Solar Panels Cost 5.4k-16k in Auburn Hills, MI | October, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $5.4k-$16k in Auburn Hills, MI | October, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Auburn Hills, MI in 2024?

For the month of October, 2024, the price per watt of solar systems in Auburn Hills, MI is $3.91/W, on average.

Utilizing the rate, we can conclude that for every 1 kW (1000 watts) of solar power capacity will cost you $3,910 for installation. After receiving the 30% federal tax credit, you will pay around $13,685, in Auburn Hills, for a 5 kW solar installation. A more powerful system could be needed to adequately cover your energy consumption effectively.

By selecting your county on the left, you can find the average roof size and the average maximum capacity for residential solar panel systems in your area. Find below a detailed summary of the {price|costs, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system installed in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Auburn Hills: $13,685US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Auburn Hills: 9 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Auburn Hills: $9,363US Average: $15,784

Solar Potential in Auburn Hills

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Auburn Hills.

Roof size 697sq. ft.
Capacity 9.75kW DC
Electricity 10.7kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Auburn Hills, MI & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

In Auburn Hills, the typical kWh usage is 599 per month, and the electric bill is $120.47. It is crucial to understand that this number encompasses the energy consumption of apartments and smaller homes.

The average rate for electricity in Auburn Hills, MI during October, 2024 is 20.1¢ per kWh.

To meet their entire power requirements of a typical user in Auburn Hills, a solar system of 6 kW or more is required. The expense for aa 6 kW solar installation is approximately $23,460 upfront, but with a 30% tax credit, the price decreases to $16,422.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Auburn Hills

To the left, you will find a cost breakdown for different solar panel system sizes installed in Auburn Hills. The investment for a bigger solar panel setup is higher, but it also offers higher electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.

The solar panel cost and benefit breakdown, visible in the calculator to the right and below, is based on an average electric bill of $120.47 in Auburn Hills. Easily change the $120.47 to your average electricity bill for customized results.

System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $547 a year
Est. Price
$5,474
Savings from a 2kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 2,734 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $46
  • Full payback in 4 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.57 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 72 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 3,885 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $820 a year
Est. Price
$8,211
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,101 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $68
  • Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.35 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 108 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 5,828 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,094 a year
Est. Price
$10,948
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,468 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $91
  • Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.14 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 144 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 7,771 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,367 a year
Est. Price
$13,685
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,835 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $114
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.92 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 180 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,713 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,640 a year
Est. Price
$16,422
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 8,202 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $120
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.13 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 190 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 10,232 mi less a year

Auburn Hills Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

For rural farms and small businesses, the REAP Grant might currently cover between 80% and 100% of the expenses for installing photovoltaic or wind energy systems. If you think you might qualify, we suggest trying our REAP Grant eligibility tool to confirm.

Nearly all residents are eligible for the 30% federal income tax credit for residential solar, making it a practical option in numerous states across the country. Furthermore, many regional and state programs are set up to get more people to adopt solar power.

Different utilities and governmental organizations in Michigan offer 14 solar rebate and incentive programs.

Michigan Saves - Home Energy Loan Program

Value:Up to $30,000

Single-family homes or multifamily properties up to four units may be eligible for special financing on energy efficiency improvements through the Michigan Saves Home Energy Loan Program (HELP). Eligible projects range from energy efficient lighting to new residential solar photovoltaic systems (up to 20 kW). Available principal for a HELP loan ranges from $1,000 to $30,000. Repayment plans range from 12 - 120 months. Interest rates will vary but typically range from 4.25 - 6.99%. To apply, proof of property ownership and standard credit checks are required. Applicants should have a minimum FICO credit score of 640, and a maximum debt to income ratio of 1:2. Additional information is available from the Michigan Saves website.

Michigan Saves - Business Energy Financing

Value:Up to $1,000,000

Small businesses, nonprofits, and owners of multifamily or public-sector buildings in Michigan may be eligible for special financing on energy efficiency improvements through the Michigan Saves Business Energy Financing Program (BEFP). BEFP loans carry special interest rates and repayment terms. Eligible projects range from energy efficient lighting to new solar, wind, or geothermal energy devices. Interested property owners may consult the Michigan Saves website for additional information and to download a pre-approval checklist. The website also contains a directory of lending partners that service BEFP loans.

Interconnection Standards

Value:Varies

Distributed generation and interconnection have been standardized by the Michigan Public Service Commission since 2003. Each energy system connected to the state grid will be assigned into one of five "categories" based on rated capacity. Systems at each level must follow recognized standards such as those set by IEEE or UL. Interconnection fees and application review turnaround will depend on the system's level. Customers must carry at least $1 million of liability insurance coverage on energy systems between 1 to 5 MW by law. Though external disconnect switches are not required centrally, utilities may request that they be installed prior to interconnection. After successful connection, customers will own any renewable energy credits they generate and may sell them to the utility at their discretion.

