If you‘re an Iowa homeowner considering solar power but aren‘t sure where to start, this comprehensive guide covers the premier local solar companies to help you make the switch and start saving money. We‘ll analyze real cost data, incentives, installation options, and key factors to weigh when going solar in Iowa.
According to a 2022 survey by the Iowa Solar Energy Trade Association (ISETA), over 90% of solar companies in the state reported increased demand, with installations up 30% last year. As more Iowa homeowners and businesses go solar to buffer themselves from rising utility rates, who are the best and most reputable providers to partner with?
Why Go Solar in Iowa?
Before diving into the top solar company recommendations, let‘s review the benefits of installing solar panels in Iowa:
Slash your electric bills
Iowa homeowners with solar systems sized to their needs can eliminate 90-100% of their electricity expenses by generating their own renewable power. This provides tremendous savings over the 25+ year lifespan of solar panels.
Lock in lower energy rates
Utility electricity rates have increased in Iowa by 4.5% over the last five years. Solar allows you to lock in a fixed price for your power upfront and take control of future energy costs.
Increase your home value
Studies show solar can boost resale value by 4.1% on average, compared to non-solar homes. This makes your investment pay off when it‘s time to sell.
Improve your sustainability
Solar is a zero-emissions clean energy source that reduces your carbon footprint. Many Iowa residents go solar because it aligns with their environmental values.
Take advantage of incentives
Iowa offers property tax exemptions, net metering, no sales tax on solar equipment, and access to federal tax credits – all of which help maximize your solar savings.
Over the estimated 25-35 year lifespan of a solar panel system, you can save $30,000-$50,000 in Iowa through lower electricity bills and incentives.
Now let‘s review the top solar power companies in Iowa to help you successfully navigate the transition.
1. CB Solar
With over 500 installations across Iowa over the past decade, CB Solar earns the #1 spot for their experience, expertise, and positive customer reviews. This employee-owned solar provider is locally based in Iowa.
CB Solar‘s qualified installers all hold advanced certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Their in-house team handles permitting, design, installation, interconnection, and maintenance for every system.
According to Josh Button, CB Solar‘s General Manager, "We customize every solar power design based on our client‘s specific energy usage and goals. By simulatingPanel production using advanced software, we right-size systems to maximize electric bill savings."
CB Solar has achieved a 5-star overall rating on popular solar review site SolarReviews.com based on feedback from Iowa customers.
Satisfied customer Diane L. says:
"The solar panels from CB Solar ended up being one of the best home improvements I‘ve made in terms of energy bill savings. Their team handled the whole installation process from start to finish. I‘d highly recommend them to anyone considering solar in Iowa."
Key Benefits:
- Direct financing options available including solar loans
- 25-year power production and 10-year parts warranties
- Free solar assessment and proposal
- Locally owned and operated in Iowa
Check CB Solar‘s latest offers at www.cbsolar.com
2. Eagle Point Solar
Since opening their doors in 2009, Eagle Point Solar has installed over 5,000 solar systems across Iowa and the Midwestern states. This employee-owned company is headquartered in Dubuque.
The Eagle Point Solar team lives and works right here in our local communities. They make customer education a priority – you‘ll understand every step from solar assessment through maintenance.
According to Eagle Point Co-Founder Barry Shear, "Going solar is a big investment, so we work closely with homeowners to ensure the right system design and educate them on how everything works. This builds trust and great long-term relationships."
Eagle Point Solar has maintained an A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau for over a decade – an impressive accomplishment. The company has also won the Angie‘s List Super Service Award multiple times thanks to rave customer reviews.
Iowa homeowner Gary D. reports:
"Out of all the solar companies I considered, Eagle Point Solar distinguished themselves with their technical expertise and customer service. I‘d recommend giving them a call."
What Eagle Point Offers:
- Solar panel systems for homes, farms, and businesses
- Full-service installation, with all permitting handled
- Backup battery storage for power outages
- Electric vehicle chargers
- Flexible financing through Solar Loans and others
Request a free quote from Eagle Point Solar at www.eaglepointsolar.com
3. Lightwave Solar
Lightwave Solar founder Nate Otto grew up right here in Iowa. After working nationally in the solar industry, he returned home in 2016 to launch Lightwave and bring better renewable energy solutions to his local state.
This Iowa-based provider offers complete solar services: consultation, design, installation, interconnection, production monitoring, and maintenance. Lightwave Solar has installed over 800 solar power systems for Iowa homeowners to date.
What really sets Lightwave Solar apart is their focus on education and transparent pricing. They have resources on solar basics for beginners and provide cost breakdowns upfront, so you know exactly what to expect without hidden fees.
According to Lightwave Founder Nate Otto: "We really take the time to explain the technology and benefits to homeowners who are new to solar. Our goal is to build trust and help them make the choice that‘s best for their situation."
Lightwave Solar has maintained an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and 5 out of 5-star overall score on SolarReviews.com.
