Best 5 Solar Companies in Midland, MI

Midland homeowners are increasingly using solar panels to power their homes and heat their water. Solar providers take a uniquely educational approach, helping homeowners understand the underlying technology and tune it to their needs. Discover Midland's best solar companies and learn crucial decision-making advice on this page.

Ranking Methodology

We reviewed a multitude of Midland solar installers, using the following criteria to choose the finest:

• Service offerings and warranties: Solar installers should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each installer responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer happiness.
• Customer reviews and feedback: Most Midland solar providers have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.
• Panel quality and brand offerings: The best solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, offering equipment from innovative, dependable manufacturers.
• Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should tap into their years of experience answer your questions on how to maintain your system and maximize its performance.
• Certifications and licenses: Each provider on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Midland community for over 15 years.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy provides multiple benefits. Here are some highlights.

• Lower energy bills: Sourcing some or all of your own energy will cut power costs long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that allow you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
• Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home functioning through emergencies and blackouts. You can use your solar energy anytime with optional battery backup.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Midland Homeowners?

The state of Michigan offers multiple solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Midland

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar array. Consider each of these criteria in your business search.

Licensing and Training

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. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar sector's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Midland

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.

If you need to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not all solar contractors offer these extras, so look for a company that installs them if it's crucial for you.

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

Financing Solar Energy in Midland

Solar contractors offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, solar leases and solar loans. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to an auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each business you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the optimal option for your financial situation.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Municipal and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.

Sources

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