Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Empire, Colorado. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As one of the largest dedicated residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun offers a comprehensive suite of services from consultation to installation and maintenance. They are a top provider for solar leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible with little to no upfront cost. Their Brightbox battery storage product is a key offering for energy resilience in the mountainous Empire area.
A highly-rated regional installer known for exceptional customer service and expertise in both grid-tied and battery-backed systems. They handle the entire process in-house, from design to installation, and emphasize clean, precise workmanship. Their expertise in battery storage (Tesla Powerwall, Enphase) is particularly relevant for off-grid and backup power needs in Empire.
A Colorado-born and operated company that specializes in solar installations for mountainous and challenging terrain, making them an excellent fit for Empire. They have deep expertise in dealing with snow load, unique roof angles, and the specific solar exposure conditions of the high country. They offer robust off-grid and grid-hybrid solutions.
** The home solar market in Empire, Colorado, is characterized by high potential for solar generation but served by a specialized subset of regional and national installers. Due to Empire's small population and mountainous location, there are no solar companies physically headquartered within the city limits. Homeowners are primarily served by reputable companies based in the Denver Metro area and Colorado Springs that have proven experience with the unique challenges of mountain installations, such as heavy snow loads, complex roof designs, and variable weather patterns. The competition level is moderate, with a focus on quality and durability over low-cost, high-volume sales. Typical pricing for a residential system is slightly above the national average due to these site-specific challenges and the high demand for battery storage for backup power. The market is mature, with providers well-versed in Colorado's incentives, net metering policies, and the federal investment tax credit (ITC). Customers can expect a high level of expertise, particularly in systems designed for energy independence and resilience.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Empire regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Empire, Colorado.
Empire's high altitude (over 8,500 ft) means clearer skies and stronger sunlight, which can boost solar production. However, heavy winter snow requires proper panel tilt for self-shedding and a robust mounting system to handle snow load. Fortunately, modern panels are efficient in cold weather, and snow reflection can even temporarily increase production during sunny winter days.
The average system cost in Colorado ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Empire homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit, Colorado's strong net metering policies from Xcel Energy, and the state's property tax exemption for renewable energy systems. Local utility, Empire Electric Association, may also have specific interconnection rules and potential rebates to investigate.
Yes, you must obtain a building permit from Clear Creek County. Colorado's "Solar Rights Act" (C.R.S. § 38-32.5-101) prohibits HOAs from outright banning solar installations, but they can have reasonable aesthetic guidelines. It's crucial to review your specific HOA covenants and coordinate with a local installer familiar with Clear Creek County's permit process and timelines.
The ideal installation time is late spring through early fall to avoid major winter weather delays. The entire process—from consultation and design to permitting, installation, and utility interconnection—typically takes 2 to 4 months in Colorado. Starting in spring allows your system to be fully operational to capture maximum summer sun.
Prioritize Colorado-based installers with specific experience in high-altitude and mountainous regions like Clear Creek County. Verify they are licensed, insured, and have NABCEP-certified professionals. Ask for local references in Empire, check their track record with Empire Electric Association interconnections, and ensure they provide detailed production estimates that account for local snow and shade patterns.