Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Red Wing, 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 in Minnesota. They are known for comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. Their expertise covers a wide range of residential system types and they are well-versed in local incentives and financing.
A Minnesota-based solar contractor specializing in both residential and commercial projects. They have a strong track record for quality craftsmanship and customer service. They offer energy efficiency assessments alongside solar, providing a holistic approach to reducing home energy costs.
A highly-rated, customer-focused solar installer known for its personalized service and expertise in the Minnesota and Western Wisconsin market. They handle the entire process, including navigating permits, utility interconnection, and available rebates. They have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers.
The home solar market in Red Wing, Minnesota, is served primarily by reputable regional installers from the Twin Cities metro and Southeastern Minnesota area, rather than by national corporations or local single-city operations. The competition is healthy but not oversaturated, ensuring a good selection of quality providers. The market quality is generally high, with installers being well-versed in Minnesota-specific incentives like the Made in Minnesota (MiM) Solar Incentive Program (though now closed to new applicants, its legacy affects existing systems) and Xcel Energy's Solar*Rewards program. Installers are also proficient with local permitting requirements from the City of Red Wing and interconnection with Xcel Energy, the local utility. Typical pricing for a residential system in Red Wing is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC). For an average-sized 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately $22,400 - $28,000, with a net cost of $15,680 - $19,600 after the federal tax credit. The presence of multiple established, high-quality regional contractors helps maintain competitive pricing and strong service standards for Red Wing homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Red Wing regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Red Wing, Minnesota.
Solar panels actually operate more efficiently in colder temperatures, and Minnesota's clear, cold winter days can yield strong production. Snow cover is the main consideration; panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and they begin producing heat and energy quickly on sunny days, which melts snow faster than on your roof. Over a full year, a well-designed system in Red Wing will generate significant power, with the long summer days compensating for shorter winter ones.
The gross cost for a typical residential system in Red Wing ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and Minnesota offers a state production incentive of ~$0.10/kWh for the first 10 years. Additionally, Xcel Energy (the primary utility in Red Wing) offers net metering, crediting you for excess power sent to the grid. Financing options include cash purchases, solar loans, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
The ideal time to start the process is in spring or early summer. This allows for installation during favorable weather and ensures your system is operational to capture peak summer sun. The entire process—from consultation and design to permitting with the City of Red Wing, Xcel Energy interconnection approval, and installation—typically takes 2 to 4 months. Starting early avoids end-of-year contractor backlogs.
Look for providers licensed in Minnesota, with strong local references and experience navigating Xcel Energy's specific interconnection process. They should also be familiar with City of Red Wing permitting requirements, which may include electrical and building permits and adherence to local aesthetic guidelines. Always get multiple quotes and verify they handle the entire permit and utility paperwork for you.
A reputable installer will first assess your roof's condition, age, and orientation; south-facing roofs with minimal shading are ideal. Solar mounting systems are engineered for local snow loads and do not compromise roof integrity. Maintenance is minimal—panels require occasional clearing of heavy snow (if desired) and rinsing off spring pollen or dust. Systems have no moving parts and are designed to withstand Minnesota's harsh weather.