Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Harshaw, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Arch Electric is a highly-rated, locally-owned electrical and solar contractor based in Wausau. They are known for their expertise in custom residential solar system design, installation, and comprehensive electrical services. They have a strong reputation for quality workmanship and customer service throughout Northern and Central Wisconsin, including the Harshaw area.
North Wind Renewable Energy is a dedicated renewable energy specialist serving all of Wisconsin. They focus exclusively on solar and wind energy systems, bringing deep expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions, which is particularly valuable for the more rural properties around Harshaw. They handle the entire process from consultation and design to installation and maintenance.
SunBadger Solar, now operating under its parent company Eagle Point Solar, is a larger regional provider with extensive experience and strong manufacturer partnerships. They are known for offering a wide range of financing options, including leases and PPAs, and for their streamlined process. Their regional presence ensures they are well-versed in Wisconsin-specific incentives and utility interconnection for the Northwoods area.
The home solar market in and around Harshaw, Wisconsin, is characterized by a small but growing number of regional specialists rather than local in-town providers. The competition is moderate, with a handful of highly reputable companies from hubs like Wausau, Stevens Point, and Madison competing for projects in the Northwoods. The average quality of service is high, as these established companies have built their reputations on serving rural and semi-rural communities with complex needs, including off-grid capabilities. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Wisconsin is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). For an average-sized system (8-10 kW), this translates to a gross cost of $20,000 to $35,000. Wisconsin offers additional state-specific incentives, and providers serving Harshaw are typically very knowledgeable about Focus on Energy programs and net metering policies with local utilities like Wisconsin Public Service (WPS). The market is mature enough to offer robust financing, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Harshaw regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Harshaw, Wisconsin.
Solar panels are efficient in cold, sunny weather and can still produce significant energy in winter, though shorter days and snow cover reduce output. It's important to install panels at an angle (often 30-40 degrees in Wisconsin) to help snow slide off. Local installers design systems to account for our lower winter production by oversizing the system or factoring in net metering credits earned during long summer days.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Wisconsin is between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Critically, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit, and Wisconsin offers a state sales tax exemption on solar equipment. Additionally, Focus on Energy provides cash-back incentives, and your local utility (likely Northwoods Utilities or Wisconsin Public Service) must offer net metering, banking your summer surplus to offset winter bills.
Installing solar in Harshaw requires compliance with Oneida County zoning ordinances and building codes. Your chosen installer will typically handle pulling the necessary permits from the county. You must also coordinate an interconnection agreement with your local utility, a standardized process in Wisconsin that your provider should manage to ensure your system is safely connected to the grid.
Look for Wisconsin-licensed, bonded, and insured installers with specific experience in the Northwoods climate. Ask for local references in towns like Rhinelander or Minocqua and verify they understand local snow load and roof structural requirements. Check their certifications (like NABCEP) and ensure they provide a detailed production estimate specific to Harshaw's weather patterns.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during an outage for safety, unless you have a specific backup solution. To have power during frequent Northwoods outages, you need to invest in a solar battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall) or a generator hybrid setup. Discuss this need upfront with your installer, as it affects system design and cost.