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Best Solar Companies in Detroit, Michigan

We compared 6 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Blue Raven Solar
      4.7(263)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.8(77)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best Solar Companies in Detroit, Michigan

      Our top solar company picks for Detroit

      1. Best overall: Blue Raven Solar
      2. Competitive pricing: Project Solar
      3. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies in Detroit based on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how ConsumerAffairs makes solar company recommendations.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,571,386 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies in Detroit

      Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Detroiters’ energy needs.

      Blue Raven Solar

      4.7
      263 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease, PPA
      Year founded
      2014
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation

      We've talked to more than 200 verified Blue Raven Solar customers across the country over a recent two-year period — more than 90% were satisfied with their installation and setup.

      Overall, the company stands out for its exceptional service, reliable equipment and good value. We also like that it provides free consultations and custom solar panel systems tailored to your home's energy consumption and roof specifications.

      • “When we first had a representative at our door about the solar system, we knew it would be a good purchase. Everything was explained very professionally, and nothing felt like it was being forced towards purchase. When we decided to go for it, everything from the contract to the installation was very fast and on time! Everybody did an awesome job!” — Dong Min in Madison Heights

      Blue Raven Solar gets positive feedback from most customers. However, we have heard some complaints about installation issues, including delays in turning on the system, from reviewers in other states.

      Blue Raven installs solar panels, storage batteries and microinverters to maximize energy production. It is currently available in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Lansing.

      • Services: The company handles the entire installation process, from obtaining permits to connecting your system to the grid. Monitoring to track your system's performance and maintenance or repair services are available as needed.
      • Warranty information: All systems have a 25-year panel guarantee and a two-year production guarantee. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer.
      • Payment options: You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system. There’s also a unique in-house payment option with no upfront costs, BluePower Plus+, which combines the best aspects of a solar lease with the flexibility of system ownership.

      Pros

      • Efficient installation process
      • Zero-down financing
      • Production guarantee
      • Excellent customer service

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some complaints about miscommunication
      Our pick for competitive pricing

      Project Solar

      4.8
      77 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2016

      Project Solar reps focus on simple, streamlined installations. The no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious clients who want either professional services or do-it-yourself options. We also appreciate the price transparency. Full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt.

      Over a recent two-year period, 94% of customers we talked to said they were satisfied with the price. Satisfaction ratings on customer service and technology were also above industry averages.

      • “Project Solar sold me the equipment and I did the installation. They have some videos that I watched that were helpful. I looked at the actual equipment manufacturer's installation instructions as well. Everything was clear and straightforward.” — Joshua in Adrian

      The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about some delays due to material shortages or supply chain issues.

      Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase.

      • Services: Reps can handle the necessary paperwork, engineering plans and permit submissions for the installation. You can get a free online quote and explore sizing options for their homes.
      • Warranty information: There is a 25-year manufacturer’s and 10-year workmanship warranty. Both are limited and have exclusions like weather damage or misuse.
      • Payment options: Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer financing solutions for professional solar installations. DIY customers can pay cash or finance through a third-party lender.

      Pros

      • Easy sign-up process
      • Transparent pricing
      • High-quality equipment
      • Great value

      Cons

      • Occasional miscommunications
      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      157 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Panel warranty
      Varies
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2018
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment and fast deliveries. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

      • “Everything was pretty straightforward. I bought them and everything arrived sooner than they thought it was going to. I had some problems when I was setting it up and they worked me through it. Today, I was on the phone with them because I had some questions and they were pretty helpful.” — Steve in Shelby Township

      Some customers have told us about problems with damaged equipment. On the bright side, reps try to quickly resolve these issues with refunds or replacements.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      • Services: Reps can help you design a custom solar system based on your specific energy requirements. The company doesn't offer direct installation services, but online tutorials and video guides are available.
      • Warranty information: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by individual manufacturers’ warranties.
      • Payment options: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International. It also partners with Affirm to offer financing options.

      Pros

      • Great for RVs and outbuildings
      • Price-match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

      How we chose the best solar companies in Detroit

      We took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the humid continental climate, to choose the best solar companies in Detroit, Michigan, based on the following key features and respective weightings:

      • Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      • Warranty terms: 20%
      • Equipment selection: 20%
      • Financing and payment options: 20%

      » MORE: Full methodology

      Detroit solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Michiganders who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Detroit residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with government incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $32,079 in Detroit.

      Jump to insight

      Solar loans, leases and other programs make it easy to go solar with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers in Detroit may falsely claim to be affiliated with a Wayne County or Michigan government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Detroit

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $11,025 to $31,500 in Michigan. Prices in Detroit are comparable, ranging from $11,445 to $32,700.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Detroit household needs a system with a capacity of 9.81 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Detroit

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment.

      • Solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright. The Michigan Saves Home Energy Financing program can also help residential renewable energy projects, including solar panel installations.
      • Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Is solar worth it in Detroit?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Michigan if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. Detroit’s high electricity rates make going solar an especially attractive option. On average, Detroit homeowners with solar panels can avoid $53,663 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 11 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator. Just keep in mind that with cloudy winters, it’s beneficial to have a system designed to maximize summer production to cover winter usage.

      Potential roof problems

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Detroit

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Michigan have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: In Michigan, a mechanical contractor license is required when solar equipment includes a heating element. You can verify an installer's credentials through the state's Licensing and Regulatory Affairs database or search for qualified contracts through the Michigan Saves program. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others — this may indicate lower quality.
      • Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      Solar incentives in Detroit

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for most homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. You might be able to combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Michigan to maximize savings.

      Detroit solar FAQ

      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Detroit?

      Local permits are generally required for most residential solar panel installations in Detroit. 

      » GREENEST STATES: Michigan ranked 44th in 2024

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      No. A new law requires HOAs to allow rooftop solar installations in Detroit.

      How does net metering work in Detroit?

      Throughout Michigan, net metering allows residents with renewable energy systems up to 150 kW to receive credits for excess energy sent to the grid. These credits can be used to offset future energy costs. If you produce more electricity than you consume over a billing period, you receive a credit at the retail rate, which rolls over monthly. Local net metering policies are currently under scrutiny, so it’s crucial to understand the current compensation rates.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Michigan ranked 40th in 2024

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Detroit?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Detroit. You can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with minimal upfront costs, but there is usually an ongoing monthly fee. In general, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.

      How does a power purchase agreement work?

      A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis. It’s typically a fixed price, with a cheaper cents/kWh rate than traditional utilities have for the same amount of electricity.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Detroit

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Detroit, Michigan. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Detroit customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 20%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      ConsumerAffairs Research Team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Blue Raven Solar
      2. Project Solar
      3. ShopSolar

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide Sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Detroit, MI." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        2. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Michigan Solar." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        3. DSIRE, "Michigan Programs." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        4. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Michigan." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.
        6. Michigan Public Service Commission, “Distributed Generation.” Accessed Oct. 19, 2024.

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