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Best Solar Companies in Michigan

We compared 78 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Blue Raven Solar
      4.7(263)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best Solar Companies in Michigan

      A typical solar panel installation in Michigan costs between $11,025 and $31,500, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money. Let’s ensure your installation is reliable, efficient and suitable for Michigan’s climate.

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. 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 we make solar company recommendations.

      Our top solar company picks

      Blue Raven and SunPower are both worth considering for residential installations — we suggest comparing quotes to see who has the best deal for you. If you already know what you need for a do-it-yourself project, start with ShopSolar.

      1. Our top pick overall: Blue Raven Solar
      2. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar
      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
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      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies reviewed

      Blue Raven Solar

      4.7
      263 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2014
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation

      With customizable solar suited for Michigan homes and hassle-free financing, Blue Raven Solar makes the switch to solar a sunny experience. Installers typically run the conduit on the interior of the house, which gives your home a sleek, modern look. The company also has an affordable financing option that combines aspects of a solar lease with solar panel ownership.

      The company's installation crews and customer service impress Blue Raven customers in Michigan.

      • “We recently purchased a solar roof system and are very impressed with how installation went. All the paperwork and permits were taken care of and on the day of installation the installers were able to trouble-shoot any issues that came up so everything was completed within the stated time frame. Very efficient, no hassle sale process. No hard sales. Just good facts.” — David in Haslett, MI

      • “Great team approach & excellent communication. Easy to work with, clear process of installation and implementation. I had Solar with a different company at a prior home & there were a lot of issues. Everything was smooth & clear with Blue Raven! Love doing something great for the environment and my pocketbook!” — Joy in Plymouth, MI

      • “The installation crew for the solar panels was amazing. They worked quickly and efficiently in the rain, and had everything installed in one day. They were cheerful, friendly. And confident. The electrician answered my questions about the setup very clearly. The roof installation is attractive and the crew cleaned up after themselves.” — Jennifer in Ypsilanti, MI

      • “... The team that installed my solar were very nice and very knowledgeable about the solar system when I had questions. They were very respectful to my property and cleaned up any area that they were working. I had to remove a couple of shelves for them to get access to my attic. Without even asking, they reinstalled them for me. Overall, I really like the look of the panels they installed and the installation team walked me through how to use the app that comes the Blue Raven solar system. …” Joshua in Jenison, MI

      Customers sometimes get confused about the payment terms. For example, Timothy in Farmington Hills, Michigan, mentioned an issue with the billing process but acknowledged the courteousness of the representative.

      We’ve also heard a few complaints about installation delays. Despite these negative experiences, the majority of customers recommend Blue Raven Solar to others.

      Blue Raven Solar specializes in installing solar panels with a low-profile racking system. Installers use tier-1 monocrystalline solar panels and Enphase microinverters. As for storage batteries, it offers lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries from Enphase, Tesla, FranklinWH and SunPower. The company has locations in Grand Rapids, Lansing and Novi, Michigan.

      Blue Raven Solar services

      • Consulting and design
      • Energy storage systems
      • Financing solutions
      • System monitoring

      Blue Raven Solar provides a standard 25-year warranty. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer. It offers the FranklinWH aPower Battery (12-year warranty), SunPower SunVault (10-year warranty), Enphase IQ5P Battery (15-year warranty) and Tesla Powerwall 2 (10-year warranty).

      • Cash: You can pay Blue Raven upfront, giving you immediate ownership of the solar equipment.
      • BluePower: This fixed, low monthly payment option lets you go solar without a significant upfront cost. There’s no prepayment penalty, and the plan is transferable to a new homeowner if you ever sell your house.
      • BluePower Plus+: This unique financing option combines aspects of a solar lease (or PPA) with the flexibility of solar panel ownership. Eligible customers can pay $0 upfront, get 18 months of free solar power and make fixed monthly payments after that. You own the system and are responsible for maintenance.

