Best Solar Companies in Michigan

Blue Raven Solar, Project Solar and Freedom Forever are our top picks

    • Blue Raven Solar
      4.0(294)
    • Project Solar
      4.5(86)
    • Freedom Forever
      4.1(358)
    +2 more
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    Edited by: Justin Martino
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Michigan

    Based on local customer satisfaction ratings, Blue Raven Solar is the best solar company in Michigan. Project Solar stands out for offering the best value, and Freedom Forever is our pick for customer service.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,789,696 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.

    Our 3 picks for the best solar companies in Michigan

    1. Best overall: Blue Raven Solar
    2. Best for value: Project Solar
    3. Best for customer service: Freedom Forever

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

    Compare Michigan’s top solar energy companies

    Our Michigan solar company picks

    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 top pick overall

    Blue Raven Solar

    Blue Raven Solar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease, PPA
    Year founded
    2014
    Pros
    • Efficient installation process
    • Zero-down financing
    • Production guarantee
    • Good monitoring app
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some complaints about miscommunication

    Blue Raven Solar makes going solar simple and affordable. We like that it has flexible financing options that let you get started with no money down. 

    We also like that the company takes a tech-driven approach. Installers use top-tier panels and microinverters designed to maximize energy production. The result is a sleek, low-profile system built to withstand Michigan’s occasionally harsh weather conditions.

    Blue Raven customers in Michigan have good things to say about the company’s installation crews and customer service. However, some customers find the payment terms unclear. One reviewer, Timothy in Farmington Hills, mentioned a billing issue but said that the representative was still “very courteous.”

    • Services: Blue Raven 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.
    • Equipment: Panels are sourced from brands like SEG Solar, Qcells, REC, Jinko Solar and Silfab Solar. For storage batteries, there are lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries from Enphase, FranklinWH and Tesla.
    • Warranties: All systems have a 25-year panel warranty and a two-year production guarantee. Storage battery warranties vary between 10 and 15 years. Workmanship is guaranteed for 10 years.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience
    Our pick for value

    Project Solar

    Project Solar
    Max. panel efficiency
    20.9%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2016
    Pros
    • Easy sign-up process
    • High-quality equipment
    • Great value
    Cons
    • Occasional miscommunications
    • Subcontracted installers
    • No in-house financing

    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.

    The company 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.

    Happy Project Solar customers tell us about cost savings, transparency and a smooth installation process. Some, however, mention delays due to material shortages or supply chain issues.

    “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 Adrian, MI
    • Services: Reps can handle the necessary paperwork, engineering plans and permit submissions for the installation. You can work with Project Solar to complete a professional installation or do it yourself.
    • Equipment: Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase.
    • Warranties: There is a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Both are limited and have exclusions like weather damage or misuse.
    Our pick for customer service

    Freedom Forever

    Freedom Forever
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2011
    Pros
    • Helpful online portal and mobile app
    • Variety of financing options
    • Good production guarantee
    Cons
    • Vague equipment descriptions
    • Some communication issues

    Freedom Forever makes going solar simple. Installers use Tesla equipment, back each system with a 25-year production guarantee and keep you in the loop with an easy app and email updates. 

    With flexible financing and fast installs, it’s definitely worth considering. Overall, the company earns high marks from many customers for its efficient installations, knowledgeable support staff and quality solar systems.

    People like it when Freedom Forever delivers high-quality solar panel installations. But you should also be aware that some reviews mention issues like delays in service.

    • Services: Freedom Forever designs and installs custom solar systems, offers battery storage options and provides financing plans to make solar more accessible.
    • Equipment: Installers primarily use Tesla equipment, along with select panel brands. Tesla Powerwall storage batteries are also available.
    • Warranties: The 25-year production guarantee promises that your system will produce the energy listed in your contract. The standard warranty fixes or replaces parts if something breaks.

    Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Michigan

    We started with a list of popular solar companies and narrowed it down to those serving Michigan. We then ranked them based on the factors that matter most to homeowners:

    Local customer satisfaction (65%)
    We analyzed reviews from verified customers in Michigan. Companies with the most recent positive ratings were scored higher.

