Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Cambridge, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, local full-service electrical and solar contractor known for personalized service and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They handle the entire process from design and permitting to installation and maintenance.
A prominent Wisconsin-based solar installer focused on residential projects. They are recognized for their strong customer service, educational approach, and expertise in navigating state and utility incentives.
A commercial and residential solar developer with a strong presence in the Midwest. They bring a high level of project management and technical expertise, often working with premium equipment and offering comprehensive O&M services.
The home solar market in Cambridge, Wisconsin, is characteristic of a growing rural-to-suburban market in the Upper Midwest. The market is **moderately competitive**, with no major national installers dominating the landscape. Instead, it is served by a handful of established, reputable regional and local companies, primarily based in the Madison metropolitan area. The average quality of service is **high**, as these local providers compete on reputation, personalized service, and deep knowledge of Wisconsin's specific climate, utility policies (like Focus on Energy incentives), and net metering rules. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$25,000 to $42,000** for a typical 10 kW system. Strong financing options, including loans and leases, are widely available from these providers. The market is seeing increased consumer interest due to rising electricity costs and a growing focus on energy independence, often facilitated by the addition of battery storage.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Cambridge regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Cambridge, Wisconsin.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Cambridge, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with Wisconsin's state incentive, which offers a $0.02 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) production payment for the first 5 years. Additionally, Cambridge Utilities offers net metering, allowing you to earn credits for excess energy sent back to the grid, improving your long-term savings.
While Cambridge experiences cold winters and significant snowfall, modern solar panels are efficient in cold, sunny weather and are installed at an angle to help shed snow. The summer months provide long, sunny days that generate the majority of your annual production. It's important to design your system with Wisconsin's specific solar irradiance and seasonal variations in mind to ensure it meets your annual energy needs, not just your peak summer usage.
Yes, you will need to obtain an electrical permit from the Village of Cambridge Building Inspector's office. A reputable local installer will typically manage this entire permitting process for you, ensuring the system complies with all local building and electrical codes. They will also handle the interconnection agreement with Cambridge Utilities, which is required to connect your system to the grid and participate in net metering.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in Wisconsin. They should understand regional snow loads, roof integrity concerns for older homes, and the specific net metering policies of Cambridge Utilities. Look for certified, licensed installers (NABCEP certification is a gold standard), strong warranties, and a portfolio of installations in Jefferson and Dane counties. Always check reviews and ask for local references.
Standard grid-tied solar systems will automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, to protect utility workers. To have power during an outage, you need a system equipped with a solar battery backup, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is a valuable consideration in Cambridge, where severe seasonal storms can cause outages. A battery stores excess solar energy for use at night or during grid failures, providing energy independence and security.