Best Solar Installers in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is not among the top states for solar energy production right now, but as the demand for renewable energy grows, Wisconsin has a high chance of improving its position in the US solar chart. With its mix of urban and rural locations, the Badger State is witnessing an increase in interest from homes and businesses, which leads to a rise in the number of solar panel companies in the state. However, finding the appropriate solar installer can be difficult with many options available.

This article will look at Wisconsin’s top solar panel companies, highlighting their offers, strengths, and what differentiates them in the competitive solar market. If you are getting ready to adopt solar power and want to learn more about solar energy in the US, feel free to check our web platform, SolarPowerSystems, where we share the most recent and validated information about solar power peculiarities and development. On our platform, you will find a comprehensive solar energy analysis in all US states, including solar development in Wisconsin. Our team of professionals is happy to provide individual solar quotes based on your unique requirements. Don’t hesitate — get solar quote with SolarPowerSystems.

Are Solar Panels Worth it in Wisconsin?

Investing in solar energy in Wisconsin is becoming more attractive due to a number of compelling factors. Despite its northern location, Wisconsin receives enough sunlight, particularly during summer, making solar panels a viable energy source. The state’s environment, with cold winters and warm summers, may still maintain large solar energy output. Furthermore, Wisconsin consumers pay more for residential power than many other Americans. With an average state electric cost of 16.92 cents per kilowatt hour compared to the national average of 16.07 cents, Wisconsin homeowners get higher utility bills, while switching to solar may significantly reduce the bills over time.

The state government actively promotes solar development by providing various incentives such as tax credits, refunds, and grants to reduce the initial cost and encourage widespread adoption of solar energy.

Solar energy keeps on developing in Wisconsin. According to SEIA, the value of the state solar market is 2.7 billion, with 1.1 billion invested in 2023. Wisconsin’s Target, IKEA, Brookfield Properties Retail, and other businesses go solar. One of the state’s largest corporate solar projects is IKEA’s 2 MW Oak Creek plant.

Source: Pepper Construction

How We Select the Top Solar Companies in Wisconsin

Choosing the right solar company is a crucial decision that can impact the success of your solar energy investment. We understand this importance and have developed a rigorous evaluation process to identify the top solar providers in each state, including Wisconsin.

Our solar experts thoroughly assess multiple criteria to ensure we recommend only the most reputable and high-quality solar companies. Here’s what we look for:

1. Customer Satisfaction: We analyze customer reviews, surveys, and testimonials to gauge overall satisfaction, reliability, and the company’s commitment to excellent service.
2. Industry Experience: Companies with a proven track record, including years of operation and successful installations, are prioritized to ensure you work with seasoned professionals.
3. Premium Products and Technology: We evaluate the quality, efficiency, and durability of the solar panels and equipment used, ensuring you receive cutting-edge technology that maximizes your investment.
4. Licensing and Certifications: Proper licensing and industry certifications are verified to ensure compliance with the highest standards and regulatory requirements.
5. Warranty and Support: The warranty period and comprehensiveness of product warranties are reviewed, along with the availability of maintenance and support services for long-term peace of mind.
6. Affordability and Financing Options: We consider pricing structures and the availability of flexible financing options to meet diverse customer needs and budgets.
7. Local Presence and Community Involvement: Companies with a strong local presence in Wisconsin, who contribute to the community and who understand the state’s specific conditions are given preference.

Cost of Solar Panels in Wisconsin

Source: Captain Green Solar

Before we go to the numbers, it is important to understand what affects Wisconsin’s final price of solar panel systems. Considering all the factors determining the sum of investment will help you make a reliable decision about going solar in Wisconsin. Here are the factors:

• Energy Usage and System Size: The more you use, the bigger the system you need, which definitely affects the upfront cost but may offer greater long-term savings.
• Panel Type and Labor Costs: The price of the panels varies depending on the brand and its efficiency, and the price for installation services may differ among installation companies. You may pay more for high-quality equipment, but it will save you money in the long run.
• Financing Options: The financing choice (e.g., cash, loans, leases) can affect the overall price and long-term savings.
• Climate and Property Location: Assess your location and conditions for high solar system performance. Any obstacles around your house can ruin your overall expectations from a polar power system.
• Battery Solutions: Adding a battery storage system adds cost to your installation price.

The average 6KW system in Wisconsin will cost $23,293 before the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC), which drops the price by 30%, and any local incentives. This article will also explain the available payment methods and Wisconsin solar incentives.

Financing and Payment Options Offered by Wisconsin Solar Companies

When considering solar energy for your Wisconsin home or company, it’s critical to understand payment alternatives. The payment method will affect factors such as your payback period, system ownership, the system’s final price, and your savings. Wisconsin solar companies often provide the following financing methods:

Solar Programs and Incentives in Wisconsin

The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a federal tax credit that provides up to a 30% income tax credit for purchasing and installing clean energy equipment. If your solar system costs $10,000, you might get a $3,000 tax credit. This tax incentive lowers solar installation costs and promotes clean energy among individuals and businesses. However, note that you are eligible for ITC only when buying a solar system in cash or with a loan.

