Solar Panels Cost 2.5k-12k in Hartford, WI | October, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $2.5k-$12k in Hartford, WI | October, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Hartford, WI in 2024?

As of October, 2024, the current price to have solar panels installed in Hartford, WI is $3.61/W.

Utilizing this rate, expect the price to be $3,610, on average, for every 1000 watts (or 1 kW) of solar energy your solar system can produce. In Hartford, the price of a 5 kW solar system is generally $12,635, after you subtract 30% federal tax credit. However, keep in mind that you might need a more powerful system to adequately cover your energy requirements.

To your left, you have the option to choose your county and find the average roof size along with the average maximum capacity for solar panel installations on homes in your area. Displayed below is a breakdown of the costs, 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.
Hartford: $12,635US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Hartford: 13 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Hartford: $2,021US Average: $15,784

Solar Potential in Hartford

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

Roof size 894sq. ft.
Capacity 12.5kW DC
Electricity 13.9kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Hartford, WI & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

The typical monthly electric bill for Hartford residents is $83.63, with a typical usage of 595 kWh. These numbers cover apartments and other smaller housing units, which tend to have reduced energy needs.

The average rate for electricity in Hartford, WI during October, 2024 is 14.05¢ per kWh.

In Hartford, a system size of 5 kW or larger is a must for the typical energy user to satisfy all of their power needs. Currently, a 5 kW solar panel system is priced at around $12,635 after incentives.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Hartford

To the left and below, you'll find the cost breakdown for different sizes of the solar panel systems set up in Hartford. When you opt for a more extensive solar system, the cost is higher, but it also leads to more significant electricity savings and a larger income tax credit.

The calculator below and to the right gives a detailed summary of solar panel costs and benefits, based on an average electric bill of $83.63 in Hartford. To get customized results, just adjust the $83.63to reflect your usual electricity bill amount.

System Size 1kW
Roof Size Min. space required
72 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $200 a year
Est. Price
$2,527
Savings from a 1kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 1,429 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $17
  • Full payback in 3 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.18 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 54 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,930 mi less a year
System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $400 a year
Est. Price
$5,054
Savings from a 2kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 2,859 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $33
  • Full payback in 5 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.37 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 109 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 5,861 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $600 a year
Est. Price
$7,581
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,288 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $50
  • Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.55 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 163 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,791 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $800 a year
Est. Price
$10,108
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,718 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $67
  • Full payback in 10 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 4.74 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 217 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 11,721 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,001 a year
Est. Price
$12,635
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,147 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $83
  • Full payback in 13 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 5.92 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 272 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 14,652 mi less a year

Hartford Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

The financial burden of installing photovoltaic or wind turbines for rural farmlands and small businesses could be eased with the REAP Grant, covering 80% to 100% of the costs. Wondering if you fit this category? Verify your eligibility with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.

With the 30% federal income tax credit, almost everyone can benefit from residential solar, which makes it a logical option in many regions in the United States. Together with federal efforts, state and local programs help to encourage the use of solar power.

Wisconsin provides 12 solar rebates and incentives from multiple utility companies and government agencies.

Solar incentives in WI

Renewable Energy Competitive Incentive Program

Value:Up to $500,000

Through Wisconsin's Focus on Energy program, nonprofits and public-sector agencies may receive grants to fund large-scale renewable energy investments. The current grant amount is variable per kilowatt hour for power generation or per kBTU for thermal systems. There are two requests for proposals (RFPs) opened annually. Organizations must include the technical specifications for their planned equipment, estimated energy/cost savings, and a suggested funding amount based on rate schedule guidelines. Additional information is available from the Focus on Energy website.

Design Assistance Program

Value:Up to $0.15

Through Wisconsin's Focus on Energy program, architects, building engineers, contractors, and property owners may be incentivized for meeting green construction standards. Qualifying projects include walls, lighting, windows/doors, insulation/weatherization, HVAC, water heating, and new renewable energy equipment. Awards are paid on a per-property basis; any home, business, or industrial facility may qualify. The current rebate amount is based on energy efficiency at a rate per kilowatt hour saved. Builders will receive a rebate during construction; property owners will receive their smaller rebate after construction is complete.

