Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Ely, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, veteran-owned company based in Duluth specializing in both grid-tied and off-grid solar solutions. They are known for their expertise in the unique challenges of Northern Minnesota climates and their focus on customer education and high-quality components.
A well-respected local contractor based in the Iron Range, specializing in renewable energy systems. Their proximity to Ely makes them a strong local choice, and they have a reputation for robust system design and personalized service for both residential and cabin properties.
A larger, multi-state solar installer with a strong regional office in Minnesota. They bring extensive experience, robust financing options, and high-quality manufacturer partnerships. Their scale allows them to handle complex projects and offer competitive pricing.
** The home solar market in Ely, Minnesota, is characterized by a few key factors. The **average quality** of providers is high, as companies operating in this region must be adept at designing systems that can withstand harsh winters with heavy snow and reduced winter sun hours. **Competition** is moderate; while there are no large national chains present, several highly competent regional and local installers compete for projects. These companies have built their reputations on reliability and expertise in off-grid and hybrid systems, which are particularly relevant for the many remote cabins and homes in the surrounding Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA). **Typical pricing** for a residential system in this region is generally in line with the national average, ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This means a typical 8 kW system would have a gross cost between $22,400 and $28,000. However, the excellent knowledge of local and federal incentives (like the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit) among these providers helps significantly reduce the net cost for homeowners. The market demand is growing, driven by rising electricity costs, a strong environmental ethos in the community, and the critical need for reliable power in a remote area prone to weather-related 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 Ely regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Ely, Minnesota.
Solar panels are very effective in Ely's climate. They generate electricity from daylight, not heat, and cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. Snow typically slides off angled panels, and the reflective quality of snow can even boost production. While winter output is lower due to shorter days, systems are sized to produce a significant surplus in the long, sunny summer months to offset your annual usage.
The gross cost for a typical residential system in Northern Minnesota ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit, and Minnesota's statewide incentive—the Solar*Rewards program—provides additional compensation per kilowatt-hour produced. Furthermore, solar installations in Ely are exempt from state sales tax and add no additional property tax to your home's value.
The ideal time to start the process is in late winter or early spring (February-April). This allows for installation and inspection during milder weather and ensures your system is fully operational to capture the peak summer sun. From signing a contract to interconnection, the entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months, factoring in permitting with the City of Ely, Minnesota Power's review, and scheduling.
Choose a provider with extensive experience in Northern Minnesota's specific climate and utility requirements. Look for local or regional installers familiar with Minnesota Power's interconnection process and local building codes. Always verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Minnesota, and ask for references from recent installations in St. Louis or Lake County to see their work firsthand.
Minnesota Power offers net metering, where your solar system's excess energy sent to the grid earns you a kilowatt-hour credit to offset energy you draw at night or in winter. Credits roll over monthly. It's important to note that a standard grid-tied system will shut off during a power outage for safety. To have power during an outage, you must install a dedicated solar battery backup system, which is a valuable consideration for Ely's remote location.