Madison, Wisconsin
Solar Installers in Madison, WI for Homes, Farms and Businesses
Solar, battery backup and standby power for Madison homes and businesses, installed by Wolf River Electric crews from our Oshkosh office, about 95 miles away.

Utilities
Madison Gas and Electric (MGE); Alliant Energy in some areas
Incentives
Focus on Energy rebate, plus Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) bill credits
Permits
City of Madison, handled by us
County
Dane County
Going solar in Madison
Madison is the state capital and Dane County seat. Wolf River Electric crews serve Madison from our Oshkosh office, about 95 miles away.
Most of Madison gets its power from Madison Gas and Electric (MGE), and some parts of the area are served by Alliant Energy. That decides your credit rules, so we confirm your utility for your exact address. Both utilities credit the power you send back under their own net metering or buyback terms, and homes in either territory can apply for a Focus on Energy solar rebate.
Going solar in Madison takes building and electrical permits from the City of Madison and approval from your utility. We file the applications, schedule the inspections and handle the utility paperwork, so you are not chasing approvals.
We design every Madison system around your roof, your shading and a year of your electric bills, then show you the numbers before you decide.
MGE and Alliant net metering
Most of Madison is served by Madison Gas and Electric (MGE), and parts of Dane County by Alliant Energy. MGE nets home solar monthly and carries extra credits forward. After a yearly review, net excess is paid at a lower rate, about 3.8 cents per kWh. Alliant's rules differ, so we check your utility's current terms and size the system to your use.
City of Madison permits and historic districts
Solar in Madison needs electrical and building permits and your utility's approval. If panels will be visible from the street in a local historic district, the Landmarks Commission must approve them first. We draw the plans, file the permits and handle the utility application.
Focus on Energy rebate and 2026 costs
Focus on Energy pays $600 per kW, up to $2,400, for homeowners who buy their system. Our 2026 Wisconsin contracts for roof-mounted systems without a battery came in at about $3.00 to $3.30 per watt.
| System size | Before incentives | After Focus on Energy |
|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $18,000 to $19,800 | $15,600 to $17,400 |
| 8 kW | $24,000 to $26,400 | $21,600 to $24,000 |
| 10 kW | $30,000 to $33,000 | $27,600 to $30,600 |
See the Wisconsin solar cost guide and Wisconsin solar incentives.
How to compare Madison solar companies
- Licensed electricians on the crew. Ask whether the people on your roof are the company's own licensed electricians or subcontractors.
- NABCEP certification. Wolf River Electric is a NABCEP-certified company.
- A quote built from your bills. Twelve months of usage and your utility's actual credit rules, not a generic savings promise.
- Permits and utility paperwork handled. Your installer should file them and schedule the inspections.
- Real reviews. Read recent Google reviews, not only testimonials on a company's own site. We have more than 1,000 five-star reviews on Google and BBB.
- Service after the install. Ask who answers when something stops working.
Our Wisconsin crews are based in Oshkosh, about 90 miles from Madison, and we serve homes, farms and businesses across Dane County.
What we install
What we install in Madison
Customer story
A Madison homeowner's new solar system
Bethany H. from Madison won the grand prize in a Wolf River Electric promotion: a 19-panel, 8.075 kW rooftop system with four arrays. Here she talks about the project.
★★★★★
“Wolf River Electric went above and beyond to install solar panels with battery backup for our home. We found them to be professional, extremely hard working, friendly, and efficient.”
Greg K. · Google review
Real production data
How much power do solar panels make in Madison?
Wolf River Electric systems near Madison made about 441 kWh per panel over the last 12 months. A typical home system of 20 to 30 panels makes about 8,800 to 13,200 kWh a year, worth about $1,700 to $2,500 at Wisconsin's average home electricity price.
Based on Wolf River Electric systems within about 25 miles of Madison monitored through Enphase, October 2025 to September 2026.
| Month | kWh per panel | 20 to 30 panels (kWh) | Value at 19.1¢ per kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 17.9 | 358 to 537 | $68 to $102 |
| Feb | 27.7 | 554 to 831 | $106 to $158 |
| Mar | 37.2 | 744 to 1,116 | $142 to $213 |
| Apr | 47.7 | 954 to 1,431 | $182 to $273 |
| May | 59.9 | 1,198 to 1,797 | $228 to $342 |
| Jun | 52.1 | 1,042 to 1,563 | $199 to $298 |
| Jul | 58.1 | 1,162 to 1,743 | $221 to $332 |
| Aug | 46.5 | 930 to 1,395 | $177 to $266 |
| Sep | 32.5 | 650 to 975 | $124 to $186 |
| Oct | 32.7 | 654 to 981 | $125 to $187 |
| Nov | 19.1 | 382 to 573 | $73 to $109 |
| Dec | 9.5 | 190 to 285 | $36 to $54 |
| Year | 441 | 8,820 to 13,230 | $1,680 to $2,520 |
Averages of real production from Wolf River Electric customers' systems. Value at Wisconsin's average home electricity rate (U.S. EIA, 2026).
Also serving near Madison
Our Oshkosh team works as a Wisconsin solar installation company serving homes and businesses across the state.
Madison solar questions
Is solar worth it in Madison?
For many Madison homes, yes. A Focus on Energy rebate, utility bill credits and Wisconsin's sales and property tax exemptions for solar all help. We run the numbers with your actual bill before you decide.
Do I need a permit for solar in Madison?
Yes. Solar in Madison needs building and electrical permits from the City of Madison and approval from your utility. We file the permits and schedule the inspections for you.
Which utility serves my address?
Most of Madison is served by Madison Gas and Electric (MGE), and some parts of the area by Alliant Energy. Your bill shows which one serves you, and we confirm it before we design your system.
What rebate can I get in Madison?
Focus on Energy pays $600 per kW, up to $2,400, for homeowners who buy their system. Leased systems do not qualify.
How does MGE credit extra solar power?
MGE nets home systems monthly and carries extra credits forward. After a yearly review, net excess is paid at a lower rate, about 3.8 cents per kWh.
Do I need a permit for solar in Madison?
Yes, electrical and building permits. In a local historic district, panels visible from the street need Landmarks Commission approval first.
What does solar cost in Madison?
Our 2026 Wisconsin roof-mount contracts ran about $3.00 to $3.30 per watt, or about $24,000 to $26,400 for an 8 kW system before the Focus on Energy rebate.
Is there still a 30% solar tax credit?
Not for systems homeowners buy. The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025. Businesses can still claim the commercial credit for systems placed in service by the end of 2027, and a solar lease or prepaid lease can pass savings from it to homeowners. See what changed with the solar tax credit.
Learn more
Solar in Madison: details and FAQs
Solar Power Systems In Madison, WI
Wolf River Electric is a leading Madison, WI solar company serving Dane County with custom systems for homes and businesses. Lower utility costs with clean, reliable solar built for Wisconsin’s seasons, simple from design to activation.
- Highest Quality Materials
- Trustworthy Craftsmanship With Attention-to-Detail
- Comprehensive Warranties Available
- Top Rated Solar Company With Over 1,000 5-Star Reviews on Google and BBB
Solar Energy Experts in Madison, WI
Wolf River Electric proudly delivers advanced solar energy solutions to Madison, WI, and throughout Dane County. Whether you’re a homeowner in Madison, operate a local business, or manage property across southern Wisconsin, we provide clean energy systems designed for efficiency, sustainability, and long-term value. Our team understands the diverse energy needs of Madison’s residential neighborhoods, commercial properties, and community spaces, and we customize every residential solar in Madison, WI and commercial solar in Madison, WI project for dependable performance and year-round savings.
To fully optimize your energy system, Wolf River Electric installs smart electrical panel upgrades, including SPAN smart panels, to give you real-time insights and greater control over your home’s energy usage. These modern panels integrate seamlessly with solar, battery systems, and backup power setups. We also specialize in EV charger installation in Madison, WI, helping you prepare your home or business for electric vehicles with fast, reliable charging solutions. Our smart electrical services are designed to support today’s technology while future-proofing your property for the innovations of tomorrow.
Solar Panel Installation for Homes, Farms & Businesses in Madison
We design and install custom solar power systems in Madison, WI for homes, farms, and commercial buildings throughout the area. From residential rooftops in Madison neighborhoods to agricultural properties and local businesses across Dane County, we provide full-service solar solutions, including site evaluation, design, permitting, and seamless system integration. To maximize your investment, we also install solar battery storage in Madison, WI, so you can store solar power for evenings, outages, or peak utility times.
Smart Panels & EV Charger Installation Across Madison
Today’s energy systems are smarter, and so are we. Wolf River Electric offers smart panel upgrades using technology like SPAN, allowing Madison property owners to monitor and control energy use down to the circuit. These panels are ideal companions for solar, batteries, and generators. We also provide home and commercial EV charger installation in Madison, WI, making it easier to charge at home, at work, or on-site, and even pair charging with your solar production for greater long-term savings.
Backup Power for Wisconsin Weather in Madison
When storms and outages hit, reliable backup power makes all the difference. We install home battery backup in Madison, WI and whole-home battery systems to keep your essentials running, plus generator solutions for extended backup needs. Want the next step in energy independence? Ask about bi-directional EV charging options that can allow your vehicle to support your home during emergencies (equipment and compatibility vary by vehicle and charger).
Roofing, Siding & Exterior Upgrades for Madison Homes
Preparing your home for solar often starts with the exterior. That’s why Wolf River Electric also offers roof replacements, storm damage repair, and insurance claim support throughout Madison. Our siding upgrades, including Hardie board and board-and-batten, are built to withstand Wisconsin’s four-season climate, while our energy-efficient window installations help keep heating and cooling costs in check. Whether you’re upgrading before solar or restoring after a storm, we deliver exterior solutions built to last.
Join Our Solar Community
Wolf River Electric is a locally owned solar energy company providing high-quality residential and commercial solar panel installations, including solar power systems throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Colorado, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Founded by a team of passionate individuals about clean energy, we specialize in custom solar solutions designed for long-term performance and maximum savings. Committed to sustainability, innovation, and local service, we’re helping homeowners and businesses reduce energy costs and embrace renewable power, one solar panel system at a time.
Explore Our Solar Solutions
At Wolf River Electric, we offer a full spectrum of high-performance solar energy systems designed for homes, businesses, and new construction projects across the Midwest. Whether you’re powering a family home, commercial facility, or building from the ground up, our team will help you find the ideal solar solution that matches your energy goals, budget, and long-term vision.
Residential Solar Systems In Madison, WI
Affordable, efficient, and designed to fit your lifestyle, our residential solar systems are a smart choice for homeowners looking to reduce utility bills and increase energy independence. We offer a variety of panel styles, battery storage options, and flexible financing to help you build a system that fits your home and pays for itself over time.
Looking to go further? We also install EV chargers, integrate smart home energy controls, and provide system monitoring to help you make the most of your power. And with ongoing service and maintenance available, you can rest easy knowing Wolf River Electric is here to support you long after installation.
Commercial Solar Solutions For Madison, WI
From warehouses and retail centers to schools and farms, our commercial solar in Madison, WI solutions are built to reduce overhead and improve sustainability. With tailored system designs, incentive guidance, and expert installation, we’ll help you maximize ROI and long-term savings while future-proofing your operation against rising energy costs.
We also offer EV charging solutions that help your business support employees, customers, or fleet electrification. Pair solar battery storage in Madison, WI with your commercial system to improve resilience and reduce peak demand exposure (where applicable), and count on our operations and maintenance (O&M) services to keep your system running at peak performance for years to come.
New Construction & Custom Projects In Madison, WI
Building a new home or facility? There’s no better time to go solar, and with our in-house division, Wolf River Construction, we make the entire process seamless. From custom home builds and roofing to siding and storm damage repair, we handle it all under one roof.
We partner with homeowners, builders, and developers to integrate solar into new construction from day one. Our team manages everything from system design and permitting to utility coordination and code compliance, delivering turnkey energy solutions alongside expert craftsmanship on every exterior detail.
Top Reasons to Choose Wolf River Electric for Your Solar and Construction Needs
Choosing the right partner for your solar or construction project is a big decision. At Wolf River Electric, we bring unmatched expertise, local commitment, and all-in-one service to every job. Here’s why homeowners, businesses, and builders across the Midwest trust us:
Premium Materials & Expert Craftsmanship We use only the highest-quality solar equipment, roofing materials, and exterior products, backed by skilled teams who take pride in every project. From panel placement to roof lines, our work is built to last and made to perform
We stand by our work with some of the best warranties in the business, including 25-year solar performance warranties and long-term workmanship guarantees, so you can invest with confidence.
Trusted by Thousands of Customers With thousands of satisfied homeowners and business owners across the region, our reputation speaks for itself. Verified reviews and referrals drive our growth, and we’re proud to deliver the kind of service that earns them.
We understand the unique weather patterns, utility programs, and building codes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Colorado, North Dakota, and South Dakota. That means smarter system design, faster approvals, and better long-term performance.
Flexible Financing Options Whether you’re installing solar, replacing a roof, or building a new home, we offer competitive financing options to make your project affordable, often with little to no upfront cost.
One Team. One Vision. One Company. With Wolf River, you get solar, roofing, siding, and storm damage restoration, seamlessly managed by one team under one roof. No finger-pointing. Just results.
Safety-First, Always We don’t cut corners. Our crews follow rigorous safety protocols, maintain clean job sites, and treat your property with the same care we’d give our own.
Rooted in the Community We’re not just contractors, we’re your neighbors. We live, work, and build in the same communities we serve, and we’re proud to power local homes and businesses with integrity and pride.
Do solar panels work in Madison, WI winters?
Yes. Solar panels still produce power in winter because they generate electricity from sunlight, not heat. Shorter days and snow cover can reduce production, but cold temperatures can actually help panels operate efficiently. We design Madison systems with year-round performance in mind, including proper tilt, shading considerations, and production estimates based on local conditions.
ARE THERE SOLAR INCENTIVES IN MADISON?
Most Madison homeowners and businesses can take advantage of the federal solar tax credit (ITC) if they qualify. Wisconsin may also have utility-related programs, net metering policies, or limited-time rebates depending on your provider and current offerings. We’ll help you review what applies to your address in Madison/Dane County and include incentive guidance as part of your solar proposal.
WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE WOLF RIVER ELECTRIC FOR MY SOLAR INSTALLATION IN MADISON?
You get a proven team with high-quality materials, clean workmanship, and a process built around long-term reliability. We handle the details, design, permitting, installation, interconnection, and we can also bundle related upgrades like solar battery storage, home battery backup, smart panels, and EV charger installation in Madison, WI so your full energy system works together.
HOW LONG DOES A SOLAR INSTALLATION TAKE IN MADISON?
Most residential solar installations in Madison are completed in just one to three days once permits and utility approvals are in place. Larger farm or commercial systems may take longer depending on size and complexity. Our team manages every detail to keep your project on schedule.
Will solar panels increase my property value in Madison?
Often, yes. Solar can increase home value because it lowers operating costs and adds desirable energy features. Value impacts depend on system size, ownership (owned vs. leased), and local market conditions. We can share system details and documentation that help support resale conversations, including production estimates and warranty info.
How much maintenance do solar panels need in Madison, WI?
Solar is generally low maintenance. Panels have no moving parts and typically only require occasional visual checks and, if needed, light cleaning. In Madison, snowfall usually slides off or melts as panels warm in the sun; if snow coverage is heavy and persistent, production may temporarily drop. We can also discuss monitoring options so you can easily track performance over time.
Is my business a good candidate for solar in Madison, WI?
If you have usable roof or ground space, consistent daytime energy use, and you plan to stay in your building long term, commercial solar in Madison, WI can be a strong fit. Many businesses also benefit from pairing solar with battery storage for resilience and energy management, and adding EV charging to support employees or customers. We’ll evaluate your usage, site, and goals to confirm ROI potential.
Why customers choose Wolf River Electric
Wolf River Electric proudly serves homeowners, businesses, and builders across the Midwest with trusted energy and construction solutions. Whether you need high-efficiency EV charging, solar installations, roofing, siding, or storm damage repairs, our skilled team delivers lasting results and seamless project coordination.
We are committed to quality and customer satisfaction, offering a 25-year workmanship warranty on our services. Don’t just take our word for it, explore our customer reviews to see how we consistently exceed expectations. Ready to get started? Book your free consultation today and let’s build a smarter, more sustainable future, together.
Call our Location today for Solar Panel Installation in Madison, WI
Ready to take control of your energy costs? Wolf River Electric makes it easy to get started with solar power systems in Madison, WI, including residential solar, commercial solar, solar battery storage, home battery backup, and EV charger installation. Contact our Madison-area team today to schedule a site assessment and receive a custom quote designed around your property and goals.