10 best solar companies in Hastings, 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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We've ranked the top 10 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Hastings. 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 Hastings, Minnesota, requires choosing a solar installer that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To help you find the perfect team, we’ve assembled a list of the leading solar installers in Hastings.
Before settling on an installer, request recommendations from others, evaluate the installers you're considering and collect quotes from multiple companies to find the one that is the best fit for your needs. You can go with a local solar company in Hastings or pick a leading national brand.
Although solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long run. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that moving to solar energy enables Hastings homeowners to save about $1,400 per year.
Solar companies do not all provide the same services and products. You should compare different companies and get quotes before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Hastings
When evaluating Hastings solar companies, search for those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a good reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should look at past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' experiences with the company. Take note of frequent negative feedback as a potential red flag.
iSolar
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Everlight Solar
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US Solar - United States Solar Corporation
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TruNorth Solar
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Cedar Creek Energy - Solar Company Minnesota
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Apadana Solar Technologies
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SolarPod
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Wolf River Electric Company
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Solar Connection
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Kuntz Electric, Inc.
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More Providers
Below are solar installation companies that provide decent coverage but fell short of top scores in our rating system. We recommend these only for specific coverage needs.
Everlight Solar
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Hastings?
Regions with intermittent sunshine, including those with extra rain or clouds like Hastings, can still benefit from solar energy. A few key motivations to transition to solar energy include these:
- Reduce environmental impact: Moving to solar reduces your carbon footprint by preserving fossil fuels that would instead be utilized to power your house. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that generating electricity is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can charge electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the ideal way to verify your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Adopting solar can help decrease your electricity bills. Solar panel systems generate power to substitute for the electricity you would have otherwise purchased from the utility company.
Facts about Hastings
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 Hastings?
Based on a survey we administered in October 2023, the typical cost of putting in solar panels across the country is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels is influenced by factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The cost increases if you choose any extras like solar trackers, animal guards or batteries.
According to data from the EIA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and NASA, installing solar panels in Hastings typically costs $20,325.
How much can you save by going solar in Hastings?
Though 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 Hastings from going solar
In Hastings, you can anticipate saving money after switching fully to solar. However, it takes time to recoup the initial investment, and factors such as rain and tree coverage impact how long it takes to see a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to recoup its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, Hastings' average payback period for solar is 14 years.
- Annual solar savings in Hastings: On average, Hastings homeowners can save $1,381 per year by adopting solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the Department of Energy, NASA and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After fully switching to solar power, you can expect to save about $20,212 over 25 years, according to our calculations from NASA and the EIA.
Energy savings in Hastings from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, moving to solar energy decreases your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the estimated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 90 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 2250 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Hastings?
Several solar incentives are offered to Hastings homeowners. Some programs are available to all Minnesota residents, whereas others differ by city, municipality and utility company.
Accessible solar incentives to 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 |
Rebate Program Great River Energy (28 Member Cooperatives) - Energy Wise Residential Efficiency Rebates | Varies by measure and member cooperative offering. |
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 Dakota Electric Association - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | LEDs: up to $2/bulb LED Yard Light: $30/fixture Clothes Dryer: $25 Central AC/Heat Pump Tune-Up: $25 Central A/C Installation: $280- $330 depending on SEER rating Air-Source Heat Pump Installation: $480- $630 depending on SEER rating Ductless Air-Source Heat Pump: $300 - $500 Geothermal Heat Pump: $400/ton Electric Thermal Storage Heat: $50/kW Electric Water Heater: Up to $400 Heat Pump Water Heater: up to $400 Refrigerator: $75 Freezer: $75 Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling: $75 ECM Furnace Motor: $100 Pool Pump Variable Speed Motor: $200 Air-Source Heat Pump Pool Heater: $400 Solar Panel Installation: $0.50/watt of installed solar, not to exceed $4,000 Load Management: Varies |
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 Hastings solar installer?
Consider these questions before hiring a solar installation expert.
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 often consume more energy and may require a bigger setup. If the system isn’t large enough, it might fail to generate enough energy to power your entire home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local laws could affect your solar project. You’ll need to secure the proper 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 a higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A solar battery enables the storage of extra power in solar panel systems. This becomes incredibly helpful when you're trying to prevent power loss under cloudy skies. Incorporating battery storage can increase the overall installation cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Several solar panel varieties exist, each differing in life expectancy, efficiency and design. These factors affect pricing, the frequency of replacing panels and space taken 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.
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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