Focus on Energy Program provides rebates and incentives for private houses and multifamily buildings:

• Wisconsin households can receive a one-time $300 solar rebate
• Residents of specific rural ZIP codes may receive an additional $300 bonus.
• Solar clients of multifamily buildings can receive up to $35,000.

Net metering allows you to transmit your surplus solar energy to the grid and get a credit that will come off your next utility bill. Utilities are required by the state’s Public Service Commission to offer retail rate net metering credits equal to the monthly power usage of solar customers.

Solar Property and Sales Tax Exemption can also be applied in Wisconsin. Wisconsin solar panels are exempt from property taxes, meaning homeowners and businesses don’t pay extra taxes on their value. This exemption allows individuals and organizations to buy solar panels without paying sales tax, saving 5% compared to neighboring states.

PACE Financing (Property Assessed Clean Energy) is a property-based, low-cost, and long-term financing rebate through property tax assessments. Benefits include long-term financing of up to 20 years. The property will be transferred to the new owners if it is sold.

Everlight Solar

Everlight Solar is a prominent solar company established in Wisconsin that provides residence solar panel installations, solar storage, financing, and ongoing maintenance services. They supply equipment from brands such as Sonnen, Generac, Tesla, and others. We find it very useful that the company shares detailed information about all the products they support on their site. The information includes main technical parameters, warranty, and efficiency.

The company has been recognized for its environmental dedication and has received Climate Champion Catalyst Status. It participates in and initiates different eco activities in state communities. Every year, it provides scholarships to students from various universities interested in clean energy development. The company was also awarded Best Leadership Teams and Best Career Growth in 2024.

They provide a simple approach for homeowners interested in solar energy, covering everything from permits to installation. Everlight Solar also offers a 25-year warranty and assists customers with any required maintenance. For customers in Wisconsin, the company provides free bids and consultations to assess whether solar is a good fit for their house or business.

Everlight Solar stresses the financial and environmental benefits of going solar and fully supports owning the system. Thus, in addition to cash purchases, they provide $0 down solar financing solutions to make the switch more accessible.

Full Spectrum Solar

Full Spectrum Solar is a local solar panel installer proud to complete 800 solar projects in southern Wisconsin. The company provides turnkey solar solutions for residential, commercial, and non-profit clients.

Their main services are:

• Solar panel installation: The team covers the whole photovoltaic installation process, from design to installation and support.
• Battery solutions: Full Spectrum Solar is a Generac Certified Clean Energy Installer, but they also support Enphase and SolarEdge battery backup systems.
• EV chargers: The team’s licensed electricians install level 2 high-current EV charging stations that recharge batteries in half the time of a wall socket charger. The experts perform load calculations to verify that your electrical supply can support the charger they install.

Source: Full Spectrum Solar

If you prefer to work with a local installer to ensure that they are knowledgeable about the local peculiarities, Full Spectrum Solar can be a good choice. However, you will have to contact the manager to learn more details. The company does not specify what brands it works with or what warranty and financing options it offers. The information provided on the website is rather limited.

Drews Solar

Drews Solar is a small, family-owned local solar company that supports only residential rooftop solar projects in Southern Wisconsin. The company is led by Michael and Maria Drews, who not only own the business but control all the processes. Michael covers the installation process, while Maria is responsible for office tasks and customer support. With such an approach, Drews Solar remains a rather small company, but they can guarantee attention to each client.

Drew Solar installs all their projects with no subcontractors. The services they provide are:

• solar project design
• panel installation
• local permits and grid connection
• electrical work
• after-installation support
• 5-year warranty on work

The company doesn’t specify many details about the products and brands it works with, so you will have to contact them for more information. Also, if you decide to proceed with Drews Solar, check if they do projects in your area.

Arch Electric

Arch Solar is a well-experienced local solar contractor in Wisconsin that has operated since 2003 and has won various awards, including Top Wisconsin Solar Contractors. Operating in Wisconsin only, the company is proud to serve not only residential clients but also big business and utility projects. IKEA’s 2 MW Oak Creek plant, one of the largest in the state, was installed by Arch Electric. One of the biggest utility solar projects in Wisconsin — Green Valley Dairy’s solar field, which consists of 4,940 panels and produces over 2.2 megawatts of clean energy a year- was also completed by Arch Electric.

