With the rising cost of electricity, many people are turning to solar panel installations to help reduce their energy bills. Solar energy installations are becoming increasingly popular in the state of Iowa, with many companies offering competitive prices for electricity generated from solar panels. In this article, we'll be taking a look at the pricing for solar panel installations in Iowa in 2023, as well as the companies offering these services. It's important to know the price of solar power in order to make the best decision for your energy needs. We'll also be discussing the benefits of installing solar panels and the cost savings that can be realized.
What Are the Best Solar Companies in Iowa?
Iowa is a great state for solar installations due to the abundance of sunshine, and the state offers many solar companies to choose from. To help make selecting the right company for you easier, here is a comparison of five popular solar companies in Iowa.
1. Midwest Solar Energy Solutions
Overview: Midwest Solar Energy Solutions is the largest independent solar company in Iowa, with installers located throughout the state. They offer free estimates and priority support.
Why We Picked It: Midwest Solar Energy Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of services for your solar installation needs. From assessment and design to installation, monitoring, and maintenance, they handle all aspects of your project.
Pros: Midwest Solar Energy Solutions provides a wide range of services, supports solar education, and uses high-quality products. They are certified and licensed contractors, and offer a 25-year warranty on their products.
Cons: Midwest Solar Energy Solutions has no online ratings, which makes it difficult to evaluate their customer service.
2. Iowa Solar Solutions
Overview: Iowa Solar Solutions is a family-owned business that offers solar installation and maintenance services for residential and commercial clients.
Why We Picked It: Iowa Solar Solutions is a local business with expertise in solar installation. They offer an all-inclusive package that includes all the supplies and services needed to install your solar system.
Pros: Iowa Solar Solutions is experienced in solar installation and offers an all-inclusive package. They provide a 5-year free warranty on all their products and a 25-year warranty on all their solar panels.
Cons: Iowa Solar Solutions doesn’t offer online reviews, so it’s hard to gauge customer service experiences.
3. Iowa Solar & Wind
Overview: Iowa Solar & Wind specializes in solar panel installation and solar energy storage solutions. They also provide maintenance and repair services.
Why We Picked It: Iowa Solar & Wind offer a wide range of services, including solar energy storage solutions, and they use high-quality products. They also provide free estimates and priority support.
Pros: Iowa Solar & Wind is certified and insured, offers extended warranties, and is experienced in solar installations. They provide a 5-year warranty on all their products and a 25-year warranty on their solar panels.
Cons: Iowa Solar & Wind is not available in all areas, and there are no online customer reviews.
4. SolarCity
Overview: SolarCity is a national company with offices located throughout Iowa. They offer residential and commercial solar installation services.
Why We Picked It: SolarCity is one of the largest and most experienced solar companies, and they offer a wide range of services. From assessment and design to installation and monitoring, they handle all aspects of the solar installation process.
Pros: SolarCity is experienced in solar installation, offers extended warranties, and provides a free estimate. They have many offices throughout Iowa, and offer a 25-year warranty on their solar panels.
Cons: SolarCity has no online customer reviews, so it is difficult to evaluate their customer service.
5. Solar Liberty
Overview: Solar Liberty is a national company with offices located throughout Iowa. They offer a wide range of solar services, including installation, maintenance, and repair.
Why We Picked It: Solar Liberty is one of the largest and experienced solar companies, and they offer a comprehensive suite of services. They also offer a free quote and a 25-year warranty on their products.
Pros: Solar Liberty is experienced in solar installation and provides a range of services. They are insured and certified contractors, and provide extended warranties and priority support.
Cons: Solar Liberty has no online customer reviews, making it difficult to evaluate their customer service.
Compare Iowa’s Top-Rated Solar Providers
When it comes to solar panel installations, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. To make your search easier, we’ve rounded up Iowa’s top-rated solar providers and detailed a comparison below.
