Best 5 Solar Companies in Castle Rock, CO

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Castle Rock

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar array. Make your choice based on the following key factors.

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 their own solar professional if they choose. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most recognized are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, awarded 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 Castle Rock

Your solar panels' model will impact how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. 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 dark weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By choosing the right components, you can make your panel array more efficient and user-friendly. Not every solar company includes these add-ons, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's essential for you.

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

Financing Solar Energy in Castle Rock

Choosing the correct financing plan will influence your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, loans, and power purchase agreements. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you rent your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only 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. Look for contractors that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. City and state officials and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.