The company works with no subcontractors and covers the following services:

• Turnkey solar panel installation for residential, commercial, and utility clients.
• EV chargers.
• Battery solution for energy storage.
• Operations and maintenance:
• Online monitoring of the system
• Yearly visits to the sites to anticipate issues before they arise.
• Immediate response and repair of the reported problems.
• Drone services: Arch provides drone photography and inspection for PV System project planning, performance evaluation, and maintenance. It helps with planning, especially in big areas for large commercial or utility solar plants.
• Infrared inspection: The team also uses drones to inspect PV systems. Aerial inspections by drone are efficient and cost-effective, minimizing extra man-hours spent on major utility sites as well as the risks connected with sending maintenance teams to survey roofs.

The company also shares a lot of information about their completed solar projects in Wisconsin and what to expect from the installation process and solar power adoption.

Wisconsin Solar Company Selection: What to Consider

Choosing the best Wisconsin solar firms requires numerous steps of study. See this thorough guide for the process:

• Find potential companies

Learn about solar companies in your region, make sure they cover your area, and then proceed with further investigation. Our web platform, SolarPowerSystems, offers more information about solar power and provides information about the top solar companies in Wisconsin.

• Check Experience and Skills

Find established companies. Longer business tenure indicates stability and experience.

More installations indicate practical experience and reliability. NABCEP certification is a big plus, proving the professionalism of the solar installer.

Source: Greener Ideal

• Review Customer Testimonials

Check Google, Yelp, and SolarReviews. Look at overall ratings and detailed customer reviews. Find the red flags and discuss them during the consultation.

• Evaluate Service Offerings

Consider free consultations and customized solar system designs for your needs. Check for post-installation support, including maintenance and monitoring.

• Compare Quotes and Financing

Get detailed quotes from multiple solar companies in Wisconsin. Our team of professionals at SolarPowerSystems can save you time and get solar quotes based on your requirements. Compare component costs, quality, energy savings, and payback timeframes. Compare each company’s cash purchases, solar loans, leases, and PPAs. Check if companies help you apply for federal and state rebates, incentives, and net metering, which can save you time and make the process smooth.

• Check Warranties and Guarantees

Look for businesses with strong warranties on panels, inverters, and other equipment. Ask for labor and installation flaw warranties. Some installers also guarantee your system’s energy output.

• Assess Communication and Professionalism

Check their professionalism and integrity during the initial consultation. Will they answer all your questions?

• Seek Local Knowledge and Community Engagement

Locally experienced companies can handle Wisconsin’s climate and regulations better.

Companies engaging in local community programs or initiatives show community involvement.

• See Completed Projects

If possible, visit the company’s completed projects. Witnessing their work can reveal their quality and attention to detail.

• Choose Wisely

Consider cost, quality, customer service, warranties, and financing. Choose a provider that matches your technological needs and feels trustworthy and reliable.

Source: Mission Self

These steps will help you study and choose the best Wisconsin solar company for your home or business’s solar energy transition.

How to Get a Solar Quote in Wisconsin

Once you’ve prepared a list of the top solar companies in Wisconsin that fit your unique requirements, get solar quotes. Getting a solar quote in Wisconsin involves several straightforward steps. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:

Contact

Ask multiple solar installers for quotes. You can reach them via phone, email, or their websites. Also, you can request solar quotes in one place using our SolarPowerSystems web platform. All you need is to provide some basic info:

• Contact information and address.
• Your utility invoices show your average monthly electricity usage.
• Property information (roof, shading, etc.).
• Any special needs (like battery storage).

Receive and Compare Quotes

After the site survey, solar companies will provide detailed prices. Quotes should include:

• Proposed solar system size and components.
• Cost per watt.
• Solar panels and solar product brands and models.
• Total cost, including installation.
• Energy savings and production estimates.
• Incentive, rebate, and financing options.
• Warranty information.

Decide

Compare the quotes and analyze all criteria that affect your choice. And finally, select the solar company in Wisconsin that best suits your needs and budget.

Arrange Installation

After choosing a solar provider, schedule installation. The company will obtain permits and coordinate installation.

What Solar Energy Brings to Wisconsin

Solar energy provides numerous benefits to Wisconsin, including a sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution to the state’s energy needs. Adopting solar power allows people to cut their electricity bills dramatically, hedge against growing utility costs, and lower their carbon footprint, all contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. Our detailed review of Wisconsin’s top solar companies provides the finest options for people wishing to transition to solar energy. We thoroughly analyzed each installer based on several essential criteria: reputation, customer service, pricing, solar product quality, and installation methods.

The state’s favorable legislation and incentives for solar energy make investing in solar panels in Wisconsin even more enticing. Tax credits, rebates, and grants are available to help with initial expenses, making solar power more affordable to homeowners and businesses. Furthermore, Wisconsin’s commitment to growing its renewable energy infrastructure demonstrates the potential for solar energy to play a critical part in the state’s long-term development.

In this article, we have proved that going solar in Wisconsin is viable and beneficial. Residents who choose the appropriate solar company can optimize their savings while also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future. As Wisconsin continues to embrace renewable energy, the benefits of solar power will expand, pushing economic growth and environmental preservation throughout the state.