Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Rochester, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A full-service solar installer with a strong regional presence and a dedicated Rochester office. They handle the entire process from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing. Known for high-quality workmanship and excellent customer service.
A Minnesota-based contractor specializing in both residential and commercial solar projects. They are recognized for their expertise in custom system design and their knowledge of local incentives and net metering policies. They offer comprehensive services including maintenance and repair.
A reputable local installer focused on residential solar energy systems in Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa. They pride themselves on personalized service, transparent pricing, and guiding homeowners through the financial aspects of going solar, including loans and incentives.
** The home solar market in Rochester, Minnesota, is mature and competitive, characterized by several high-quality, established regional installers. The market benefits from Minnesota's supportive solar policies, including net metering and the state's Solar*Rewards program, which provides financial incentives. The competition level is moderate to high, ensuring that consumers have multiple reputable options, which helps maintain strong industry standards for service quality and installation expertise. Typical pricing for a residential system in Rochester is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any state-specific incentives. This results in a typical gross cost of $15,000 to $25,000 for a 6kW system. The presence of local offices for several top providers ensures good customer support and familiarity with Rochester's specific climate considerations and utility (Rochester Public Utilities) interconnection requirements.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Rochester regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Rochester, Minnesota.
Solar panels are very effective in Rochester's climate. They generate electricity from sunlight, not heat, and cold temperatures can actually improve panel efficiency. Snow typically melts quickly off angled panels, and our long summer days with high sun angles contribute to strong annual production, offsetting lower winter output.
After the 30% federal tax credit, a typical residential system in Rochester ranges from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on size and home energy use. Key local incentives include Minnesota's Solar*Rewards program, which provides a per-kilowatt-hour production payment, and Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) offers net metering, crediting you for excess power sent to the grid.
Yes, you must comply with City of Rochester building and electrical permits. Crucially, you must coordinate with your utility—either Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) or People's Energy Cooperative—for interconnection approval. These utilities have specific requirements for system safety and metering that your installer will manage.
Look for installers with strong local experience, proper Minnesota electrical and solar contractor licenses, and positive reviews from Rochester homeowners. They should be familiar with RPU or co-op interconnection processes and local snow/wind load codes. Always compare multiple detailed quotes and ask for references from recent local installations.
The ideal installation period is late spring through early fall (May-October). This avoids frozen ground and potential snow delays, allowing for smoother site work and electrical hookups. Installing during this window also ensures your system is fully operational to capture the peak solar production months.