Wisconsinites are looking toward their future and making strides in renewable energy. Whether that person is a Cheesehead, love snowmobiling at Eagle River, or head to the Summer Festival every year, all walks of life see the benefits of going green.
Some major projects include Two Creeks Solar and Badger Hollow. Both of which came online fairly recently powering tens of thousands of homes. By 2023, the state had installed 1,251 MW of solar, powering over 206,000 homes and ranking 23rd nationally.
Though we know that the warm sunny summers are great for solar, don't discount the winter just yet. While a cloudy day provides less power, it's not zero. A cold but sunny winter day with snow on the ground can still bring great solar benefits. As long as your panels are cleared off, they could actually gain more production! The additional reflection off the bright white snow could increase your panel's performance!
Cost of Solar in Wisconsin
The average price for a home solar panel system in Wisconsin is $20,480 for a 6kW system or about $3.41 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
Wisconsin
$18,060
$30,100
$9,030
$3.01
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 Wisconsin
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 Size
System Cost
Cost After Federal Tax Credit
5 kW
$15,050
$8,785
6 kW
$18,060
$10,542
7 kW
$21,070
$12,299
8 kW
$24,080
$14,056
10 kW
$30,100
$17,570
Pros and Cons of Solar in Wisconsin
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.
Wisconsin Solar Pros
Reduce or eliminate electric bills
Energy independence from the grid
Reduce your carbon footprint
Net Metering is available; however, check your local utility provider each one is drastically different
We know that Wisconsin is not the sunniest state. Therefore solar may be an option for some, but may not be available for all.
Some can still expect a payback of 12 to 15 years on their solar system. And with a life expectancy of 20 to 25 years on average for solar panels, that’s pretty good. But compared to other states, not the best.
In a state like Wisconsin, 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.
While it could make more sense for some, Wisconsin 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.
There are several ways you can purchase and/or finance your solar panel installation in Wisconsin. 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.
Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin. 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.
Focus on Energy: This is Wisconsin's statewide energy efficiency and renewable resource program. It offers cash incentives to residents who install renewable energy systems, including solar panels.
Property Tax Exemption: In Wisconsin, the added value to a property from a solar system is exempt from property tax.
Sales Tax Exemption: Solar energy systems are exempt from state sales tax in Wisconsin, which can result in significant savings.
Wisconsin Solar Companies
There are hundreds of solar companies in Wisconsin. 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.
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?
Is Solar a Scam?
No. Solar is definitely not a scam. However, there are solar scams out there!
The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau (BBB) is warning people about a new "free solar panels" scam. Scammers pose as solar company salespeople and contact potential victims through various means like email, phone, or in-person. They offer a "special deal" on solar panels, often claiming they're free or low-cost, and pressure the person to decide quickly. The scam may aim to collect personal information or upfront payment from the person.
This post is a testament to how much thought, research, and consideration goes into to decision to buy solar. A legitimate company will never rush you into a decision. Often, they will instead insist on seeing your house and doing an analysis before even proposing a cost or asking for any money.
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 Wisconsin 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.
Wisconsin Solar FAQs
The cost of solar panel installation in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin is $20,460 for a 6kW system or about or about $3.41 per watt.
The number of solar panels you would need depends on a variety of factors such as:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Wisconsin, 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.
