Best 5 Solar Companies in Brookfield, WI

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Brookfield

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar system. Make your choice based on the following key factors.

Licensing and Training

For solar thermal installations, Wisconsin requires a licensed HVAC contractor or plumber to serve the crew if the work involves heating equipment or potable water. There are fewer restrictions for solar photovoltaic systems, but either your city government or the Wisconsin Division of Safety and Buildings may have to review building plans before you begin. Solar companies can also pursue certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most recognized 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 Brookfield

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 produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. 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 want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies offer these extras, so look for a company that installs them if it's a priority for you.

If you're a resident of Brookfield and want a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $19,400 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Brookfield

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, loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and cash payments. We advise making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases let you use your panels for a set 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 don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Look for contractors that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.

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

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