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Best Solar Companies in Wisconsin

We compared 74 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Project Solar
      4.7(77)
    • Fast installations
      ION Solar
      4.4(115)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
    Author picture
    Written by Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Wisconsin

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Project Solar logo
    ION Solar logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      A typical solar panel installation in Wisconsin costs between $10,850 and $31,000, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money. We’re here to help you compare your options and find the best deal.

      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

      1. Best overall: Project Solar
      2. Fast installations: ION Solar
      3. Great selection for DIY: ShopSolar
      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,592,094 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 reviewed

      Our top pick overall
      Project Solar
      Project Solar
      4.7
      77 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2016
      Read Reviews

      Project Solar focuses on a simple customer experience. Its no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious clients who want either professional or do-it-yourself installation. We also appreciate the price transparency: As of publishing, full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt. Anything over 13 kilowatts is a flat rate.

      Reviewers consistently highlight Project Solar’s value and customer service.

      • “Project Solar took over the work of designing, installing, and doing all of the local permits and the project ran smoothly. They offloaded any sort of hassle off of me and did a really good job. I recommended Project Solar to several friends. So far, everything's going well.” — Vladimir in Wausau, WI
      • “Project Solar's price was a little better for the same thing as the other companies. I got the solar panels and the actual power pack. The installation was very easy. ...” — Michael in Bloomer, WI

      The focus on streamlining might mean fewer customization options or handling complex roof situations.

      Project Solar systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar and Jinko. Enphase IQ 5P or Tesla Powerwall batteries are available as part of the full-service installation. DIY projects only have the Enphase IQ 5P battery option.

      Project Solar services

      • System design
      • Equipment procurement
      • Pro and DIY installations
      • Financing solutions

      A manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in materials of solar panels, inverters and other equipment for 25 years. There’s also an 84% production level guarantee for 25 years.

      For professional installations, Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer two main financing options: Option A has a relatively short term with a higher interest rate, and Option B has relatively low monthly payments over a longer term.

      DIY customers can either pay cash or finance their project through a third-party lender, such as LightStream or use a home equity loan or line of credit.

      Pros

      • Transparent pricing
      • Streamlined process
      • Great for cost savings
      • Roof leak warranty

      Cons

      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing
      Our pick for fast installations
      ION Solar
      ION Solar
      4.4
      115 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      21.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2013
      Learn More Read Reviews

      ION Solar is a full-service installer with a strong track record. It stands out for its professionalism, quality workmanship and a generally smooth end-to-end installation. We suggest getting a personalized quote to determine if ION Solar is best for your budget.

      Happy ION Solar customers often tell us about great customer service and quick installations.

      • “Between the first meeting with the sales rep and the final installation, the process with ION Solar took a month. It was a lot quicker than I expected. The turn-on was different because of Dominion but the actual installation process wasn't too bad. The installers were in and out quickly. If I didn't know they were there, I probably wouldn't have realized it. I had some other issues with my power company originally, so the changes haven't quite gotten to the point where it has shown on my statements yet. But just going off of what is produced versus what I'm pulling from the grid, those numbers are drastic in comparison. I was provided a link to a website where I could sign in and it gives me all of those numbers whenever. From the summary that the rep gave me, the estimates were more or less what I was already paying for my power. So with the solar, it’s hopefully gonna be knocked down quite a bit.” — Nathanial in Madison, WI

      We think ION Solar could be a little more transparent about its warranty coverage, financing options and additional services provided. Additionally, reviewers occasionally mention communication issues or installation delays.

      ION Solar is available in several states, including Wisconsin. Its NABCEP-certified installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Most projects take 60 to 90 days.

      ION Solar services

      • Solar system design and installations
      • Roofing services
      • Energy production monitoring
      • Ongoing system maintenance

      All work done during installation is covered for 10 years. Systems are guaranteed to produce at least 85% capacity for 30 years. Enphase microinverters come with a 25-year warranty.

      You can purchase the system outright or finance it. Loan rates and terms vary.

      Pros

      • Sleek, black-on-black panels
      • No upfront payment required
      • 24/7 monitoring
      • Solid warranty

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Some installation delays
      2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
      ShopSolar
      ShopSolar
      4.7
      159 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      Read Reviews

      ShopSolar is a great option for buying solar equipment for a DIY project. You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

      People like that it has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication.

      • “Navigating their webpage was easy. It answered all my questions. So far, my experience with them has been good. All in all, I'm happy with them and the product.” — Tom in New Berlin, WI
      • “I had a great experience with the sales reps. Everything worked out just fine. I was pleased in every way. If I needed more of something, I would start with ShopSolar because everything was very satisfactory. They were cheaper than anywhere else I could get what I wanted.” — Faith in Hillsboro, WI
      • “Everything worked well with ShopSolar. There was no issues. Everything went smoothly.” — Dale in South Range, WI

      Some customers have told us about damaged or faulty equipment. On the bright side, ShopSolar generally resolved these issues quickly.

