Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hills, 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 comprehensive, start-to-finish service from consultation and design to installation and maintenance. They are a certified installer for top-tier equipment and have extensive experience with both grid-tied and battery backup systems.
Eagle Point Solar is a well-established, employee-owned company with a significant track record across Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. They are praised for their customer service, custom design work, and deep knowledge of local and state incentive programs.
A dedicated local installer based in Sioux Falls, Solar Connection focuses on high-quality residential installations and personalized service. They are a smaller operation but have built a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction in the tri-state area.
** The home solar market for Hills, Minnesota, is characterized by high-quality regional providers rather than local in-town companies. Due to Hills' proximity to the larger Sioux Falls metropolitan area and its location within the solar-friendly state of Minnesota, homeowners have access to a competitive and robust selection of experienced installers. * **Average Quality & Competition:** The competition is moderate but professional. The leading companies are well-established, hold necessary state licenses and NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certifications, and use tier-1 solar equipment. They compete on service, design expertise, and financing options rather than just price. * **Typical Pricing:** As of late 2023, the average cost for a residential solar panel system in Minnesota before incentives ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**. A typical 8 kW system would have a gross cost between $20,000 and $28,000. However, final pricing is highly dependent on system size, equipment choices, and roof complexity. * **Key Market Drivers:** Homeowners in Hills are incentivized by the combination of strong federal tax credits (30%), Minnesota's own state-specific incentives (like the Solar Energy Incentives Program), and net metering policies from their local utility (typically Sioux Valley Energy or Xcel Energy, depending on exact location). These factors significantly reduce the payback period and make solar a financially attractive investment.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hills regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hills, Minnesota.
Solar panels are very effective in Hills, as they generate electricity from daylight, not heat, and cold temperatures can actually improve panel efficiency. Snow cover is a temporary factor; panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. Minnesota's net metering policy and strong summer sun allow systems to generate ample annual credits to offset winter usage, making them a sound investment for local homeowners.
The gross cost for a typical home solar system in the Hills area ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Additionally, Minnesota offers a state production incentive, and your local utility (likely Sioux Valley Energy or MidAmerican Energy) may have specific rebate programs. These incentives, combined with significant long-term savings on your electric bill, make the net cost much more affordable.
Installing solar in Hills requires compliance with City of Hills building and electrical codes, and you will need to obtain the proper permits. Your chosen, reputable installer will typically manage this entire process. They will also handle the crucial interconnection agreement with your local electric utility to ensure your system safely connects to the grid and qualifies for net metering, which credits you for excess power sent back.
Look for providers with strong local experience in Rock County and northwest Iowa, as they understand specific utility requirements and weather considerations. Verify they are properly licensed (MN electrical contractor license) and insured. Always check reviews, ask for local references in towns like Luverne or Sioux Falls, and compare multiple detailed quotes that outline equipment, warranties, production estimates, and full-scope pricing.
No, in Minnesota, a state law provides a 100% property tax exemption for the added value of a solar energy system to your home. For net metering, state policy requires investor-owned utilities to offer it, and many co-ops like Sioux Valley Energy do as well. You'll earn a credit on your bill for surplus energy sent to the grid, which can be banked and used to offset power drawn at night or during less sunny periods.