Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Middleton, Wisconsin, requires you to hire a solar company that is properly certified, trained and experienced. To assist your search for the right installer, we've put together a list of the highest-ranking solar companies in Middleton.
Before choosing an installer, request referrals, screen potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Middleton or go with an established national brand.
While installing solar panels requires a significant initial investment, it can lower your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that changing to solar energy enables Middleton homeowners to save an average of $1,600 annually.
Different solar companies offer different services. Make sure to compare each company and get quotes from all before booking your solar panel installation.
Look for Middleton solar companies that have a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and similar review websites. The company should also have a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Looking at previous customer reviews will provide a sense of how other homeowners felt about the company, so take note if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
Even areas with variable sun amounts, including rainier and cloudier places such as Middleton, can still see the benefits of solar panels. Major reasons to consider solar include these:
Our survey from October 2023 showed that the national median price of solar panel installation is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels is influenced by factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The price increases if you choose any extras like solar trackers, batteries or animal guards.
Based on numbers from the EIA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and NASA, solar panel installation in Middleton has an average cost of $19,756.
Installing solar panels calls for considerable spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through significant reductions in your energy bills down the road.
After moving completely to solar power, Middleton homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and elements like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for achieving returns on your solar investment.
Beyond cost savings, transitioning to solar power also lessens your carbon footprint and lowers your environmental impact. Provided below are the projected CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
Experts Ready to Help
Middleton homeowners can take advantage of various solar incentives. Particular programs are offered statewide to all Wisconsin residents, whereas others vary based on city, municipality and utility company.
Accessible solar incentives to Wisconsin homeowners, as stated by DSIRE, include:
Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
---|---|
Sales Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Sales Tax Exemptions | 100% exemption from sales and use tax for eligible purchases |
Rebate Program Renewable Rewards Program | Solar PV: Residential - $200 per kW Business - 0-5 kW: $200 per kW 5-10 kW: $1000 + $150 per kW over 5 10-100 kW: $1750 + $125 per kW over 10 100-300 kW: $13000 + $100 per kW over 100 300-500 kW: $33000 + $85 per kW over 300 |
Property Tax Incentive Biogas, Solar, and Wind Energy Equipment Exemption | 100% of the value added by an eligible renewable energy system |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
When selecting a solar installation expert, first review these key considerations.
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio dictate the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive houses tend to use more power and will potentially need bigger solar panel systems. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to fully power your home.
Your solar plans may be impacted by specific permits and state or local rules. You must secure proper permits through your local building department and arrange for an inspection.
Not all residences get similar levels of sunlight. Area tree cover, precipitation levels and severe weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get enough sun, it may require additional panels with higher wattage.
A lot of solar panel systems include a battery. Solar batteries hold extra power, which is especially useful when you want to avoid power loss in a storm. Installing battery storage could raise the cost of installation.
You have choices among solar panel types, as they vary in efficiency, life expectancy and design. These elements can change the cost, how soon you'll need to swap panels and space used on your roof.
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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