Renewable Rewards Program

Value:Up to $1,000

Wisconsin homeowners may be eligible for rebates on new solar PV/thermal and geothermal devices. For solar panels, the current rebate stands at $500 per array. Business customers are eligible for similar incentives but will be paid a capacity-based rebate. The maximum possible rebate is currently $1,000 for homes and $50,000 for businesses. Additional information is available from the Focus on Energy website.

Renewable Energy Sales Tax Exemptions

Value:Varies

Wisconsin sales/use tax exemptions apply to biofuel for residential energy production. Qualifying purchases include some agricultural crops, landfill gas, pellets, and wood chips/pellets/sawdust. Components used to store biofuels are not eligible for the exemption. Interested customers should submit a completed form S-211 to their retailer, who will apply for the exemption and offer a discount. Additional information and the necessary paperwork are available from the state Department of Revenue.

Net Metering

Value:Varies

In Wisconsin, all private and local public electrical utilities are required to offer net metering to their interconnected renewable customers up to a maximum quota. Cooperatives may participate in net metering, but they are not required to offer it. Any system up to 300 kW is eligible. Upon entering a net metering contract, the customer's utility will install a bidirectional meter to measure net excess generation (NEG) sent back to the grid. Customers will receive either monthly or annual bill credits for the NEG they export at a fixed, avoided-cost rate. Fees and capacity limits may apply. The Public Service Commission reserves the right to alter any net metering or energy tariff program.

Renewable Portfolio Standard

Value:Varies

Wisconsin first established a renewable portfolio standard in 1999. Initial goals required at least 10% of the state's retail electricity to be generated using renewable technology. New specific goals have never been implemented, but utilities are nonetheless obligated to increase their renewable energy activities at a rate of 6% per year. Carve-out provisions apply to keep most renewable investments within state lines. Compliance is measured using renewable energy credit (REC) and renewable resource credit (RRC) systems pegging one megawatt hour of electricity to a fluctuating dollar value. Utilities may generate credits through the use of their own renewable installations or purchase them through tariff arrangements and power purchase agreements. Each credit expires after four years of use.

Focus on Energy - Business & Marketing Grant

Value:Varies

Focus on Energy grant funding is available for Wisconsin businesses making new renewable energy investments or energy efficiency improvements. The maximum available grant is $10,000 to fund half of project costs. Eligible projects include new solar, wind, or biomass energy systems not involved in academic or corporate research and development. Grants may also support professional training and marketing initiatives. To apply, the business should be located in a participating utility's service area and submit a successful proposal. Additional information is available from the Focus on Energy website.

Energy Innovation Grant Program

Value:Varies

Wisconsin Energy Innovation grants are available to local governments, public schools, and manufacturing businesses making renewable energy investments or energy efficiency improvements. The Public Service Commission keeps an annual grant budget of roughly $5 million to award in proportion. Grants can fund new generation/energy storage equipment, sustainable transportation, and engineering reviews/project studies. Application periods, known as requests for proposals, are opened annually. Additional information is available on the Public Service Commission's website.

Interconnection Standards

Value:Varies

Distributed generation and grid interconnection practices have been standardized in Wisconsin since 2004. Each new solar, wind, or other renewable energy system is sorted into one of four regulatory "categories" based on capacity. Category 1 ends at 20 kW, Category 2 at 200 kW, and Category 3 at one megawatt. The category of a system will determine the UL/IEEE standards it must follow and the rigor of its permitting process, including application fees and review turnaround time. The state requires all system owners, even of Category 1 systems, to hold minimum liability insurance coverage of more than $300,000 per occurrence. Utilities may further require the installation of external disconnect switches, but may not charge additional fees or require additional regulatory reviews beyond what is necessary. Additional information is available from the Wisconsin Public Service Commission.

Public Benefits Fund

Value:Varies

In 1999, the Wisconsin legislature first established a public benefits fund for renewable energy and energy efficiency among low-income residents. The fund's day-to-day business is managed by a public/private partnership between Focus on Energy and the Department of Administration. Current fund initiatives support incentives, loans, and grants to home and business owners. Funding is sourced through both consumer surcharges and mandatory utility "buy-ins." Additional information is available from the Focus on Energy website.

Energy Efficiency and Green Building Standards for State Buildings

Value:Varies

Public buildings in Wisconsin are subject to sustainability and green construction standards set by the state's Department of Administration. Standards apply to new and existing buildings. New buildings must demonstrate energy efficiency of at least 30% above the state's commercial building codes, themselves based on LEED standards. Remodeling projects in existing facilities should procure only those building materials and appliances which have earned ENERGY STAR certification or which meet EPA/ASHRAE standards. Additional information, including compliance reports, is available from the Department of Administration.

