Exciting statistics show solar adoption growing steadily across Michigan over the last 5 years. An estimated 4,500 homes went solar in 2021 alone – a 30% increase over 2020. With ample sun exposure, high electric rates and state/utility incentives, Michigan homeowners are harnessing solar to gain energy independence and save substantially on bills long-term.
Solar Industry Growth in Michigan
| Year | New Solar Installations | Total Homes Powered by Solar |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 3,060 | 12,465 |
| 2018 | 3,867 | 16,388 |
| 2019 | 4,124 | 20,634 |
| 2020 | 3,412 | 25,135 |
| 2021 | 4,433 | 30,322 |
Data from SEIA Solar Industry Factsheet 2022
The map below highlights the best regions for solar generation across Michigan based on sun exposure, infrastructure and net-metering incentives.
With excellent projected ROI timelines and substantial long-term savings potential, there has never been a better time for Michigan residents to make the switch to solar energy. This guide will explore the top solar installation companies serving the Michigan market and provide helpful insights to inform your decision-making process.
SunPower
Founded in Silicon Valley in 1985 at the dawn of the solar industry, SunPower is a pioneering solar provider operating nationally. Today, they are a subsidiary of French oil & energy conglomerate TotalEnergies. SunPower manufactures its own high-efficiency solar panels and stands behind every system with robust 25-year production guarantees.
With over 500 megawatts of solar installed, SunPower has more experience than any other provider serving the Michigan market. SunPower utilizes premium equipment – its trademark black panels are the most efficient available, packing more cells and capturing more sunlight per square inch than standard models. These sleek, durable panels hold up to tough Michigan weather conditions including high winds, snow loads and temperature fluctuations.
SunPower handles every aspect of system design, permitting, installation and monitoring – they do not use any subcontractors. Customers benefit from SunPower‘s quality workmanship and receive exceptional service from their Michigan-based support team before, during and after installation.
SunPower Michigan Solar Offerings
System Size Range: 3 kW - 15 kW
Equipment Brands: SunPower Panels, SolarEdge Inverters
Install Cost Range: $17,000 - $35,000 (before rebates/incentives)
Financing Options: Purchase, Loan, Lease
Sample Quote for 5 kW System:
System Equipment/Installation: $22,000
Federal Tax Credit: -$6,600
Utility Rebate: -$2,000
Net Cost: $13,400
Projected Year 1 Utility Savings: $1,300
Est. Payback Period: 9-10 YearsJohn S. from Jackson, MI
"We‘ve been very happy with our 8 panel SunPower system over the past three years. Initial quotes from other vendors didn‘t compare to the warranty and performance guarantees that SunPower provides. The purchase price was fair and the panels produce plenty of surplus energy. Would highly recommend for any Michigan homeowner exploring solar!"
Michigan Solar Solutions
Specializing in solar installations across the state since 2009, Michigan Solar Solutions is a locally-owned small business based in Comstock Park. Founder Mark Hagerty‘s hands-on approach and commitment to education have built a loyal customer base across Western Michigan.
While Michigan Solar provides quality equipment – typically REC panels paired with SolarEdge inverters and power optimizers – their focus is on custom tailored system design and workmanship. Each array is uniquely engineered to fulfill the household‘s usage needs while enhancing roof aesthetics. This company is known for smart panel placement minimizing tree/snow shading issues that can hamper production.
Michigan Solar‘s qualified consultants provide solar evaluations with real-time monitoring of existing conditions. Their 10-15 person installation teams have strong project management and communication skills refined across thousands of installs. All electricians and roofers employed are licensed, insured and background checked. Customers consistently highlight the quality craftsmanship and attention to detail on every project.
In addition to solar panels, Michigan Solar Solutions provides battery storage systems to maximize energy resiliency. They also offer level II electric vehicle charging stations. For homeowners interested in backing up residential generators with solar, specialized battery-connected arrays can provide security during grid outages.
Michigan Solar stands out as a reputable local company intimately familiar with optimizing systems for Michigan‘s climate and home models using tier-one equipment. Their expertise rooted in the local community shines through in the stellar reviews from past clients across Western Michigan.
Evaluating Financing Alternatives
For prospective solar clients, a primary consideration beyond system design and installation is choosing the best financing option to minimize out-of-pocket costs. Michigan homeowners exploring rooftop solar have several alternatives to weigh:
Purchasing Systems Outright
- Minimizes lifetime cost of system but requires large upfront payment
- Gives homeowners full ownership/maintenance control
- Eligible for 26% Federal Solar Tax Credit
- Incentives reduce net purchase price to ~$3 per watt
Solar Loans
- Typically 10-20 year loans with interest rates of 3-8% from installers
- Spreads system costs over loan term via fixed monthly payments
- Convenient application and approval process
Solar Leases/PPAs
- Contracts allowing solar company to install and own system on your property
- Pay $0 down in exchange for monthly lease payment
- Pre-established lease terms guarantee savings vs. utility cost
- Easy to qualify with FICO scores as low as 640
- System production and maintenance responsibility of owner
Weighing Solar Purchase vs. Lease
To demonstrate the cashflow differences in system financing options, let‘s compare purchase vs. lease scenarios for a 6 kW solar array.
System Purchase
Equipment/Installation Costs: $18,000
Federal Tax Credit (26%): -$4,680
Net Price: $13,320
Monthly Loan Payment (3.5% rate): $105
Est. Monthly Savings: $90
Breakeven Point: 9 Years
System Lease
Total 25 Year Cost: $30,000
Down Payment: $0
Monthly Lease Payment: $100
Est. Monthly Savings: $75Purchasing yields greater lifetime savings but leasing provides more immediate savings with flexibility. Incentives and accumulated utility savings help offset both financing paths over time. Consult with reputable solar professionals to map out the optimal solar roadmap catered to your household‘s energy needs and financial preferences.
Continued Progress Ahead
As solar technology improves, integrated efficiency increases while component costs decline – fueling sustained growth. Michigan is well positioned to continue leading the Midwest in solar adoption.
Key innovations poised to expand solar capabilities in coming years include:
- Improved battery capacities extending home backup duration
- Panels with enhanced low-light capture optimized for solar yield
- Flexible thin-film solar materials expand placement options
- Clear solar panel glass increases production on windows
- Integrated EV chargers and solar storage
This bright future is supported by Michigan‘s exceptional net metering policies, grid access guarantees, state/utility solar programs and rebates. Additionally the solar investment tax credit (ITC) stands strong at 26% through 2032 before phasing down incrementally. There are still plenty of solar rewards to leverage over the next decade!
Chat with a solar expert at one of the listed providers to map out your transition to clean energy independence!
