Solar Panels Cost 7.9k-18k in San Miguel County, CO | November, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $7.9k-$18k in San Miguel County, CO | November, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in San Miguel County, CO in 2024?

It costs, on average, $3.79 per watt to have solar installed in the month of November, 2024 in San Miguel County, CO.

You should expect costs to be $3,790, on average, for every 1 kW (or 1000 watts) of solar energy your solar panel system will need to generate. Subtracting the 30% federal tax credit, a 5 kW solar panel install in San Miguel County typically costs $13,265. However, it’s important to take into account that a higher capacity system may be needed to ensure your energy requirements are met.

Select your county from the menu on the left to find the average roof size and maximum solar panel system capacity for homes in your area. Displayed below is a breakdown of the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
San Miguel County: $13,265US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
San Miguel County: 7 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
San Miguel County: $19,697US Average: $16,169

Solar Potential in San Miguel County

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
San Miguel County.

Roof size 652sq. ft.
Capacity 9.13kW DC
Electricity 13kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in San Miguel County, CO & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

An energy consumer in San Miguel County generally uses 951 kWh per month, leading to an average electric bill of 161.03. Bear in mind that this figure includes smaller residences including apartments, known for lower energy needs.

As of November 2024, the average rate for electricity per kWh in San Miguel County, CO is 16.93¢.

Initially, a 7 kW solar system is priced at about $26,530, with the federal tax credit providing 30% back, reducing the price to $18,571.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Average solar panel costs by system size in San Miguel County

On your left, we have provided a detailed cost breakdown for the multiple solar panel system sizes installed in San Miguel County. The larger the solar array, the larger the initial expense, but also the more considerable electricity savings and income tax credits you'll gain.

In the calculator provided to the right and below, you will find a breakdown of solar panel costs and benefits, calculated with an average $161.03 electric bill for San Miguel County. Replace the $161.03 with your average electricity bill to get more detailed results.

System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $940 a year
Est. Price
$7,959
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 5,530 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $78
  • Full payback in 4 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.94 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 89 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 4,801 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,254 a year
Est. Price
$10,612
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,374 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $104
  • Full payback in 5 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.59 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 119 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 6,401 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,567 a year
Est. Price
$13,265
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 9,217 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $131
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.23 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 148 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,002 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,880 a year
Est. Price
$15,918
Savings from a 6kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 11,060 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $157
  • Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.88 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 178 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,602 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,194 a year
Est. Price
$18,571
Savings from a 7kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 12,904 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $161
  • Full payback in 10 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.99 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 183 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,866 mi less a year

San Miguel County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

The REAP Grant currently offers between 80% and 100% coverage for the installation costs of solar or wind turbines for rural small businesses and farms. If you think you might be eligible, try our REAP Grant eligibility tool to verify your qualification.

The federal government offers a 30% tax credit for residential solar systems, making solar attractive and practical for a variety of homeowners. Additionally, numerous state and local programs aim to promote further adoption of solar energy.

Various utilities and government entities in Colorado provide 37 solar rebate and incentive programs.

Solar incentives in CO

Roaring Fork Valley - Energy Smart Colorado Renewable Energy Rebate Program

Value:Up to $2,500

Energy Smart Colorado is a program serving the Roaring Fork Valley area, including Eagle, Gunnison, Lake, and Summit Counties. Through the program, participants may take advantage of different consulting services and financial incentives to improve their home or business's energy efficiency. Each participant will be assigned a Home Energy Advisor based on their county jurisdiction. Together with program-certified Analysts, the advisor will conduct a comprehensive home assessment and suggest energy improvements tailored to the property. Minor improvements can be installed simultaneously with the assessment, including efficient lighting/thermostats, pipe insulation, and weather stripping. For larger projects, the advisor can make contracting arrangements and apply for financial incentives on the participant's behalf. Additional information and program applications are available through the Energy Smart website.

