9 Best Solar Companies in East Grand Rapids, MI

How To Choose a Solar Company

Adopting solar power lets homeowners cut utility bills while benefiting the planet by reducing your carbon footprint using clean energy. If you’re deciding whether to go solar, consider these key factors for choosing an installer.

Check Licensing

It's important to hire a licensed solar installer. This help guarantee that the work is done properly using current best installation practices. Michigan law has a de facto licensing requirement for solar photovoltaic installers. In other words, the law doesn't explicitly require solar installers to be licensed, but workers dealing with electrical wiring jobs do need a license. Solar thermal systems must be installed by a licensed mechanical contractor.

Read Customer Reviews

Check review sites like TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews to see customer feedback about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you assess a company's reliability and customer service. Use caution with companies that have very few reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

To find a solar installer that works with your budget, ask for free, detailed quotes from three to five providers. The quotes should list all costs as well as all solar equipment included. Looking at several quotes helps you identify the option that best fits your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

Quality solar installations should have comprehensive workmanship and performance warranties. The workmanship warranty covers any installation problems such as poor alignment, cracks in the panels, or poor wiring. The performance guarantee ensures a specific energy output level. Strong warranties indicate that a solar installer trusts its installations.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Installing solar panels can help decrease your electric bills over time. When considering the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.

• Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal solar tax credit on total system costs is available through 2032. Many states also offer incentives. These credits provide substantial savings for solar buyers.
• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels may be paid for upfront or financed over time through loans or leases. Review all terms when financing, including payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), fees, and ownership implications.
• Look into utility rebates: Local electric providers may offer additional rebates to encourage homeowners to switch to solar power. Check the eligibility rules and rebate values with your local electric company to determine what your savings could be.

Cost of Solar Installation in East Grand Rapids

The average East Grand Rapids homeowner will spend around $17,551 on a home solar system after federal tax refunds. Solar arrays in East Grand Rapids cost approximately $4,060 per kilowatt, with the average residential solar system being 6.2 kilowatts. A personalized estimate from a local solar provider will include costs for labor, preliminary work, and permit fees, and will account for your system's capacity, size, and panel type. Some homeowners prefer to lease solar panels in order to reduce upfront costs.