      Pros

      • Great local reviews
      • Quality solar equipment
      • 25-year product warranty and productivity guarantee
      • No-upfront-cost options

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some communication issues

      ShopSolar

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

      ShopSolar has plenty of equipment for off-grid, hybrid and mobile lifestyles. It’s also a solid option for Michiganders looking for a reliable emergency backup power source for homes, RVs and outbuildings. You can buy new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything you need for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

      Happy customers often tell us about ShopSolar’s product quality, reasonable pricing, fast shipping and helpful customer service reps.

      • “The reps were very respectful and good. They were able to address my concern pretty quickly. It was pretty easy to put in the order, but it took a while to get the items delivered. When I ordered a battery and inverter, it took two weeks to get the battery and about two months to get the inverter. But then when I shopped for other items that were in stock, shipping was pretty quick. I got the items within a few days. …” — Andreas in Ypsilanti, MI

      • “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, MI

      • “… It was amazing. One of the connectors wouldn't go together good and the reps wanted a picture so I sent one, and they sent me a cord out right away. No questions asked. I wish I had enough money to go total solar. It costs a little bit to get into it. But without a doubt, if I had the money, I would always go to ShopSolarKits because I've bought panels there. I've used them maybe three times. They're awesome.” — Jeff in Ludington, MI

      Andreas in Ypsilanti, Michigan, mentioned price increases over the last couple years. “Previously, it was very cheap so I bought a few (cables). It was $15. But when I went back to buy it, it was $40. I understand that prices have increased but the amount of increase was too much,” Andreas told us.

      ShopSolar stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. It also sells custom solar kits. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      ShopSolar products

      • New and used solar panels
      • Solar generator bundles
      • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
      • Additional hardware and accessories

      Individual manufacturers’ warranties cover all solar equipment. You’ll get the full manufacturer warranty since ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

      • Financing: ShopSolar partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR.
      • Online payments: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.

      Pros

      • Overall positive reviews
      • Complete solar packages
      • Lifetime customer support
      • Price match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Free nationwide shipping

      Cons

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

      Michigan solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about switching to solar power but feel overwhelmed by the options, you're not alone. We’re here to help you compare all your choices and get the best deal. Our research team has talked to dozens of solar customers in Michigan — here’s what to expect and look out for.

      Key insights

      In Michigan, a typical residential solar panel system costs $11,025 to $31,500, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for most homeowners buying solar panels in Michigan. Michigan also has solar loan and rebate programs to help make going solar more affordable.

      Jump to insight

      If you want to minimize your initial cost, you can typically lease your equipment or enter a power purchase agreement. However, you won’t be eligible for the federal solar ITC if you lease or enter a PPA because you won’t own the equipment.

      Jump to insight

      Going solar in Michigan

      The state's electrical licensing law mandates that individuals performing electrical wiring must be properly licensed (with some exceptions). Additionally, when solar equipment is used as a heating element, a mechanical contractor's license is required under the Forbes Mechanical Contractors Act.

      » GREENEST STATES: Michigan ranked 44th in 2024

      What to look for in a solar company in Michigan

      Choosing a solar company in Michigan requires careful consideration if you want the best value for your investment. In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties.

      Here’s what else to keep in mind when hiring a solar company:

      • Check certifications: State regulations ensure that solar installations in Michigan are carried out by qualified professionals, maintaining safety and quality standards. You can check your installer with the Michigan electrical and mechanical contractor’s licensing boards. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Ask for local references: Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Michigan. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality). The best solar energy companies in Michigan perform a site inspection to collect all necessary information before providing a detailed estimate.
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Michigan.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations, and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services — ask.
      • Watch out for door-to-door solar scams: Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected. Quality solar panels last at least 25 years, so you want a company that’s still around if your system needs service after installation. Some of these newer, less reputable solar companies might not even exist next year.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Michigan?

      Average solar panel costs in Michigan typically range between $11,025 and $31,500.

      On the higher end, Josh in Troy, Michigan, was quoted $40,000 for a system, and Brenda in Saint Louis, Michigan, told us she spent $52,000 going solar. The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Michigan

      The table above doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence, especially if you want to go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Michigan, the average cost per watt is $3.15.

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      There are a few ways to pay for a residential solar energy system in Michigan. You have the option to pay the full cost upfront, but many people choose to finance their system through a solar loan.