Iowa customer Becky L. shares:
"Lightwave Solar made everything really easy. Their installers were professional and courteous. I‘ve been recommending them to all my friends since getting my system installed."
Why Choose Lightwave?
- Sunpower and LG solar panels for premium efficiency
- Direct purchase or flexible loan options like Sunlight Financial
- Live energy production monitoring through their portal
- Clean, hassle-free maintenance and repairs
- Battery storage available for power outages
Learn more about Lightwave Solar‘s services for Iowa homeowners at www.lightwavesolar.com
4. Absolute Energy Solar
Ranking number four on our list is Absolute Energy Solar. Located in Des Moines, they provide solar power systems to central Iowa residents, farms, and businesses.
Absolute Energy Solar founder Geoff Greenwood has been in the Iowa solar industry for over 16 years. He started the company in 2013 to bring better value, service, and education around renewable energy to Iowans.
Absolute Energy Solar handles each part of the solar process in-house, from consultation and site design through permitting and installation. This integrated approach enables them to deliver strong warranties and pricing transparency for customers.
According to Geoff, "We really pride ourselves on being solar experts our customers can trust. We take care of the whole process from start to finish right here in Iowa."
The Absolute Energy Solar team maintains extensive training and certifications through the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA), Solar Energy International, and electronics manufacturer SMA.
Customers praise their down-to-earth, personalized service and expertise installing over 1,000 solar power systems in Iowa.
Iowa resident Tyler A. shares:
"The crew from Absolute Energy Solar were at my house working sunup to sundown. I‘m beyond satisfied with the system they installed – it produces clean energy and will pay for itself quickly."
Why Choose Absolute Energy Solar?
- Straightforward pricing – no hidden fees
- Strong 25-year workmanship warranty on installs
- Custom solar system design and siting
- Online portal to monitor energy production
- Available storage options for power outages
Contact Absolute Energy Solar at www.absoluteenergysolar.com
5. Dimension Renewable Energy
Our fifth pick for best solar company is Dimension Renewable Energy, which serves Eastern Iowa from offices in Dubuque and Davenport.
Since 2001, Dimension Renewable has designed and installed over 1,500 renewable energy systems in Iowa, including wind turbines in addition to solar. Founders Joe Benter and Marty Miller lead a seasoned team of installers.
Dimension Renewable takes a customized approach to each solar power project based on the client‘s particular home energy needs. They also handle all permitting and documentation to streamline the process for you.
According to Founder Joe Benter: "We‘ve really seen demand take off for home solar installations across Iowa. By providing custom solutions to efficiently power each home, we help homeowners take control of their energy use and bills."
Dimension Renewable has maintained an A+ Better Business Bureau rating for over 10 years running. They‘ve been featured multiple times on the Inc 5000 list of America‘s fastest growing private companies.
Iowa customer Karen C. reports:
"Dimension Renewable Energy worked with us to design the perfect solar system for our home‘s unique situation. We couldn‘t be happier with both the system performance and their customer service."
Dimension Renewable‘s Offerings:
- Free solar assessment and proposal
- Custom panel system design and installation
- Handling of all permits and rebates
- Workmanship and production guarantees
- Ongoing maintenance and monitoring
Reach out to Dimension Renewable at www.dimensionrenewable.com
Solar Power in Iowa – Frequently Asked Questions
If you‘re exploring solar energy for your home, here are answers to some common questions:
How much do solar panels cost in Iowa?
The typical price range is $2.50-$3.25 per watt including installation. So a typical 6kW system costs $15,000-$22,000 pre-incentive. Tax credits can reduce this by 26% right away.
How much can I save by going solar in Iowa?
Most households save $1,200-$1,500 annually on electric bills with solar through reduced energy use and net metering credits. Solar tax incentives also apply. Over 25-30 years, you can save $30,000-$40,000 total.
What are the payback periods for solar installations in Iowa?
With all incentives factored in, the payback period on a solar system in Iowa is 7-12 years. After paying off the initial investment, you‘ll enjoy free energy from the sun for another 15+ years.
What solar incentives are available in Iowa?
Iowa provides property tax exemptions on solar installations for 5 years and has statewide net metering. There are also no sales taxes on solar equipment. On top of this, you can claim the 26% federal solar tax credit.
What questions should I ask solar companies?
Key questions include:
- Do you provide all-inclusive system pricing or itemized cost breakdowns?
- What are your specific experience and credentials in Iowa?
- What equipment brands and panel efficiencies do you offer?
- What are the warranties and guaranteed production output?
- Do you handle all permitting paperwork and grid connection?
- Will there be follow-up maintenance and repairs as needed?
- Can you provide referrals from past local clients?
Conclusion
We hope this guide gives you a great starting point for exploring top solar options in Iowa. By producing your own power from the sun, you can take control of energy costs while benefiting the environment.
Connect with one of the highly-rated local solar providers featured here for a free consultation. They can assess your specific home‘s needs and provide solar savings estimates.
With the right solar installation company, you‘ll be well on your way to energy bill savings and sustainable energy independence for your Iowa home or business!