are working properly and to clean off any debris or dirt that may have accumulated on the panels. Most solar panel installers offer maintenance services for an additional fee.

Some skilled DIYers may be able to save some solar installation costs by installing solar equipment themselves. But, any solar installation will require a foundational knowledge of wiring and electricity. There's is a lot that can go wrong, posing a potentially deadly hazard.

Before you try to DIY your system we would recommend getting a quote from a solar installer. You may find that the labor costs of your install is relatively small compared to the cost of the solar equipment itself.

There are two main types of solar panels: Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. There are pros and cons to both. Either type can produce enough solar power for your home. We recommend getting a recommendation from a solar installer for your home. Depending on your budget, location, and other factors they can recommend the most efficient solar panels for your home. 

Michigan, getting a solar permit is pretty straightforward but can vary depending on your local jurisdiction. 

Typically, you'll need to submit a permit application to your local building department, which usually includes site plans and system specs. Some cities have streamlined this process to encourage solar adoption. It's always a good idea to consult your local building department for the nitty-gritty details like required documentation and fees. 

If you're working with a solar installation company, they often handle the permitting process for you. 

Detroit

Grand Rapids

Warren

Sterling Heights