7 Best Solar Companies in Saginaw, MI

How To Choose a Solar Company

Going solar can be a great way to save money on electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint using renewable energy. Here are some key factors to consider when determining whether a solar installer is trustworthy.

Check Licensing

Hiring a licensed solar installer is critical. This ensures that the work is done properly 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), TrustPilot, and Google Reviews to see feedback from past customers about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you assess a company's reliability and customer service. Use caution with installers that have hardly any reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Contact three to five solar companies to get free, detailed quotes. Quotes should clearly outline all costs and specify the exact solar components included. Comparing multiple quotes helps identify the most cost-effective option for you.

Ask About the Warranty

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

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Solar 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.

• Research federal and state tax credits: There’s a 26% federal tax credit available for total solar system costs until 2032. Many states also offer incentives. The credits can add up to significant savings for solar buyers.
• Look into utility rebates: Local utility companies may offer additional rebates to encourage homeowners to install solar panels. Check the eligibility rules and rebate values with your local power company to find out what you could save.
• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels may be paid for upfront or financed over time with leases or loans. Confirm key financing details like fees, payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), and ownership implications when choosing to finance solar panels.

Cost of Solar Installation in Saginaw

Solar panel costs vary based on system capacity and the technology used. The average solar system in Saginaw has a capacity of 6.2 kilowatts. Homeowners in the area should expect to pay around $4,060 per kilowatt; the average Saginaw homeowners spends about $17,618 on a new solar system 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 size, capacity, and panel type of the planned system, and should include costs for permit fees, preliminary work, and labor.