Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Alexandria, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, employee-owned company serving Minnesota and several other states. They are known for comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and design to installation and maintenance. They have a strong focus on customer education and quality craftsmanship.
A well-established local Minnesota contractor with a specific focus on solar and electrical systems. They have a strong presence in central MN, including the Alexandria area, and are praised for their personalized service and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
A specialized solar installer based in the Fargo-Moorhead area that actively serves western Minnesota, including Alexandria. They differentiate themselves with a strong focus on customer service and guiding homeowners through the entire process, including incentive paperwork.
** The home solar market in Alexandria, Minnesota, is characterized by high-quality, regional specialists rather than a high volume of local, city-specific competitors. The market competition is **moderate**, with a handful of established, reputable companies from surrounding hubs competing for projects in the area. The quality of these providers is generally **very high**, as they must maintain strong credentials and reputations to operate across a wide region. Alexandria residents benefit from Minnesota's supportive solar policies, including **net metering**, which allows homeowners to get credit for excess energy sent back to the grid. Furthermore, state-specific incentives and the federal investment tax credit (ITC) significantly reduce the net cost of installation. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region ranges from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This means an average-sized 8 kW system would have a gross cost between $22,400 and $28,000. After applying the 30% federal tax credit, the net investment typically falls into the **$15,680 to $19,600** range. Financing options, including loans and leases offered by these top providers, make solar increasingly accessible without large upfront payments.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Alexandria regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Alexandria, Minnesota.
While solar production is lower in winter due to shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient in cold, sunny weather and Alexandria receives ample sunlight year-round. Snow typically slides off tilted panels, and any temporary cover melts quickly. Importantly, Minnesota's net metering policy allows you to bank excess summer credits to offset winter usage, making the annual system highly effective.
The gross cost for a typical residential system in Alexandria ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal tax credit with Minnesota's state solar incentive, which offers a rebate of up to $1,500. Additionally, Douglas County residents may access favorable financing, and the system adds value to your home without increasing property taxes due to Minnesota's solar energy systems exemption.
The ideal installation time is late spring through early fall to avoid winter weather delays. The entire process—from consultation and design to obtaining City of Alexandria permits, interconnection approval from Runestone Electric Association, and final installation—typically takes 2 to 4 months. Starting in spring allows your system to be operational in time to maximize summer sun.
Select a provider experienced with local regulations, Runestone Electric Association's interconnection process, and Minnesota's climate. Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Minnesota. Ask for local references and examples of installations in Douglas County, and ensure they handle all permitting and utility paperwork. A reputable local or regional installer will understand how to optimize your roof for our specific weather patterns.
Both utilities offer net metering programs compliant with Minnesota state law. Your solar system will be connected to the grid, and any excess power you generate is sent back, earning you a kilowatt-hour (kWh) credit. These credits roll over month-to-month, allowing you to draw from your bank during less sunny periods, like cloudy weeks or winter. You will receive an annual "true-up" statement from your utility.