Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Solano, New Mexico. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading and long-standing solar installer in New Mexico, known for expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems, which is crucial for rural areas like Solano. They handle everything from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing.
As a certified B Corporation, Positive Energy Solar has a strong reputation for quality installations and exceptional customer service. They have offices in both Albuquerque and Santa Fe, giving them a broad service range across central and northern New Mexico.
With a name that reflects its mission, Affordable Solar is a major regional player based in Albuquerque. They are particularly strong in DIY system design and supply but have a full-service professional installation division. They have extensive experience with the unique climate and energy needs of New Mexico.
** The home solar market for a rural community like Solano, New Mexico, is characterized by a reliance on regional providers from larger population centers such as Albuquerque and Clovis. There are no solar installation companies physically headquartered within Solano itself. The competition to serve this area is moderate among the top-tier statewide companies, who are all well-versed in the logistics of rural installations. The average quality of service is high, as these established companies must maintain excellent reputations and certifications (like NABCEP) to compete across large geographic areas. Typical pricing for a residential system in New Mexico ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, heavily dependent on system size, battery backup requirements, and the specific challenges of the installation site. Providers serving Solano are exceptionally knowledgeable about both state-specific incentives and the technical requirements for off-grid and grid-tied systems in a high-desert, high-wind environment.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Solano regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Solano, New Mexico.
For a typical home in Solano, a solar system can range from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size. Crucially, New Mexico homeowners benefit from a 10% state tax credit (on top of the 30% federal tax credit) and the state's gross receipts tax deduction for solar equipment. Additionally, you can sell Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to PNM, providing ongoing income that significantly improves payback, often within 8-12 years given our excellent solar irradiance.
Solano's 280+ days of sunshine annually is ideal for solar production, though summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency. The arid climate means less frequent rain to naturally clean panels, so occasional cleaning to remove dust is recommended for optimal output. Hail is a rare but potential concern, so ensure your installer uses panels with a high hail rating (e.g., UL 61730 Class 4) and that your homeowner's insurance policy is updated to cover the system.
Installation requires a building permit from Harding County and interconnection approval from your utility (likely Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative or PNM). New Mexico has strong "solar rights" provisions, preventing HOAs from outright banning installations, though they may have reasonable aesthetic guidelines. Your chosen local installer will typically manage this entire permitting process, ensuring compliance with the 2023 NEC codes adopted by the state.
Prioritize installers licensed in New Mexico (NM EE98J license) with proven experience in rural and high-wind county installations. Ask for local references in Solano or nearby towns like Roy to verify their service quality and knowledge of local utility requirements. It's essential to get multiple detailed quotes that compare equipment warranties, projected production specific to our climate, and their process for handling REC contracts with PNM.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during outages for safety unless paired with a battery backup, which is a wise consideration for rural Solano where grid restoration may take longer. New Mexico mandates net metering, requiring utilities to credit you at the full retail rate for excess energy you send to the grid, which can offset usage during less sunny winter months. Your credits roll over monthly, with an annual "true-up" settlement where you may receive a payment for any surplus.