Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Faribault, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer with a strong presence in Minnesota and a reputation for high-quality, turnkey solutions. They handle everything from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing, making the process seamless for homeowners.
A well-established, Minnesota-based solar contractor known for its expertise and customer service. They specialize in both grid-tied and off-grid systems and offer comprehensive energy efficiency assessments to maximize the value of a solar installation.
A highly-rated, customer-focused solar installer that serves the broader southern Minnesota and Twin Cities region. They are praised for their transparent pricing, quality workmanship, and deep knowledge of local incentives and financing options.
** The home solar market in Faribault, Minnesota, is characterized by high-quality regional competition rather than a high density of local, in-city providers. Homeowners in Faribault are typically served by established companies from the Twin Cities metro area and other parts of southern Minnesota. The competition level is moderate to high in terms of service quality, which benefits consumers by ensuring professional installations and strong customer service. The market is driven by Minnesota's favorable solar incentives, including the Made in Minnesota (MiM) Solar Incentive Program (though currently waitlisted), net metering policies, and the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC). Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from **$20,000 to $45,000+** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size (typically 6kW to 12kW for an average home) and the inclusion of battery storage. Financing options are robust, with most top providers offering cash purchases, solar loans, and lease/PPA agreements. Overall, the market is mature, with reputable providers offering comprehensive services from design to maintenance.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Faribault regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Faribault, Minnesota.
Solar panels are surprisingly effective in cold, sunny weather, and Minnesota's summer sun provides excellent production. While snow cover will temporarily reduce output, panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and the reflective quality of snow can even boost production on clear days. Systems are designed to account for seasonal variation, generating surplus energy in summer to offset lower winter production through net metering with your local utility, likely Faribault Public Utilities.
For a typical 8-10 kW system in Faribault, gross costs often range from $25,000 to $35,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and Minnesota offers a state solar incentive (up to $600 for systems under 40 kW) and a sales tax exemption. Additionally, Faribault Public Utilities offers a competitive net metering program, crediting you for excess power sent back to the grid.
Installation requires a building and electrical permit from the City of Faribault's Community Development Department. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. Key local considerations include complying with the Minnesota State Building Code, any specific city ordinances regarding roof setbacks, and ensuring your interconnection agreement is approved by Faribault Public Utilities, which has specific technical requirements for grid-tied systems.
Look for installers with specific experience in Minnesota's climate and utility requirements. Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Minnesota, and check for certifications like NABCEP. Ask for local references in Rice County, review their workmanship warranty (often 10+ years), and confirm they are familiar with the interconnection process for Faribault Public Utilities to ensure a smooth project.
South-facing roofs with minimal shading are ideal, but east/west orientations are also viable. A structural assessment is needed to ensure your roof can support the system. The best time to start the process is late winter or early spring; this allows for installation in the spring or summer, ensuring your system is fully operational to capture the peak production season and maximize your first year's energy credits.