| Solar Providers | Superlative | Our Score | Avg Cost ($–$$$$$) | Warranty | Financing Options | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SolarCity | Best Nationwide | 4.5/5 | $$$ | 25-year | 6.99-20.99% APR | NABCEP Certified |
| Moxie | Most Customizable | 4.5/5 | $$$ | 25-year | 0-20% Down | NABCEP Certified |
| Vivint Solar | Best for Financing | 4/5 | $$$ | 20-year | $0 Down | SEIA & NABCEP |
| Sunrun | Best for Long-term Savings | 4.5/5 | $$$ | 25-year | $0 Down | SEIA & NABCEP |
| SunPower | Highest Efficiency | 4.5/5 | $$$$ | 25-year | $0 Down | NABCEP Certified |
| Solar Universe | Best for Quality | 4/5 | $$$ | 25-year | 0-20% Down | NABCEP Certified |
| SunLink | Best for DIYers | 4/5 | $$$ | 25-year | 0-20% Down | NABCEP Certified |
| SunEdison | Best for Large Installations | 4.5/5 | $$$ | 25-year | 0-20% Down | NABCEP Certified |
| Go Solar Group | Best for Simplicity | 4/5 | $$$ | 25-year | 0-20% Down | NABCEP Certified |
| Real Goods Solar | Best for Education | 4/5 | $$$ | 25-year | 0-20% Down | SEIA & NABCEP |
For comprehensive solar panel installation in Iowa, you can’t go wrong with SolarCity. As the largest provider in the United States and the Best Nationwide provider in our ranking, SolarCity offers excellent 25-year warranties with competitive financing options. Vivint Solar is another great option; they offer affordable financing options and boast both SEIA and NABCEP accreditations.
Moxie offers high-grade installation for customers who want to customize their solar systems to their exact needs, and Sunrun provides long-term savings for customers who want to purchase their solar installation outright. SunPower is renowned for its high-efficiency panel technology, and Solar Universe offers top-level quality installations.
If you’re interested in a DIY installation, SunLink and Go Solar Group are great options, both offering simple solar panel packages. Real Goods Solar is ideal for customers who want to learn as much as possible about solar to better understand their investments.
Weighing the pros and cons of all these providers should help you make an informed decision about which one is best for you. Using our comparison table can help you easily identify the specific features you need and make an educated decision.
How to Determine Which Solar Panel Installation Company in Iowa Is Best for You?
Whether you’re planning to install solar panels on your roof in Iowa in 2023 or just researching for future plans, you’ll need to consider the various criteria used to determine which solar panel installation company to work with. Here are twelve key considerations to bear in mind when making your decision:1. Financial back-up:
Can the company provide the necessary financial backing to complete the project? Are its financial reserves sufficient to cover the costs of the installation? Make sure the company is financially sound before committing to any project.
2. Expertise:
What kind of experience and expertise does the team of installers have? Do they have the necessary qualifications and certifications? Have they been in the business or in the particular area of expertise for a long time?
3. Location:
What is the company's location in relation to your project? Is it convenient for the installers to work in the same area as your property or are they located far away? How often can they visit the site?
4. Price:
What is the company's pricing structure? Can they provide a competitive price that is within your budget? Are there any additional fees or charges beyond the stated cost?
5. Quality of Work:
What kind of quality and performance can you expect from the company? Do they use the best materials and equipment? Do their installers practice the appropriate safety procedures?
6. Warranty:
What kind of warranty do they offer on their work? Is the warranty sufficient to cover any malfunctions? Are there any exclusions in the warranty?
7. Service:
What kind of post-installation service does the company provide? Is maintenance and repairs included in the warranty? Are they available to answer any questions or concerns?
8. Customer Reviews:
What do other customers have to say about the company's services? Have they been satisfied with the work done? Are there any negative reviews that you should be aware of?
9. Brand Recognition:
What kind of reputation does the company have in the area? Are they well-known for their quality work or do they have a bad reputation?
10. Insurance:
Does the company have the necessary insurance policies in place in case of accidents or incidents? Are they covered for any potential liability that may arise from the installation process?
11. Government Incentives:
Does the company offer any incentives or rebates from the state or local governments? Are they familiar with the latest solar tax credits and any other incentives available?
12. Professionalism:
Does the company have professional staff who can help explain the installation process in detail and answer any questions you have? Is their customer service team friendly and willing to listen to your concerns?
Each of these criteria will help you make a more informed decision when choosing a solar panel installation company in Iowa for your 2023 project. Researching the different companies and understanding their qualifications and standing in the industry will help you narrow down the options and make the best decision for your particular needs.
Top Reasons to Hire a Local Solar Panel Installation Company in Iowa
When it comes to making the switch to solar power, hiring a local solar panel installation company in Iowa is a wise choice. Not only do these professionals offer reliable and cost-effective services, but they can also provide valuable advice about the state's unique solar regulations. Here's a look at some of the top reasons to hire a local Iowa solar panel installation company.
1. Industry Knowledge
Iowa solar installation companies have years of experience in the industry, allowing them to offer expert advice and insights to their customers. They understand the unique complexities of solar regulations in the state and can help guide homeowners towards the best options for their needs. They can also provide information on the different types of solar panels and equipment available, ensuring that homeowners are knowledgeable about their investment.
