Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Summit, South Dakota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A regional leader with a strong focus on custom residential solar and battery storage solutions. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and design to installation and maintenance, ensuring high quality control.
One of the most established solar providers in the Midwest, with extensive experience in South Dakota. They offer a full suite of services and are particularly adept at navigating local incentive programs and complex installation projects.
A well-regarded, locally-owned South Dakota company that provides personalized service for residential solar and energy efficiency upgrades. They excel at integrating solar with home energy management and efficiency assessments.
** The home solar market in Summit, South Dakota, and the surrounding region is characterized by a small number of highly specialized and reputable providers, rather than a high volume of competition. Due to Summit's small size, there are no solar installers physically located within the city limits. Residents are served by established companies based in Sioux Falls, approximately a 45-minute drive away, which is the primary economic hub for eastern South Dakota. The average quality of service is high, as the companies that have succeeded in this market are well-established, professionally licensed, and have built their reputation on reliability and customer service. The competition, while limited in number, is strong on expertise and service quality. Typical pricing for a residential solar installation in this region is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. These regional providers are exceptionally knowledgeable about South Dakota-specific incentives, net metering policies from local utilities like Xcel Energy and MidAmerican Energy, and the unique climate considerations for solar in the Upper Midwest.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Summit regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Summit, South Dakota.
While Summit experiences significant snowfall and shorter winter days, modern solar panels are efficient at converting available sunlight and perform well in cold, clear weather. Snow typically slides off angled panels, and systems are designed to handle the weight. Your annual production will be heavily weighted toward the long, sunny summer days, which generate substantial credits to offset lower winter output, making solar a strong year-round investment here.
The average gross cost for a residential system in South Dakota ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, South Dakota has no state sales tax on solar equipment and offers a state property tax exemption, so your system won't increase your property taxes. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit and potential local utility rebates, the net cost is significantly reduced, with financing options like solar loans and leases widely available.
Yes, local interconnection policies are key. You'll need to work with your local utility (likely Dakota Energy Cooperative or Xcel Energy, depending on your location) to submit an interconnection application. South Dakota has net metering rules, but compensation rates and program caps can vary by utility. Additionally, you must obtain an electrical permit from the City of Summit or Roberts County, and your installer should handle this process.
Prioritize installers with extensive local experience in Roberts County and eastern South Dakota. They will understand specific snow load requirements, optimal panel angles for our latitude, and navigating permits with local authorities. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified (e.g., by NABCEP). Always request multiple quotes, check local references, and review their warranty offerings on both equipment and workmanship.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After design and signing, securing permits from the city/county and interconnection approval from your utility can take several weeks. Physical installation itself is often completed in 1-3 days, weather permitting. The final step involves inspections by the local building department and your utility before they grant "Permission to Operate," which can add a few more weeks, especially if scheduling is delayed.