Best Solar Companies in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Solar panel costs in Milwaukee

A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $10,850 to $31,000 in Wisconsin. Prices in Milwaukee are comparable, ranging from $11,025 to $31,500.

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 Milwaukee’s net metering program.

System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Milwaukee household needs a system with a capacity of 10.26 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 Milwaukee

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. The Milwaukee Shines program offers low-interest solar loans up to $25,000.
• 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 Milwaukee?

Solar panels are generally worth it in Wisconsin if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Milwaukee homeowners with solar panels can avoid $54,553 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 8.8 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. 

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 Milwaukee

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.
• 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.

Going solar in Milwaukee County

The winters can be harsh. Ensure your installer uses appropriate mounting methods and considers snow load when designing your system.

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

Residential solar panel incentives in Milwaukee

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.