San Miguel Power Association - Renewable Energy Rebate Program

Value:Up to $1,500

Residential and commercial customers of the San Miguel Power Association may be entitled to a rebate on new solar photovoltaic or water heating systems, as well as small wind turbines or other renewable energy technologies. Incentive amounts are based on estimated cost savings and the type of system installed. For photovoltaic or power generation, residential customers can earn a rebate of 25 cents per watt up to 3 kilowatts or $750; commercial customers have an extended maximum capacity. For electric-backup water heating, a flat $750 rebate is available. An SMPA-certified contractor must conduct installation and apply for the rebate on the customer's behalf. Leased systems do not qualify for rebates.

City of Aspen - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Up to $500

Residents of Aspen who install new energy-efficient systems and appliances may be entitled to rebates from the city government. Qualifying projects enumerated under the program's establishing ordinance include new hear pumps, solar photovoltaic systems, insulation/weatherization, lighting, and kitchen appliances. Additional rebate opportunities are available for other projects contingent on prior approval. Additional information is available from the City of Aspen website.

EZ Investment Tax Credit Refund for Renewable Energy Projects

Value:Up to $750,000

NOTE: This incentive is not available as of January 1, 2021. Colorado legislators have expressed interest in renewing it, but their bill failed to pass through the Assembly. Colorado manages Enterprise Zones throughout the state. Businesses which either relocate or expand into these areas of economic hardship can claim a 3% corporate tax credit for investments within the zone up to $750,000. Renewable energy systems using solar PV, wind, biomass, geothermal, and/or hydroelectric technology are among the property that qualifies for Enterprise Zone exemptions. The maximum capacity is 30 MW for qualifying hydroelectric systems and 10 MW for all other systems. Excess tax credits from EZ investments will carry forward for up to 22 tax years if necessary.

City of Aspen - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Up to $2,250

Aspen residents who install energy-efficient building materials, systems, and appliances may be entitled to financial incentives from the city's Climate Action Office. Covered projects include new water heaters, low-flow faucets and toilets, rooftop solar PV systems, and geothermal heat pumps. Custom rebates are available for unique energy efficiency projects. Further information on city incentives is available from the City of Aspen website.

Xcel Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Financing

Value:Up to $50,000

Lendkey and the Elevations Credit Union are providing residential Xcel Energy customers with specialized loans to fund energy efficiency improvement projects beyond the scope of existing rebates. LendKey's Home Energy Efficiency Loan (HEEL) is available in the entirety of Xcel's Colorado service area. The loan carries low interest rates, instant approval, and access to qualified energy contractors. The Elevations Energy Loan (EEL) is only available in Denver and Boulder County. The loan includes access to an EnergySmart Advisor who can coach homeowners through the project process, maximize rebates and incentives, and arrange necessary work on the homeowner's behalf.

Xcel Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Financing

Value:Up to $500

Lendkey and the Elevations Credit Union are providing residential Xcel Energy customers with specialized loans to fund energy efficiency improvement projects beyond the scope of existing rebates. LendKey's Home Energy Efficiency Loan (HEEL) is available in the entirety of Xcel's Colorado service area. The loan carries low interest rates, instant approval, and access to qualified energy contractors. The Elevations Energy Loan (EEL) is only available in Denver and Boulder County. The loan includes access to an EnergySmart Advisor who can coach homeowners through the project process, maximize rebates and incentives, and arrange necessary work on the homeowner's behalf.

Holy Cross Energy - Renewable Energy Rebate Program

Value:Up to $50,000

"With Efficiency, Conservation, and Renewable Energy," or WE CARE, is a program Holy Cross Energy manages to incentivize on-site renewable energy adoption. Residential or commercial customers installing a new solar PV, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, or geothermal system may qualify for financial rebates under the program. Incentive amounts are based on system capacity relative to four different tiers. The lowest tier, for systems up to 6 kW, yields a $500 flat rebate. Additional flat amounts are available as capacity rises above the later thresholds. Qualifying systems must be interconnected to the grid under a net metering arrangement. To apply, the customer should file a Generator Interconnection Application prior to the start of installation work. They may then choose a HCE-certified contractor to perform the installation. Additional program information is available from the Holy Cross Energy website.

