5 best solar companies in Des Moines, Iowa
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 5 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Des Moines. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
High-quality solar panel installation in Des Moines, Iowa requires you to hire a solar installer with the right certification, skills and experience. We've created a list of the best solar companies in Des Moines to help you choose the perfect installer.
Prior to selecting an installer, request referrals from others, evaluate potential companies and get multiple quotes to determine the best company for your requirements. You can choose a local solar company in Des Moines or use a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
Although solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can cut your energy bills over the long run. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that moving to solar energy enables Des Moines homeowners to save around $1,500 per year.
The offerings from different solar technicians vary. Be sure to compare companies and get quotes before you set up your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Des Moines
When evaluating Des Moines solar companies, find those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a positive reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reading through previous customer reviews will give you a sense of how other homeowners viewed the company, so take note if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
Walter Roofing
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Purelight Power of Des Moines
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1 Source Solar
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Purelight Power
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CB Solar Inc.
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What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Des Moines?
Regions with intermittent sunshine, including those with more rain or clouds like Des Moines, can still make use of solar energy. A few key motivations to transition to solar energy include these:
- Save on energy bills: Switching to solar lets you cut your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels takes the place of the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of fossil fuels that would be needed to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that electricity production is one of the primary drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can power electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the greatest assurance that your electric car is operating on clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Des Moines
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Des Moines?
Based on a survey we did in October 2023, the average cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels depends on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The price increases if you pick any accessories like solar trackers, batteries or animal guards.
Drawing from data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA, installing solar panels in Des Moines typically costs $26,786.
How much can you save by going solar in Des Moines?
Although installing solar panels requires a substantial investment to start, you can achieve significant savings on your energy bills in the long term.
Money savings in Des Moines from going solar
In Des Moines, you can expect to save money once you've transitioned fully to solar. But it takes time to make back the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage influence how soon you'll get a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the time it takes for a solar energy system to earn back its initial cost. The payback period in Des Moines is around 17 years, according to our calculations, which are based on data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA.
- Annual solar savings in Des Moines: Homeowners in Des Moines typically save around $1,510 per year by using solar energy, based on our calculations using data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save around $19,256 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Des Moines from going solar
Not only does switching to solar save you money, but it also shrinks your carbon footprint and its impact on the environment. Below are estimated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from going solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
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What solar incentives are available in Des Moines?
Several solar incentives are available to Des Moines homeowners. Various programs are available to all Iowa residents, while others vary by municipality, city and utility company.
The following solar incentives are offered to Iowa residents, according to DSIRE:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems | 100% of value added by renewable system |
Sales Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Equipment Exemption | 100% of sales tax |
Personal Tax Credit Solar Energy Systems Tax Credit (Personal) | 50% of Federal ITC (15% for 2019 and earlier, 13% for 2020, 11% for 2021, 5% for 2022, 0% for 2023 and later). |
Property Tax Incentive Local Option - Special Assessment of Wind Energy Devices | Property valued at 0% of the net acquisition cost in the first assessment year, increasing annually by 5 percentage points to a maximum of 30% of the net acquisition cost in the 7th and succeeding years |
Property Tax Incentive Methane Gas Conversion Property Tax Exemption | 100% exemption for 10 years |
Personal Tax Credit Geothermal Heat Pump Tax Credit | 20% of the Federal Tax Credit, equivalent to 6% of the system cost |
Corporate Tax Exemption Energy Replacement Generation Tax Exemption | 100% exemption for self-generators, landfill gas and wind Reduced rate for large hydro |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Des Moines solar installer?
When selecting a solar panel installation professional, first review these important questions.
What size system do you need?
The size of your system relies on your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households generally use more energy and may require a bigger setup. If the system isn’t large enough, it may lack enough energy to power your entire house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state codes could affect your solar project. Be sure to apply for necessary permits through your local building department and plan an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not every house gets the same sun exposure. Local tree coverage, rainfall and extreme weather conditions can limit sunlight. If your home lacks enough sunlight, you may need additional panels with increased wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems feature a solar battery. Solar batteries preserve extra energy, which can be crucial for ensuring continuous power in bad weather. Opting for battery storage could increase the overall expense.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have options among solar panel types, as they vary in efficiency, design and life expectancy. These elements can change the cost, when you'll need to swap panels and the amount of roof area you'll need.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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