Best 5 Solar Companies in Ankeny, IA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Ankeny

The price and effectiveness of solar panels often hinge on the solar company that installed them. Consider each of these factors in your contractor search.

Licensing and Training

In Iowa, anyone making at least $2,000 annually from non-DIY electrical or solar energy work is a contractor and must pursue licensure from the Division of Labor. To install solar PV systems, a company will need an electrical contractors' or journeymens' license. Solar providers can also pursue certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Ankeny

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 produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. 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.

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 provider includes these add-ons, so look for a company that installs them if it's a priority for you.

A majority of Ankeny homeowners opt for solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $20,050 to install, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Ankeny

Solar companies use multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar leases. We suggest paying with cash or using 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 benefiting from 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) enables you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Ask each company you're evaluating about the payment options it offers. A consultant 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 Ankeny.

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to recently-purchased solar equipment purchased through 2032. Further incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.