Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Aurora, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-regarded, locally-owned and operated solar installer based in the Iron Range. They specialize in both residential and commercial projects and are known for their personalized service, deep knowledge of Minnesota incentives, and expertise in handling the specific climate challenges of Northern Minnesota, including snow load calculations.
A larger, employee-owned company with a strong presence across Minnesota and the Midwest. They have a physical office in Duluth and are known for their professional project management, robust warranty offerings, and extensive manufacturer partnerships. They offer comprehensive services from consultation to maintenance.
A Minnesota-based solar contractor with a strong reputation for quality installations and customer service. They handle the entire process in-house and have significant experience with the unique permitting and utility interconnection processes across Minnesota, including areas served by cooperative utilities like those near Aurora.
** The home solar market in Aurora, Minnesota, is characteristic of a rural Northern community. There is a moderate level of competition, not from local storefronts, but from established regional companies based in larger hubs like Duluth and the Twin Cities who actively market and service the area. The market quality is high, as these providers are seasoned professionals who understand the specific challenges of the region, including heavy snowfall, extreme temperature swings, and interconnection with rural electric cooperatives. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Aurora is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$25,000 to $42,000** for a typical 10kW system. However, the net cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal tax credit and potential state-specific incentives, making solar a financially viable option for many homeowners. The market is driven by environmentally conscious residents, those seeking energy independence, and homeowners looking to lock in long-term energy costs against rising utility rates.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Aurora regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Aurora, Minnesota.
Solar panels are very effective in Aurora. While winter days are shorter, solar panels actually operate more efficiently in cold weather, and Minnesota receives strong sunlight year-round. Snow typically slides off angled panels, and the reflective quality of snow can even boost production on clear days. Systems are designed to produce more than enough in the sunnier months to offset lower winter generation through net metering with your utility.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Minnesota ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Crucially, Minnesota offers a state solar incentive program that provides a per-watt rebate, significantly lowering the upfront cost. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit and net metering from providers like Minnesota Power, the payback period in Aurora is typically 8-12 years, with decades of free energy thereafter.
Yes, you will need to obtain an electrical permit from the City of Aurora or St. Louis County, and your installer will typically handle this process. Minnesota has statewide interconnection rules that streamline connecting to the grid, and your utility (likely Minnesota Power) has specific application forms. Aurora does not have restrictive zoning against solar, but your installer will ensure the system meets all local building and electrical codes.
The ideal time to start the process is in late winter or early spring (February-April). This allows for installation in the spring or summer, ensuring your system is fully operational to capture the peak production months. From signing a contract to final interconnection, the entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months, accounting for design, permitting, utility approvals, and scheduling the installation itself.
Look for established, local Minnesota or regional installers with proven experience in cold-climate installations. Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured, and check for certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for references from Aurora-area projects and confirm they handle all local permitting and utility paperwork. It's also wise to get multiple detailed quotes to compare equipment, warranties, and projected production specific to your home's layout.