2. Quality Equipment
Local solar installers in Iowa only use high-quality products from trusted manufacturers. This ensures that homeowners are getting the best components available, so they can count on reliable, long-lasting performance. With the help of a professional solar installer, customers can rest easy knowing that their system will be up and running for years to come.
3. Professional Installation
When it comes to solar panel installation, experienced professionals make sure that the job is done correctly. Iowa solar panel installers understand the complexities of the process and will take the time to ensure that the system is installed properly. They can also provide helpful tips to make sure that the panels continue to operate efficiently throughout their lifetime.
4. Maintenance and Repair Services
Having an experienced solar panel installer on hand can prove invaluable for homeowners who may experience issues with their equipment over the course of time. Local technicians can provide routine maintenance and repairs, so that the system runs smoothly for years to come. This allows customers to save time and money on costly repairs and replacements.
5. Local Permits and Regulations
Working with a local solar installer in Iowa helps homeowners get familiar with the regulations and permits necessary for solar installation. With the knowledge of these policies, customers can have peace of mind knowing that their system meets all state and local codes. This also helps to ensure that customers aren't running into any unforeseen problems down the road.
6. Cost Savings
Hiring a local solar panel installation company in Iowa can lead to significant cost savings in the long run. By working with local installers, customers can avoid expensive out-of-state shipping fees and other costs associated with working with national companies. In addition, local technicians can often keep their labor costs lower due to their familiarity with the region.
For these reasons, hiring a local solar panel installation company in Iowa is a wise decision for homeowners looking to make the switch to solar power. With the help of a trusted local installer, customers can count on reliable performance and cost savings in the long run.
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Iowa
The cost of installing solar panels in Iowa in 2023 varies depending on the size and type of system you have installed, as well as the complexity of the installation. In general, the average cost of a solar panel installation in Iowa is between $17,000 and $25,000. This includes the cost of inverters, wiring and other components needed for the installation. The cost of each component of the installation will vary depending on the size and type of solar panel system you have installed.
The largest cost component of a solar panel system is the solar panels themselves, which can range from $2.50 to $3.50 per watt for rooftop solar panels. Inverters, which convert the DC electricity produced by the solar panels into AC electricity, can range from $1,000 to $6,000 depending on the type and size of the system. Additionally, wiring and installation costs can range from $1 to $3 per watt. For a 5-kilowatt (5kW) system, that's a cost of anywhere from $17,000 to $25,000.
there may also be additional permits and fees associated with the installation. These will vary depending on the area in which the solar panel system is being installed. It is important to research the local permitting and fees associated with the installation of a solar panel system in Iowa.
the cost of installing a solar panel system in Iowa in 2023 can range from $17,000 to $25,000. This cost includes the costs of the solar panels, inverters, wiring and installation, as well as any associated permits or fees. It is important to research the local permitting regulations and any other associated fees before beginning the installation process.
Iowa Solar Panel Incentives and Rebates
Residents of Iowa looking to invest in solar panel installation have several incentives and rebates available from the state government to reduce the cost. The most commonly offered incentive is the Iowa Solar Tax Credit, which is an up-front 25% state tax credit for residential solar electric and solar water-heating systems. There is no limit on the amount of the credit; however, the combined total of any state and federal credits cannot exceed the total cost of the solar system.Households in Iowa may also be eligible for additional rebates from their local electric utility. The incentives and rebates can be used to help pay for both the system installation and any necessary equipment that may be needed. For instance, some utility companies may provide rebates to cover the cost of the solar panels, mounting hardware, and even inverters. Additionally, the utility company may issue a rebate for any net metering equipment purchased and installed, which helps homeowners sell excess electricity back to the grid.
Before installing a solar system in Iowa, it is important for homeowners to understand all of the incentives and rebates available. Homeowners should contact their local utility companies to learn more about what rebates are offered and how they can reduce the cost of their solar installation. Additionally, homeowners should consult their local professional solar installer to ensure that all necessary equipment is purchased and installed, and that all applicable credits and rebates have been taken advantage of. By doing so, homeowners can get the most out of their solar installation and significantly reduce the costs of going solar in Iowa.
1. What is the estimated cost of a solar panel installation in Iowa?
The estimated cost of a solar panel installation in Iowa can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the size of the system, the type of system, and the installation costs. Generally, for an average-sized system, you can expect to pay around $15,000 to $20,000 for the installation costs. This includes the cost of the panels, the labor cost to install them, and any necessary materials. This estimate does not include any incentives or rebates that may be available.
Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular in Iowa due to their ability to reduce energy bills and their low maintenance requirements. Installing a solar panel system can be a great investment for homeowners, and with the right system and the right provider, it can even pay for itself in a few years.2. Are there any tax incentives or credits offered for solar panel installations in Iowa?
