Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Minneapolis, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer with a strong focus on both residential and commercial projects. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial design and engineering to installation and maintenance. Their expertise in navigating Minnesota-specific incentives is a significant strength.
A Minnesota-based company that has built a strong reputation for high-quality residential solar installations and exceptional customer service. They are particularly noted for their custom system design and their knowledge of both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
A well-established local installer known for its personalized approach and strong manufacturer partnerships, including SunPower. They offer a full suite of services and are recognized for their professional project management and post-installation support.
** The home solar market in Minneapolis is mature and competitive, characterized by high-quality service providers who are well-versed in the local climate and regulatory environment. The market quality is generally high, with several long-standing, reputable companies holding necessary state licenses and top-tier certifications (like NABCEP). **Competition** is robust, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a strong focus on customer service. Companies differentiate themselves through specialized financing options, expertise in battery storage for backup power during Minnesota winters, and deep knowledge of state-specific incentives like the Made in Minnesota Solar Incentive Program and Xcel Energy's Solar*Rewards program. **Typical pricing** for a residential system in Minneapolis ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before incentives, depending on system size and complexity. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can reduce this cost by 30%. The combination of falling equipment costs and strong incentives has made solar an increasingly attractive investment for Minneapolis homeowners, with payback periods typically ranging from 8 to 12 years.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Minneapolis regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
While solar production is lower in winter due to shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient in cold, sunny weather and Minneapolis receives ample sunlight year-round for strong production. Snow typically slides off angled panels, and winter production still contributes to your annual energy offset. Importantly, Minnesota's net metering policy allows you to bank summer overproduction credits to use during lower-production months, ensuring year-round savings.
The average cost for a residential system in Minneapolis ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 before incentives, depending on system size. Key local incentives include the 30% federal tax credit, Minnesota's Solar*Rewards program (which provides a per-watt rebate), and property tax exemption for the added home value from solar. Xcel Energy customers also benefit from full retail net metering, significantly improving payback periods, which often fall between 8-12 years.
Yes, installations require an electrical permit and a building permit from the Minneapolis Department of Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED). If your home is in a historic district or has a historic designation, you'll need a Certificate of Appropriateness. All work must be performed by a licensed electrical contractor, and your system must be inspected and interconnected with your utility (Xcel Energy or CenterPoint Energy) under their specific requirements.
Prioritize local, established installers familiar with Minneapolis permitting, utility interconnection processes, and roof designs common to older homes. Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Minnesota, and check for certifications like NABCEP. Ask for multiple local references and ensure they provide a detailed production estimate that accounts for our seasonal variation, shading from mature trees, and potential snow cover.
Most roofs in good condition are suitable; an installer will assess its orientation (south-facing is ideal), shading, and structural integrity. Professional installation includes waterproof mounting systems that protect your roof. Regarding weight, solar panels are designed to withstand Minnesota snow loads, and they are typically installed with a gap that allows snow to slide off, which can actually help reduce the snow load on your roof.