Eagle, Garfield, Gunnison, Lake, and Pitkin Counties - Energy Smart Colorado Loan Program

Value:Varies

Through the Energy Smart Colorado program, residences in the Roaring Fork Valley area (Eagle, Gunnison, Lake, and Pitkin Counties) may be eligible for specialized loans at 3.75% APR to fund home energy efficiency improvements. Each participant will be assigned an "energy advisor" who can audit property, suggest energy improvements, coordinate installation work, and apply for loans and additional incentives on their behalf. A variety of projects qualify for incentives when undertaken by a city-certified contractor, and occasionally rebates through EnergySmart may add to additional local incentives offered through city governments or local utilities. Information about the loan program is available through Energy Smart Partners.

Xcel Energy - Solar*Rewards Community Program

Value:Varies

Communities in the Xcel Energy Colorado service area are incentivized to develop community solar gardens through the Solar*Rewards initiative. Their current goal is to use the program to add 6.5 - 30 MW of renewable energy to their grid annually. As a community uses its CSG, they will sell the Renewable Energy Credits they generate to Xcel. An incentive applied to subscribers' bills serves as compensation for these RECs. Incentive amounts are by the kilowatt hour and vary depending on CSG capacity. Colorado's state REC program changes from year-to-year, which will affect REC prices. Eligible CSGs must have 10 subscribers under 1 kW minimum plans, with at least 5% of subscribers meeting low-income qualifications (not subject to the 1 kW minimum.) Additional information is available from the Xcel website.

La Plata Electric Association - Renewable Generation Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Residential and small business customers of the La Plata Electric Association may be entitled to rebates on new solar photovoltaic, wind, or hydroelectric power generation systems. Incentive amounts vary depending on system capacity relative to a 10 kW threshold. Systems rated below the threshold receive a flat incentive based on capacity and estimated cost savings. Systems above the threshold receive a performance-based incentive. Qualifying solar systems must be installed by an LPEA certified contractor. Upon installation and final inspection by LPEA and any relevant authorities, incentives will appear as a recurring payment every six months for the first ten years of the system's life. Additional program information and application paperwork is available from the La Plata Electric Association website.

Colorado Springs Utilities - Renewable Energy Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Colorado Springs Utilities customers who elect to install a new interconnected solar photovoltaic system may be entitled to a rebate. Incentive amounts are based on expected system performance in the area of installation, taking into account surrounding shade and the tilt of the panels. CSU will earn Renewable Energy Credits from the system's usage, a portion of which will be credited back to the customer. CSU uses standards from the California Energy Commission to determine which system components meet incentive standards. Minimum warranty requirements also apply. Further information and application paperwork are available from the Colorado Springs Utilities website.

C-PACE: Colorado Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy

Value:Varies

C-PACE is Colorado's statewide property-assessed clean energy assistance program. Through the program, home or business owners may access an "open market" of lenders to fund up to 100% of clean energy-related project costs. County governments are charged with servicing C-PACE loans through a special property tax assessment. Energy savings will typically exceed the extra amount assessed, and by structuring the loans in this way, payments will be tied to the property rather than the owner. As of 2016, access to C-PACE is available in Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Eagle, Garfield, Jefferson, Mesa, Pitkin, Pueblo, and Summit Counties. Additional information is available from the C-PACE website.

City of Boulder - Solar Sales and Use Tax Rebate

Value:Varies

Boulder residents who install solar photovoltaic or water heating systems may be entitled to a partial tax rebate from the city government. The average refund for a 4.5 kW PV system is $140, or about 15% of city sales/use tax. Property owners may apply for the refund up to one year after final inspection of the system. The remaining tax after refund supports a Solar Grant Program assisting low-income homeowners and nonprofits to adopt on-site solar energy. Additional information and program applications are available from the City of Boulder's website.

