Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Molina, Colorado. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally-owned and operated solar installer serving Western Colorado for over 40 years. They are known for their extensive in-house expertise, from custom design to installation and maintenance. They are a full-service provider with a strong focus on customer education and high-quality craftsmanship.
As a SunPower Master Dealer, Altair Energy offers some of the highest-efficiency solar panels on the market. They provide comprehensive services including robust financing options and are well-versed in local and national incentives. Their strong manufacturer partnership ensures long-term performance and warranty support.
A reputable regional contractor specializing in both solar and HVAC, offering integrated home energy solutions. They are praised for their professional consultations and energy efficiency assessments that help homeowners maximize their savings through solar and home performance upgrades.
The home solar market in and around Molina, Colorado, is characterized by a moderate level of competition primarily from established, long-standing regional installers based in Grand Junction. The market quality is high, with several providers boasting decades of experience and premium certifications (like NABCEP). Due to the rural nature of Molina and the surrounding Mesa County, many providers are highly experienced with both standard grid-tied systems and the more complex off-grid and battery-backed solutions that are common in the area. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, but the excellent solar irradiance in Western Colorado ensures a strong and rapid return on investment. Customers benefit from Colorado's strong net metering policies and federal tax incentives, which local installers are very knowledgeable about. The key differentiators between top providers often come down to equipment choice (e.g., standard vs. premium panels) and whether they offer additional integrated services like energy efficiency audits.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Molina regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Molina, Colorado.
Molina's high desert climate, with over 245 sunny days per year, is excellent for solar energy production. The high altitude means less atmospheric filtering of sunlight, which can increase panel efficiency, though cooler temperatures also help panels operate more effectively. However, seasonal snow cover in winter can temporarily reduce output, so system design often includes a tilt angle that helps shed snow and maximizes annual production.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Colorado ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Molina homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit, the strong Colorado state tax credit (up to $1,500), and Xcel Energy's net metering program. Local installers typically offer financing options like solar loans, leases, and PPAs, and property tax and sales tax exemptions ensure your home's assessed value and purchase aren't taxed higher for going solar.
Yes, you will need a building permit from Mesa County. Colorado's "Solar Rights Act" (C.R.S. § 38-32.5-101) significantly restricts HOAs from prohibiting solar installations, though they can have reasonable rules about panel placement for aesthetic purposes. A reputable local installer will handle the entire permitting process with the county and ensure your system design complies with any applicable HOA guidelines.
Prioritize Colorado-based installers with proven experience in Western Colorado's specific climate and grid requirements. Check for certifications like NABCEP, verify they are licensed and insured in Colorado, and read local reviews. Ask for references from recent installations in Molina or nearby communities like Palisade or Grand Junction, and ensure they provide a detailed production estimate specific to your home's sun exposure.
Xcel Energy's net metering program credits you for excess energy your system sends to the grid, rolling over credits month-to-month with an annual "true-up" settlement. This is highly beneficial for Molina's sunny summers, allowing you to bank credits for less sunny periods. Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety; to have power, you must install a dedicated solar battery backup system, which is a growing consideration for homeowners in the area.