Despite its snow and long winters, Wisconsin offers its homeowners significant savings from going solar. Switching to solar can help Wisconsin residents lower energy costs and save on their energy bills.

Solar panel systems cost more in Wisconsin than in the rest of the country based on this state-by-state comparison of solar costs, according to ConsumerAffairs. Residential solar power installations in Wisconsin cost about $12,740 on average after federal tax credit as of September 2023. With that kind of investment, finding the right solar installer becomes even more important.

Best Solar Companies in Wisconsin

In the rest of the country, a handful of national companies handle the equipment manufacturing and solar installation process. In Wisconsin, major competition exists with 185 companies, including solar installers and developers operating in the state.

Some of the best solar companies in the state are the following:

Sunrun

Sunrun is a leading residential solar and energy service provider in the U.S., displaying expertise in solar installations and comprehensive energy solutions. Their commitment to exceptional customer service is evident in their approach to project management, including handling regulatory paperwork.

Sunrun also attracts customers with its range of financing options and system warranty. They maintain an excellent reputation for product quality and customer satisfaction in the solar industry.

All Energy Solar

All Energy Solar offers commercial solar solutions in 50 states and handles residential solar projects in Wisconsin (as well as Iowa, Illinois, New Hampshire, Minnesota, and Massachusetts). Although their solar panels cost a bit more, they offer home energy solutions installed by NABCEP-certified technicians.

Customers compliment the quality of the solar panels All Energy Solar sells and their residential solar installations. The company also receives high marks for customer service.

Arch Electric

Local solar power installer Arch Electric enjoys a solid reputation in Wisconsin. Having been in business for 20 years, this Milwaukee-based company offers competitive pricing on systems. Arch Electric has NABCEP-certified team members to install solar panels, consult with customers, etc.

Arch Electric offers residential and commercial installations with financing options—businesses can use solar leases. They are known for their superb knowledge and equipment and top-notch after-sales support once they are done installing solar panels per customer reviews.

Everlight Solar

Finally, the regional service Everlight Solar rounds out the list of top Wisconsin solar panel installers. The company has a massive service area and will most likely install solar energy systems wherever you live in the state. They also set up products from manufacturers like Tesla Energy.

Customers report that they’re veritable experts on local regulations. The company offers zero-down financing for homeowners going solar. They also provide high-quality solar power products and installations.

Average Cost of Solar Panels and Installation in Wisconsin

The average cost of a residential solar system in Wisconsin is about $2.60 per watt. This includes all equipment and the installation of solar panels in Wisconsin. However, the total price can vary based on key variables such as the system's size—with larger systems typically being more expensive yet offering a better price per unit.

The brand and quality of the panels can also impact the cost, especially given the price and quality variance across different panel types, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Additional costs may also accrue based on the complexity of your roof's architecture, as more difficult installations can involve higher charges.

Over time, the initial investment gives way to significant savings on energy bills. Additionally, adopting solar energy means stepping towards a greener, more sustainable lifestyle.

Wisconsin Solar Incentives, Tax Credits, and Solar Rebates

The federal investment tax credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of your solar panel system's cost from your taxes. Wisconsin also offers four incentives to further encourage residents to install renewable energy. The following are the local options available:

• Focus on Energy flat discount per award of $500 for residential customers

• Wisconsin sales tax exemption for alternative energy-producing products

• Wisconsin property tax exemptions for renewable energy systems

• Net metering for customers of municipal or investor-owned utilities in Wisconsin, like Xcel Energy

You may also qualify for a rebate from your solar company or installer. Check with your county and city, too, because many localities offer incentives specific to their residents. This can take many forms, such as tax credits, purchase discounts, or grant money for making energy efficiency updates to your home. Utility companies may add net metering.

How to Choose the Right Wisconsin Solar Company

Choosing the right solar company in Wisconsin means knowing your options and investigating each to learn which would best address your needs. Some companies offer unique packages or financing. Others provide the highest quality customer service. Check each company’s business license and the certifications of each installer.

Because Wisconsin has so many solar installers, the competition tends to become fierce. This works to the advantage of the state’s residents because the companies that serve the area provide high-quality solar panels and solar installation solutions. They also offer better customer service than in other regions.

In other areas of the country, a handful of companies make the panels and partner with local solar energy installers, specializing in only one manufacturer’s products. Wisconsin has yet to undergo that, so you can easily find companies that install multiple manufacturers’ products.

To ensure a successful installation and long-term satisfaction, it’s important to research and compare different solar companies before making a decision.

Get Solar Power Advice from Professionals

At Solar America we can help you connect with top-rated providers that best fit your solar energy needs. Trust us to provide you with the resources and information you need to make an informed decision and feel confident in that decision. Get started today by calling us at 1-855-999-6970 or get started here.