Solar power is a renewable energy source that can be used to generate electricity or heat. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity, while solar thermal collectors are used to capture the sun’s heat to produce hot water or steam. Solar PV is currently the most expensive form of solar energy, but costs are falling as technology improves and more systems are installed.
Solar thermal is less expensive than PV, but its applications are more limited. In general, solar energy is most cost-effective in areas with high levels of sunlight and low electric rates. Wisconsin has an average of 4 hours of usable sunlight per day and electric rates that rank 21st in the nation, making it a favorable state for solar power.
The short answer is yes! Solar power is a great investment in Wisconsin. Here are some of the reasons why:
1. Save money on your electric bill. Solar panels offset the amount of electricity you use from the grid, and can save you money on your monthly bill.
2. Increase the value of your home.
A solar array adds value to your property, just like any other home improvement project.
3. Help the environment. Generating your own clean energy helps reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and cuts down on air pollution and greenhouse gases.
Credit: freedomforever.com
Does Solar Power Make Sense in Wisconsin?
Yes, solar power makes sense in Wisconsin. The state is located in the Midwest region of the United States, and its latitude ensures that it receives a good amount of sunlight throughout the year. Solar panels installed in Wisconsin can generate electricity even during the winter months when sunlight is at a minimum.
In addition, the state has a strong renewable energy portfolio standard, which requires utilities to source 10% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2025. This policy creates a market for solar power in Wisconsin and provides an incentive for homeowners and businesses to install solar panels.
How Long Does It Take for Solar Panels to Pay for Themselves in Wisconsin?
Solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bills and they’re becoming more and more popular as the technology improves and the cost of installation comes down. But how long does it take for solar panels to pay for themselves in Wisconsin?
The answer depends on a few factors, including the size of your solar array, the amount of sunlight you get, the price you paid for installation, and the rate you pay for electricity.
However, according to Energy Sage, the average return on investment (ROI) for solar panels in Wisconsin is about 7 years. This means that after 7 years, your solar panels will have saved you more money than they cost to install.
Of course, this is just an average and your own results may vary depending on your specific situation.
But if you’re considering going solar in Wisconsin, rest assured that it’s a sound investment that will start saving you money quickly.
Is Wisconsin Good for Solar Panels?
Solar panels are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills. Wisconsin is a great state for solar panels because it has an average of 4.5 hours of peak sunlight per day and a statewide Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) that requires utilities to source 10% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2015. There are also many state and federal incentives available to help offset the cost of installing solar panels.
Does Wisconsin Offer a Solar Tax Credit?
Yes, Wisconsin offers a solar tax credit. The amount of the credit is equal to 10% of the cost of installing a solar energy system, up to $1,000. This tax credit can be claimed on your state income tax return.
Does solar power make sense in Southern Wisconsin?
Cost of Solar Panels in Wisconsin
The average cost of solar panels in Wisconsin is $3.48 per watt. The typical residential system size in Wisconsin is 5 kilowatts (kW), so the average cost of a 5kW solar panel system in Wisconsin is $17,400 before rebates and incentives.
Solar panel costs have fallen precipitously in recent years, and they continue to do so as technology improves and more companies enter the market.
In 2010, the cost of a solar panel was around $7 per watt. Today, it’s less than half that. And the trend shows no signs of stopping – some experts believe that solar will be cheaper than grid electricity within just a few years.
Fortunately for Wisconsinites, there are plenty of state and federal incentives available to offset the upfront cost of going solar. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers a 30% tax credit for systems installed by December 31, 2019. After that date, the ITC steps down to 26%, then 22%.
There are also numerous state-level rebate programs available through utilities like We Energies, Madison Gas & Electric, and Xcel Energy. These programs can reduce the cost of a solar panel system by thousands of dollars.
With all these factors considered, now is an excellent time to go solar in Wisconsin!
Wisconsin Solar Incentives
Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source that can help Wisconsinites save money on their electric bills and do their part to protect the environment. The state of Wisconsin offers a number of solar incentives to encourage residents and businesses to install solar panels.
The Wisconsin Solar Rebate Program offers a rebate of up to $4,000 for residential solar installations and up to $100,000 for commercial installations.
The rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis until the program funds are exhausted.
In addition, Wisconsin offers a property tax exemption for the value of solar equipment installed on your property. This exemption can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the life of your solar panel system.
If you’re thinking about going solar in Wisconsin, be sure to take advantage of these generous incentives!
Free Solar Panels in Wisconsin
Looking for a way to save money on your energy bills and do your part to help the environment? Solar power is a great option, and in Wisconsin, you can get solar panels for your home absolutely free.
That’s right – there are companies that will install solar panels on your roof at no cost to you.
They then sell the electricity generated by the panels to utilities, and you get a lower rate on your energy bills. It’s a win-win!
Of course, there are some requirements.
Your home must be located in an area with good sun exposure, and you’ll need to have a south-facing roof that is clear of trees or other obstructions. You also need to own your home; if you rent, you’ll need to get permission from your landlord.
Wisconsin Solar Companies
Looking for a solar company in Wisconsin? Here are some of the top solar companies servicing Wisconsin:
1. A&R Solar
A&R Solar is a full-service solar company that has been operating in Wisconsin since 2009. They offer both residential and commercial solar installation services, as well as solar financing options. A&R Solar has installed over 1,000 solar systems in Wisconsin totaling over 10 MW of capacity.
2. SunEdison
SunEdison is one of the world’s largest renewable energy development companies with a strong presence in Wisconsin. They have developed and financed over 500 MW of solar projects across the state, including several large-scale utility projects.
SunEdison also offers residential and commercial solar installation services through their subsidiary, Sun Edison LLC.
3. Heliosolar USA
Heliosolar USA is a leading provider of turnkey photovoltaic (PV) solutions for both residential and commercial applications.
They have installed PV systems totaling over 6 MW across Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Heliosolar USA also offers system monitoring and maintenance services to ensure optimal performance of your PV system.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that solar power is a great investment in Wisconsin. The state has plenty of sunshine, and the cost of installing solar panels has come down significantly in recent years. Solar panels will save you money on your electric bills, and they’ll help to protect the environment.
