Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Honor, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A local, Traverse City-based company specializing in custom residential and commercial solar installations. They are highly regarded for their personalized customer service, expert system design, and deep knowledge of Michigan's unique climate and incentive programs. They handle the entire process from consultation to permitting and installation.
One of Michigan's largest and most established dedicated solar installation companies. They have a strong statewide reputation and extensive experience with a wide variety of system types. Their long track record provides customers with confidence in their expertise and business stability. They offer comprehensive in-house services.
A highly-rated, customer-focused installer based in the Grand Traverse region. They emphasize quality craftsmanship and building long-term relationships with their clients. They are known for their clean installations and expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid battery-based systems, which is a significant advantage for more rural properties near Honor.
** The home solar market in Honor, Michigan, and the surrounding Benzie County area is characterized by a small but growing number of highly specialized regional providers. Due to the rural nature and significant seasonal tourism, the market sees demand for both standard grid-tied systems to offset utility costs and robust off-grid solutions for cabins and remote properties. **Average Quality:** The quality is generally high, as the companies that succeed in this market are typically smaller, locally-focused contractors who rely on reputation and word-of-mouth. Many technicians hold NABCEP certifications, the gold standard in the solar industry. **Competition Level:** Competition is moderate. While there are not dozens of installers physically located in Honor, several top-tier companies from Traverse City, Buckley, and beyond compete for projects in the region. This benefits the consumer by providing quality options without the high-pressure sales tactics sometimes found in more saturated markets. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For a typical 10 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$28,000 to $35,000**. The final cost is highly dependent on system complexity, roof type, and the inclusion of battery storage. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost for homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Honor regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Honor, Michigan.
Solar panels are very effective in Honor's climate. They generate electricity from daylight, not heat, and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. While winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels shed snow well, and our long summer days with high sun angles produce significant energy, often creating a surplus that credits your account through net metering with your utility, like Cherryland Electric Cooperative.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Michigan ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Homeowners in Honor benefit from 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, and you may also be eligible for net metering savings through your local utility provider.
The Village of Honor and Benzie County have specific zoning ordinances and building permit requirements for solar installations. These typically address setbacks, system height, and structural integrity for wind and snow loads. A reputable local or regional installer will handle this entire process, ensuring your system meets all Village and County codes, as well as the interconnection requirements of your electric utility.
Look for established Michigan-based companies with proven experience in Northern Michigan's climate. Key factors include: proper MI licensing (Electrical & Builder's), strong local references, a warranty that includes workmanship and long-term production guarantees, and familiarity with local utilities like Cherryland Electric. Avoid out-of-state companies that may not understand our specific snow loads or seasonal production patterns.
Under net metering with Cherryland Electric Cooperative, your solar system sends excess power to the grid, spinning your meter backward and building kilowatt-hour credits. You then use these credits at night or in winter. It's a 1:1 exchange that greatly improves payback. Importantly, standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety. To have power during outages, you must install a dedicated solar battery backup system, which is a wise consideration given Honor's rural location and weather.