Best 5 Solar Companies in West Bloomfield, MI

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in West Bloomfield

The more thorough your provider search is, the better your solar installation will ultimately work. 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 top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in West Bloomfield

Your solar panels' type will affect how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

Additional accessories, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will add to 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 provider that sells 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 West Bloomfield. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount West Bloomfield solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in West Bloomfield

Choosing the best financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, cash payments, leases, and 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 a car 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 fixed 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 provider you're considering about the financing options it offers. A team member can help you determine the most suitable option for your financial situation.

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

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to recently-purchased solar equipment purchased through 2032. Additional incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.