How Solar Works






FAQ
How much does a solar energy system cost?
Many factors affect the cost of a solar energy system such as energy usage, tree coverage, roof size, roof-facing direction, and roof mount vs ground mount. Systems start as low as $15,000 after tax credits and rebates. Our most popular option to purchase a solar energy system is through our Clean Energy Swap, where we offer solar loans, allowing homeowners to go solar with no cash out of pocket. Solar loan payments are typically less than your current energy bill. resulting in immediate savings.
If you would like to know how much a solar energy system would cost for your home, receive a free custom report from us.
Does solar work in Wisconsin during winter?
Yes, solar does work in Wisconsin during winter. As long as the sun operates, your panels will produce even on snowy and cloudy days. Although bad weather will reduce energy production, it will not stop entirely. Wisconsin utility companies allow net metering, where you can sell your excess energy in the summer to build up credits on your account for winter.
Our panels are made specifically for these rough conditions. As for snow, the panels have built-in snow guards and are warmer than your roof so the snow doesn’t stick for long.
How long does a solar installation take?
Our goal is to complete all of our projects in the most efficient and timely way possible. That being said, the onsite work to build the solar arrays or a residential project usually takes 1-2 days.
Leading up to that will be 30-60 days of receiving the municipal and utility approvals. Then after the system is installed it usually takes another 2-4 weeks to close out the permits and commissioning of the system.
Do I need batteries?
No, batteries are not required as part of a solar installation. Batteries are a good idea if you want backup power for when the grid goes down. Without batteries, the solar array will not provide any backup power during a grid outage.
There are three options for your solar system:
1.) Utility interactive – No battery and is grid-tied
2.) Off Grid – The system only operates with a battery and not the grid
3.) Multimode – The system with battery operates with on and off settings
What is net metering?
Solar net metering, also known as net energy metering (NEM), is a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the excess electricity they generate and deliver to the grid. In other words, it allows homeowners with solar panels to sell the excess electricity they produce back to the grid, offsetting their energy consumption and reducing their monthly electricity bills.
Net metering is an important policy for promoting the adoption of solar energy and helping homeowners take advantage of the excess electricity their solar panels produce. It allows homeowners to receive fair compensation for the excess power they generate, which can help make going solar more financially attractive.
Overall, solar net metering is a beneficial policy for both homeowners and utilities, as it helps to promote the use of clean and renewable energy, while also providing a way for homeowners to reduce their energy costs and save money on their monthly electricity bills.
What is the tax credit?
A tax credit is a dollar amount that can be reduced from your income taxes. In the case of solar, it is 30% of the total value of your system.
When you install a solar system in 2022-2032, 30% of your total project costs (including equipment, permitting, and installation) can be claimed as a credit on your federal tax return. If you spend $10,000 on your system, you owe $3,000 less in taxes the following year.
Learn more here: Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics
To claim the credit, you must file IRS Form 5695 as part of your tax return. You’ll calculate the credit on Part I of the form, and then enter the result on your 1040. Please consult your CPA or tax professional if you have questions.
Does solar increase my home value?
Solar panels will increase the value of your home by up to 10%, depending on where you live. This number will continue to increase as more people make the switch.
Learn More Here: Does Solar Increase Home Value?
Does solar increase my property tax?
Solar does not increase your property taxes in Wisconsin!
What happens if I sell my home with solar?
Congratulations!
If your solar system is already paid for, you can sit back and watch your home sell faster and for more than others.
There are two options when selling your home if the solar system is financed.
The first option is to pay off the remainder of your financial plan by including it in the purchase price of the home.
The second option is for the new homeowner to take on the monthly payment plan.
What if my HOA says I am not allowed to get solar panels?
Fortunately, Wisconsin Statute 236.292 voids all restrictions on platted land that would prevent or restrict the construction of solar energy systems. The law effectively prohibits any private land use controls from preventing the installation of solar energy systems.
Learn more here: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/236.292
Wisconsin Statue 66.0401 states no political subdivision may place any restriction, either directly or in effect, on the installation or use of a wind energy system/solar energy system that is more restrictive than the rules promulgated by the commission under 196.378.
Learn more here: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/66.0401