Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Onslow, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Moxie Solar is a leading regional solar installer known for comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are a certified B Corporation and have received numerous national awards for their work and company culture. They have a strong focus on customer education and high-quality craftsmanship.
A family-owned business specializing in both roofing and solar installations, providing an integrated solution for homeowners. They are known for personalized service and expertise in navigating local incentive programs. Their dual expertise is a significant advantage for homeowners concerned about roof integrity.
A reputable local installer focused on designing efficient and cost-effective solar energy systems for Iowa homeowners. They emphasize transparent pricing and building long-term relationships with their clients, offering reliable post-installation support.
The home solar market in and around Onslow, Iowa, is served by a handful of strong regional installers rather than national chains or hyper-local companies. The competition level is moderate, with a focus on quality and customer service over cut-throat pricing. The average quality of providers is high, as evidenced by the consistently excellent reviews of the top companies. These installers are well-versed in Iowa-specific incentives, such as the state's solar tax credit and net metering policies. Typical pricing for a residential system in Iowa is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any state incentives. For an average-sized system (8-10 kW), this translates to a gross cost of approximately $20,000 to $35,000. All top providers offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to make solar more accessible. The market is mature enough that homeowners can expect professional service, robust warranties, and knowledgeable consultations.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Onslow regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Onslow, Iowa.
Onslow experiences all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Solar panels are very effective here, as they operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures, and Iowa receives strong sunlight comparable to parts of Florida. Winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover, but panels often melt light snow, and the high summer sun and long days lead to significant overproduction, which can be banked as credits with your utility.
The average home solar system in Iowa costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Iowa offers excellent financial benefits: a state tax credit of up to $5,000, the 30% federal tax credit, and strong net metering policies from local utilities like Maquoketa Valley Electric Cooperative. These incentives can reduce your net cost by 50% or more. Financing options include solar loans, leases, and cash purchases.
Onslow and Jackson County generally have supportive regulations for residential solar. However, you should always check with the Jackson County Zoning Office for any specific permit requirements. If your home is part of an HOA, review its covenants, but be aware that Iowa state law (Iowa Code § 614.33) protects your right to install solar, prohibiting HOAs from enacting rules that significantly increase the cost or decrease the efficiency of your system.
Look for established, Iowa-based installers familiar with local codes, utility interconnection processes, and winter weather mounting considerations. Key factors include Iowa contractor licensing, strong local references, warranties (25 years is industry standard for panels), and whether they handle the entire process, including permits and coordination with Maquoketa Valley REC. Always get multiple detailed quotes and compare equipment, price per watt, and projected production.
Under net metering with Maquoketa Valley Electric Cooperative, excess energy your system sends to the grid earns you a kilowatt-hour (kWh) credit. These credits roll over month-to-month, allowing you to draw from them at night or in less sunny months, effectively using the grid as a battery. Importantly, standard grid-tied systems shut off during a power outage for safety. To have power during outages, you must invest in an additional solar battery storage system.