Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Solon, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in Dubuque with a strong presence throughout Eastern Iowa, including the Iowa City corridor. They are known for high-quality installations, expert system design, and deep knowledge of local incentives. They handle everything from initial consultation to post-installation maintenance and offer comprehensive financing options.
Pure Light Solar is a well-established contractor out of Cedar Rapids that has completed numerous installations in Johnson County. They emphasize customer education, transparent pricing, and offer a wide range of services including energy efficiency assessments to maximize savings. They are a certified installer for major panel and battery manufacturers.
A highly-rated local installer based in Iowa City, providing personalized service to homeowners in Johnson County and surrounding areas like Solon. They specialize in both residential and small commercial projects and are known for their custom design work and expertise in off-grid and battery-backup systems.
** The home solar market in Solon, Iowa, is a growing but specialized segment, characteristic of many Midwestern towns. The market is not saturated with high-volume national installers; instead, it is served by a select group of reputable, regional companies primarily based in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids. These providers bring a high level of quality and expertise, with a deep understanding of Iowa-specific incentives, net metering policies (from providers like MidAmerican Energy), and the local climate. Competition is healthy, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and strong customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Solon is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The presence of these established, local experts ensures that Solon homeowners have access to reliable, well-designed solar energy solutions.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Solon regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Solon, Iowa.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Solon, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, Iowa offers excellent incentives, including a state tax credit of up to $5,000 (15% of the federal credit) and a 100% property tax exemption for the added home value from solar. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, this makes the net investment significantly lower. You should also check with Alliant Energy, Solon's primary utility, for any specific rebate programs.
Solar panels actually operate more efficiently in colder temperatures, and Iowa's sunny winters still contribute to annual production. Snow will temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle, and dark surfaces help snow melt and slide off relatively quickly. Minimal maintenance is required; an occasional clearing of heavy, persistent snow with a roof rake (carefully) may be beneficial, but seasonal production averages are calculated with Iowa's weather in mind.
Installation requires compliance with City of Solon building and electrical codes. You will need to obtain a building permit from the Solon City Hall. Your chosen, reputable installer will typically manage this entire process, including the interconnection agreement with Alliant Energy. It's important to ensure your installer is familiar with local requirements, as some homeowners associations (HOAs) in the area may have aesthetic guidelines, though Iowa law limits their ability to prohibit solar.
Prioritize Iowa-based installers with extensive local experience, as they understand regional weather, utility policies, and permitting. Check for proper licensing (Iowa requires electrical and contractor licenses), strong warranties (25-year on panels, 10+ years on workmanship), and a robust portfolio of installations in Johnson County and surrounding areas. Always get multiple detailed quotes and ask for local customer references you can contact directly.
Alliant Energy offers net metering for Solon customers, crediting you at the retail rate for excess energy sent to the grid. This credit offsets your usage at night or on cloudy days, effectively using the grid as a battery. Your system will still produce energy on overcast days, just at a reduced rate. Over a full year, a properly sized system is designed to match a significant portion of your household's energy consumption, maximizing your savings.