Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Southfield, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading Michigan-based solar installer known for its high-touch customer service and extensive local expertise. They handle the entire process in-house, from design and permitting to installation and maintenance, and are particularly praised for their knowledge of Michigan-specific incentives and climate considerations.
As one of the first dedicated solar installation companies in Michigan, they bring a wealth of experience and a strong focus on both grid-tied and off-grid solutions. They are a SunPower Master Dealer, offering some of the most efficient panels on the market, and have deep expertise in complex installations and battery backups.
A national leader in residential solar with a significant local presence. Sunrun is best known for its flexible solar lease and power purchase agreement (PPA) options, which allow homeowners to go solar with little or no money down. They offer strong national warranties and 24/7 system monitoring.
** The home solar market in Southfield, Michigan, is moderately competitive and growing steadily. The average quality of providers is high, with a mix of established local specialists and large national companies. This competition benefits homeowners through competitive pricing and a range of service models. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Michigan ranges from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. For a typical 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$22,400 - $28,000**. Final costs are highly dependent on roof complexity, energy needs, and equipment choices. **Competition & Key Factors:** The market is driven by several factors: * **State Incentives:** Michigan offers net metering, which credits solar owners for excess power sent to the grid, though the specific rules can vary by utility (DTE Energy serves Southfield). * **Financing:** A key differentiator among providers. Companies like Sunrun popularized leasing, while local companies like Strawberry Solar often provide robust loan option guidance. * **Battery Storage:** Interest in battery backup systems (like the Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell) is rising due to increased grid instability and weather-related power outages, an area where providers like Michigan Solar Solutions excel. * **Expertise:** Given Michigan's unique weather and DTE's interconnection policies, providers with deep local experience, like those listed, can navigate permits, inspections, and system design more efficiently than out-of-state contractors.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Southfield regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Southfield, Michigan.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Southfield, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Additionally, DTE Energy offers a rebate program for customers in its service area, including Southfield, which can provide a significant upfront discount, and Michigan has a property tax abatement for the added home value from solar. Net costs are often much lower after these incentives.
While solar panels are less productive during Michigan's cloudy winters and shorter days, they still generate power, especially from reflective snow. The long, sunny summer days produce abundant energy, often creating a surplus that can be banked with DTE's net metering program. Annually, Southfield receives enough sunlight to make solar highly viable, with systems designed to maximize production across all seasons to offset your yearly electricity usage.
Installing solar in Southfield requires a building permit from the City's Building Department to ensure structural and electrical code compliance. Southfield does not have a solar-specific ordinance, but your system must adhere to standard residential building and setback rules. Your installer will typically handle this permitting process and also coordinate the mandatory interconnection agreement with DTE Energy to connect your system to the grid.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have extensive local experience in Southfield and with DTE Energy's interconnection process. Look for Michigan-based companies with strong references and warranties. It's essential to get multiple detailed quotes that explain equipment, production estimates for our climate, and a full breakdown of costs, including any DTE rebate applications they will manage on your behalf.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup. For outage protection, you would need to invest in a battery like a Tesla Powerwall. Regarding snow, panels are installed at an angle and are slippery, so light snow usually slides off quickly. It's generally not recommended to clear them, as you risk damage and injury; the occasional light brushing with a soft roof rake is the safest method if absolutely necessary.