10 Best Solar Companies in Madison, MI

How To Choose a Solar Company

Installing solar panels can lower your electricity costs and benefit the planet by reducing your carbon footprint. When determining whether a solar provider is the best option for you, consider these key factors.

Check Licensing

It's imperative that your solar installer has the proper licensing. This ensures that the work is done correctly using current best installation practices. Michigan law has a de facto licensing requirement for solar photovoltaic installers. In other words, there's no explicit requirement for solar installers to have a license, 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 feedback from past customers on local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you assess a company's dependability and customer service. Use caution with companies that have barely any reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

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

Ask About the Warranty

Quality solar installations should come with strong workmanship and performance guarantees. A workmanship warranty addresses any installation defects (such as poor alignment, cracks in the panels, or poor wiring), while a performance guarantee ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong guarantees demonstrate a company's confidence in its work.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Solar power can help lower your electricity costs in the long run. When evaluating solar panel's cost and value, be sure to factor in these considerations.

• Research federal and state tax credits: There’s a 26% federal tax credit available for the full cost of solar systems until 2032. Many states also offer incentives. The credits can add up to significant savings for solar buyers.
• Look into utility rebates: More rebates might be available from utility companies looking to encourage homeowners to switch to solar power. Contact your local utility provider to learn rebate values and eligibility rules, so you can calculate your possible savings.
• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels can be purchased outright or paid for over time through a loan or lease. Review all terms when financing, including fees, annual percentage rate (APR), payment schedule, and ownership implications.

Cost of Solar Installation in Madison

In Madison, solar panels cost an average of $4,060 per kilowatt, with an average system size of 6.1 kilowatts. The typical Madison homeowner spends $17,337 on their solar array after federal tax refunds. An estimate from a local provider will factor in additional information based on your desired system's capacity, required preliminary work, panel type, and size. In some cases, homeowners may prefer leasing solar panels to reduce upfront costs.