Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Sumner, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunpro, now under the ADT brand, is a large, national provider known for its comprehensive service and strong financing options. They offer a full suite of services from initial consultation and design to installation, maintenance, and monitoring. Their national scale often provides leverage with equipment manufacturers and financing institutions.
A locally-owned and operated Michigan company that has built an excellent reputation for expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They are known for high-quality craftsmanship and deep knowledge of Michigan's specific climate and incentive programs. They are a certified installer for major brands and emphasize custom solutions.
Strawberry Solar is a Michigan-based company focused on residential and commercial installations. They are praised for their customer service and educational approach, ensuring homeowners understand their systems. They offer a wide range of services, including energy efficiency assessments to maximize the benefit of the solar installation.
** The home solar market in and around Sumner, Michigan, is characterized by a reliance on regional specialists rather than local storefronts. Due to Sumner's rural nature and smaller population, the competition is moderate, with a handful of established mid-Michigan companies actively competing for projects in the area. The average quality of these providers is high, as the companies that survive in this market tend to be those with strong reputations, proper certifications (like NABCEP), and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Michigan ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size (typically 5kW to 12kW for an average home) and the inclusion of battery storage. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit on the total system cost, is a significant driver for adoption. Michigan itself does not have a state-wide solar rebate program, but providers are well-versed in local utility interconnection policies and can advise on any available local incentives. Customers should expect a consultative process focused on long-term energy savings and energy independence, particularly valuable in areas prone to power 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 Sumner regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Sumner, Michigan.
Sumner experiences all four seasons, with significant snowfall in winter. Modern solar panels are durable and designed to handle heavy snow loads, and their slick surfaces often help snow slide off. While production is lower in shorter, cloudier winter days, Michigan's sunny summers generate abundant electricity, and annual production is favorable, with systems typically offsetting 80-100% of a home's usage over the year.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Michigan ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Critically, homeowners in Sumner are eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. Michigan also 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 to the grid.
Yes, you must comply with Sumner Township's local building codes and zoning ordinances. This typically requires obtaining a building permit for the installation. The process is generally straightforward for standard rooftop systems, but it's crucial to work with an installer familiar with Montcalm County's specific requirements to ensure a smooth approval process and compliance with any setback or aesthetic guidelines.
Look for Michigan-based or regional installers with proven experience in the local climate. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by organizations like NABCEP. Ask for references from nearby installations and confirm they handle the entire process, including Sumner Township permits, utility interconnection (e.g., Consumers Energy), and incentive paperwork. A trustworthy provider will offer a detailed site assessment specific to your property's sun exposure.
Solar systems are highly reliable and connected to your utility grid through an inverter. During a local power outage, for safety reasons, a standard grid-tied system will automatically shut off unless paired with a dedicated battery backup. For Sumner homeowners concerned about reliability, adding a battery storage solution (like a Tesla Powerwall) allows you to use stored solar energy during outages, providing essential power during severe weather.