Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Somerset, Colorado. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Atlasta Solar is a locally-owned and operated industry leader based in Grand Junction, with a strong reputation for serving the Western Slope of Colorado since 1984. They offer a full suite of services from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing. They are known for their deep expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems, which is crucial for more remote areas like Somerset.
Based in Carbondale, Sunsense Solar has been a trusted installer on the Western Slope for over two decades. They have extensive experience with the specific climate and energy needs of mountain communities. They provide comprehensive energy assessments, high-quality installation, and are well-versed in the financing options and incentives available to Colorado residents.
While headquartered in Wyoming, Creative Energies has a strong and dedicated branch in Paonia, CO, making them one of the closest and most relevant providers to Somerset. They are a certified B-Corp, emphasizing ethical business and customer satisfaction. They specialize in complex installations and are experts in battery-backed systems for energy resilience.
** The home solar market in and around Somerset, Colorado, is characterized by a reliance on regional experts rather than large national companies or many hyper-local options. The high altitude and excellent solar insolation (over 250 sunny days per year) make the area ideal for solar power. However, the rural and mountainous terrain necessitates contractors with specific expertise in off-grid capabilities and battery storage, as grid reliability can be a concern. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there aren't dozens of installers physically in Somerset, several highly qualified regional competitors (like those listed) actively serve the area, ensuring competitive pricing and high service quality. **Average Quality:** Very High. The providers that succeed in this market are established, technically proficient, and must navigate local county permitting and specific environmental factors like heavy snow loads. This filters out less capable installers. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with the Colorado average. A typical residential system (6-8 kW) might range from **$18,000 to $30,000 before incentives**. The 30% federal tax credit significantly reduces the net cost. Given the expertise required for battery and off-grid systems, projects incorporating these elements will be at the higher end of the price spectrum. All top-tier local installers are exceptionally knowledgeable about available state and federal incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Somerset regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Somerset, Colorado.
Somerset's high altitude (over 8,000 feet) means clearer skies and stronger sunlight, which can boost solar production. However, heavy winter snow requires proper panel tilt and a durable racking system for snow shedding. Installers in the area are experienced in designing systems to handle the snow load and will position panels to maximize winter sun exposure despite the shorter days.
The average system cost in Colorado ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Somerset homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit, Colorado's strong net metering policies from your utility (likely Delta-Montrose Electric Association or Xcel Energy), and the state's property tax exemption for renewable energy systems. These incentives can reduce your net cost by 30-50%.
Gunnison County, where Somerset is located, has specific building and electrical permit requirements for solar installations. While Colorado state law (Solar Rights Act) prohibits HOAs from outright banning solar, they may have rules on panel placement. A reputable local installer will handle the entire permitting process with the county and ensure your system design complies with any applicable covenants.
In Somerset, the full process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing Gunnison County permits, scheduling installation (which can be weather-dependent, especially in winter), and finally, the utility's inspection and interconnection approval. Working with a Colorado-based installer familiar with local utilities and inspectors helps streamline this process.
Yes. While production is lower in winter due to shorter days and potential snow cover, Somerset receives over 245 sunny days per year. Modern panels are efficient at capturing diffuse light on cloudy days, and net metering credits earned during the abundant sunny seasons will offset your winter usage. Proper design ensures your system is sized to meet your annual energy needs, not just winter output.