Best 5 Solar Companies in Novi, MI

The Novi community is committed to protecting the environment and living sustainably. That's why many people are purchasing panels from the top solar installers for their homes. While going solar comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $810 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional company can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. In this guide, we'll highlight Novi's best solar providers and offer advice for your company choice, so you can find the perfect one for your household.

Ranking Methodology

We evaluated dozens of Novi solar companies, using the following criteria to determine the superior:

• Professional licenses and credentials: Each company on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Novi community for more than a decade.
• Panel quality and brand offerings: The premier solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
• Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should use their years of experience answer your questions on how to look after your system and improve its performance.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar installers should stand behind their products and services with warranties. We evaluated how each provider responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Customer reviews and feedback: Most Novi solar contractors have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio demonstrates a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy has multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery storage systems function through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the electrical grid for your safety and well-being.
• Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the added cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity at home. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to credit part of your bill.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Novi Homeowners?

Michigan's public agencies and power companies offer a number of solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Novi

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar array. Consider all of these aspects in your service provider 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. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most prestigious are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, granted by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Novi

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options 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 components, 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 every solar company provides these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's essential for you.

You can plan to spend about $20,300 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Novi. Check the table in this section to get an idea of how much Novi solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Novi

Choosing the right financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, loans, cash payments, and leases. 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 money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, much like 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. Ask each company you're considering about the payment options it offers. A representative can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and unique financing solutions 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