Best 3 Solar Companies in Davenport, IA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Davenport

The more comprehensive your company investigation is, the better your solar panels will ultimately function. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.

Licensing and Training

In Iowa, anyone making at least $2,000 per year from non-DIY electrical or solar energy work is a contractor and must pursue licensure from the Division of Labor. To install solar photovoltaic systems, a company will need a journeymens' or electrical contractors' license. Solar providers can also pursue certifications 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 Davenport

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power 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.

Additional accessories, 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 additional features, so look for a company that sells them if it's a priority for you.

You can plan to spend about $20,050 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Davenport. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Davenport solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Davenport

Choosing the right financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements, and loans. We suggest making a cash payment or securing a solar loan for the highest 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 cut 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 monthly 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) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, like an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each provider you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.