9 Best Solar Companies in Kentwood, MI

How To Choose a Solar Company

Putting solar panels on your roof could lower your electricity payments while benefiting the planet by reducing your carbon footprint through renewable energy use. Key considerations when researching local solar installers are as follows.

Check Licensing

Hiring a licensed solar installer is critical. This ensures that the work is done correctly using current installation best practices. Michigan law has a de facto licensing requirement for solar photovoltaic installers. In other words, while solar contractors technically don't need a license by the letter of the law, 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and TrustPilot to see customer feedback about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you evaluate a company's reliability and customer service. Use caution with companies that have very few reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Get free, detailed quotes from three to five solar companies. The quotes should outline all costs and identify the exact solar parts included. Looking at several quotes can help you find the best value for your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

Quality solar installations should include strong workmanship and performance guarantees. A workmanship guarantee covers any installation defects (such as poor alignment, poor wiring, or cracks in the panels), while a performance guarantee ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong guarantees show that a company is confident in its work.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Going solar can help decrease your energy expenses. Be sure to weigh these aspects when determining the cost and value of solar panels.

• Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal solar tax credit on the full system cost is available through 2032. Many states also offer incentives. These credits offer substantial savings for solar customers.
• Look into utility rebates: More discounts might be available from utility companies looking to motivate homeowners to switch to solar power. Contact your local utility provider to find out rebate values and eligibility rules, so you can calculate your possible savings.
• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels may be paid for upfront or financed over time with a lease or loan. Confirm key financing details like annual percentage rate (APR), fees, payment schedule, and ownership implications when choosing to finance solar panels.

Cost of Solar Installation in Kentwood

Kentwood homeowners typically spend about $17,551 on home solar systems after federal tax refunds. Solar arrays in Kentwood cost approximately $4,060 per kilowatt, with an average size of 6.2 kilowatts. A personalized estimate from a local solar provider will include costs for labor, permit fees, and preliminary work, and will account for your system's panel type, size, and capacity. Some homeowners prefer to lease their solar panels in order to reduce upfront costs.