      The important thing to keep in mind is that ShopSolar does not offer professional installation services. So, knowing a little about solar panels and electrical work is best. Otherwise, you might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      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

      ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all the equipment is covered by individual manufacturers’ warranties. Reps can help you contact the manufacturer if you have a warranty issue.

      You can pay upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. Financing options with minimal down payments are also available.

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

      Pros

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

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      Wisconsin solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about going solar in Wisconsin but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. We’ve heard from over 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018, including several in Wisconsin. Here’s what to expect and look for when buying solar panels.

      Key insights

      In Wisconsin, a typical residential solar panel system costs $10,850 to $31,000, 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 Wisconsin.

      Jump to insight

      Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 10.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      Jump to insight

      Going solar in Wisconsin

      Solar is worth considering as long as your house is a good candidate for a solar panel installation. However, people living in apartment buildings or other multifamily homes have a legal roadblock to getting solar on their roofs.

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

      What to look for in a solar company in Wisconsin

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties.

      • Check certifications: Wisconsin's Focus on Energy recommends working with a solar Trade Ally contractor. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Read reviews: Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Wisconsin. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives. Avoid red flags, like recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • 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).
      • 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 Wisconsin.
      • 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 for clarity.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Wisconsin?

      Average solar panel costs in Wisconsin typically range between $10,850 and $31,000.

      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 if you need a solar storage battery. Solar batteries — a must for real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid — can cost as much as the panels. Expect to pay $7,000 to $18,000 for a home solar battery.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Wisconsin

      Solar incentives in Wisconsin

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually homeowners' most significant financial incentive. The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to residential and commercial installations, including the cost of solar equipment and installation labor.

      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 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.

      Residents may take advantage of additional solar incentives in Wisconsin, like Focus on Energy rebates (up to $300) and Milwaukee Shines financing (loans up to $20,000).

      » GREENEST STATES: Wisconsin ranked 41st in 2024

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Paying upfront gives you immediate ownership of the system. You can also finance or lease the equipment.

      • Loans: A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest.
      • Leases: Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system. The biggest downside is you won’t get the federal solar tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Are solar panels worth it in Wisconsin?

      Based on feedback from several solar customers in Badger State, the consensus is that solar panels are worth it in Wisconsin. On average, Wisconsinites with solar panels can avoid $54,553 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Like many homeowners, Nathaniel in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, said he went solar “to save the planet and save a little money as well.” He said the installation took about three months, and then it took another month to “finally go through all the loopholes of PNM and power company and what not.” Since, he’s been overall satisfied with the decision to go solar. Others we’ve talked to have similar experiences.

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

      But it doesn’t work out for everybody. Look out for solar company reps using pushy sales tactics. You could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      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 another free solar savings estimator.

      With electricity costs continuing to rise, going solar is at least worth considering as long as your house is a good candidate for it. Solar panels typically pay for themselves within 10.5 years. Then, you essentially get free electricity for the rest of the system’s lifetime (25 to 30 years).

      » 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. Wisconsin averages 3 to 4 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.

      Can I get free solar panels in Wisconsin?

      We are unaware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Wisconsin. However, you can lease a solar energy system with minimal upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can cost you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      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.

      Do I need any permits before going solar in Wisconsin?

      Most municipalities require one or more permits for rooftop and ground-mounted solar setups. For instance, the City of Madison requires electrical, plumbing and heating permits for solar installations, but there aren’t any fees to obtain them.

      How does net metering work in Wisconsin?

      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. You can also earn credits for sending excess solar energy to the grid. These credits can offset the cost of electricity consumed at other times.

      In Wisconsin, two major utilities want to reduce how much credit they are required to compensate homeowners for sending solar energy into the grid. If successful, these changes to buyback rates could affect your bottom line.

      Can my HOA stop me from getting solar panels?

      Wisconsin law protects a homeowner’s right to install a solar system on their property. However, homeowners associations can set design guidelines for solar installations as long as they do not “prevent or unduly restrict the construction and operation of solar energy systems,” according to the Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach 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:

      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 Wisconsin 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. 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 preferred 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 Wisconsin. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

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

      1. Project Solar: Our top pick overall
      2. ION Solar: Our pick for fast installations
      3. ShopSolar: Our pick for DIY project

      Not sure how to choose?

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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, "Wisconsin Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Wisconsin.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Wisconsin Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Wisconsin?" 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. Wisconsin Department of Revenue, “Renewable Energy Systems: Biogas, Solar & Wind – Property Tax Exemption.” Accessed July 30, 2024.
        8. RENEW Wisconsin, “Join The Conversation About Potential Net Metering Policy Changes.” Accessed July 30, 2024.
        9. The Cap Times, “Solar can save renters big money, but Wisconsin law gets in the way.” Accessed July 30, 2024.
        10. Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change, “Solar Resources for Individuals, Businesses, and Communities.” Accessed July 31, 2024.
        11. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, “Solar Installations.” Accessed July 31, 2024.

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