Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Detroit, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading Michigan-based solar installer known for its comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They emphasize education and custom solutions for homeowners.
One of Michigan's oldest and most established solar contractors. They are a certified B Corporation and have extensive experience with both grid-tied and off-grid systems, including complex installations.
A well-regarded local contractor specializing in residential and commercial solar. They are known for personalized service, strong manufacturer partnerships, and expertise in navigating local incentives and permitting.
The home solar market in Detroit is **moderately competitive and growing steadily**. The quality of providers is generally high, with several long-standing, reputable companies serving the region. These established players typically hold key certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) and have deep knowledge of Michigan's specific climate challenges, utility policies (DTE Energy), and available incentives, including the federal investment tax credit (ITC). **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there are national players, the market is dominated by strong regional and local installers who understand the nuances of Michigan's weather and regulations. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Detroit before incentives is between **$2.50 and $3.50 per watt**. This translates to a typical gross system cost of **$15,000 to $30,000** for a 6kW to 10kW system, which is common for area homes. The net cost after applying the 30% federal tax credit can be significantly lower. Financing options, including loans and leases, are widely available from these top providers, making solar more accessible.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Detroit regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Detroit, Michigan.
For a typical Detroit home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Michigan homeowners can combine the 30% federal tax credit with DTE Energy's SolarCurrents program, which offers bill credits for excess energy produced. Additionally, installing solar in Michigan qualifies for a property tax exemption, so your home's assessed value won't increase due to the system.
Solar panels are very effective in Detroit's climate; they generate power from daylight, not just direct sun, and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Snow typically melts quickly off dark, angled panels, and any light reflected from snow can even boost production. While winter output is lower due to shorter days, your system will overproduce in sunnier months, with DTE's net metering crediting you for that surplus to offset winter usage.
First, ensure the installer is fully licensed and insured in Michigan and has extensive experience navigating DTE Energy's specific interconnection and net metering process. Look for a provider with a strong portfolio of local installations who can expertly assess your roof's condition—important given Michigan's freeze-thaw cycles—and handle necessary permits with your local municipality, as rules can vary between Detroit, suburbs, and townships.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 3 to 6 months. After design, the timeline includes securing permits from your local building department, DTE Energy's interconnection application review, and the physical installation, which usually takes 1-3 days. The longest wait is often for DTE to approve the application and install a net meter, which is required before you can officially turn the system on.
Most Michigan insurers treat solar panels as a permanent attachment to your home, similar to a roof upgrade, so a significant premium increase is uncommon. However, you must notify your insurer to ensure the system is covered under your dwelling coverage. It's vital to confirm your policy limits are high enough to cover the replacement cost of both your home and the new solar investment.