Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Ann Arbor, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-regarded, local Michigan company with a strong focus on customer education and high-quality installations. They are known for their personalized service, expertise in both grid-tied and battery-backed systems, and deep knowledge of Michigan-specific incentives and net metering.
One of Michigan's longest-standing and most experienced solar installers. They have a robust track record and are a certified installer for top-tier equipment manufacturers. They offer full-service design, installation, and maintenance, with particular expertise in complex roof and ground-mount systems.
A national leader in residential solar with a significant local operation serving Ann Arbor. Sunrun is a primary option for homeowners interested in solar leases or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), offering low or no upfront cost options. They also provide their own proprietary Brightbox battery storage solution.
** The home solar market in Ann Arbor is robust and sophisticated. The average quality of installers is high, with several companies holding top-tier certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from $15,000 to $40,000+ before incentives, heavily dependent on system size (kW), panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reducing the net cost. Ann Arbor residents also face specific challenges and opportunities with DTE Energy's net metering program and occasional local rebates, making it crucial to work with a provider who is an expert in the local utility landscape.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ann Arbor regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Solar panels are surprisingly effective in cold, sunny weather, and they will still produce energy on cloudy days, albeit at a reduced rate. The main seasonal challenge in Ann Arbor is snow cover, which can temporarily halt production until it slides off or is cleared; panels are installed at an angle to help with this. Importantly, Michigan's long summer days provide excellent production, and your system is sized to generate enough annual energy to offset your usage across all seasons.
Beyond the 30% federal tax credit, Ann Arbor homeowners benefit from Michigan's net metering program, which credits you at the full retail rate for excess energy sent to the grid. DTE Energy also offers a rebate program (subject to availability and annual changes) that can significantly reduce upfront costs. Additionally, solar installations are exempt from Michigan's property tax increase, meaning your home's assessed value won't go up due to the solar system.
The entire process typically takes 3 to 5 months. After design and contract signing, the most time-sensitive steps are securing permits from the City of Ann Arbor and scheduling the interconnection review with DTE Energy. Installation itself is usually completed in 1-3 days, but the final inspection and DTE's installation of a net meter are required before you can turn the system on, which can add several weeks.
Prioritize installers with extensive local experience, as they will be most familiar with Ann Arbor's permit process, DTE's specific interconnection requirements, and optimal designs for our climate. Always verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Check reviews and ask for references from recent Ann Arbor installations to assess their craftsmanship and customer service.
A qualified local installer will first assess your roof's condition, age, and orientation. For older roofs, it's often recommended to replace them before installation to avoid costly removal and reinstallation later. South, east, and west-facing roofs with good sun exposure are all viable in Ann Arbor, and modern equipment can optimize production even on complex roof planes, though efficiency may vary.