Best 5 Solar Companies in Maplewood, MN

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Maplewood

The more informed your provider search is, the better your solar installation will ultimately perform. Here are some essential aspects to consider while shopping for a solar specialist.

Licensing and Training

To install a new photovoltaic system in Minnesota, a contractor must have an electrical contractors' or electricians' license from the Department of Labor and Industry, along with a residential building or remodeling contractors' license in some cases. If their work is regulated by the state's Mechanical Code, they must carry a $25,000 minimum bond with the Department of Labor and Industry. 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 Maplewood

Your solar panels' style will influence how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

Additional system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will raise your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies offer these extras, so look for a provider that sells them if it's a priority for you.

You can expect to pay about $20,150 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Maplewood. Check the table in this section to get an idea of how much Maplewood solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Maplewood

Solar installers 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, solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. We suggest working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Ask each consultant about what's available, and secure more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your financial plan.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy devices until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.