Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hazel, South Dakota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, employee-owned company with extensive experience serving Western South Dakota. They are known for high-quality installations, expert system design for both grid-tied and off-grid properties, and exceptional customer service. They are a SunPower Master Dealer, offering some of the most efficient panels on the market.
A leading SunPower Premier Provider, offering top-tier, high-efficiency solar equipment with comprehensive warranties. They provide robust financing options and are experts in navigating local incentives. Their service model includes full in-house installation and long-term support.
A well-established regional installer with a strong track record in the Midwest. They offer a full suite of services from initial consultation and design to installation, maintenance, and repair. They are known for their professional project management and focus on customer education and energy efficiency.
** The home solar market in Hazel, South Dakota, is representative of the broader rural South Dakota market. There are no dedicated solar installation companies physically located within the small town of Hazel itself. Therefore, homeowners must rely on established regional providers from larger hubs like Rapid City and Sioux Falls. These companies regularly service a wide radius, including rural communities like Hazel. The market is characterized by a moderate level of competition among a handful of high-quality, experienced regional installers. The average quality of service is high, as these companies have built their reputations on serving complex rural and off-grid needs. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC). Given South Dakota's climate with ample sun and significant seasonal variation, there is a strong focus on both grid-tied systems with net metering and robust off-grid/battery backup solutions for rural properties prone to power outages. Providers are generally very knowledgeable about state-specific incentives and financing, though South Dakota itself does not offer a state-level tax credit.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hazel regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hazel, South Dakota.
Solar panels actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures, which benefits production during South Dakota's crisp, sunny winter days. While summer offers longer daylight hours for peak production, snow cover in winter can temporarily reduce output; however, panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. On balance, Hazel's significant sunshine (over 210 sunny days per year) makes it a viable location for solar, with systems typically producing ample energy across seasons to offset a substantial portion of your electricity use.
The gross cost for a typical residential solar system in South Dakota ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces your net cost. South Dakota also has a state property tax exemption for the added value of a solar system, and while there is no state sales tax on equipment, you should explore local financing options like loans through South Dakota-based credit unions or national solar lenders to make the upfront investment manageable.
Yes, you will need to obtain a building permit from the Hazel city office or your county building department. The most critical policy is from your utility provider (likely Dakota Energy Cooperative or NorthWestern Energy). They have specific requirements for grid interconnection, including necessary equipment like a utility-approved inverter, and they operate under "net metering" rules. South Dakota's net metering policy allows you to earn credit for excess energy sent to the grid, which you can use later, making system sizing very important.
Prioritize installers with strong local experience in South Dakota who understand regional weather challenges like high winds and heavy snow loads for proper mounting. They should be licensed, insured, and preferably certified by an organization like NABCEP. Ask for references from nearby projects and ensure they handle the entire process, including securing Hazel permits, managing utility interconnection, and explaining local net metering. Be wary of out-of-state companies that may not provide reliable long-term service in our area.
From start to finish, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes the initial site assessment and system design, securing the local building permit, ordering equipment, and the physical installation, which usually takes 1-3 days. The longest phase is often waiting for your utility company to approve the interconnection agreement and install a net meter, which can take several weeks. Planning ahead is wise, as aiming for a late spring or summer installation allows you to capitalize on peak sun immediately.