Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Homer, 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 dedicated office in Rochester. They are known for comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are a full-service provider with extensive experience in both residential and commercial projects.
A Minnesota-based, employee-owned company with a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer service. They handle the entire process and are well-versed in local incentives and interconnection policies for utility companies like People's Energy Cooperative, which serves the Homer area.
A specialized solar installer based in Winona, MN, giving them a strong local presence in the Mississippi River Valley region, including the Homer area. They focus on personalized service and are experts in designing systems for a variety of roof types and property layouts.
** The home solar market in and around Homer, Minnesota, is characteristic of a rural-to-exurban area. While Homer itself is small, its proximity to Rochester and the Twin Cities metro provides residents with access to a competitive and high-quality selection of regional installers. The market is not saturated with door-to-door sales companies, allowing for more consultative and established providers to thrive. **Average Quality:** The quality of providers serving this area is generally high, with companies holding necessary state electrical and contractor licenses, NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certifications, and robust manufacturer partnerships (e.g., with Panasonic, Qcells, Enphase, or Tesla). **Competition Level:** Moderate. A handful of strong regional players compete for projects in this region. This competition benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. **Typical Pricing:** As of 2024, the average gross cost for a residential solar system in Minnesota ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. A typical 8 kW system would have a gross cost between $20,000 and $28,000. The net cost after applying the 30% federal solar tax credit and any potential local rebates (like those from certain utilities or the State of Minnesota's Solar*Rewards program) can be significantly lower, often bringing the final investment into the $14,000 - $20,000 range. Most reputable companies offer multiple financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Homer regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Homer, Minnesota.
Solar panels are very effective in Homer's climate. They generate electricity from daylight, not heat, and cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. While winter production is lower, Minnesota's long summer days with high sun angles create abundant energy, and snow can reflect light, occasionally boosting production. Proper system sizing accounts for seasonal variation to ensure annual energy needs are met.
The gross cost for a typical home system in the Winona County area ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 before incentives. Crucially, Minnesota offers strong incentives including a state solar production incentive (valued at ~$0.10/kWh for 10 years), a state sales tax exemption, and the 30% federal tax credit. Combined, these can reduce your net cost by 40-50%. Your local utility, People's Energy Cooperative, may also have specific interconnection policies.
You will need to comply with Winona County building codes and obtain an electrical permit. The process typically involves a site plan and structural review for your roof. Critically, your system must be interconnected with your utility provider (e.g., People's Energy Cooperative), which requires approval and the installation of a net meter. A reputable local installer will manage this entire permitting process for you.
Look for installers with specific experience in Minnesota's climate and regulations. Key factors include: being certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), having a strong local portfolio in Southeastern Minnesota, providing clear warranties on workmanship and equipment, and being familiar with interconnection processes for local rural electric cooperatives. Always check reviews and ask for local references.
A professional installer will first conduct a structural assessment to ensure your roof can handle both the snow load common in Homer and the weight of the panels. Panels are mounted with a gap, allowing snow to slide off gradually, and they are rated to withstand significant weight. High-quality racking systems are designed to seal penetrations, protecting your roof from leaks, and typically come with long-term warranties.