Best 5 Solar Companies in Aurora, CO

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Aurora

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar array. Here are some crucial criteria to remember while shopping for a solar provider.

Licensing and Training

While electricians and plumbers in Colorado have state-issued licenses from the Colorado Electrical Board or Colorado State Plumbing Board, counties and cities can issue solar contracting licenses if they choose. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most prestigious are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, granted by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Aurora

Your solar modules' style will affect how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.

If you want to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more effective and user-friendly. Not all solar companies include these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's crucial for you.

If you're a resident of Aurora and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $19,900 for materials and labor. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Aurora

Choosing the correct financing plan will affect your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include cash payments, loans, power purchase agreements, and leases. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Much like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each business you're considering about the payment options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Aurora.

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.