Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Las Cruces, New Mexico. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As New Mexico's largest locally-owned and operated solar installer, Positive Energy Solar has a stellar reputation built over two decades. They offer comprehensive services from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing. They are deeply knowledgeable about local incentives and are a certified SunPower dealer, offering some of the most efficient panels on the market.
Solar Works Energy is a highly-rated, veteran-owned company based in Las Cruces itself. They emphasize personalized customer service and high-quality installations for both grid-tied and off-grid systems. Their local presence ensures quick response times for consultations, maintenance, and repairs.
This is the dedicated SunPower franchise operated by Positive Energy Solar. By focusing exclusively on the top-tier SunPower product line, they provide clients with the highest efficiency panels and the most comprehensive warranty in the industry (25-year complete system warranty). This is the premium option for homeowners seeking maximum performance and long-term peace of mind.
** The home solar market in Las Cruces is robust and growing, characterized by high-quality regional leaders rather than a high volume of small, local competitors. The city's exceptional solar insolation (over 300 sunny days per year) makes it an ideal location for solar, driving strong demand. The competition level is moderate but features several established, highly reputable companies. The market is dominated by a few key players, primarily Positive Energy Solar and its affiliates, which have set a high bar for quality and customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. Homeowners have excellent access to knowledgeable installers who are well-versed in state-specific incentives, such as the NM Solar Market Development Tax Credit, and can expertly navigate the interconnection process with El Paso Electric. The overall quality of service is considered very high, with a focus on durable systems built to withstand the local desert climate.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Las Cruces regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Las Cruces, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and New Mexico offers a state tax credit of 10% of the system cost (capped at $6,000). Additionally, systems in New Mexico are exempt from property tax increases and sales tax, significantly lowering the net investment. Local utilities like El Paso Electric also have specific interconnection procedures that can affect final costs.
Las Cruces's high desert climate is excellent for solar, with over 350 days of sunshine annually providing high energy yield. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long, sunny days more than compensate. Monsoon season (July-September) brings dust and occasional hail, so choosing panels with a high hail rating and factoring in occasional cleaning for dust buildup are important local considerations for maintaining optimal production.
From signing a contract to "flipping the switch," the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After system design, key steps include obtaining a permit from the City of Las Cruces, installation by certified crews, and a city inspection. The longest phase is often waiting for El Paso Electric to approve interconnection and install a net metering bi-directional meter. Planning ahead is wise, as aiming for a spring installation ensures your system is fully operational for the peak summer sun and high AC usage.
Prioritize providers with a strong local presence and proven track record in Las Cruces. Verify they are licensed (New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department) and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for local references and examples of recent installations in your neighborhood, and ensure they handle all city permitting and utility interconnection paperwork. Be wary of out-of-state companies that may not understand local codes or provide timely service.
For most homeowners in Las Cruces, net metering with El Paso Electric is economically sufficient, acting as a "virtual battery" by crediting you for excess power sent to the grid. However, adding battery storage is becoming a more common consideration for energy security. It provides crucial backup power during the area's occasional grid outages, which can be caused by high winds or monsoon storms, ensuring your lights and refrigeration stay on even when the grid is down.