Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Mercer, North Dakota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading North Dakota-based solar installer known for its expertise in both residential and agricultural solar applications. They offer comprehensive services from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance, with a strong focus on customer education and navigating local incentives.
A well-established, locally-owned solar contractor serving central and western North Dakota. They are praised for their professional crews, high-quality equipment, and thorough knowledge of grid-tied systems for homeowners.
A growing regional provider with a strong presence in the Midwest. They differentiate themselves with in-house financing options and a turnkey process that handles everything from permitting to installation and interconnection with the local utility.
** The home solar market in Mercer, North Dakota, and the surrounding region is characterized by a small but growing number of specialized, high-quality providers. Due to the rural nature of the area, homeowners typically rely on regional companies from larger hubs like Bismarck and Fargo, which have the resources to service a wide geographic area. Competition is moderate but sufficient to ensure quality service and competitive pricing. The market is dominated by established local and regional contractors rather than national chains, which fosters a high level of expertise with the specific climate and utility requirements of North Dakota. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with the national average, ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$15,000 to $30,000** for an average-sized system (6-10 kW). The combination of the federal ITC and strong, consistent sun exposure during the summer months makes solar a financially viable and increasingly popular option for homeowners in the Mercer area seeking energy independence and long-term cost savings.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Mercer regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Mercer, North Dakota.
While Mercer has fewer peak sun hours in winter, modern panels are efficient in cold, clear weather, and summer days are long, providing excellent production. The payback period may be slightly longer than in sunnier states, but it's offset by strong performance in summer and available financial incentives. Proper system sizing and tilt angle are crucial to maximize annual energy harvest against our seasonal variability.
The average home system in Mercer County costs between $18,000 and $30,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit and North Dakota's state tax incentive of up to $5,000. Local financing options include loans from institutions like Starion Bank or Dakota Credit Union, and many installers offer in-house financing, making the upfront cost manageable.
Yes, you must comply with Mercer County building codes and obtain the proper electrical and building permits. Your installer typically handles this. Importantly, North Dakota has "net metering" rules, requiring your utility (like Montana-Dakota Utilities or McLean Electric Cooperative) to credit you for excess power sent to the grid, which is essential for your system's economics.
Look for providers with North Dakota electrical licenses, strong local references, and experience with our specific climate. Check their membership with the North Dakota Solar Energy Industries Association (NDSEIA). It's vital to choose a company that understands local snow load requirements, wind ratings, and has a proven track record of navigating permits with Mercer County and local utilities.
Generally, no. Panels are installed at an angle and are smooth, so snow often slides off on its own, especially after a minor melt. The energy loss in deep winter is minimal compared to your annual production. Climbing on your roof to clear snow is dangerous and not recommended; the system is designed to withstand the weight and will resume full production quickly after a storm.