Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Lake Elmo, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional installer with a strong presence in Minnesota. All Energy Solar is known for its comprehensive in-house services, from initial design and engineering to installation and maintenance. They are a full-service provider with deep expertise in both residential and commercial projects and are well-versed in local incentives and financing.
A Minnesota-based company specializing in custom solar solutions for homeowners. Cedar Creek Energy emphasizes high-quality craftsmanship and personalized service. They have extensive experience with a variety of roof types and are particularly skilled in integrating solar with home energy efficiency upgrades.
TruNorth Solar focuses exclusively on residential solar installations, which allows them to provide a highly streamlined and customer-focused experience. They are known for their transparent pricing, strong manufacturer partnerships (e.g., Panasonic, Enphase), and expertise in navigating solar financing and leasing options.
** The home solar market in Lake Elino, Minnesota, is characterized by high-quality, competitive regional installers rather than national corporations. The market is mature, with several established companies vying for business, which benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and a strong focus on customer service. The average quality of service is high, as these companies rely on local reputations and word-of-mouth referrals. The competition level is **moderate to high**, ensuring that residents have multiple excellent options. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Minnesota generally falls between **$2.50 and $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any local utility incentives. For an average-sized system (8-10 kW), this translates to a gross cost of $20,000 - $35,000. The state's strong net metering policies and programs like the Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Program (now ended but legacy of expertise remains) have created a knowledgeable installer community that is adept at maximizing homeowner savings and return on 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 Lake Elmo regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Lake Elmo, Minnesota.
Solar panels are highly durable and actually operate more efficiently in colder temperatures. While winter days are shorter and snow cover can temporarily reduce production, panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and sunlight reflecting off snow can even boost production on clear days. Importantly, Minnesota's long summer days provide excellent production, and a well-designed system accounts for seasonal variations to ensure your annual energy needs are met.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Minnesota ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 before incentives. Critically, Lake Elmo homeowners benefit from a 30% federal tax credit, a valuable state incentive (the Solar*Rewards program from Xcel Energy, if applicable), and a 100% property tax exemption for the added home value from solar. Your specific cost depends on system size, roof type, and chosen equipment, but these incentives significantly reduce the net investment.
Yes, local permitting is required through the City of Lake Elmo's Community Development Department. While Minnesota state law (MN Statute 216C.415) prohibits HOAs from outright banning solar installations, they may have specific, reasonable guidelines on panel placement. It's essential to check your subdivision's covenants and consult with your installer, who should be familiar with Lake Elmo's specific permit process and requirements.
Prioritize installers with extensive local experience in Washington County. They should understand local snow load requirements, permitting workflows with the city, and interconnection processes with your utility (often Xcel Energy or Connexus Energy). Look for certified (NABCEP), licensed, and insured providers, and insist on multiple local references and system performance examples from nearby homes to verify their expertise with our climate.
Minnesota has a strong net metering policy, requiring investor-owned utilities like Xcel Energy to credit you at the full retail rate for excess energy your system sends to the grid. This means the power you generate on sunny summer days builds credits that offset your usage at night and during lower-production winter months. Your credits roll over month-to-month, creating an annual "bank" that maximizes your financial return despite our seasonal variation.