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Best 5 Solar Companies in Westminster, CO

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Written By Max Peterson|Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Westminster homeowners are increasingly using solar panels to generate energy and heat their water. Local homeowners might opt for solar to break free of high power costs from sources like coal. A skilled team can help you install and adjust a system that fulfills your energy needs without being too expensive. On this page, we'll highlight Westminster's top solar installers and give insightful advice for your solar journey.

Best High-Efficiency System
4.8
  • Builds custom, high-efficiency solar systems suited to each home
  • Extensive coverage area throughout the country
  • Offers energy storage and EV charger add-ons
Most Reputable
4.4
  • Offers high-efficiency panels and storage options
  • Provides unique in-house financing options
  • Recognized as one of the most reputable solar companies
Best Solar Panel Leasing
4.4
  • Provides system monitoring
  • Offers diverse financing options for various budgets
  • Provides EV and solar battery solutions

Top Westminster Solar Companies

Vanguard Solar Services Logo

Vanguard Solar Services

4.7/5
Based on 57 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Cleaning And MaintenanceConsultationPanel InstallationSystem Decommissioning

Highlights

  • Free quotes
  • Prompt service delivery
  • Informative resources
6145 Broadway Unit 5, Denver, CO 720-909-8899 vanguardsolarservices.com
MH Electrical and Solar Logo

MH Electrical and Solar

4.7/5
Based on 55 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel InstallationTesla PowerwallBattery StorageConsultationCleaning And Maintenance

Highlights

  • Free quotes
  • Informative resources
  • Clear pricing policy
2806 Speer Blvd, Denver, CO 303-915-0914 mhelectricalandsolar.com
Solar Wave Logo

Solar Wave

4.7/5
Based on 32 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Off-Grid Solar SystemsBattery StorageFinancing AssistanceConsultationCleaning And MaintenancePanel InstallationGrid-Tied Solar System

Highlights

  • Reliable customer support
  • Clear pricing policy
  • Free quotes
2301 Blake St Suite 100, Denver, CO 720-730-4129 thesolarwave.com
Upslope Solar Logo

Upslope Solar

4.7/5
Based on 17 customer reviews.

Services Offered

Panel InstallationConsultation

Highlights

  • Informative resources
  • Free quotes
  • Reliable customer support
1312 17th St, Denver, CO 303-223-2525 upslopesolar.com

More Local Solar Companies

Apollo Energy

User Reviews: 4.6/5 

1400 E 66th Ave Unit B
Denver, CO 80229

Photon Brothers

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

7705 W 108th Ave
Broomfield, CO 80021

Elevated Independent Energy

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

7000 Broadway STE 104
Denver, CO 80221

Pro Bid Energy

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

3975 E 56th Ave Unit B-1
Commerce City, CO 80022

Smart Wave Solar

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

4201 Madison St
Denver, CO 80216

Go Green Electric, Inc

User Reviews: 4.7/5 

1050 Yuma St Suite 200
Denver, CO 80204

Sopris Solar

User Reviews: 4.5/5 

6078 W 55th Ave
Arvada, CO 80002

Aqua Care Solar LLC

User Reviews: 4.6/5 

5171 Eldorado Springs Dr ste d
Boulder, CO 80303

Liv Solar

User Reviews: 4.4/5 

7140 W 117th Ave #C3
Broomfield, CO 80020

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.

Ranking Methodology

We evaluated dozens of Westminster solar providers, using the following criteria to select the top-notch:

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Facts about Westminster
Average Max Temp:60°F
Solar Payback Period:8.9 years
Average Daily Sunlight:61%
Homes Powered by Solar:4,119
Average Annual Energy Bill:$968
Solar Power per Capita Percentile:48.0%

Expert Tips By

This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

  • Reduced carbon footprint: Embracing solar is a surefire way to lower your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
  • Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have dependable energy during storms and grid outages.
  • Lowered energy bills: Solar panels allow you to generate your own energy to power your home, decreasing your periodic electricity costs. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant amount of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Westminster Homeowners?

Colorado agencies and electric companies offer a number of solar incentives to help cut your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Website: cdola.colorado.gov

Incentive Amount:

100% exemption for renewable energy system property

Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive

Website: tax.colorado.gov

Incentive Amount:

100%

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: energysmartcolorado.com

Incentive Amount:

Residential
PV: 50% up to $500
Solar Thermal: 50% of project costs
Commercial
50% of project costs

Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive

Website: bouldercolorado.gov

Incentive Amount:

~15% refund on sales and use tax for the solar installation

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: energysmartcolorado.com

Incentive Amount:

PV: 25% of cost
Solar Water Heat: $25% of cost
Solar Thermal Tune-up: 25% of project cost
Micro-hydro and Geothermal: 25% of cost

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Website: cdola.colorado.gov

Incentive Amount:

100% exemption for the percentage of electricity capacity (AC) of a community solar garden attributed to residential or governmental subscribers or organizations that are already exempt from property taxes

Incentive Type: Performance-Based Incentive

Website: xcelenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

Systems 0.5 kW - 25 kW: $0.005/kWh
Medium-sized Systems 25.1-500 kW: $0.0375/kWh
Large Systems (>500kW): Determined through competitive bid

Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

Varies (local option)

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

Varies (local option)

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: efficiencyworks.org

Incentive Amount:

