Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Clare, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Moxie Solar is a multi-state, award-winning solar installer known for its high-quality installations and exceptional customer service. They offer a full-service approach from initial consultation and design to installation, maintenance, and financing. They are a well-established company with a strong reputation for professionalism and expertise, serving the Iowa market extensively.
Based in Des Moines, Mighty Bright Solar is a leading Iowa-based installer focused on residential and commercial projects. They are praised for their transparent pricing, custom design work, and deep knowledge of Iowa-specific incentives. They serve a wide area of Iowa, including rural communities like Clare.
A trusted local name in the Fort Dodge area for decades, Minger has expanded its services to include solar energy solutions. Their strength lies in integrating solar with home energy systems (HVAC) and providing long-term maintenance and repair support. As a local business, they offer a personalized touch and deep community roots.
** The home solar market in and around Clare, Iowa, is characteristic of a rural Midwestern community. The market is not saturated with local competitors; instead, it is served by reputable regional installers based in larger hubs like Fort Dodge, Cedar Falls, and Des Moines. These companies typically offer free, no-obligation consultations and will travel to Clare for site assessments. **Average Quality & Competition:** The quality of service available is high, as the companies that operate regionally are established, licensed, and insured professionals. Direct competition in Clare itself is low, but homeowners have access to several top-tier Iowa-based companies that compete for their business. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with the national average, typically ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 8 kW system, the gross cost would be approximately **$20,000 - $28,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can reduce this cost by 30%. Iowa-specific incentives, such as the state's solar energy system tax credit and potential local utility rebates, can further improve the return on investment. All top providers will provide a detailed analysis of these incentives and financing options, including loans and leases.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Clare regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Clare, Iowa.
For a typical Clare home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and energy needs. Crucially, Iowa offers a strong state tax credit of up to $5,000, which stacks with the 30% federal tax credit, significantly lowering your net cost. Additionally, Clare residents served by Farmers Electric Cooperative or other local utilities should inquire about specific rebate or net metering programs that can further improve payback.
Iowa's four distinct seasons impact solar production, with long summer days yielding the highest output and shorter winter days producing less. Snow cover in Clare can temporarily reduce generation, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding and often melt it quickly. Importantly, solar panels operate efficiently in cold weather, and Iowa receives ample sunlight annually—comparable to parts of Florida—making it an excellent state for solar energy.
Installing solar in Clare requires compliance with both city and utility regulations. You will need to obtain an electrical permit from the City of Clare and possibly a building permit. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process. The most critical step is submitting an interconnection application to your local utility (e.g., Farmers Electric Cooperative) for approval to connect your system to the grid and participate in net metering.
Look for Iowa-based installers with extensive experience in the region's specific climate and utility requirements. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for local references in Clare or nearby towns like Carroll, and review their portfolio of past installations. A reputable provider will offer a detailed site assessment, explain local incentives, and provide a clear production estimate for your property.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during a power outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup. For hail resistance, solar panels installed in Iowa must meet stringent durability ratings (UL 61730 and IEC 61215) and are tested to withstand hail up to 1 inch in diameter at high speed. Most manufacturers offer 25-year performance warranties that include protection against weather-related damage, providing Clare homeowners with long-term peace of mind.