Michigan is probably the most dynamic state in the union: our home is known for breathtaking landscapes, abundant water resources, and an industrial heritage. Now, the Great Lakes state is increasingly turning to solar power as a viable source of clean, renewable energy.
Here’s the thing: despite a climate and reputation for cloud cover, Michigan has a unique set of conditions that make solar power an attractive option for both residents and businesses. While it’s true that Michigan’s weather can be unpredictable, the state still receives an average of 4-5 peak sun hours per day, which is more than enough for solar panels to generate electricity.
Michigan Solar Incentives
One of the best solar incentives in Michigan is the Federal Solar Tax Credit, also known as the “Residential Clean Energy Credit” for residential solar installations.
How does it work?
If you purchase a solar installation using cash or financing, you can receive a tax credit equal to 26% of the installation cost.
This tax credit can be claimed on your federal income taxes. For instance, if you purchase a $30,000 solar installation in Michigan, you could be eligible for a $7,800 tax credit.
In addition to the Federal Solar Tax Credit, there are other programs available in Michigan that help homeowners upgrade their home’s energy efficiency through solar, roofing, insulation, and more. We can help you to identify local incentives and explore whether solar is a good idea for you, based on your situation and preferences.
Grid Resiliency: Energy Independence
Did you know that by going solar, you’re actually helping to diversify the local energy grid? Solar panel installation on residential and commercial properties can improve grid resiliency by reducing the demand for electricity during peak usage times.
This helps to prevent power outages and reduce the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. Additionally, generating your own electricity through solar power provides energy independence, shielding you from volatile fossil fuel prices and ensuring a reliable source of clean energy.
Transitioning to solar power can help reduce our state’s reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute to air pollution and climate change. By promoting clean, renewable energy, Michigan can protect our beautiful natural resources and ensure a healthier environment for future generations of Michiganders.
Also, the solar industry in Michigan has experienced remarkable growth, creating jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), Michigan’s solar industry employed over 4,000 people in 2023.
While the state only has 1.25% of its electricity generated from solar, this figure is set to rise: there is a $1.7 billion invested in solar in Michigan, and the SEIA projects that we will install another 3.4 MW over the next 5 years. Interestingly, solar energy prices have fallen 42% over the last 10 years. As solar energy becomes more efficient and cost-effective, the savings on energy bills can offset the initial investment, leading to a positive return on investment and an increase in your property value.
Reliable Battery Backup
If you’re looking to add battery storage to your solar system in Michigan, Stellar Solar is your best bet. As the most experienced battery installer in the state, we can outfit you with a reliable energy storage solution from top manufacturers like Tesla and Enphase. Their batteries are designed to provide backup power during outages while also allowing you to better utilize the solar energy you produce.
With a home battery like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase storage system, you gain peace of mind knowing your family will still have power even if the grid goes down. Outages have become more common in recent years due to aging infrastructure and extreme weather. Rather than relying solely on the grid, you can power your essential appliances, electronics, and even heating/cooling from your solar-charged battery during an outage. This is a big deal during emergencies!
In addition to backup capabilities, batteries also maximize the value of your solar investment through self-consumption. By storing excess solar energy produced during the day, you can power your home in the evenings and reduce your reliance on utility-provided electricity. This allows you to avoid high Time-of-Use rates charged by utilities during peak hours. Enphase batteries, for example, use sophisticated machine learning to intelligently charge and discharge based on your home’s usage patterns and rate schedules.
Our team can help you properly size a battery system for your needs and budget. Whether you need backup for critical loads or full home resiliency, we have an option that works.
If extreme weather events or rising energy costs have you seeking energy independence, contact Stellar Solar today for a free battery or solar consultation in Michigan.
We pride ourselves on our unmatched industry experience, with over 15,000 residential solar installations successfully completed across America. Whether roof-mounted or ground-mounted, you can trust that our technicians will handle your project: the vast majority of our new clients come through personal referrals from satisfied existing customers.
In addition to turnkey solar installations, Stellar Solar also excels at providing best-in-class support services. Our monitoring software allows customers to easily track their system’s performance and energy production from anywhere. Our prompt full-service maintenance plans ensure optimum functionality for the lifetime of the system.
We also assist homeowners in electrifying their entire lives. Our experienced EV charging specialists can evaluate your needs and install Level 1 or Level 2 charging stations. No more range anxiety as you’ll be able to fuel up right at home.
When you choose Stellar Solar, you gain the peace of mind that comes with working with the most trusted solar company in Michigan. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you benefit from clean, affordable solar energy.