Solar power in the United States has grown from 0.34 GW in 2008 to an estimated 97.2 gigawatts. Going solar is more accessible and affordable than ever before.
If you are thinking about solar panel installation in Michigan, there are things you should know first. Keep reading to understand the costs associated with solar systems and how the process unfolds.
Understanding Solar Power
Solar panel installation in Michigan first involves learning about solar power. Work out whether or not going solar makes sense for you financially.
To do this, you’ll want to calculate:
- Cost of a solar panel system
- How much energy solar produces
- What you would pay with the same amount of energy through a utility
- How many years it takes for the upfront investment to pay off
If the system can pay for itself in five years or less, it’s typically a good investment.
However, you need the upfront capital or will have to wait longer to save money for the system. You can also take out solar loans or look into other financing options.
Cost Of A Solar Panel System
The cost of going solar in Michigan might be different for your home than your neighbor’s. To help you further decide if it’s a good investment, figure out the cost of a solar panel system.
On average, the upfront cost of a residential solar power system is anywhere from $3,000-$16,000. The variation depends on the types of solar panels you choose and the size of your home.
The upfront price of going solar can also depend on Michigan solar incentives. These credits can help homeowners looking to go further in the solar panel installation process.
Cost Of Energy Production
How much energy does your home currently produce? This is an important question to answer to decide if going solar is the right choice for you.
Take a look at your energy bills and work with a solar professional who can help you calculate potential solar production.
Your home needs to be in the right spot to receive solar panels. You’ll get the most bang for your buck when solar panels are facing the sun.
Solar Energy Savings
When you calculate the cost of a solar panel system and how much energy your home produces, you can theoretically figure out how much you can save going solar.
This is a tricky calculation because it will depend on how much you pay for electricity. Utilities might charge a flat rate no matter the time of consumption, which can make things more complicated.
How beneficial solar panels will be to homeowners is based on the rate changes under a solar plan.
Solar Panel Installation In Michigan
Michigan solar panel installation is a longer process than homeowners realize. Before your home can start using solar electricity, there are different steps that need to be completed.
Here is a basic outline of the solar panel installation process:
1. Engineering Site Visit
Before you sign a solar contract, an engineer will visit your home to evaluate:
- System size
- Roof type
- Angle of rood
- Shading
Once you find a solar installer within the state, they will provide you with a contract. An engineer will then come to your property to evaluate its current electrical status.
The engineer works with the installer or an independent contractor from the solar company you sign with. This site visit occurs soon after you sign your contract.
An engineer will evaluate your electrical panel to see if it needs updates. It’s important to note that this visit is different from the general site visit that the engineer completes before the signing of the purchase agreement.
2. Permits And Documents
Much of the paperwork required to install solar panels is completed by your solar installer. Although this is the case, it’s a good idea to ask about the paperwork to understand what’s going on.
While they handle the permits, you can fill out other paperwork necessary to apply for state and federal solar incentives.
The timeframe of this step depends on how long it takes your solar installer to finish the documentation. Follow up with the installer if you are eager to get your solar panel system.
3. Ordering Equipment
The installer will order your equipment once the paperwork is complete. The two primary components you’ll need are solar panels and inverters.
Choosing your equipment happens before you sign your agreement. To be certain you’ve chosen correctly for your system, do your research and talk to an engineer during the initial visit.
4. Solar Installation
When the equipment arrives, you are prepared for solar installation day! The installation can take up to three days depending on how large your system is.
If an installer has to put in a power meter for net metering purposes, this adds a few extra hours to your total installation time.
5. Approval And Interconnection
The final step of going solar is flipping the switch and turning on your panels. After the system has been installed, a representative from your town government will inspect the system and approve it.
They will inspect the system themselves to verify that the wiring is effective and the solar panel mounts are secure. Their main goal is to figure out if the overall installation meets quality electric standards and building codes.
Once the inspector gives you the thumbs up, a utility company representative will complete a final evaluation of your system. If there are no issues, your solar panels will be ready for grid interconnection and go live.
It can take weeks and sometimes months for the town and utility to approve your new system.
Is Going Solar Right For You?
Solar panel installation in Michigan is a huge investment. To make sure it’s right for your home, you’ll need to calculate different costs before reaching out to a solar installer.
Once you agree on a contract with an installation company, you can go through and complete the installation process.
For more informative articles like this, check out the other posts on our website.
