Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Ramah, New Mexico. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, Native American-owned company based in Albuquerque with a strong focus on serving tribal and rural communities throughout New Mexico. They are known for their expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems, and they have a deep understanding of available state, federal, and tribal incentives.
As New Mexico's largest locally-owned solar installer, Positive Energy has a stellar reputation for quality and customer service. They have offices in Santa Fe and Albuquerque and serve a wide area, including rural communities. They are a certified B-Corp, emphasizing ethical business and environmental stewardship.
This is the partnership between Positive Energy Solar and SunPower, the manufacturer of the highest-efficiency solar panels on the market. This offers customers the option for top-tier equipment with local, expert installation. They provide the full suite of services, including robust warranty options.
** The home solar market in Ramah, New Mexico, is characteristic of a rural, high-desert environment. The average quality of available service is high, but residents typically rely on established regional companies from larger population centers like Albuquerque and Santa Fe, which are willing to travel. The competition to serve this area is moderate among the top-tier installers who have the capability and willingness to handle projects in remote locations. **Key Market Characteristics:** * **High Solar Potential:** Ramah enjoys abundant sunshine, making solar an exceptionally viable and efficient investment. * **Off-Grid Expertise:** Due to its rural nature, there is a significant demand for and expertise in off-grid and battery-backed-up systems, which companies like Sacred Power specialize in. * **Pricing:** Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. A typical 6kW system might have a gross cost of $18,000 - $21,000. The 30% federal tax credit and potential state incentives can significantly reduce the net cost. * **Considerations:** Homeowners should verify that any contractor they choose is thoroughly familiar with the local permitting process and the specific requirements of their utility provider (if grid-tied), which in this area could be either a cooperative or a larger provider like PNM.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ramah regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Ramah, New Mexico.
For a typical 6kW system in Ramah, costs before incentives average between $15,000 and $20,000. Crucially, New Mexico offers excellent state incentives, including a 10% state tax credit (on top of the 30% federal credit) and the Solar Market Development Tax Credit for low-income residents. Additionally, you benefit from high solar irradiance in our high-desert climate, which maximizes your system's energy production and improves payback time.
Ramah's climate is a significant advantage for solar. The high elevation and over 280 days of sunshine annually provide exceptional solar resource. While cold winter temperatures actually improve panel efficiency, occasional heavy snowfalls require consideration for panel tilt and access for light snow removal. The dry air also means less soiling from humidity, though periodic cleaning for dust is recommended.
Yes, permitting is a key local consideration. If your property is within the Ramah Navajo Chapter boundaries, you will likely need approval from the Chapter House and potentially the Navajo Nation Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) in addition to Cibola County permits. For properties outside the Chapter, you'll work directly with Cibola County. A reputable local installer will navigate this dual-jurisdiction process for you.
Prioritize installers with proven experience in both Cibola County and the Navajo Nation, as they understand the unique permitting landscape. Look for New Mexico-licensed, bonded, and insured contractors. Ask for local references in Ramah or nearby communities like Zuni or Grants to verify their performance with similar home types and climate challenges. They should also provide a detailed production estimate specific to our local weather patterns.
A standard grid-tied system will shut off during a grid outage for safety, even if the sun is shining. To achieve backup power, you must install a solar battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar). This is a particularly valuable consideration in Ramah, where remote locations can experience longer grid restoration times. Batteries store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night or during outages.