      You can lease your equipment or enter a power purchase agreement to minimize your initial cost. However, you won’t be eligible for the federal solar ITC if you lease or enter a PPA because you won’t own the equipment.

      For some, using a home equity line of credit or loan can be another option — home equity interest rates are relatively low, and homeowners can still take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit.

      Michigan Saves is a nonprofit that provides loans up to $100,000 for residents to finance energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy installations. You might also qualify for the Lean & Green Michigan Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program. It lets commercial, industrial and multifamily property owners finance energy improvements with no upfront costs.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Michigan

      Residents can take advantage of additional solar incentives in Michigan, including rebates and loan programs. Still, the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners.

      The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, as well as labor and additional features for monitoring the system.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000.

      The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe. However, the credit rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount. So, if you only owed $2,000 the year you went solar, you could claim the remaining $1,000 the next taxable year.

      Are solar panels worth it in Michigan?

      Installing solar panels is a good investment for most Michigan homeowners. For many, going solar is worth it for the reduction in energy bills and reliance on local power companies.

      On average, Michiganders with solar panels can avoid $53,663 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      We’ve talked to thousands of verified solar customers, and most seem happy with their decision to go solar. The general consensus is that solar is worth it in Michigan.

      One resident, Carol in Ann Arbor, Michigan, first went solar for back-up power. She was also eager to support clean energy efforts for the environmental benefits. “The system works beautifully,” Carol told us. “I've had one short power outage since it was installed, and everything operated just as I had hoped.”

      But it doesn’t work out for everyone. We suggest using the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in Michigan?

      There’s no completely free option to get solar panels in Michigan that we’re aware of. Unfortunately, scams that promise free solar panels can cost consumers a lot of money.

      However, you can lease solar equipment to reduce your upfront cost. You won’t own your panels with these options, though, so you won’t be eligible for the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Michigan averages 2.5 to 3.5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      What solar scams are common in Michigan?

      Solar scams in Michigan often target low- and middle-income homeowners with false promises of low-cost or free solar installations, typically through social media ads. Some scammers pose as legitimate companies, take deposits without intending to complete installations or use fraudulent paperwork to steal personal information.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      No, your HOA is not allowed to stop you from putting up solar panels.

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components.

      Ultimately, deciding between a broker or solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process. A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, working directly with a solar installer is best.

      What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a PPA, you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a fixed rate that’s lower than you would receive without a PPA.
      How does net metering work in Michigan?

      Net metering is a system of give-and-take between you and your utility company. It lets you access power from the grid when your panels don’t generate enough electricity.

      Net metering also lets you earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to the grid. These credits can offset the cost of electricity consumed at other times.

      Michigan has transitioned from traditional net metering to a Distributed Generation Program for solar energy, consequently causing buyback rates to shift from retail to potentially lower rates. Legislative efforts are underway to improve conditions for solar customers, including proposals to lift solar caps and establish fair value tariffs. Interested individuals should contact their local utility for specific information on participating in the program and installing solar panels.

      Do I need any permits before going solar in Michigan?

      Depending on where you live, required permits may include building permits for the installation of solar thermal or solar PV systems on roofs or ground racks, as well as electrical permits for interconnection with the electrical service, which necessitates the services of a licensed electrician. Additionally, Michigan townships may have specific solar ordinances that regulate the installation of solar energy systems within their jurisdiction.

      Methodology

      The Consumer Affairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings, including:

      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 Michigan 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: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Reputation and local experience: 10%
      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Michigan. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Michiganders’ needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks, which are:

      • Blue Raven Solar
      • ShopSolar

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      Guide sources

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

      1. DSIRE, "Michigan Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
      2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Michigan.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
      3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Michigan Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
      4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Michigan?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
      5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
      6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
      7. Grist, “Homeowners associations in Michigan now have to allow rooftop solar.” Accessed July 26, 2024.
      8. Planet Detroit, “Legislators introduce bills to lift solar cap, restore net metering and establish ‘fair value tariff’ for distributed generation.” Accessed July 26, 2024.
      9. Lean & Green Michigan, “How PACE Works.” Accessed July 26, 2024.
      10. DSIRE, “Michigan Saves - Home Energy Loan Program.” Accessed June 18, 2024.

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