    Price satisfaction (7%)
    We evaluated customer feedback on overall cost and value.

    Installation satisfaction (7%)
    We looked at reviews of the installation process, including professionalism, timeliness and overall quality of the work.

    Customer service satisfaction (7%)
    We evaluated feedback on how responsive and helpful each company is before, during and after installation.

    Payment options (7%)
    We considered companies that make paying for solar easier by offering multiple financing and payment options.

    Warranties and guarantees (7%)
    A long warranty shows confidence in a company’s work. We compared both equipment and workmanship warranties. Our top picks provide 10 to 25 years of coverage.

    Solar Companies in Michigan Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Blue Raven Solar logo
    Project Solar logo
    Freedom Forever logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      ConsumerAffairs talked to dozens of Michigan homeowners who have already gone solar. Here’s what they learned, and what you should know before making the switch.

      Key insights

      In Michigan, a typical residential solar panel system costs $10,851 to $31,002, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panels are a long-term investment — most systems last 25 years or more. That means choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right equipment.

      Jump to insight

      Leasing a solar panel system is a good way to minimize your upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a solar company in Michigan

      Based on our research, the best solar energy companies share a few traits: strong customer reviews, high-quality equipment and reliable warranties. Here are the key steps to finding the right fit.

      1. Read reviews

      Look at solar company reviews on platforms like ConsumerAffairs, Better Business Bureau and solar-specific forums to see real customer experiences. Watch out for these red flags:

      • Equipment failures that aren’t resolved quickly
      • Misleading sales tactics about costs or savings
      • Billing and contract issues

      Local experience matters, too. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives. Read our Detroit and Grand Rapids solar guides for city-specific recommendations.

      2. Check credentials

      Michigan’s electrical licensing law mandates that individuals performing electrical wiring must be properly licensed (with some exceptions). Check your installer’s credentials with the Michigan Electrical and Mechanical Contractor Licensing Boards. Make sure your installer also has: 

      • Insurance coverage to protect your home during installation
      • NABCEP certification (the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners is a respected national credential for solar installers)

      3. Compare quotes

      Get at least three solar quotes to compare prices, equipment, warranties and services. Be cautious of unusually low bids — they may signal poor-quality panels, hidden fees or weak warranty coverage.

      Also, ask whether they offer extras you might want, like battery storage, an EV charger or critter guards to protect your panels.

      Always read the fine print

      The contract should be easy to understand. If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Michigan?

      Average solar panel costs in Michigan typically range between $10,851 and $31,002.

      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.

      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 $3.10.

      Average solar panel cost by system size in Michigan

      NOTE: The table above doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery, which is sometimes as expensive as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence, especially if you want to go off-grid.

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Many people choose to finance their system through a solar loan.

      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.

      Alternatively, you can lease your equipment or enter a power purchase agreement to minimize your initial cost.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Michigan

      Residents can take advantage of additional solar incentives in Michigan, including rebates and loan programs. 

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is now set to expire at the end of the year, much earlier than previously scheduled. The credit was expected to drop gradually and fully expire in 2035, but those step-downs have been eliminated as of July 2025.

      This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system to qualify for the 30% credit.

      Are solar panels worth it in Michigan?

      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.

      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 $53,052 in total utility costs over 25 years.

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

      One resident, Carol in Ann Arbor, first went solar for backup 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. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      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. Unfortunately, scams that promise free solar panels can cost consumers a lot of money.

      Some scammers pose as legitimate companies, take deposits without intending to complete installations or use fraudulent paperwork to steal personal information.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

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

      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.

      Compare more Michigan solar companies

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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 guide include:

      1. DSIRE, “Michigan Programs.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.
      2. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Michigan Solar.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.
      3. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.
      4. Grist, “Homeowners associations in Michigan now have to allow rooftop solar.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.
      5. Planet Detroit, “Legislators introduce bills to lift solar cap, restore net metering and establish ‘fair value tariff’ for distributed generation.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.
      6. U.S. Department of Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.

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