Solar Panels Cost 5.3k-16k in Wayne County, MI | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $5.3k-$16k in Wayne County, MI | November, 2024

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

In Wayne County, MI in November, 2024, the current price per watt for solar is estimated at $3.82/W

This means that, solar panels will cost you approximately, on average, $3,820 per 1 kW (or 1000 watts) of generation capacounty. When you subtract the 30% federal tax credit, you can expect to spend about $13,370 for a 5 kW solar setup in Wayne County. However, it’s vital to take into account that a bigger system may be required to fully meet your energy needs.

On the left-hand side, pick your county to access information on the average roof size and the average maximum capacity for solar panel systems on homes within your area. Displayed below is a summary of the price, payback period, and 20-year average 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.
Wayne County: $13,370US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Wayne 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.
Wayne County: $10,300US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in Wayne County

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

Roof size 447sq. ft.
Capacity 6.25kW DC
Electricity 7kkWh AC per yr.

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

The average electricity consumption in Wayne County is 609 kWh per month, leading to a 122.50 monthly electric bill average. Smaller dwellings, such as condos and apartments, are also included in the statistics mentioned in the prior sentence.

The mean rate for electricity in Wayne County, MI in November, 2024 is 20.12¢ per kWh.

The projected cost for a 6 kW setup comes to $22,920 upfront, but after a 30% federal tax credit, the price is $16,044.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Wayne County

To the left and below, the pricing details for different sizes of solar panel systems installed in Wayne County can be seen. Bigger solar installations carry a larger expense, yet they also offer greater electricity savings and more generous income tax credits.

The cost and benefit breakdown for solar panels, presented in the calculator below and to the right, is based on an average electric bill of $122.50 in Wayne County. For tailored results, change the $122.50 to what your average electricity bill is.

System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $551 a year
Est. Price
$5,348
Savings from a 2kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 2,756 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $46
  • Full payback in 4 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.68 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 77 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 4,148 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $827 a year
Est. Price
$8,022
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,135 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $69
  • Full payback in 5 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.51 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 115 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 6,223 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,103 a year
Est. Price
$10,696
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,513 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $92
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.35 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 154 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,297 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,378 a year
Est. Price
$13,370
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,891 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $115
  • Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.19 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 192 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 10,371 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,654 a year
Est. Price
$16,044
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 8,269 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $123
  • Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.49 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 206 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 11,107 mi less a year

Wayne County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

If you're a rural small business or farm owner, you might be eligible for REAP Grant coverage of between 80% and 100% for your photovoltaic or wind turbine project. If you think you might be in this category, we suggest checking your qualification with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.

For those considering residential solar options, a 30% federal income tax credit is broadly available, increasing the appeal and practicality of solar energy in various areas in the nation. Together with federal efforts, state and local programs help to support the use of solar power.

A total of 17 solar incentive and rebate initiatives are available in Michigan from different utilities and government bodies.

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 Wayne County, MI?

For homeowners in Wayne County expecting to remain in their homes after the payback period for solar panels, solar energy is a logical choice. A 5 kW solar system in Wayne County, MI might save you an average of $16,030 over 20 years, with the break even point typically being 9 years.

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

Not installing solar panels or any other backup energy system leads to missing the earlier mentioned savings and full dependence on your electric utility for electricity. As recent examples in the news have shown, total dependence on your utility provider isn't always the best idea.

Residents in Wayne County have encountered an average of 0.85 utility outages per year in recent times. On average, each outage lasts for 156.84 minutes. Major events like winter storms, construction accidents, or equipment failure can considerably extend these durations.

See the info below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Wayne County.

Regardless of whether featuring a backup battery or not, a solar panel system can alleviate the strain of possible future outages.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Wayne County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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

Your Energy Needs - Larger solar panel systems have a larger initial cost, yet the average cost per watt falls as the system size expands. Most consumers see the benefit in installing a solar setup that can produce enough power to replace their entire electric bill, ensuring significant savings.

Make & Model - Solar panels and mounting equipment, like many other products, are available in a variety of makes and models. Given the certain system preferences an contractor might have, choosing a reputable contractor is crucial. The utilization of better equipment is likely to yield a more satisfactory long-term experience for buyers.

Solar Panel Type - It's no surprise that monocrystalline panels are now the standard in the industry. These panels cost more but produce more energy. Most installers in the industry work with panels crafted from this material.

Your Property - No two properties or homes are identical. Trees, rough terrain, or other challenges can increase the difficulty of the installation. Nowadays, the majority of solar installers can evaluate your home with satellite images and include these factors in the preliminary cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Various wages are paid to employees by various companies, and these expenses are passed on to the consumers. Companies often get higher reviews for their services and customer service when they pay higher wages.

Permitting & Interconnection - Your final installation price will be impacted by the permitting and utility interconnection fees, which change by area. Reputable local installers will integrate these numbers into your initial quotes to prevent any surprises.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Who are the best solar installers in Wayne 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.

Wayne County, MI Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • In November, 2024, the typical price per watt for solar panels in Wayne County, MI is $3.82/W. The cost of installing a 5 kW solar panel system in Wayne County, MI is about $13,370post federal tax credit.

  • Michigan offers 17 different rebates and incentives from a range of utilities and government organizations. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.

  • Paying cash provides the most savings, yet there are several financing options available today for solar panels that are also financially sensible. Financing details are often provided by installers and may be included in your initial quotes.

  • Yes, on average, 5 kW solar panels in Wayne County, MI pay for themselves in 9 years, with homeowners saving approximately $16,030 on electricity over 20 years.
Matt Hope
Last Reviewed By: Matt Hope
Published: 2024-11-04