Focus on Energy Program

Value:Varies

Wisconsin Focus on Energy (FoE) is a public benefits fund providing a central management infrastructure for energy efficiency and renewable energy incentive and financing programs. Utilities may tap from the fund to support loans, grants, rebates, and educational initiatives. Funding is supported through customer surcharges and mandatory utility "buy-ins." Additional information is available from the FoE website.

Are solar panels worth it in Wisconsin?

When you plan to live in your home beyond the payback period of your solar system, solar panels are an obvious choice in Hartford. With a 5 kW solar system in Hartford, WI, the average savings over a 20 period is $7,436.2, with break even generally occurring at 13 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Hartford, WI

The absence of solar panels or another backup power source results in missing out on the aforementioned savings and full dependence on your electric utility for power. Several recent examples in the news have shown that full reliance on your utility company is not always ideal.

Over the past few years, customers in Hartford have experienced an average of 0.83 utility outages each year. On average, each outage lasts for 114.75 minutes. Major events like grid management errors, thunderstorms or planned maintenance can considerably extend these durations.

A solar energy system, whether it includes a backup battery or not, could help relieve the burden of future power outages you may encounter.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Washington County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Hartford, WI?

Your Energy Needs - The price per watt decreases with larger solar panel systems, even though the upfront cost is greater. Most homeowners see the advantage in installing a solar setup that can generate enough power to replace their entire electric bill, ensuring significant savings.

Make & Model - Solar panels and mounting equipment are offered in a wide variety of makes and models. The brand preferences of your chosen installer can make it essential to choose a reputable company. Selecting superior quality models generally provides a more favorable long-term experience for the buyer.

Solar Panel Type - It's clear why monocrystalline panels are now the go-to choice in the industry. Although they are costlier, they generate increased energy. Many installers use panels constructed of this material.

Your Property - Uneven land, trees, or other challenges can increase the complexity of the installation. Nowadays, satellite images allow many solar installers to assess your home and incorporate these elements into the first cost estimate.

Labor Rates - The wages that companies offer their employees are different, and these expenses are ultimately reflected in consumer prices. It is common for businesses that provide higher wages to receive better reviews for their services and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - The cost of installation will vary depending on local permitting and utility interconnection fees. Quality installers will factor these costs into your preliminary quotes to prevent unexpected expenses.

See what solar panels cost in other WI cities

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Who are the best solar installers in Hartford?

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

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

SunVest Solar

Pewaukee, WI(262) 547-1200

Services

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

Micrometer Engineering

Scottsdale, AZ(602) 790-5749

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Endries Solar & Electric

Sheboygan, WI(920) 889-8955

Services

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

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.

Eagle Point Solar

Dubuque, IA(563) 582-4044

Services

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

Palmetto Solar

Charleston, SC(855) 339-1831

Services

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

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

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

Silver Sun Solar

Deltona, FL(340) 227-7785

Services

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

Generac

Waukesha, WI(888) 436-3722

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

ConEdison Solutions

Valhalla CDP, NY(914) 286-7000

Services

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

Bright Skies

Pleasant Grove, UT(608) 293-1163

Services

  • Reparation of batteries.
  • 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

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

Olson Solar Energy

Onalaska, WI(608) 780-2347

Services

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

Sunrun

San Francisco, CA(833) 394-3384

Services

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

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

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.

Current Electric

Wauwatosa, WI(262) 214-5598

Services

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

DT Solar

(888) 984-6786

Services

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

Hartford, WI Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • In October, 2024, the typical price per watt for solar panels in Hartford, WI is $3.61/W. Installing a 5 kW solar panel system in Hartford, WI will cost approximately $12,635 after applying the federal tax credit.
  • Utilities and government agencies in Wisconsin are currently offering 12 different rebates and incentives. Additionally, the vast majority qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
  • Paying cash offers the most savings, but there are now multiple financing options for solar panels that are also advantageous. Information about financing options will often be included in your preliminary quotes by many installers.
  • Yes, homeowners in Hartford, WI generally see a payback time of 13 years for 5 kW solar panel systems, with electricity savings averaging $7,436.2 over a 20-year period.
King Manalo
Last Reviewed By: King Manalo
Published: 2024-10-01