Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Ellsworth, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, full-service solar installer operating across multiple states, including Minnesota. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They have extensive experience with both residential and commercial projects and are well-versed in local incentives and financing options.
A rapidly growing solar and electrical contractor known for its strong customer service and high-quality installations. They operate throughout the Midwest and have a significant presence in Minnesota. They emphasize education and transparency, helping homeowners understand their solar options and the financial benefits.
A Minnesota-based solar installer focused on residential and commercial projects throughout the state. They are recognized for their custom system design and strong partnerships with high-quality equipment manufacturers. They offer a full suite of services, including maintenance and repair for existing systems.
** The home solar market in and around Ellsworth, MN, is characteristic of a rural area with high solar potential. The market is not served by hyper-local contractors but is efficiently covered by established regional installers from larger metro areas like the Twin Cities and Sioux Falls, as well as specialized statewide companies. * **Average Quality & Competition:** The quality of service is generally high, as the companies competing for business in this region are established, licensed, and certified entities (often with NABCEP-certified staff). They must maintain strong reputations to justify traveling to serve customers in more rural locations. The competition is healthy but not oversaturated, leading to competitive pricing and good customer service. * **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with state and national averages. For a typical residential system (6-10 kW), homeowners can expect a gross cost between **$20,000 and $35,000** before applying the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC) and any other local incentives. The strong solar irradiance in Minnesota makes for a favorable return on investment. * **Key Considerations:** Homeowners in Ellsworth are often excellent candidates for solar due to ample roof or land space. These regional providers are experts in navigating the interconnection process with the local utility (likely Xcel Energy or a local cooperative) and are knowledgeable about Minnesota-specific incentives, such as the MN Solar Rewards program. The trend of integrating battery storage is growing, providing energy security during less frequent but possible grid outages.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ellsworth regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Ellsworth, Minnesota.
Solar panels are surprisingly efficient in cold, sunny weather, and snow typically melts quickly off their dark, slick surfaces. While production is lower in the shorter, cloudier winter days, Minnesota's long summer daylight hours provide excellent generation, and modern systems are engineered to withstand heavy snow loads and freeze-thaw cycles. Proper installation angle and regular monitoring ensure your system remains productive and durable year-round in our local climate.
After the 30% federal tax credit, a typical residential system in the Ellsworth area ranges from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on system size and home energy needs. Minnesota-specific incentives significantly reduce costs, including the state's Solar*Rewards program (a per-kilowatt-hour production incentive), a state sales tax exemption on equipment and installation, and property tax exemption for the added home value from solar.
Yes, local permitting and utility interconnection rules are key. You'll need an electrical permit from the City of Ellsworth or Nobles County, and your installer typically handles this. Crucially, you must coordinate with your local utility (likely Nobles Cooperative Electric) for interconnection approval to ensure your system safely connects to the grid and qualifies for net metering, which credits you for excess power sent back.
Prioritize installers with proven local experience in southwest Minnesota. They should be familiar with Nobles Cooperative Electric's interconnection process, local building codes, and optimal designs for our weather. Check for proper Minnesota electrical and solar contractor licensing, strong local references, and warranties. A reputable local provider will also offer a detailed site assessment that accounts for your roof's condition, orientation, and potential shading.
A standard grid-tied solar system will automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, unless it includes a dedicated battery storage solution. Adding a battery, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar, is increasingly popular in Ellsworth to provide backup power during outages, storing excess solar energy for use at night or during storms. This enhances energy independence and security, especially during severe seasonal weather.