9 best solar companies in Shakopee, Minnesota
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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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
To get a high-quality solar panel installation in Shakopee, Minnesota, you'll need to hire a certified, qualified and experienced solar installer. We've assembled a list of the best solar companies in Shakopee to help you select the right one.
Before settling on an installer, ask others for suggestions, vet the installers you're considering and get quotes from multiple companies to find the one that meets your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Shakopee or choose an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
While solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long term. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that moving to solar energy allows Shakopee homeowners to save an average of $1,400 per year.
The services from different solar technicians vary. Take the time to compare companies and get quotes before you schedule your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Shakopee
When researching Shakopee solar companies, search for those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Looking at previous customer testimonials can give insight into other homeowners' experiences working with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth making a note of as a possible warning sign.
Everlight Solar
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SolarPod
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US Solar - United States Solar Corporation
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Apadana Solar Technologies
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Cedar Creek Energy - Solar Company Minnesota
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TruNorth Solar
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iSolar
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Wolf River Electric Company
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Everlight Solar
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What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Shakopee?
Even areas with fluctuating sun amounts, including rainier and cloudier places such as Shakopee, can still see the benefits of solar panels. Major reasons to consider solar are:
- Save on energy bills: Transitioning to solar enables you to decrease your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels takes the place of the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can power electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the greatest certainty that your electric car is fueled by clean, renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Using solar panels reduces your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to operate your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation ranks among the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about Shakopee
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 Shakopee?
Based on the results of our survey done in October 2023, the average cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
The cost of installing solar panels differs based on several factors, including your location, sunlight access, roof direction, shading, system dimensions and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you pick any add-ons like batteries, solar trackers or animal guards.
According to statistics from NASA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the EIA the typical price to install solar panels in Shakopee is $20,196.
How much can you save by going solar in Shakopee?
Though installing solar panels requires a substantial investment to start, you can see significant savings on your energy bills down the line.
Money savings in Shakopee from going solar
Homeowners in Shakopee who transition fully to solar energy can expect to save money. However, it takes time to recover the initial investment, and variables such as rainfall and tree coverage affect the time it takes to see returns on your investment in solar panels.
- Payback period: The typical payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to recover its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, Shakopee's average payback period for solar is 14 years.
- Annual solar savings in Shakopee: Shakopee homeowners can expect to save around $1,351 per year on average by switching to solar power, according to our analysis of data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from NASA and the EIA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save around $19,545 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Shakopee from going solar
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also lowers your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the estimated CO2 emission reductions achievable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
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What solar incentives are available in Shakopee?
Multiple solar incentives are offered to Shakopee homeowners. Various programs are available to all Minnesota residents, whereas others change by municipality, utility company and city.
Available solar incentives for Minnesota homeowners, per DSIRE, include:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Performance-Based Incentive Xcel Energy - Solar*Rewards Program | Systems 0.5 kW - 25 kW: $0.005/kWh Medium-sized Systems 25.1-500 kW: $0.0375/kWh Large Systems (>500kW): Determined through competitive bid |
Sales Tax Incentive Solar Energy Sales Tax Exemption | 100% exemption |
Property Tax Incentive Wind and Solar-Electric (PV) Systems Exemption | Solar: 100% exemption from real property taxes Wind: 100% exemption from real and personal property taxes |
Sales Tax Incentive Wind Energy Sales Tax Exemption | 100% of sales tax |
Rebate Program Xcel Energy (Electric and Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling: $50 Natural Gas Furnace Existing Home: $200-$400 Natural Gas Furnace New Construction: $100-$200 Natural Gas Hot Water Boiler: $100-$400 ECM Furnace: $100 Central AC: $150-$450 Tank Water Heater: $75-$500 Tankless Water Heater: $250 Attic/Wall Insulation: 30% of project cost Air Sealing: $150-$200 Furnaces: $200-$425 Boilers: $125-$400 ECM Motor Furnace Fan: $125 Programmable Thermostat: $10 Heat Pumps: $175-$475 Water Heating: $100-$250 Clothes Washer: $10 Refrigerator: $15 Ground Source Heat Pump: $150/ton |
Rebate Program Brainerd Public Utilities - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Dishwasher: $35 Clothes Washer: $35 Electric Clothes Dryer: $35 Refrigerator: $35 Freezer: $35 Dehumidifier: $20 Room/Window A/C: $35 High Efficiency Electric Water Heater: $35 Central A/C Tune-Up: $35 Central A/C: $200-$350 Mini Split/Ductless A/C: $250 ECM Replacement Motor: $100 Furnaces: $200-$375 Heat Pump Water Heater: $250 Air Source Heat Pump: $250 Geothermal Heat Pump: $100/ton |
Grant Program Xcel Energy - Renewable Development Fund Grants | Varies |
Loan Program Connexus Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Loan Program | $7,500 OR $20,000 |
Loan Program Home Energy Loan Program | $20,000 |
Loan Program Fix-Up Loan | $15,000. Applicants may be eligible for higher loan and term amounts depending on income |
Performance-Based Incentive Renewable Energy Production Incentive | 1.5¢/kWh 1.0¢/kWh for certain hydro facilities in need of repair |
Rebate Program Shakopee Public Utilities - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Clothes Washer: $50 Dishwasher: $100 Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling: $200 Air Source Heat Pump: $200-$500/unit Ground Source Heat Pump: $100/ton LED Bulbs: $5 LED Holiday Light Strings: $3 Mini-Split Ductless A/C: $200 Refrigerator: $200 Room A/C: $25 Room A/C recycling: $50 |
Rebate Program Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Clothes Washer: $25 Freezer/Refrigerator: $25 Dishwasher: $25 Air-Source Heat Pump: $500 Mini Split Heat Pump: $300 Ground-Source Heat Pump: $200 per ton Air Conditioner: $100 ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor): $50 Electric Resistance Heating Products: $10/kW Central A/C or Heat Pump Tune-Up: $25 Electric Resistant Heating Products: $10/kW |
Loan Program Minnesota Valley Electric Cooperative -Residential Energy Resource Conservation Loan Program | $5,000 |
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 Shakopee solar installer?
Consider the following before hiring a solar panel installation professional.
What size system do you need?
Your solar panel system's size hinges on your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Bigger households use more electricity and will potentially require more substantial solar installations. An undersized system may be unable to fully energize your house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state laws could impact your solar project. Be sure to apply for necessary permits through your local building department and book an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Trees, rainfall and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require extra panels with more wattage capacity.
Do you need a solar battery?
A lot of solar panel systems include a battery. Solar batteries preserve extra power, which is particularly beneficial when you want to avoid power loss during inclement weather. Installing battery storage may increase the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You can select from several types of solar panels, each differing in design, efficiency and life expectancy. These factors not only influence the price, but also how quickly you’ll need to replace panels and how much space the panels take up on your roof.
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.
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