Best 5 Solar Companies in Thornton, CO

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Thornton

The purchase price and efficiency of solar panels often rely on the solar company that mounted them. Consider each of these criteria in your company search.

Licensing and Training

While electricians and plumbers in Colorado have state-issued licenses from the Colorado Electrical Board or Colorado State Plumbing Board, the state's unique home-rule structure means counties and cities can issue their own solar professional if they choose. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Thornton

Your solar modules' type will impact how much power you can generate. 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.

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 efficiency. Not all solar companies include these extras, so look for a company that sells them if it's a priority for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $19,900 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Thornton. This table shows more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Thornton

Choosing the optimal financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include leases, power purchase agreements, loans, and cash payments. We suggest paying with cash or securing a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Look for installers that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your wallet.

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

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on the full cost of the solar system, so long as you purchase it before 2032. City and state governments and utilities might also offer their own rebates, incentives, and financing programs that could save you more money.