Renewable Energy Standard

Value:Varies

Michigan requires private/municipal utilities and electric retailers/cooperatives to submit Renewable Energy Plans detailing their compliance with the state's portfolio standards. By 2021, 15% of each company's electricity should be sourced from renewable means. Eligible technologies include solar PV, wind, biomass, solid waste, and currently-operational hydroelectric systems (new hydro does not count toward the standard). Compliance is measured through a renewable energy credit system pegging electrical capacity to a dollar value. The standard law includes "bonus credit" provisions which a utility may earn for exceeding their standard quota or using an in-demand renewable technology. Additional information is available from the Michigan state website.

Refundable Payroll Tax Credit

Value:Varies

The NextEnergy Zone is located on the Wayne State University Detroit campus. The area is a Renaissance Zone, allowing renewable energy companies and institutions who locate inside to receive certain tax incentives. Incentives specific to the NextEnergy Zone include indirect payroll tax credits for a company's employees, provided they work directly with renewable energy manufacturing or R&D. Credit amount is equal to an employee's salary times their state income tax rate as a percentage. Should credit exceed liability, a refund will be issued for the remainder of the credit amount. Additional information is available through the NextEnergy Authority website.

Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF)

Value:Varies

The Low Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF) is a public benefits fund in Michigan. LIEEF is supported by the state's three largest power companies through monthly consumer surcharges. Rather than supporting incentive or rebate programs, LIEEF funding supports request-for-proposal programs and grant initiatives to support low-income Michiganders in adopting on-site renewable energy or making other energy efficiency improvements. Additional information is available from the Michigan Public Service Commission, which administers the fund.

Michigan Accelerating Technologies (MATch) Energy Grant

Value:Varies

Michigan Accelerating Technology (MAT) is a grant program managed by the state's NextEnergy authority. Through MAT, businesses and educational institutions that receive federal grants supporting energy sustainability or alternative transportation research may be eligible to have their awards matched at the state level. Grant recipients may be eligible to contract some services to the NextEnergy Authority (for example, statistical analysis and supply chain research.) Additional information is available from the NextEnergy website.

Energy Efficiency in State Buildings

Value:Varies

Michigan first established a mandatory renewable portfolio standard in 2008. The standard required at least 25% of the state's energy to be sourced from renewable means by 2015. The standard was part of a larger restructuring law which also established green construction standards for new state buildings, energy efficiency "best practices" for existing buildings, and a new agency to regulate wind power in the state. Additional information is available from the federal Energy Codes database.

Net Metering

Value:Varies

Private/municipal utilities and electric cooperatives in Michigan are required to offer "inflow-outflow" tariff program participation to new renewable energy and distributed generation customers. This program serves as the successor to traditional net metering, which is expected to be phased out in full by 2028. Under an inflow-outflow contract, customers are technically billed for all electricity they generate, including excess generation (EG) sent to the grid. Rather than paying for all generated energy, however, they will only owe the cost of their "nettable energy" in that cycle. Nettable energy is equal to total power generated at the standard billed cost minus EG at a different "credit rate." As with net metering, should generation exceed consumption, any remaining bill credits will be applied to subsequent cycles. Additional information is available from the Michigan state website.

Alternative-Energy Personal Property Tax Exemption

Value:Varies

The NextEnergy Zone is located on the Wayne State University Detroit campus. The area is a Renaissance Zone, allowing renewable energy companies and institutions who locate inside to receive certain tax incentives. Incentives specific to the NextEnergy Zone include property tax exemptions on renewable energy systems, alternative vehicles, and corporate belongings. Eligible property must be completely new to Michigan; real estate does not qualify for exemptions. Additional information is available through the NextEnergy Authority website.

Solar Contractor Licensing

Value:Varies

Special licenses are available for installation/repair contractors of solar thermal systems in Michigan. Certified HVAC contractors do not need a separate license to install solar devices. To obtain a solar thermal license, applicants should have three years of experience as a journeyman and pass an exam. A trade school diploma counts as one year of experience. There is currently no special licensure for solar photovoltaic contractors. Solar contractors of any specialty may need to subcontract certain plumbing or electrical work. Additional information is available through the Interstate Renewable Energy Council.

Lean and Green Michigan PACE

Value:Varies

Lean and Green Michigan is a statewide property-assessed clean energy (PACE) program that offers special financing for energy efficiency improvements and equipment. Multi-family residential and commercial property owners alike may consult with PACE representatives to design a competitive loan with a private lending partner. Effectively, funding comes from the government; repayment will therefore take the form of a tax lien senior to the property's mortgage. Single-family homes are ineligible for PACE funding due to regulatory concerns from the FHFA. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac cannot take ownership of a mortgage with an active PACE lien. Interested property owners should visit the Lean and Green Michigan website.

