Solar Panel System Install & Design
We design and install solar panel systems at the most affordable prices by providing customers with incentive resources and information. Contact us for a free solar panel estimate today!
What We Do
Solar Panel Design
We provide custom solar panel designs for residential and commercial customers.
Solar Panel Installation
Lydon Electric will install your custom solar panel system with our team of expert electricians.
Solar Panel Maintenance
We won’t just stick you with the bill and walk away. We’re here to help you make the most of your solar panel system whether we installed it or not.
How Do Home Solar Panels Work?
Home solar panel systems, also known as photovoltaic (PV) systems, work by harnessing the power of sunlight to generate electricity.
Solar Panels: The heart of a solar system is the solar panels, typically installed on the roof of a home or in an open area with ample sunlight exposure. These solar panels are made up of photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity through the photovoltaic effect.
Inverter: The DC electricity generated by the solar panels is then sent to an inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity. AC electricity is the type of electricity used in most homes and businesses, so the inverter ensures compatibility with your existing electrical system. Most residential solar panel systems are interactive, meaning they work alongside grid power.
Net Metering: In many regions, utilities participate in a process called net metering, which allows homeowners to receive credit for the excess electricity they send back to the grid. This credit can offset electricity costs during times when the solar panel system is not generating enough electricity to meet the home’s needs, such as at night or on cloudy days.
Monitoring System: Every solar panel system we install comes with a monitoring system that allows homeowners to track their energy production and consumption in real-time. This provides valuable insights into how much energy the solar panel system is generating, how much electricity the home is using, and how much money is being saved by using solar power. It also helps clients spot any potential issues with their solar panels.
Do Solar Panels Make Sense?
Investing in solar panels for your home is a smart decision and makes sense for homeowners looking to save money, increase home value, and reduce their environmental impact. Here’s why solar panels are a great investment and why they make sense:
Financial Savings: One of the most significant benefits of solar panels is the potential for financial savings. With the rising electricity costs (3.42% annual increase in Wisconsin), installing solar panels allows homeowners to generate their own electricity from sunlight, reducing or even eliminating their monthly electricity bills. Over time, the savings on electricity costs can offset the initial investment in solar panels, leading to substantial long-term financial benefits like cost savings near $100,000. Additionally, with a payback period typically ranging from 6 to 8 years on a residential solar panel system, homeowners can start seeing a return on their investment relatively quickly.
Increased Home Value: Solar panels can increase the resale value of a home. Studies have shown that homes equipped with solar panels tend to sell faster and at a higher price compared to homes without solar panel installations. Potential homebuyers are often willing to pay a premium for a home with solar panels due to the energy savings and environmental benefits they offer. This means that investing in solar panels not only saves money while living in the home but also provides a solid return on investment when it comes time to sell.
Energy Independence: With solar panels, homeowners can take control of their energy production and reduce dependence on utility companies. By generating their own electricity from sunlight, homeowners become less vulnerable to fluctuations in energy prices and supply disruptions. Solar panels provide a reliable source of energy that is abundant and readily available, offering greater energy independence and security for homeowners.
Overall, solar panels are a great investment that makes sense for homeowners looking to save money, increase home value, and reduce their environmental footprint. With a relatively short payback period, significant financial savings, and numerous other benefits, solar panels offer a compelling solution for powering homes with clean, renewable energy.
Residential Solar Panels & Commercial Solar Panels
How much do residential solar panels cost?
We won’t hide the costs of solar from you. A 10 KW roof-mounted, residential solar panel system from Lydon Solar will cost around $20,000. Most homes in Wisconsin will require a 10 KW to 15 KW system to offset their total electricity bill. How do you know what size you need? Send us your utility bill and address, and we can size a system for your needs. All site assessments and estimates are completed for FREE.
How much do commercial solar panels cost?
Commercial systems are much more complex than residential systems in most cases, but a typical system will cost between $25,000 and $50,000, but through grants and incentives, the cost can be much lower. The same $25,000 system could cost as low as $5,000 after grants, rebates, and tax incentives, all of which we can help you understand. Regardless of those incentives, you can use accelerated depreciation on your solar panel system as well. Costs increase with added complexity, generator backup, or battery storage.
Should I consider residential solar and batteries or commercial solar and batteries?
Because most systems installed today are interactive, meaning they are grid-tied, your power will still go out if your utility has an outage. Solar panel systems with batteries allow critical loads or all loads in your home to be used in the event of an outage. Solar panel systems without batteries can be backed up with generators. We offer various solutions to make sure that your home stays powered when you need it to be.
Is there a residential solar tax credit?
