Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Colgate, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated electrical and solar contractor. They are known for their personalized service, high-quality installations, and deep expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup systems. They handle the entire process from design to permitting to installation.
A regional solar installer with a strong presence in the Midwest, including Wisconsin. They are recognized for their streamlined process, excellent customer service, and strong knowledge of financing options and state-specific incentives.
A premier, family-owned solar installer known for its exceptional customer satisfaction and high-quality craftsmanship. They specialize in custom-designed systems and offer comprehensive services from consultation to long-term maintenance.
** The home solar market in the Colgate area is served by a mix of highly specialized local/regional installers and a few larger national companies operating in Wisconsin. The overall quality of providers is high, with many holding top-tier certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Competition is robust, which benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Wisconsin ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 to $28,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the system cost from their federal taxes, significantly reducing the net investment. Wisconsin also offers state-specific incentives, and providers in this area are generally well-versed in these programs. Financing options are plentiful, including solar loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible without large upfront payments. **Disclaimer:** It is always recommended to get at least three quotes, verify current licensing and insurance directly with the provider, and confirm they service your exact address in Colgate, as service territories can change.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Colgate regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Colgate, Wisconsin.
Solar panels are surprisingly efficient in cold, clear weather and will still produce energy in winter, though shorter days and snow cover reduce output. It's important to install panels at an angle (often 30-40 degrees) that helps snow slide off naturally, and local installers design systems to handle our specific snow loads. Summer provides excellent production, often generating surplus credits with your utility (We Energies or WPPI) to offset winter usage.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Wisconsin ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit and Wisconsin's state-specific incentives, including a sales tax exemption on equipment. Local utilities like We Energies may offer rebates, and many Colgate-area providers offer financing such as solar loans or leases to make the upfront cost manageable.
Installing solar requires a permit from the Village of Colgate or the Town of Erin (depending on your exact location) and interconnection approval from your utility (typically We Energies or WPPI Energy). A reputable local solar provider will handle this entire process, ensuring your system meets all Wisconsin electrical codes, local zoning rules, and the utility's specific requirements for connecting to the grid safely.
Prioritize Wisconsin-based installers with strong local experience, as they understand regional weather challenges and utility requirements. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified (e.g., by NABCEP). Ask for references from Colgate or nearby communities and compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment specs, production estimates for our area, warranty coverage, and a clear timeline for the entire project.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety unless paired with a battery backup, which is a popular add-on in Colgate for resilience. For net metering, Wisconsin law requires investor-owned utilities like We Energies to offer it, crediting you at the retail rate for excess energy sent to the grid. This builds a bank of credits you draw from at night or in winter, significantly reducing your annual bill.