Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Empire, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading Northern Michigan provider specializing in comprehensive residential solar and battery storage solutions. They are known for their custom system design, strong customer service, and deep knowledge of local incentives and utility interconnection (for Cherryland Electric and others).
A well-established, locally-owned solar installer focused on high-quality design and installation. They offer robust financing options and are recognized for their expertise in both new construction and retrofit projects for homes in the Leelanau and Benzie county regions.
A trusted contractor with a broad service area across Northern Michigan. They provide a full suite of services from initial consultation and energy assessment to maintenance and repair, making them a good option for long-term solar system care.
** The home solar market for Empire, Michigan, and the surrounding Leelanau Peninsula is characterized by high-quality, regional specialists rather than national chains. The competition is moderate but sophisticated, with several established companies vying for business in a region with a strong environmental consciousness. The service quality is generally high, as these companies have built their reputations on serving a tight-knit community. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this area is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.75 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 10 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$27,500 to $35,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost. Providers in this region are exceptionally knowledgeable about navigating the interconnection process with local utility cooperatives like Cherryland Electric and are adept at designing systems that can handle the significant snow load and seasonal variation in sunlight unique to Northern Michigan.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Empire regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Empire, Michigan.
While Empire experiences significant snowfall and shorter winter days, modern solar panels are efficient at converting diffuse light and are installed at an angle to help shed snow. Your system will generate the majority of its annual production from spring through fall, and net metering with your utility (like Cherryland Electric Cooperative or Consumers Energy) credits your summer surplus to offset winter usage. Proper system sizing by a local installer will account for these seasonal variations to ensure your annual energy needs are met.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Michigan ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Empire homeowners are eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. Michigan does not have a state-wide property tax abatement, but your system will increase your home's value without increasing your property tax assessment, thanks to the state's solar exemption. Always get itemized quotes from local providers to understand equipment, labor, and permitting costs specific to Leelanau County.
Installing solar in Empire requires compliance with Village or Township zoning ordinances and building codes. The process typically involves submitting plans for a building permit to ensure structural and electrical safety. Your chosen local solar provider will usually manage this entire permitting process for you. It's also essential to coordinate with your utility (Cherryland EC or Consumers Energy) for interconnection approval to ensure your system can safely send power back to the grid.
Look for established Michigan-based companies with extensive experience installing in Northern Michigan's specific climate. They should be properly licensed (as an Electrical Contractor in Michigan) and insured. Ask for local references in Empire or nearby towns, review their portfolio of past projects, and ensure they provide a detailed production estimate that accounts for our seasonal weather. A trustworthy provider will also handle all local permitting, interconnection, and incentive paperwork.
Yes, the above-average electricity rates charged by providers like Cherryland Electric Cooperative actually improve the financial payback period for solar. By generating your own power, you lock in a fixed cost for electricity for decades, protecting yourself from future rate increases. When combined with net metering, which credits you at the retail rate, your solar system directly offsets your highest-cost kilowatt-hours, leading to significant long-term savings on your utility bills.