Air Sealing: $300-$500
Insulation: Up to $1,815
Duct Sealing: $200 (gas-heated homes only)
Window Replacement: Up to $1,000
Air Handler Blower Motor: $150
Whole House Mechanical Ventilation: 20% of cost
Heat Pumps: $500
Replacement Furnace: $300-$500 (gas-heated homes only)
Ductless Mini-Split: $250/head
Replacement Gas Boiler: $300 (gas-heated homes only)
Replacement Water Heater: $100-$500
AC System: $150-$500
Whole House Fan: $275
Evaporative Cooler: $500

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: unitedpower.com

Incentive Amount:

CFL Recycling: FREE
New Energy Star Refrigerator/Freezer: $30
Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling: $75
New Energy Star Clothes Washer: $40
New Energy Star Dishwasher: $20
New Electric Thermal Storage Units (on automated Time-of-Day control panel): $4-$16/kW
New Electric Thermal Slab (on automated Time-of-Day control panel): $4-12/kW
Water Heaters: $20-$400
Terminal Unit for Heat Pump A/C Units: $75-$85/Unit
Heat Pumps: $100-$450/ton
Geothermal Heat Pumps: $200-$500/ton

Air Conditioners: $100-$150

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Website: xcelenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

Up to $50,000

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: xcelenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

Refrigerator Recycling: varies, contact utility for details
Natural Gas Furnace: $300
EC Motor in New or Existing Furnace: $100
Air Conditioning/Air Source Heat Pump: $300-$600
Mini-Split Heat Pump: $300
Water Heater: $70-$450
Evaporative Cooling: $200-$1,200
Attic Insulation: $350-$600
Wall Insulation: $350-$600
Air Sealing, bypass sealing, and weather-stripping: $175-$450
Ground Source Heat Pump: $300/ton
Smart Thermostat: $50

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: xcelenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

Attic Insulation: $400-$700
Air Sealing/Bypass Sealing/Weather-Stripping: $250-$550
High Efficiency Lighting: 30% of cost
Wall Insulation: $450-$700
Evaporative Cooling System: $325-$1200
Central Air Conditioner (New): $400 - $700
Central Air Conditioner (Trade In): $550
Ground Source/Geothermal Heat Pump: $300 per ton
Electric Heat Pump Water Heater: $550
Programmable Thermostat: $25
High Efficiency Furnace: $400
Electrically Commuted Motor: $125
Tankless Water Heater: $200
Standard Tank Water Heater: $100
ENERGY STAR Refrigerator: $15
ENERGY STAR Clothes Washer: $30

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Website: colorado.gov

Incentive Amount:

$35,000

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Website: colorado.gov

Incentive Amount:

$250,000

Incentive Type: Performance-Based Incentive

Website: xcelenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

2015 Large RFP Program:
Determined through competitive bid. RFP released on March 3, 2016

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Website: energysmartcolorado.com

Incentive Amount:

$25,000

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: ecowatch.com

Incentive Amount:

30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Westminster

The price and performance of solar panels often depend on which company mounted them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

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. Solar installers can also pursue certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Westminster

The type of solar panels you choose determines how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company includes these add-ons, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's crucial for you.

You can plan to spend about $19,900 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Westminster. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Westminster solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Solar Panel CostAverage Cost
Solar Monocrystalline$1,227
Solar Polycrystalline$957
Thin-Film$559
Solar Battery$785
Solar Home EV Charger$2,944

Financing Solar Energy in Westminster

Choosing the best financing option will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements, and loans. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car loan or mortgage, 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 use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each business you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A staff member 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 Westminster.

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. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own rebates, incentives, and financing programs that could save you more money.

Solar System CapacityEstimated Payback period
1 kW1.8 years
2 kW3.6 years
5 kW8.9 years
10 kW17.8 years

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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Westminster

How much money could I save by going solar in Westminster?

On average, Westminster homeowners pay approximately $968 per year on power bills. Once you repay your solar array, you could reduce your costs by $988.03 per kilowatt you produce.

How widespread is solar energy in Westminster?

Yes, solar energy is readily available in Westminster. A growing number of area homes generate or access solar power on-site or through utility grids, and Colorado has about 7174 jobs comprising its solar economy.

Will solar energy systems raise my Westminster home price?

Yes, new solar systems mean higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could increase your home's value by $12,000.

What if I live in a rainy or dark

Even if your property has high tree cover, you could still benefit from solar energy. Your contractor will maximize your system's performance by selecting the proper site for panels, installing a battery backup system, cleaning them regularly, and positioning them to capture the most sunlight throughout the year. This way, you can store solar power and use it as necessary.

How long does the solar installation process require?

Your solar job's duration will depend on its size and complexity, as well as Westminster's permit and inspection procedures. It could take two weeks to a couple of months on average.

What care do my solar panels need, and how often do they need it?

Solar panels don't demand much upkeep to keep working for your home. All you'll need to do is inspect and clean the panels every six months or as necessary in dusty seasons. Solar providers frequently offer maintenance packages to help you in your system's care.

What is "net metering," and how does it work?

Net metering is a system that credits solar homeowners for any excess electricity they generate and return to the grid.

Some states or power companies require you to participate in net metering when installing your solar system, while others give you a choice. Either way, once you join, you'll receive a bill credit or check for your excess generation at a wholesale or retail rate.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.