Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hopkins, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A full-service, employee-owned solar installer with a strong regional presence and extensive experience in both residential and commercial projects. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial design and financing to installation and maintenance, ensuring quality control throughout the process.
A Minnesota-based contractor specializing exclusively in solar energy systems. They have a strong reputation for custom-designed solutions and high-quality craftsmanship. Their focus on both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems makes them a versatile choice for a wide range of homeowner needs.
A leading local solar installer recognized for its customer-centric approach and expertise in navigating Minnesota-specific incentives. They offer a full suite of services and are known for their clear communication and educational process, helping homeowners understand every aspect of their solar investment.
** The home solar market in Hopkins is robust and competitive, characteristic of the wider Twin Cities metropolitan area. The average quality of service is high, driven by stringent state electrical and roofing licensing requirements, as well as the prevalence of installers with North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certifications. Hopkins residents benefit from strong sun exposure for the region and have access to excellent Minnesota-specific incentives, including the Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Program (now closed to new applicants but honoring existing participants) and net metering policies from Xcel Energy. Competition is strong among established regional installers, which helps maintain high standards for workmanship and customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Hopkins is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$25,000 to $35,000** for a typical 10 kW system. The market is dominated by companies offering comprehensive financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar increasingly accessible.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hopkins regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hopkins, Minnesota.
While Minnesota has fewer peak sun hours than sunnier states, modern solar panels are surprisingly efficient in cold, clear weather and can still produce significant energy. Snow will temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. Importantly, our long summer days provide excellent production, and net metering with your utility (like CenterPoint Energy) allows you to bank summer credits to offset winter usage.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Hopkins ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Minnesota also offers a state solar incentive, and Hopkins residents should check with CenterPoint Energy for any local rebates. These incentives, combined with strong net metering policies, typically lead to a payback period of 8-12 years in our area.
All solar installations in Hopkins require an electrical permit from the city's Community Development Department and must pass inspection. Your chosen reputable installer will typically manage this entire process, ensuring the system meets the specific requirements of the City of Hopkins building code and the National Electrical Code (NEC). They will also handle the interconnection agreement with your utility provider (CenterPoint Energy or Xcel Energy, depending on your location).
Prioritize local Minnesota-based installers with extensive experience in our specific climate and utility requirements. Check for proper licensing (MN electrical contractor license), certifications (like NABCEP), and strong reviews on local platforms. Always get multiple detailed quotes, ask for references from Hopkins-area projects, and ensure they provide a detailed production estimate specific to your roof's orientation and local weather patterns.
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 in time to capture maximum summer sun for immediate energy production and credit building. However, you can start the consultation and planning process any time, as securing permits and scheduling can take several weeks, regardless of the season.