When you install a solar energy system on your home, you can claim a tax credit worth 30% of the total cost of your system. This means significant savings on your federal income taxes, putting more money back in your pocket. The 30% ITC Federal Tax Credit can be used to offset your federal income taxes dollar-for-dollar, and the balance can be carried forward if the credit exceeds your tax liability for the year. Homeowners also have access to rebates through Focus on Energy.
Is there a commercial solar tax credit?
The same federal tax credit applies to commercial solar panel systems as well. When you install a solar energy system on your business, you can claim a tax credit worth 30% of the total cost of your system. This means significant savings on your federal income taxes, putting more money back in your pocket. The 30% ITC Federal Tax Credit can be used to offset your federal income taxes dollar-for-dollar, and the balance can be carried forward if the credit exceeds your tax liability for the year. Businesses also have access to grants that can pay 50% of the project cost, rebates through Focus on Energy, and accelerated depreciation.
Is there depreciation for commercial solar power systems?
Accelerated Depreciation is available to businesses that purchase a commercial solar system which allows for greater depreciation expense in the early years of the asset. When the business ITC (30% of the project cost) is claimed, accelerated depreciation rules allow the full project cost minus half the ITC amount to be depreciated over a five-year schedule. Ex: $50,000 system, $15,000 ITC Credit (30%), $42,500 Depreciation.
Are there residential solar financing companies?
There are several ways to finance a solar project, but your financing rate must be considered when doing your payback calculation to get a complete understanding of your payback. Cash is the best way to pay for a solar project, but it is not the only way. Local banks and credit unions may offer short-term loans. Home improvement loans may also be a good option. Companies like Greenpenny can cover up to 100% of your project cost with little to no money down and for an affordable rate. The need to finance does impact your payback period, but your project may make sense even so. We’ve been seeing payback periods of 6-8 years on residential systems and even lower for commercial solar systems, so adding a year or two for financing costs still makes sense considering the warranty on the solar products is 25-30 years.
Are there residential solar companies near me or commercial solar companies near me?
If you searched for a solar company near me, and you live in western Wisconsin, look no further. If you’re in Wisconsin and looking for solar, send us a message to see if we will service your area. We always welcome new customers. Check out our service areas below
- Solar panels in Sparta, WI
- Solar panels in Tomah, WI
- Solar panels in La Crosse, WI
- Solar panels in Necedah, WI
- Solar panels in Castle Rock, WI
- Solar panels in West Salem, WI
- Solar panels in Holmen, WI
- Solar panels in Black River Falls, WI
- Solar panels in Onalaska, WI
- Solar panels in Wisconsin Dells, WI
- Solar panels in Eau Claire, WI
- Solar panels in Chippewa Falls, WI
- Solar panels in Madison, WI
- Solar panels in Osseo, WI
- Solar panels in Viroqua, WI
Latest Projects
NABCEP Certified Associate
Zachary Lydon, MBA, PVA holds a NABCEP Associate Certification for solar panel designs and installs. This certification ensures that we have the specialized knowledge and skills to meet your project demands.
Agrivoltaics - Cattle Shade Design
Our team designed a ground-mounted solar panel setup to replace a farm’s electric usage while also providing shade for cattle throughout the year. No matter the application, we can help you figure out the right solution!
Solar Panel AND Battery Storage AND Generator Backup
One of our latest solar designs consists of solar panels, a home battery, and a backup generator. Being grid-connected doesn’t mean you don’t have options. This design allows the homeowner to remain with power for all their essentials.
F.A.Q.
Find answers to common questions about our solar panels and solar panel services, ensuring clarity and confidence in your solar panel journey.
What is the lifespan of solar panels installed by Lydon Electric?
Solar panels installed by us typically last about 25-30 years, and are generally covered by warranty for that timeframe. We select solar panels known for durability and long-term performance, ensuring maximum value for your investment.
Can solar panels be installed on any type of roof?
Most roofs are suitable for solar panel installation. We assess each roof for structural integrity, orientation, and shading to determine the best installation approach and solar panel layout.
What maintenance do solar panels require?
Solar panels require minimal maintenance, mostly involving routine cleaning and occasional inspections. Our solar panel maintenance services ensure panels remain efficient and free from obstructions or damage.
Are there incentives for installing solar panels?
Many regions offer incentives for solar panels like tax credits, rebates, or feed-in tariffs for solar panel installations. We’ll send you all the information you need on incentives, just ask!
How do I get the process started?
Contact us for a FREE site assessment. From there, we’ll gather energy usage information and provide guidance on the size and location of a solar array at your home or business for FREE.