Best 5 Solar Companies in Highlands Ranch, CO

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Highlands Ranch

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar energy system. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.

Licensing and Training

While electricians and plumbers in Colorado have state-issued licenses from the Colorado Electrical Board or Colorado State Plumbing Board, it's up to counties and cities to issue their own solar professional if they choose. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar sector's most trusted trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Highlands Ranch

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors offer these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's crucial for you.

Most Highlands Ranch homeowners opt for solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $19,900 to install, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Highlands Ranch

Solar contractors use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, solar leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and cash payments. 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. Like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. Ask each provider you're vetting about the payment plans it offers. A team member can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.

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

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own incentives, financing programs, and rebates that could save you more money.