Michigan’s Solar Panel Installation Guide – Your Key to Energy Independence

Calculating your home’s energy requirements for solar panels requires a few steps. Here’s a simplified process:

Gather your electricity bills: Collect your electricity bills for the last 12 months. These bills should show your monthly energy usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

Calculate your average monthly usage: Add up the total kWh from each month’s bill and then divide by 12 to get your average monthly usage.

Determine daily energy usage: Divide your average monthly kWh by the approximate number of days in a month (30) to get your daily energy usage.

Factor in Sunlight Hours: Michigan averages about 4.2 hours of peak sunlight per day annually. Divide your daily energy usage by these peak sunlight hours. The result is an estimate of the kW capacity your solar system would need to fully cover your energy usage.

Remember, this is a rough estimate. The actual solar panel capacity might vary based on various factors such as the efficiency of the solar panels, the angle of installation, shading on the panels, etc. It’s also worth noting that this calculation assumes you want to cover 100% of your energy usage with solar power. If you’re aiming for less, adjust the calculation accordingly.

To get a more accurate estimate, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional solar installer. They can assess your specific situation and give you a detailed analysis.

Maintenance for solar panels is generally quite minimal, but there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure their longevity and optimal performance:

Regular Cleaning: Solar panels can accumulate dust, pollen, bird droppings, and snow. Cleaning them a few times a year can help maintain their efficiency. Use a soft brush or a leaf blower to clear debris, and mild, soapy water to clean the surface. Be gentle to avoid scratching the panels.
Snow Removal:
In a state like Michigan, snow accumulation on panels can be a concern in the winter months. Light snowfall usually melts and slides off by itself, but heavier snow may need to be carefully removed.

Professional Inspection: While solar panels are largely maintenance-free, it’s a good idea to have a professional check your system every few years, or following severe weather, to ensure it’s working properly and to check for any potential issues.

Monitor Performance: Many solar panel systems come with monitoring software that allows you to check their performance. Regular monitoring can help you catch any significant drops in power output that might signal a problem.

Check Mountings: Make sure the mountings are secure and the panels are firmly in place. High winds or other severe weather can occasionally cause them to come loose.

Vegetation Management: Ensure nearby trees don’t create shade over the panels. Trim back any branches if necessary.

In general, it’s always a good idea to refer to the maintenance recommendations provided by your solar panel manufacturer or installer.

The cost of solar panel installation varies widely depending on several factors. These factors include the size of the solar system needed, your location, the type of equipment chosen, and the specific installer.

On a national average in the U.S., a typical residential solar panel system might cost between $15,000 and $25,000 before federal tax credits. That translates to about $2.50 to $3.50 per watt. After applying the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), the cost might reduce by about 26%.

Please note, these are rough estimates and costs are likely to change over time. Moreover, the cost in Michigan may differ due to state-specific factors, including state incentives, local sunlight conditions, local electricity rates, and more.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to contact local solar installers for quotes and to ask about any available local or state incentives. Always get multiple quotes to compare the best options.