Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Marion, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Moxie Solar is a highly-awarded, regional leader in solar installation known for its comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are a certified B Corporation, emphasizing high ethical and environmental standards. They have extensive experience with both grid-tied and battery backup systems.
A local, family-owned business that specializes in integrating solar installations with roofing services. This dual expertise is a significant advantage for homeowners concerned about roof integrity. They offer personalized consultations and are well-versed in local incentives and financing.
Mighty Bright Solar is a dedicated local installer focused on providing customized solar solutions for Eastern Iowans. They pride themselves on customer education and transparent pricing, offering a range of products and focusing on high-quality craftsmanship and post-installation support.
The home solar market in Marion, Iowa, is robust and growing, characterized by strong competition among several high-quality, regional installers. The average quality of service is high, as evidenced by the consistently excellent reviews for the top providers. These companies are well-established, professionally licensed, and hold key certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Competition helps keep pricing competitive. For a typical residential system (6-8 kW), homeowners can expect costs to range from **$18,000 to $28,000 before incentives**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost. Additionally, Iowa-specific incentives, such as the state tax credit and net metering policies, further improve the return on investment. The market is mature enough that providers offer a wide array of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible to a broad range of homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Marion regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Marion, Iowa.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Marion, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with Iowa's state tax credit of up to $5,000, significantly lowering your net investment. Additionally, Alliant Energy, Marion's primary utility, offers a net metering program that credits you for excess power sent to the grid, enhancing long-term savings.
While Iowa has variable weather, Marion receives ample sunlight for effective solar production, with summer months being particularly productive. Solar panels are more efficient in cooler temperatures, so our crisp, sunny spring and fall days are ideal. Snow in winter can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to shed snow, and the reflective quality of snow can sometimes boost production on clear days.
Yes, a building permit from the City of Marion's Community Development Department is required. The process involves submitting your system plans, and your chosen installer will typically handle this paperwork. They will ensure the installation meets all local building codes, electrical codes, and any specific requirements from Alliant Energy for grid interconnection, streamlining the process for you.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong local experience, as they will be familiar with Marion's permitting and Alliant Energy's interconnection rules. Look for Iowa-based companies with strong warranties and a portfolio of installations in Linn County. Always get multiple quotes, check reviews, and verify they are a certified partner with the major panel manufacturers they use.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, to protect utility workers. To have power during an outage, you need a system equipped with a battery storage solution, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is a valuable consideration in Marion, where severe seasonal storms can cause outages, providing energy security and independence.