Best 5 Solar Companies in Warren, MI

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Warren

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar energy system. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.

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 pursue certifications 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 Warren

The kind of solar panels you choose dictates how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can boost your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar providers offer these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's essential for you.

If you're a resident of Warren and are considering getting a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $20,300 for parts and installation. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Warren

There are numerous ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. A few of the most common options include leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand 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. Much like a home or auto loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. Ask each provider you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A team member can help you determine the best option for your budget.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.