Yes, there are tax incentives and credits offered for solar panel installations in Iowa. The state offers several different ways to save on the cost of installing solar panels. Property tax exemptions, grants, and tax credits are all offered through the state, local government, and utilities.
The Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems is a statewide program that provides a 10-year exemption for the increased value of a property due to the installation of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels.
The Solar Energy System Property Tax Assessment Exemption Program provides a three-year exemption on the assessed value of a property due to the installation of a solar energy system. This exemption applies to residential, commercial, and industrial solar energy systems.
The Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) Program, offered by the Iowa Utilities Board, rewards customers for the energy their solar panels generate. The incentive is based on a credit for each kilowatt-hour of solar energy generated from the system and is paid for by the utility.
The Iowa Solar Tax Credit, offered by the Iowa Department of Revenue, allows individuals to claim a 25 percent credit for the cost of the installation of a solar energy system. The credit can be applied up to a maximum of five thousand dollars for residential solar energy systems.
the Iowa Energy Incentives Program, offered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, provides grants, loans, and loan guarantees to promote renewable energy development in Iowa. Funds are provided to communities, businesses, and organizations to support the adoption of renewable energy, such as solar energy systems.
3. Are there any companies in Iowa that specialize in solar panel installations?
Yes, there are several companies in Iowa that specialize in solar panel installations. These include Solar Works of Iowa, Iowa Solar Energy, Solar Professionals, and Solar Bears Solar Installation. Each of these companies offer a variety of products and services ranging from solar energy system design and installation to ongoing maintenance and support. They are all experienced and knowledgeable in the field of solar energy and provide their services to both residential and commercial customers.
Solar Works of Iowa is one of the state’s leading providers in solar panel installation. They have been in business since 2011 and have established a strong reputation for quality workmanship and customer service. They specialize in custom design and install packages with an emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energy sources. They also offer financing options and regular maintenance of the systems they install.
Iowa Solar Energy is another well-known provider of solar panel installation services in the state. They specialize in both residential and commercial applications and have a team of experienced solar professionals to help customers select the most cost-effective and efficient system for their needs. They offer free consultations and have provided maintenance and repair services for many years.
Solar Professionals is a full-service company offering everything from consultation to installation to ongoing maintenance and repair services. They have been in business since 2003 and have completed projects in all 50 states. They have extensive experience with all types of solar energy systems, including rooftop and ground mount systems, and are committed to providing quality service and customer satisfaction.
Solar Bears Solar Installation is a locally-owned and operated business providing solar panel installation services across Iowa. They have a team of certified and experienced installers and provide free estimates and consultation. They strive to make the installation process as effortless and worry-free as possible for their customers.
4. Are there any renewable energy sources available to supplement solar panel installations?
Yes, there are several renewable energy sources that can be used to supplement solar panel installations. Some of the most common renewable energy sources are wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal. Each of these renewable energy sources can provide a reliable source of electricity to supplement a solar panel installation, depending on the local conditions. Wind power is generated by harnessing the power of the wind to turn turbines, which generate electricity. Hydroelectric power is generated by capturing the energy of water as it flows in rivers or streams. Biomass is a renewable energy source derived from burning organic matter such as wood, agricultural waste, and biogas. Geothermal energy is created by harnessing the heat of the Earth to generate steam, which can then be used to generate electricity. All of these renewable energy sources can provide a reliable and renewable source of electricity to supplement the energy generated by solar panel installations.
5. Are there any government programs available to help fund solar panel installations in Iowa?
Yes, there are a variety of government programs available to help fund solar panel installations in Iowa. The Federal government runs the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008, which offers tax credits for those who install solar energy systems on their property. Additionally, the Iowa Utilities Board offers the Solar Energy System Cost Recovery Program, which allows customers to install solar energy systems and receive a reduced rate for the energy generated. The Iowa Office of Energy Independence also has several grant programs available to help pay for the initial costs of installing solar energy systems. Lastly, many utility companies in Iowa offer net metering programs, which allow customers to receive credits on their electricity bills for energy generated and sent back to the power grid.
The future of solar energy in Iowa is bright. Continued advances in technology will make solar more accessible and cost-effective than ever before. With new policies, incentives, and programs that support renewable energy, the outlook for solar-powered homes and businesses in Iowa is strong. Whether you’re looking to replace your current energy source or just save on energy costs, now is the time to take advantage of the many benefits of solar energy. With the help of a trusted Iowa solar installer, you can make the switch to solar and enjoy a more sustainable, cost-effective lifestyle.
