WisconsinSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Wisconsin averages 3.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 9.5 years. Homeowners can save $30,400 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
3.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$19,200
before incentives
Payback Period
9.5 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$30,400
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Wisconsin
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3.2/W) | $19,200 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,760 |
| Net Cost | $13,440 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
17.38¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$119/mo
Solar Incentives in Wisconsin
Focus on Energy Solar Incentive
Wisconsin's Focus on Energy program offers incentives for residential solar installations.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Wisconsin
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53701 | Madison | 3.9 hrs | $1,220 | 11 yrs |
| 53501 | Edgerton | 3.9 hrs | $1,220 | 11 yrs |
| 55001 | Afton | 3.9 hrs | $1,220 | 11 yrs |
| 53001 | Adell | 3.8 hrs | $1,189 | 11.3 yrs |
| 53201 | Milwaukee | 3.8 hrs | $1,189 | 11.3 yrs |
| 53401 | Racine | 3.8 hrs | $1,189 | 11.3 yrs |
| 53901 | Portage | 3.8 hrs | $1,189 | 11.3 yrs |
| 54601 | La Crosse | 3.8 hrs | $1,189 | 11.3 yrs |
| 53101 | Burlington | 3.8 hrs | $1,189 | 11.3 yrs |
| 54901 | Oshkosh | 3.8 hrs | $1,189 | 11.3 yrs |
| 54301 | Green Bay | 3.7 hrs | $1,158 | 11.6 yrs |
| 54401 | Wausau | 3.7 hrs | $1,158 | 11.6 yrs |
| 54101 | Abrams | 3.7 hrs | $1,158 | 11.6 yrs |
| 54201 | Algoma | 3.7 hrs | $1,158 | 11.6 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Wisconsin
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Wisconsin?
A typical 6kW solar system in Wisconsin costs approximately $19,200 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,760), the net cost is approximately $13,440.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Wisconsin?
The average solar payback period in Wisconsin is 9.5 years, slower than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Wisconsin have net metering?
Wisconsin has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Wisconsin get for solar?
Wisconsin averages 3.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.7 hours below the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 8,322 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA