Solar Panels Cost 5.2k-15k in Big Rapids, MI | October, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $5.2k-$15k in Big Rapids, MI | October, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Big Rapids, MI in 2024?

In October, 2024 in Big Rapids, MI you'll pay about $3.75/W to get solar installed.

Stemming from the cost, expect the cost to be $3,750, on average, for every 1 kW (or 1000 watts) of solar energy your panels can generate. When you subtract the 30% federal tax credit, you will pay approximately $13,125, in Big Rapids, for a 5 kW panel install. Keep in mind that a higher capacity system could be essential to meet your energy demands.

Use the left-hand menu to select your area and find out the typical roof size and the maximum generation capacity for residential solar on homes in your county. Below, you can see a detailed outline of the costs, payback period, and 20-year typical savings for a 5 kW system in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Big Rapids: $13,125US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Big Rapids: 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.
Big Rapids: $9,580US Average: $15,784

Solar Potential in Big Rapids

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Big Rapids.

Roof size 644sq. ft.
Capacity 9kW DC
Electricity 9.7kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Big Rapids, MI & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

The typical kWh usage for a Big Rapids resident is 621 monthly, with an average electric bill of $118.04. It’s essential to recognize that this figure reflects the energy consumption of apartments and other smaller residences.

For October 2024, the mean electricity rate in Big Rapids, MI is 19¢ per kWh.

The average energy user in Big Rapids has to have a 6 kW or more solar setup to account for their entire power consumption needs. At this time, a 6 kW solar panel installation will set you back about $22,500at first, but thanks to the 30% federal tax credit, you receive 30% back, bringing the cost down to $15,750.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Big Rapids

Located below and to the left, you can find the cost summary for different sizes of solar panel systems set up in Big Rapids. When you select a more extensive solar system, the cost is greater, but it also yields more significant electricity savings and a larger income tax credit.

The calculator to the right and below provides a detailed summary of solar panel costs and benefits, based on an average electric bill of $118.04 in Big Rapids. Change the $118.04 to your typical electricity bill payment for results that fit your situation.

System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $519 a year
Est. Price
$5,250
Savings from a 2kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 2,734 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $43
  • Full payback in 4 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.52 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 70 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 3,754 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $779 a year
Est. Price
$7,875
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,101 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $65
  • Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.27 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 104 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 5,630 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,039 a year
Est. Price
$10,500
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,468 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $87
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.03 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 139 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 7,507 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,299 a year
Est. Price
$13,125
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,835 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $108
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.79 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 174 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,384 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,558 a year
Est. Price
$15,750
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 8,202 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $118
  • 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

Big Rapids Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

For rural small businesses and agricultural properties, the REAP Grant could provide funding that covers between 80% and 100% of the necessary expenses for installing renewable energy systems. Think you might qualify? Use our REAP Grant eligibility tool to confirm your eligibility.

The federal government offers a 30% tax credit for residential solar systems, making solar attractive and practical for a variety of homeowners. Moreover, several state and local programs are in place to further encourage the adoption of solar energy.

In Michigan, 14 solar rebates and incentives are currently available from various utilities and government organizations.

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?

When you intend to live in your home beyond the payback period of your solar system, solar panels are an excellent choice in Big Rapids. In Big Rapids, MI, the installation of a 5 kW solar system can save you an average of $15,204.6 over 20 years, with an average break even point of 9 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Big Rapids, MI

Beyond forgoing the savings discussed previously, not installing solar panels or another form of backup power results in you being completely dependent on your electric utility. The media has demonstrated several cases where total dependence on your utility isn't always ideal.

In recent years, the utilities in Big Rapids have had about 0.96 outages per customer each year. Outages generally last for an average of 181.99 minutes. During major occurrences like vandalism, equipment failure or thunderstorms, these times can extend significantly.

Whether a backup battery is included or not, a solar panel system could reduce the burden of potential future outages.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Mecosta County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Big Rapids, MI?

Your Energy Needs - Even though larger solar panel systems are more expensive initially, the average price per watt lowers as the system size grows. For most consumers, installing a system that can generate enough power to reduce their entire electric bill is beneficial, providing significant savings.

Make & Model - There are a range of makes and models of solar panels. Picking an contractor with specific brand preferences means it's even more important important to go with a recommended company. The choice of high-quality models can substantially improve the long-term experience for buyers.

Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels have earned their place as the industry standard, and for good reasons. Even with a higher cost, this technology produce more energy. The majority of installers choose panels constructed using this material.

Your Property - Each property and residence is unique. Issues like uneven land, trees, or other obstructions may add to the complexity of the installation. Currently, most solar installers can assess your home using satellite images and incorporate these elements for the initial cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Companies pay their employees in varying amounts, and these costs are passed down to consumers. It is typical for businesses that offer higher wages to garner better reviews for their services and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Local permitting and utility level interconnection fees differ by area and will impact your final install price. Quality local installers will incorporate these figures into your first estimates to eliminate any surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other MI cities

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Who are the best solar installers in Big Rapids?

YellowLite

Cleveland, OH(877) 743-8757

Services

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

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

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

Power Home Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

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

Dividend Finance

San Francisco, CA(415) 805-7000

Services

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

Palmetto Solar

Charleston, SC(855) 339-1831

Services

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

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

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

Silver Sun Solar

Deltona, FL(340) 227-7785

Services

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

Harvest Solar

Jackson, MI(888) 907-6527

Services

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

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

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

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

Ideal Energy

Fairfield, IA(800) 634-4454

Services

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

Altenergy

Charlottesville, VA(434) 293-3763

Services

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

City Electric Supply

Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

Services

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

PowerHome Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

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

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.

Big Rapids, MI Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • During October, 2024, the average price for solar panel installations in Big Rapids, MI is $3.75/W. A 5 kW solar panel system will cost you around $13,125 in Big Rapids, MI after the federal tax credit is applied.

  • If you live in Michigan, you can find 14 rebates and incentives through different utilities and government agencies. Additionally, almost everyone is entitled to the 30% federal income tax credit.

  • Cash payments provide the greatest savings, but numerous financing options for solar panels that are financially advantageous are now available. Financing partners are often associated with many installers, and this will be detailed in your initial quotes.

  • Yes, the payback period for 5 kW solar energy systems in Big Rapids, MI averages 9 years, with electricity savings of about $15,204.6 over 20 years.
King Manalo
Last Reviewed By: King Manalo
Published: 2024-10-01