The average cost of solar panels is $140-$350 ($.20 per watt- $1.35 per watt) in Wisconsin. However, when it comes to calculating the overall installation cost, the average cost of solar panels in Wisconsin is $13500-$50000 before incentives. The incentive is 30%. So, the per-watt cost will be $2.99 to $3.5, and it can go up to $10. The cost will vary depending on size, installation complexity, and add-ons. The upfront cost is higher. However, it can give you long-term savings on monthly electricity bills.
Detailed Breakdown of Solar Panel Costs
Solar Panels and Equipment (40–50% of Total Cost)
The main cost of the system goes to solar panels and essential equipment. Panel types, quality, and sizes will determine the cost. For instance, the monocrystalline panels are more expensive than polycrystalline and thin-film panels. It also varies with equipment quality and manufacturing standards. You also need to pay for advanced inverter types (like micro-inverters or string inverters.
- Typical cost: $2.50 to $3.50 per watt for panels and inverters combined
Installation Labor (20–30% of Total Cost)
The solar installations labor costs also impact the cost. Typical cost is $0.50 to $1.00 per watt. And it will vary depending on the selected solar installers, the roof type, and the project’s complexity.
Solar Batteries and Backup Power (10–20% of Total Cost, Optional)
You need solar batteries for backup power and energy independence. The cost will be $5,000 to $15,000 for batteries. But it will also vary depending on the battery system size, brand, and whether the solar array is designed for full or partial home backup.
Additional Solar Installation Costs(10–20% of Total Cost)
You may need to pay extra solar costs for permits, agreement with the utility company, monitoring systems, surge protection, and ground mounting for non-rooftop installations. It will cost between $1,000 and $5,000.
Cost of Solar Panels in Wisconsin
How much do residential solar panels cost?
The National average residential solar is $2.99–$3.50 per watt for an average solar system size of 6 kw. The total cost will be $15,000–$21,000 before incentives
Residential Solar Panel Costs by System Size (Post-Tax Credit)
| System Capacity | Typical Cost per Watt (Estimate) | Estimated Total Cost |
| 4 kW | $3.64 per watt | $10,208 |
| 5 kW | $3.35 per watt | $11,725 |
| 6 kW | $3.16 per watt | $13,248 |
| 7 kW | $3.02 per watt | $14,812 |
| 8 kW | $2.92 per watt | $16,320 |
| 9 kW | $2.84 per watt | $17,874 |
| 10 kW | $2.77 per watt | $19,370 |
How much do commercial solar panels cost
| System Size | Cost ($) | Per Watt Cost (Estimated) ($) | After Tax ($) (Estimated) |
| 25 kW | 44,000 – 55,500 | 1.76 – 2.22 | 30,800 – 38,850 |
| 50 kW | 88,500 – 112,000 | 1.77 – 2.24 | 61,950 – 78,400 |
| 100 kW | 176,500 – 224,000 | 1.77 – 2.24 | 123,550 – 156,800 |
| 250 kW | 440,000 – 560,000 | 1.76 – 2.24 | 308,000 – 392,000 |
Average solar system cost based on the square foot of the house (Estimated)
| Home Size (sq. ft.) | Avg. Estimated Cost per Sq. Ft. | Estimated Total System Cost |
| ~1,000 sq ft | $15.40 | $15,400 |
| ~1,200 sq ft | $13.65 | $16,380 |
| ~1,500 sq ft | $12.75 | $19,125 |
| ~2,000 sq ft | $10.25 | $20,500 |
| ~2,500 sq ft | $8.90 | $22,250 |
| ~3,000 sq ft | $7.60 | $22,800 |
| ~3,500 sq ft | $6.40 | $22,400 |
How much does 1 solar panel cost?
You can expect to pay between $140-$250 for a single average-sized (with 380-420 watts) solar panel. The cost goes up to $500 depending on the panel brand, capacity, and type.
How much do solar panels cost with a battery?
Using a battery with a solar system is important for backup. You need to pay $5100 for a single battery for residential. The cost will go up to $20000 if you want to cover commercial properties for higher electricity storage needs. So the overall cost of solar panels will be $18000-$50000 with a battery.
How much do solar systems cost without installation
Installation cost will vary greatly depending on the size, type, and area. So it is better to have an idea of the solar system cost. On average, you need to pay between $140 and $350 ($.20- $1.35 per watt) for solar panels only in Wisconsin. However, the cost will change according to the size, brand, and type.
What are the Factors that Affect Solar Installation Costs?
Solar Panel
You will have versatile solar panel options, and not all are the same. You will find monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film, and other panels. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient and offer a longer lifespan. That’s why it comes with a higher upfront cost. Thin-film panels are comparatively less efficient but cheaper.
Panel Efficiency Rating
Efficiency ratings indicate the efficiency of the system in generating solar power. Higher ratings mean the panels will produce more solar power with fewer panels. That’s why high-efficiency panels are more expensive. However, it offers a shorter solar payback period.
Equipment Quality and Brand
Quality solar equipment is often more expensive and impacts the initial investment. However, always go for high-quality panels, inverters, and racking for long-term savings.
Installation Labor Expenses and Roof Complexity
Labor costs vary based on the location, installation company, roof type, and system size. A south-facing roof with a flat design is cheaper to install without using additional labor. Besides, you need to pay extra for labour during peak seasons. learn more about the solar installation time.
Inverter Type
You can use different types of solar inverters for your panels. Some are expensive and some are not. For instance, a micro-inverter is more expensive than a string inverter due to better efficiency and solar panel system monitoring.
Battery Storage and Backup Systems
You might need solar batteries for backup power. It will impact the project cost significantly.
System Size (in kw)
Larger systems are often more expensive since they produce more solar energy, reduce electricity bills, and require higher upfront investment.
Permits and Inspection Fees
You need permission to install solar panels. This is a hidden cost and varies with the location.
Roof Condition and Structural Modifications
Older or damaged roofs need repair to install the solar panels. This will add to the initial costs. The roof complexity also impacts the cost. A flat roof is easy to use for installation, and that’s why inexpensive for installation.
Incentives, Rebates, and Solar Tax Credits
Federal Tax Credit (ITC) impacts the total cost. It actually reduces the cost. You can get up to 30% credit in Wisconsin for residential systems. Sometimes, state and local solar incentives, property tax exemptions, and net metering policies can reduce your payback period.
How to reduce solar panel installation cost
- Always claim the Federal Tax Credit (ITC) to ensure tax incentives.
- Get quotes from multiple installers and compare them.
- Apply for State and Local Solar Incentives.
- Pick high-efficiency panels for long-term investment.
- Install solar panels during off-peak seasons.
- Try roof-mounted systems over ground mounts.
- Bundle the package from the solar company for a lower cost.
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons like advanced monitoring if possible to reduce additional costs.
- Keep your roof in shape before installation.
- Do not install oversized panels.
- Go for affordable financing options.
- Take advantage of net metering programs
FAQ
Are solar panel installations worth it in Wisconsin’s cold and cloudy climate?
Yes, solar energy is worth installing in Wisconsin despite the colder winters and cloud cover. Wisconsin receives enough sunlight for the system to generate electricity for your home.
What’s the average payback period for solar investment in Wisconsin?
You can expect to get payback within 8-12 years in Wisconsin. However, it depends on the size, energy usage, and available incentives.
If you decide to have solar on your home, we can help you out. Lehman Electrical offers effective solar installation services for residential and commercial spaces. Make a call at +1 414-207-0109 directly talk to us.
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