Best 5 Solar Companies in Independence, MI

Independence homeowners are increasingly using solar panels to power their homes and heat their water. If you're contemplating going solar, you might be concerned about costly initial investments. By working with a experienced installer, you'll have both the financial and technical support you need for success. On this page, we'll show you Independence's best solar contractors and give insightful advice for your solar journey.

Ranking Methodology

Our team has screened dozens of solar installers near Independence, concentrating on the following criteria:

• Reviews and feedback from customers: Most Independence solar contractors have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio indicates a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar contractors should stand behind their products and services with warranties. We evaluated how each company responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer satisfaction.
• Professional licenses and credentials: Each company on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Independence community for over 15 years.
• Panel brands and quality: The top solar companies keep up with new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
• Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should tap into their years of experience answer your questions on how to look after your system and maximize its performance.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
• Lowered energy bills: You can skip the expensive cost of grid-tied power by creating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to credit part of your bill.
• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery backups and storage systems function through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the power grid for your safety and well-being.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Independence Homeowners?

Michigan homeowners who choose solar could qualify for special financing, tax credits, rebates and reimbursements. Here are just a few of the local incentive programs.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Independence

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar system. Make your choice based on the following key factors.

Licensing and Training

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. Solar installers can also obtain accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Independence

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

Additional system add-ons, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies include these optional components, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's important for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $20,300 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Independence. This table displays more specific prices for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Independence

Choosing the ideal financing plan will influence your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include leases, power purchase agreements, loans, and cash payments. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. We recommend working with a provider that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each consultant about what's available, and get more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your financial plan.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Independence.

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal tax credit for solar panels on total system costs, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Municipal authorities and utilities might also offer their own incentives, rebates, and financing programs that could save you more money.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy