Homeowner’s Guide to Rooftop Solar

Reaching for the sun has never been more affordable. The price of solar panels is going down every year, and with available tax credits plus FOCUS ON ENERGY® incentives, you can have a large percentage of your upfront costs covered. If you’ve been thinking about using clean, renewable solar energy for your home, consider the following questions.

How does solar work?

The main technology used for rooftop solar panels is photovoltaics (or PV). When the sun hits these panels, photons are absorbed by the cells, creating an electrical field that causes electricity to flow.

Is my home a good fit?

Solar panels are designed to work in all climates, including here in Wisconsin. They typically work best on south-facing roofs with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees, according to the US Department of Energy, though other roofs can work, too. A simple assessment can determine if your home is a good fit.

What are the benefits?

By going solar, you’re making a difference for your home and your home state. Lower your energy bills and add value to your home, enjoy greater energy independence and support a cleaner, greener Wisconsin. Systems are silent, reliable, and require very little ongoing maintenance.

How can I save on my solar installation?

Working with a Focus on Energy Trade Ally contractor will help ensure you get a top-quality installation with the right mix of incentives, tax credits, and financing options to meet your needs. Your Trade Ally contractor will help you find the renewable system that’s right for your home, estimate energy savings, calculate your incentive, and provide a quote.

To learn more and get started, find a Trade Ally contractor at focusonenergy.com/findatradeally or call 855.339.8866.

Man on Rooftop Installing Solar Panels

Posted June 2019.

Related Blogs

What You Need to Know About the Home Energy Tax Credit Ending

Many federal home energy tax credits are ending on Dec. 31, 2025. Save on solar, heat pumps, home insulation and pair your tax credits with Focus on Energy® rebates to save even more
Read More

Going Solar in Wisconsin

Each year, we see more Wisconsin rooftops with solar panels. Going solar is a great way for homeowners to lock in a low predictable energy bill when inflation and other factors may be ...
Read More

Solar Energy for Business: Myths and Realities

Wisconsin businesses owners, large and small, realize when they focus on growth, they need to take a closer look at their energy costs. In just ten years, renewable energy, such as solar electric systems, have created dramatic, cost-effective changes to
Read More
Join our newsletter to stay up-to-date.
Need answers? Try our Help Center. Help Center
Looking for something specific?
© 2025 Focus On Energy