Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Dane, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, local full-service electrical contractor with a dedicated and expert solar division. They are known for personalized service, high-quality craftsmanship, and deep knowledge of Wisconsin's climate-specific installation requirements. They handle the entire process from design to permitting and installation.
As one of Wisconsin's longest-standing solar specialists, H&H has a proven track record and deep expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They are a certified B Corporation, reflecting a commitment to social and environmental performance. They offer extensive in-house services, including maintenance and repair.
A regional leader with a strong presence in the Midwest, All Energy Solar brings the resources of a larger company combined with local installation crews. They are known for their streamlined process, strong manufacturer partnerships (like Tesla Powerwall), and robust financing options.
** The home solar market in the Dane, Wisconsin area is **mature and competitive**, largely centered in Madison. The quality of providers is generally high, with several long-standing, reputable companies holding necessary state and local licenses. Competition benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. **Competition Level:** High. Residents have multiple excellent local and regional options to choose from. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Wisconsin before incentives is between **$15,000 and $25,000** for a typical 6kW to 8kW system. The final price is highly dependent on system size, equipment quality, and roof complexity. **Key Market Drivers:** * **Incentives:** The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a significant driver, allowing homeowners to deduct 30% of the system cost from their federal taxes. * **Utility Programs:** While net metering policies exist, they are not as favorable as in some states, making battery storage an increasingly popular add-on for energy independence and backup power. * **Financing:** Most top providers offer multiple pathways, including cash purchases, solar loans, and in some cases, lease/PPA agreements, making solar accessible without large upfront payments.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Dane regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Dane, Wisconsin.
While Wisconsin has fewer peak sun hours than sunnier states, modern solar panels are highly efficient and generate significant power even on cloudy days. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. The cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency, and systems are designed to handle the full weight of a Wisconsin winter's snow load.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Dane County, homeowners can expect a gross cost between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and Wisconsin offers a state-specific incentive: Focus on Energy provides a cash-back rebate of $500 per kW installed (up to $20,000). Additionally, Wisconsin has strong net metering rules, allowing you to earn bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Yes, permitting is handled at the municipal level. You or your installer will need to obtain an electrical permit and possibly a building permit from your local Dane town or village office. The process is generally straightforward, but requirements can vary. A key Wisconsin-specific regulation is that your system must be installed by a licensed electrician who is also a certified solar installer, ensuring safety and code compliance.
Prioritize local Wisconsin-based installers with extensive experience in the climate. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for references from recent installations in Dane County and check their standing with the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau. A reputable provider will handle all local permitting, interconnection with Dane's utility (likely Alliant Energy or MG&E), and provide a detailed production estimate specific to your home's orientation.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, even if the sun is shining. To have backup power, you must install a solar battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar). This is a particularly valuable consideration in Dane County, where winter storms can cause outages. A battery stores excess solar energy for use at night or during an outage, providing critical backup power for essential loads in your home.