Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Excelsior, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A regional leader with a strong presence in Minnesota, All Energy Solar is known for its comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are a certified installer for top-tier equipment and have extensive experience with both residential and commercial projects, including the unique considerations for homes near Lake Minnetonka.
A highly-rated, local Minnesota company that has built a strong reputation for customer service and quality craftsmanship. They specialize in residential projects and are particularly adept at navigating the specific incentives and utility interconnection processes for Xcel Energy customers, which is the utility provider for Excelsior.
TruNorth Solar operates as a cooperative, a unique structure in the solar industry. They focus heavily on education and transparent pricing, making them an excellent choice for homeowners new to solar. Their model promotes high customer satisfaction, and they offer a full suite of services including maintenance and repair for systems they install.
** The home solar market in Excelsior, Minnesota, is robust and competitive, characterized by high-quality, established regional installers. Due to Excelsior's affluent demographics and high property values, the market leans towards premium, full-service installations. Homeowners typically invest in larger, more efficient systems, often incorporating battery storage (like Tesla Powerwall) for backup power and increased energy independence. **Competition Level:** High. While there are fewer "national" brands, the dominance of several strong regional players (like those listed above) creates a competitive environment that benefits consumers through quality service and comprehensive offerings. **Average Quality:** The average quality of installers serving Excelsior is very high. Companies are generally well-licensed, insured, NABCEP-certified, and have strong partnerships with top-tier manufacturers (e.g., Panasonic, Qcells, Enphase). **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with the national average, ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For a typical 8 kW system, the gross cost would be approximately **$22,400 - $28,000**. However, after applying the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and potential local rebates, the net cost is significantly reduced. Financing options (loans, leases, PPAs) are widely available, making $0-down installations common.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Excelsior regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Excelsior, Minnesota.
Solar panels are an excellent investment in Excelsior. While production is lower in winter due to shorter days and potential snow cover, Minnesota's long summer days with high sun angles lead to very strong production, often offsetting winter output. Importantly, solar panels are efficient in cold weather and snow usually slides off angled panels, while our high electricity rates from Xcel Energy make the savings from solar generation particularly valuable year-round.
For a typical Excelsior home, a solar system currently costs between $20,000 and $35,000 before incentives. Key financing includes cash purchase, solar loans, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Critically, you must combine the 30% federal tax credit with Minnesota-specific incentives like the Solar*Rewards program from Xcel Energy and the state's property tax exemption for the added home value from solar.
Installing solar in Excelsior requires a building permit from the city, and your installer will typically handle this process. You must comply with local zoning codes regarding setbacks and roof placement. The most important utility step is applying to Xcel Energy for interconnection to the grid, which enables net metering—a program that credits you for excess power sent back to the grid.
Prioritize local Minnesota-based installers with extensive experience in our climate and with Xcel Energy's interconnection process. Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Minnesota, and ask for references from recent Excelsior or Lake Minnetonka area installations. Always compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment specs, production estimates for our location, warranty terms, and a clear timeline.
The ideal installation time is late spring, summer, or early fall. This avoids potential delays from winter weather and allows the system to be commissioned and interconnected with Xcel Energy in time to capture peak summer sun. Planning and securing a contract in the winter or early spring is highly recommended, as it ensures you are scheduled before the busy summer installation rush.