Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Lake Tomahawk, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Northwind Solar is a premier, locally-owned solar installer based in Rhinelander, specializing in both grid-tied and off-grid systems for the Northern Wisconsin region. They are highly regarded for their expertise in handling the unique climate and energy needs of the North Woods, including snow load calculations and maximizing production in forested areas. They offer comprehensive services from consultation and design to installation and maintenance.
A well-established and highly reputable electrical contractor that has expanded into a leading solar installer for Central and Northern Wisconsin. Based in Wausau, they serve a wide area and bring significant expertise in integrating solar with home electrical systems. They are known for professional project management, robust warranties, and in-depth knowledge of state and federal incentives.
SunVest is a Wisconsin-based solar developer with a strong presence in the residential market. They have extensive experience with projects across the state, including the Northern regions. They are known for providing clear, competitive pricing and a streamlined process. Their team is adept at handling the logistics of serving more rural areas like Lake Tomahawk.
** The home solar market in and around Lake Tomahawk is characterized by a reliance on reputable regional installers rather than purely local, in-town companies. The competition is moderate but of high quality, with several established Wisconsin-based firms actively serving the area. These providers are well-versed in the specific challenges of Northern Wisconsin, such as heavy snowfall, tree cover, and the demand for both grid-tied and fully off-grid systems for remote cabins and homes. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a typical gross cost of **$25,000 to $35,000 for a 10 kW system**. The quality of service is generally high, as the companies that succeed in this market are those that have built a strong reputation for reliability and customer service over many years. Key factors for consumers to consider are the installer's experience with off-grid technology and battery backups (like Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell), which are highly valuable in a region occasionally prone to power outages from weather.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Lake Tomahawk regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Lake Tomahawk, Wisconsin.
While winter production is lower due to snow cover and fewer daylight hours, modern systems are designed for this. Installers in Northern Wisconsin will use a steeper tilt angle (often 40-45 degrees) to help snow slide off more easily and maximize exposure to the lower winter sun. Importantly, Wisconsin's net metering policy allows you to bank excess summer credits to offset winter usage, making annual savings very viable.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Wisconsin is between $18,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal tax credit with Focus on Energy rebates (specific to Wisconsin utilities) and net metering from your local provider. This combination typically reduces the net system cost by 40-50%, with a payback period often between 8-12 years.
You will need an electrical permit from the Town of Lake Tomahawk and must comply with the Oneida County zoning code. A key local consideration is ensuring your system meets any specific setback requirements from property lines. Your chosen Wisconsin-licensed installer will typically manage this entire process, including the interconnection agreement with your utility (like Wisconsin Public Service or We Energies).
Prioritize installers with extensive local experience in Northern Wisconsin's climate. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for references from nearby installations and specifically inquire about their snow load calculations and roof penetration sealing methods to handle freeze-thaw cycles.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety unless paired with a battery backup. Given Lake Tomahawk's potential for severe storms and outages, many homeowners opt to add a battery. Regarding durability, panels are rated for Wisconsin's hail and heavy snow; local installers use robust racking systems designed for our 70+ pound per square foot snow loads to ensure longevity.