Wisconsin solar panels: The complete guide in 2025
Data updated Jul 15, 2025
Interested in going solar? You'll need to install a 11.8 kW solar panel system to cover the average electric bill in Wisconsin, which will cost you about $24,729 after the federal tax credit.
Cost for an average system in Wisconsin
| Out of pocket cost, cash | $35,327 |
| Federal tax credit (30%) | - $10,598 |
| Price post tax credit | $24,729 |
| 25-year savings | Payback period | Electricity offset |
|---|---|---|
| $44,799 | 10 Years | 92% |
As long as your federal tax bill is high enough, you can take advantage of the federal investment tax credit (ITC).
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Going solar in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is known for its brutal winters, but luckily, today's solar panel technology can withstand even its coldest winter days.
The Badger State even has some great incentives that make going solar well worth it, like rebates, tax exemptions, and net metering.
Here's what you should know about getting solar panels in Wisconsin.
Cost
How much do solar panels cost in Wisconsin?
Solar panels will save you a lot of money over time, but the upfront costs aren't cheap. The average Wisconsin homeowner needs a 11.8 kW solar panel system to cover their electricity needs, which comes out to $35,327 before incentives. Prices range from $30,028 to $40,626.
While this still may sound pricey, after the federal tax credit, that drops by 30%. And Wisconsins who participate in the Focus on Energy rebate program can save an additional $500. That's why over 17,000 Wisconsin homeowners have used EnergySage to receive and compare quotes for solar installations. You can expect to earn back your initial solar investment through electricity savings in about 10.43 years, while most systems last at least 25 years. You'll often see this number referenced as your solar payback period.
There are a few ways to pay for your solar panel system, each with its pros and cons.
Cash purchase: You pay for your system upfront. While it’s the most expensive option initially, it provides the best long-term savings.
Solar loan: You owe little to nothing upfront and make monthly payments on your system. With a solar loan, you get to maintain ownership of your panels. Still, they aren't all created equal: If you have access to subsidized clean energy loans through local incentive programs, that's usually your best bet. If not, go with a home equity loan or a personal loan. Private solar loans typically come with higher interest rates or upfront fees.
Solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA): You have little to no upfront costs, but a third-party company owns your system. Depending on your contract, you’ll either lease your solar panels (solar lease) or purchase the electricity they generate (PPA). While more affordable upfront, third-party ownership models generally provide the lowest savings and have the worst reputation for reliability. They can be beneficial, but remember to read the fine print.
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Incentives
What are the best solar rebates and incentives in Wisconsin?
Incentives help bring solar's price tag down considerably in Wisconsin. Here are the major ones to know about:
| Incentive | Average savings in Wisconsin | Description |
|---|---|---|
Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit, formerly the federal investment tax credit (ITC) | $10,598 | Lowers your solar panel system's cost by 30% |
Focus on Energy rebate | $600 | Provides a cash rebate worth $300 toward your solar panel system. Rural customers may receive an additional $300 rebate. |
Wisconsin solar sales tax exemption | 5% of your system costs | You don't need to pay any sales tax on new solar panel systems in Wisconsin, saving at least 5% of your system costs. |
Wisconsin solar property tax exemption | 1.76% of your system's value, annually on average | If you use solar energy as a source of power, you won't need to pay a tax on the value your solar panels add to your property. |
Is net metering available in Wisconsin?
Some states grant you bill credits that you earn from your utility company whenever your solar panel system generates excess electricity and sends it to the grid. This incentive is known as net metering, and it can significantly reduce—or even eliminate—your electric bill.
All investor-owned and municipal utilities in Wisconsin must offer net metering to their customers. However, the utilities differ quite a bit in their rules for carrying over credits month-to-month or year-to-year.
Get all the details on net metering in Wisconsin, or check out program specifics below:
Equipment
Equipment quality
Solar panel efficiency continues to improve every year—that is, they produce more power per square foot. As of 2025, many top-selling solar panels produce around 450 watts in full sunlight. To maximize your roof’s production potential, look for panels with at least that level of output.
It’s also important to choose an inverter setup that fits the design of your roof.
And if you plan to add a solar battery, make sure it’s compatible with your inverter setup for smooth integration.
While higher-end equipment can be more expensive upfront, it often leads to greater savings over time. Premium products usually come with longer warranties—up to 25 years or more—and are built to last. They also degrade more slowly, meaning you’ll get more consistent energy production further into the future.
Companies
Who are the best solar installers in Wisconsin?
We pre-screen all of the solar companies on EnergySage to ensure they'll provide you with a high-quality installation. We then rate them based on their results, reputation, and responsiveness. Here are the highest-rated EnergySage installers in Wisconsin:
Ready to start looking for a solar installer?
Here are some of the most popular ones near you:
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resources
Top solar resources for Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Solar Loan Providers
Search through our list of top loan providers to finance your solar panel system.
- Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Read more about utility services in WI.
- Wisconsin Electricity Profile (EIA)
Learn about WI energy production and prices.
- WI State Solar Factsheet (SEIA)
See quick stats about how much solar energy has grown in WI.
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