Solar Panels Cost 5.2k-15k in Genesee County, MI | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $5.2k-$15k in Genesee County, MI | November, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Genesee County, MI in 2024?

In Genesee County, MI in November, 2024 you'll pay about $3.77 per watt to have solar panels.

Each 1 kW (1000 watts) of solar power capacounty will cost you $3,770 for installation. In Genesee County, a 5 kW solar panel install sets you back, on average, $13,195 after the 30% federal income tax credit. A 5kW system may not be big enough to fully meet your energy demands.

Select your county from the menu on the left to find the average roof size and maximum solar panel system capacity for homes in your area. Below, you can see a comprehensive 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.
Genesee County: $13,195US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Genesee County: 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.
Genesee County: $9,938US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in Genesee County

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Genesee County.

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

Electricity Costs in Genesee County, MI & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

In Genesee County, the monthly kWh usage for energy consumers averages 629 kWh, with an average electric bill of 119.95. It’s worth remembering that this figure encompasses apartments and other smaller living spaces that generally have less energy use.

Genesee County, MI's electricity rate is on average 19.07¢ per kWh in November 2024.

Upfront, a 6 kW solar panel system is priced at around $22,620, after a 30% federal tax credit, the final cost is $15,834.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Average solar panel costs by system size in Genesee County

On the left, you will find a price breakdown for different solar panel system sizes set up in Genesee County. The investment for a larger solar panel setup is higher, but it also offers more significant electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.

The solar panel cost calculator down and to the right analyzes costs and benefits, considering an average $119.95 electric bill in Genesee County For results that are customized, modify the $119.95 to match your average electricity bill.

System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $515 a year
Est. Price
$5,278
Savings from a 2kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 2,712 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $43
  • Full payback in 4 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.64 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 75 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 4,061 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $773 a year
Est. Price
$7,917
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,067 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $64
  • Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.46 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 113 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 6,091 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,030 a year
Est. Price
$10,556
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,423 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $86
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.28 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 151 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,121 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,288 a year
Est. Price
$13,195
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,779 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $107
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.1 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 188 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 10,151 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,546 a year
Est. Price
$15,834
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 8,135 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $120
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.59 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 211 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 11,349 mi less a year

Genesee County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

The REAP Grant can fund anywhere from 80% to 100% of the expenses associated with setting up solar energy or wind turbines for rural small businesses and farmlands. Confirm if you are eligible by trying our REAP Grant eligibility tool.

For those looking into residential solar, the 30% federal income tax credit is offered to most people, which makes solar a feasible option in many states. In conjunction with federal efforts, state and local programs help to promote the use of solar power.

In Michigan, 17 solar rebates and incentives are currently available from different utilities and government agencies.

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.

City of Ann Arbor - Green Power Purchasing

Value:Varies

The city of Ann Arbor is working toward a long-term goal of sourcing 100% of its energy from renewable means. Four initiatives support this goal, including community-choice power purchasing agreements, solar/wind system incentive programs, establishing community solar microgrids, and converting retired landfills into solar farms. Additional information is available from the Ann Arbor website.

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.

City of Grand Rapids - Green Building Requirements for Municipal Buildings

Value:Varies

Grand Rapids has adopted a local green building ordinance for municipal facilities. New public buildings and remodeling projects which affect at least 10,000 square feet or cost $1 million must meet or exceed LEED Silver certification or an equivalent standard. Existing buildings should draft plans to implement LEED-friendly improvements and "best practices", including procuring ENERGY STAR certified appliances and building materials when necessary. Additional information is available from the city website.

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.

City of Lansing - Green Power Purchasing Policy

Value:Varies

Lansing has established its own renewable portfolio standard goals. The city was required to source 20% of its energy from renewable means by 2020 and 50% by 2030. Additional measures set goals for reducing energy use by 10% in city buildings. Additional information is available from the Lansing municipal 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 Genesee County, MI?

For those in Genesee County looking to stay in their homes past the payback period of their solar system, solar panels make good sense. With a 5 kW solar system in Genesee County, MI, the average savings over a 20 period is $15,593, with break even typically occurring at 9 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Genesee County, MI

Not installing solar panels or any other backup energy system leads to missing the previously noted savings and full dependence on your electric utility for electricity. Recent news examples have shown that full reliance on your utility provider is not always ideal.

Every year, customers in Genesee County face approximately 0.96 outages each year. On average, each outage lasts for 176.38 minutes. Major events like wildfires, aging infrastructure, or vandalism can considerably extend these durations.

See the graphic below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Genesee County.

With or without a backup battery, a solar panel system could ease the stress of future power disruptions you might experience.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Genesee County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Genesee County, MI?

Your Energy Needs - Larger solar panel systems require more upfront investment, but the cost per watt drops as the size of the system expands. Many homeowners find it useful to install a system that can produce enough electricity to replace the entirety of their electric bill. This approach makes the most sense for optimal savings.

Make & Model - Similar to many other products, there are different makes and models of solar panels and mounting equipment on the market. The installer you choose may have specific brand preferences, so it's important to select a highly rated installer. Buyers who prioritize better models generally enjoy a better long-term experience.

Solar Panel Type - It's not surprising that monocrystalline panels are now the industry standard. Despite the higher price tag, these panels provide greater energy output. Most installation experts use panels made from this material.

Your Property - Trees, irregular terrain, or additional challenges can increase the difficulty of the installation. Many solar installers today are able to leverage satellite imagery to evaluate your home and factor in these aspects in the initial cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Differences in employee wages across companies lead to expenses that are transferred to the consumers. Businesses that pay higher wages often get higher reviews for their work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - The cost of installation will change depending on local permitting and utility interconnection fees. Experienced local installers will incorporate these numbers into your first quotes to avoid any surprises.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Who are the best solar installers in Genesee County?

YellowLite

Cleveland, OH(216) 333-1364

Services

  • 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.

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • 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.

Power Home Solar

Mooresville, NC(704) 870-3670

Services

  • 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.

Dividend Finance

Cincinnati, OH(415) 805-7000

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.

Palmetto Solar

Charleston, SC(855) 339-1831

Services

  • 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.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • 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(407) 832-42452

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.

Harvest Solar

Jackson, MI(888) 907-6527

Services

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

Sunnova Energy

Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

Services

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

GRNE Solar

Palatine, IL(312) 859-3417

Services

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

Entegrity

Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Ideal Energy

Fairfield, IA(800) 634-4454

Services

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

Altenergy

Charlottesville, VA(434) 293-3763

Services

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

City Electric Supply

Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • 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.

Genesee County, MI Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • During November, 2024, the average price for solar panel installations in Genesee County, MI is $3.77/W. Installing a 5 kW solar panel system in Genesee County, MI will cost approximately $13,195 after applying the federal tax credit.

  • If you live in Michigan, you can find 17 rebates and incentives through different utilities and government agencies. Furthermore, almost all individuals are entitled to the 30% federal income tax credit.

  • While paying cash provides the most savings, various financing options for solar panels exist that also make financial sense. Financing options from installers will often be detailed in your initial quotes.

  • Yes, the typical payback time for 5 kW solar panel systems in Genesee County, MI is 9 years, and the expected electricity cost savings over 20 years is $15,593.
Ginalyn Gelera
Last Reviewed By: Ginalyn Gelera
Published: 2024-11-04