Best Solar Companies in Madison, WI

The best solar companies in Madison

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

How we chose the best solar companies in Madison

We took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the humid continental climate, to choose the best solar companies in Madison, Wisconsin, 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

We’ve talked to several Wisconsinites who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Madison 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.

Solar panel costs in Madison

A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $10,850 to $31,000 in Wisconsin. Prices in Madison are comparable, ranging from $10,780 to $30,800.

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 or if you don’t opt into Madison’s net metering program.

System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Madison household needs a system with a capacity of 9.66 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 Madison

How can I pay for solar panels?

Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease.

• 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.
• 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: Buy vs. lease

Is solar worth it in Madison?

Solar panels are generally worth it in Wisconsin if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Madison homeowners with solar panels can avoid $55,524 in total utility costs over 25 years.

Switching to solar is also worth considering for the environmental benefits. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 10.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

Madison has a mix of older and newer homes. Ensure your roof is in good condition to support solar panels and won't need replacing soon, which can add to costs.

When selecting a solar contractor, it's essential to ensure they are reputable and experienced. Begin by consulting trusted sources, such as RENEW Wisconsin's list of recommended installers. Obtain at least three proposals to compare options effectively. Verify the contractor's licensing, insurance, and certifications, such as NABCEP accreditation. Additionally, check for positive reviews from independent platforms like the Better Business Bureau. Before finalizing, review the contract thoroughly, ensuring clarity on total costs, payment schedules, warranties, and cancellation policies. If uncertainties arise, consider reaching out to organizations like RENEW Wisconsin for guidance.

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.

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 again. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

» SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

How to find a reputable solar company in Madison

In our experience, the best solar companies in Wisconsin have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Watch out for door-to-door solar scams that attempt to gather your personal information, misleading claims, false advertising and aggressive sales tactics.

• Check certifications: RENEW Wisconsin keeps a database of reliable solar installers. 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.
• 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.

» TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

Going solar in Dane County

Madison has a history of supporting solar energy, with policies aimed at making it more accessible and affordable for residents. The city focuses on ensuring equitable access to solar, with programs and initiatives aimed at low- and moderate-income households.

» BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Wisconsin ranked 36th in 2024

Residential solar panel incentives in Madison

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 can combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Wisconsin to maximize savings. For instance, you might be eligible for rebates through Focus On Energy, which partners with Wisconsin utilities.

You also don't have to pay sales tax on solar equipment, and there is a property tax exemption. A solar property tax exemption means that — for tax purposes — the addition of a solar energy system won't result in an increase in your property's assessed value. Essentially, your property tax bill won't go up because your solar panels increase your home’s market value.

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 Madison, Wisconsin. 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 Madison 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. Freedom Solar Power
2. ION Solar
3. ShopSolar