Solar Guide for Consumers Energy Customers
19.2¢/kWh · Reduced Rate · Est. $1,811/yr savings with 8kW solar
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Going Solar with Consumers Energy
If you're a Consumers Energy customer considering solar energy, you're making a smart financial decision. With residential electricity rates averaging 19.2 cents per kWh, solar panels can dramatically reduce or even eliminate your monthly electric bill. The typical Consumers Energy customer spends approximately $154 per month on electricity — money that could be working for you instead of going to the utility.
Western and Central Michigan
Consumers Energy has a reduced rate net metering policy. While the buyback rate of 13.44¢/kWh is lower than the 19.2¢/kWh retail rate, solar remains highly economical. The key is to size your system to match your daytime consumption as closely as possible, maximizing direct savings at the retail rate. Any excess generation still earns you credits, just at the reduced buyback rate.
An 8kW solar system for a Consumers Energy customer costs approximately $23,040 before the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit. After the ITC, your net cost drops to about $16,128. This system produces enough clean energy to save you approximately $1,811 per year, resulting in a payback period of roughly 7.3 years.
After your system pays for itself, you'll enjoy 15+ years of dramatically reduced electricity costs. Over a 25-year period, total savings for Consumers Energy customers are estimated at $45,275 — and that's without accounting for the likely 2-3% annual increase in electricity rates that would make your savings even greater.
Consumers Energy Solar FAQ
Does Consumers Energy offer net metering for solar?▼
Consumers Energy has a reduced rate net metering policy. Solar customers receive buyback credits at approximately 13.44¢/kWh for excess energy — lower than the 19.2¢/kWh retail rate, but solar remains highly economical.
What is Consumers Energy's electricity rate?▼
Consumers Energy's average residential electricity rate is 19.2¢ per kWh. This is above the national average of approximately 16¢/kWh. Higher rates mean greater savings with solar.
How much can Consumers Energy customers save with solar?▼
A typical Consumers Energy customer with an 8kW solar system can save approximately $1,811 per year on electricity. Over 25 years, total savings are estimated at $45,275. The exact amount depends on your electricity usage, system size, and roof orientation.
What size solar system do Consumers Energy customers need?▼
Most Consumers Energy customers need a 6-10kW solar system to offset their electricity usage. An 8kW system produces enough energy to cover the average household's needs. We recommend sizing your system based on your actual electricity consumption — check your Consumers Energy bill for your annual kWh usage.
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Consumers Energy Quick Facts
- 💡 Rate: 19.2¢/kWh
- 📊 Net Metering: Reduced Rate
- 💵 Buyback Rate: 13.44¢/kWh
- 💰 Annual Savings (8kW): $1,811
- 📍 State: Michigan