Renewable Energy Program Grants

Value:Varies

Funding for renewable energy grants and initiatives may be provided by the Michigan Energy Office. Grants support educational programs for local governments and businesses on renewable energy adoption. Communities may obtain personalized feasibility studies or examine prototype equipment. Additional information is available from the Michigan Agency for Energy website.

Renewable Energy Renaissance Zones

Value:Varies

"Renaissance Zones" are clearly designated locations in Michigan in which renewable energy developers may qualify for special tax incentives. Qualifying facilities will earn a 15-year property tax abatement and are exempt from state corporate, education, and income taxes, along with some local taxes. Eligible construction includes new solar, wind, or biomass facilities. Capital construction for institutions researching or manufacturing renewable energy products may also qualify for exemptions. Applications for Renaissance Zone incentives will consider potential economic impact. Additional information is available from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation website.

Are solar panels worth it in Michigan?

For homeowners in Auburn Hills planning to stay beyond the payback period of their solar system, solar panels are the obvious choice. In Auburn Hills, MI, the installation of a 5 kW solar system can save you an average of $15,227.8 over 20 years, with an average break even point of 9 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Auburn Hills, MI

Forgoing solar panels or an alternative backup energy source results in you'll miss out on the savings mentioned before and be fully dependent on your electric utility for power. Complete dependence on your utility company isn't always the best condition, as recent media examples have revealed.

On a yearly basis, the average number of outages per customer in Auburn Hills has been 0.98. Typically, outages have an average duration of 146.15 minutes. However, during significant events such as earthquakes, aging infrastructure, or planned maintenance, these times can drastically increase.

Whether or not a backup battery is included, a solar panel system could reduce the impact of future power outages you might experience.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Oakland County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Auburn Hills, MI?

Your Energy Needs - Despite the greater initial expense, the cost per watt declines when using larger solar panel systems. Many consumers realize it's a great idea to set up a solar system that can produce enough power to fully cover their electric bill, because it helps them save more money.

Make & Model - Just like other products, solar panels and mounting equipment are offered in a range of makes and models. The potential brand preferences of your installer mean that it is it is even more vital to choose a reputable company. Higher grade materials typically result in an better long-term experience for the buyer.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels have become the industry standard, and it's not hard to see why. They come with a higher price but are better at generating energy. The majority of solar panel installers use panels made of this type of material.

Your Property - Each property and home has its own unique features. Trees, irregular terrain, or additional challenges may add to the difficulty of the installation. Using satellite imagery, solar installers can today assess your home and include these elements into the first cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Companies pay varying pay rates to their employees, which are then passed on to the prices consumers pay. Higher wages frequently lead to businesses getting better reviews for their services and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Local permitting and utility interconnection fees, which change by area, will impact your installation cost. Reputable local installers will include these figures in your first estimates to ensure transparency.

See what solar panels cost in other MI cities

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Who are the best solar installers in Auburn Hills?

YellowLite

Cleveland, OH(877) 743-8757

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Power Home Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.

Dividend Finance

San Francisco, CA(415) 805-7000

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Palmetto Solar

Charleston, SC(855) 339-1831

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Silver Sun Solar

Deltona, FL(340) 227-7785

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Harvest Solar

Jackson, MI(888) 907-6527

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Sunnova Energy

Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

GRNE Solar

Palatine, IL(312) 859-3417

Services

  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Ideal Energy

Fairfield, IA(800) 634-4454

Services

  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Altenergy

Charlottesville, VA(434) 293-3763

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

City Electric Supply

Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

PowerHome Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Cinci Home Solar

Cincinnati, OH(513) 616-6044

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Auburn Hills, MI Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • The average solar panel cost in Auburn Hills, MI as of October, 2024 is estimated at $3.91/W. Post federal tax credit, a 5 kW solar panel system installation in Auburn Hills, MI will roughly cost $13,685.

  • Right now, Michigan has 14 rebates and incentives available through a variety of utility companies and government entities. Also, nearly everyone can take advantage of the 30% federal tax credit.

  • Although cash payments provide the greatest savings, several financing options for solar panels now exist that are also cost-effective. Financing options are often provided by installers and may be included in your initial quotes.

  • Yes, the typical payback time for 5 kW solar panel systems in Auburn Hills, MI is 9 years, and the expected electricity cost savings over 20 years is $15,227.8.
King Manalo
Last Reviewed By: King Manalo
Published: 2024-10-01