Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Long Lake, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading Michigan-based solar installer with a strong presence in the Northern Lower Peninsula. They are known for comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are well-versed in local permitting and Michigan-specific incentives.
A reputable, locally-owned solar installer focused on residential and commercial projects across Michigan. They emphasize custom design and education, ensuring homeowners understand their system and financing options. They have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers.
As one of Michigan's longest-standing dedicated solar installers, they bring extensive experience with both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems. Their expertise is particularly valuable for properties in more rural or wooded areas like Long Lake. They handle the entire process, including interconnection with the local utility.
** The home solar market in and around Long Lake, Michigan, is characterized by a moderate level of competition, primarily from established regional installers based in Traverse City and larger state-wide companies from downstate. The market quality is high, as companies operating in this region must navigate specific northern Michigan weather considerations, such as heavy snow loads and seasonal sun angles. Homeowners in Long Lake are often ideal candidates for solar due to a combination of good sun exposure and high electricity rates from local utilities. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this area generally falls between **$2.50 and $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. This means an average-sized 10 kW system would have a gross cost between $25,000 and $35,000. Financing options are robust, with most top providers offering loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). There is a strong emphasis on battery storage (like Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell) due to the desire for backup power during the region's occasional severe weather and grid outages.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Long Lake regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Long Lake, Michigan.
While Michigan has fewer peak sun hours than sunnier states, modern solar panels are highly efficient and generate power even on cloudy days. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and the reflective properties of snow can sometimes boost production on clear winter days. Importantly, Long Lake's long summer days provide excellent production, and systems are sized to generate a surplus during sunnier months to offset lower winter production, ensuring 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, homeowners in Long Lake are eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. Additionally, Michigan has no state sales tax on solar installations, and you can benefit from net metering programs from your local utility (like Consumers Energy), which credits you for excess power sent back to the grid.
Yes, local regulations are a key consideration. You must check with the Village of Long Lake or your specific township for any zoning permits required. If your home is part of a Homeowners Association (HOA), you must review its covenants. Under Michigan law (PA 113 of 2020), HOAs cannot outright prohibit solar installations but can establish reasonable rules regarding placement for aesthetic purposes, so early communication with your HOA is essential.
Prioritize local Michigan-based installers with extensive experience in the state's climate and electrical codes. Look for providers who are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for references from recent installations in Oakland County and compare detailed proposals that include equipment specifications, production estimates for your location, warranty terms, and a clear breakdown of all costs and financing options.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After design and contract signing, the timeline includes securing permits from your local municipality and interconnection approval from your utility company, which can take several weeks. Physical installation often takes just 1-3 days. The final step is the inspection and "Permission to Operate" from your utility, which can add a few more weeks before your system is officially turned on and producing power.