10 Best Solar Companies in Putnam, MI

How To Choose a Solar Company

Going solar can be a great way to reduce electricity costs and help the planet by reducing your carbon footprint using renewable energy. Here are some crucial factors to consider when determining whether a solar installer is reliable.

Check Licensing

Make sure you hire a licensed solar installer. 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, 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 Google Reviews, TrustPilot, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see feedback from past customers about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you evaluate a company's dependability and level of service. Use caution with companies that have hardly 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 at least three 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 strong workmanship and performance warranties. A workmanship guarantee covers any installation defects (such as poor alignment, poor wiring, or cracks in the panels), while a performance warranty ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong warranties show that a company is confident in its work.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Solar energy is great for helping you lower electricity bills over time. Make sure you consider these aspects when considering the final cost and value of solar panels.

• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels may be paid for upfront or financed over time through leases or loans. Review all terms when financing, such as payment schedule, fees, annual percentage rate (APR), and ownership implications.
• Look into utility rebates: Local power companies may have extra financial benefits to encourage homeowners to install solar panels. Review the qualification rules and rebate amounts with your local provider to calculate your potential savings.
• Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal tax credit on total solar system costs is available through 2032. Many states also provide incentives. These credits can result in substantial savings for solar buyers.

Cost of Solar Installation in Putnam

The cost of solar panels varies based on system capacity and the technology used. The typical Putnam solar array has a capacity of 6.2 kilowatts. Homeowners in the area should expect to pay around $4,060 per kilowatt; the average Putnam homeowners spends about $17,582 on a new solar array after accounting for federal tax breaks. (Some homeowners prefer to lease solar panels to lower upfront costs.) A personalized quote from a local solar company will account for factors such as the capacity, panel type, and size of the planned system, and should include fees for labor, permit fees, and preliminary work.