Black Hills Energy - Solar Power Program

Value:Varies

Residential and commercial solar customers with Black Hills Energy may be entitled to financial incentives by using their new solar PV system. Qualifying systems must not exceed a rating of 500 kilowatts. Incentives are performance-based and will be derived from the Renewable Energy Credits BHE earns for the specific system under state law. Funding will therefore vary from year to year, and participation in the incentive program is capped. New photovoltaic installs must be undertaken by contractors with certifications from BHE and the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Additional program information is available from the Black Hills Energy website.

Property Tax Exemption for Community Solar Gardens

Value:Varies

NOTE: This incentive is not available as of January 2021. In the state of Colorado, community solar gardens are taxed as locally-assessed properties. A 2015 law passed by the Colorado State Assembly created certain partial tax exemptions based on a CSG's AC capacity attributable to certain subscribers, including residential, municipal, and property tax-exempt customers. The incentives lasted for six tax years and expired January 1, 2021.

Property Tax Exemption for Residential Renewable Energy Equipment

Value:Varies

The state of Colorado offers various residential property tax exemptions for solar and other renewable energy equipment. Equipment owned by the property owner and used for self-consumption is exempt from state property taxes, as are larger solar generation facilities below a capacity of 100 kW. Technologies such as geothermal and biomass which generate energy for off-site consumption are state-assessed. Most residential solar panels and residential/agricultural wind turbines are considered locally-assessed property.

Xcel Energy - Solar*Rewards Program

Value:Varies

Xcel Energy residential and commercial customers may be entitled to financial rebates through the Solar*Rewards program if they install a new interconnected solar photovoltaic system on their property. As customers use their PV systems over a 20-year period, they will sell the Renewable Energy Credits they generate to Xcel. The incentive serves as compensation for these RECs. Incentive amounts are by the kilowatt hour and vary depending on system capacity and the type of property. Colorado's state REC program changes from year-to-year, which will affect price per REC. Since systems under Solar*Rewards must be interconnected, customers may take advantage of net metering credits to supplement the Solar*Rewards incentives. Funding for the program is allocated on a monthly basis, and program applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis; therefore, interested customers are recommended to apply promptly. Application paperwork is available from the Xcel Energy website.

Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Equipment

Value:Varies

The state of Colorado provides for several sales/use tax exemptions on renewable energy equipment. Beginning in the 2006 tax year, any component used to generate, store, or distribute AC electricity using renewable technology is completely exempt from state sales/use tax. From the 2009 - 2017 tax years, all components used to generate, store, or distribute electricity as part of a solar thermal system are completely exempt from state sales/use tax. From the 2014 - 2019 tax years, all components used to generate, store, or distribute electricity as part of a biomass system are completely exempt from state sales/use tax. For any of these exemptions, county and municipal sales/use tax may still apply. Localities may choose to implement their own exemptions on green energy system components.

City of Boulder - Green Points Building Program

Value:Varies

The City of Boulder requires all builders and homeowners to comply with energy efficiency standards through the Green Points and/or Home Energy Rating System (HERS) programs. A property will earn points for using energy-efficient building materials, appliances, and power systems. Score totals exist on a tiered system similar to federal LEED standards. New commercial buildings in Boulder must meet ASHRAE 90.1 or IECC 2012 standards in compliance with the local Energy Conservation Code. The City Manager enforces these standards directly buildings over 20,000 square feet even after construction is complete.

Colorado Springs Utilities - Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Commercial customers of Colorado Springs Utilities may be entitled to any of a series of water and energy efficiency equipment rebates. Incentive amounts vary based on the type of equipment installed. For renewable energy equipment, rebates will be based on total system capacity or estimated cost savings. For energy-efficient building materials and appliances, rebates will be based off estimated efficiency gain. During the application process, customers may choose from a variety of approved contractors. Further information on the application process may be found on the CSU website.

Fort Collins - Green Building Requirement for City-Owned Buildings

Value:Varies

Beginning in 2006, the Fort Collins City Council has been enacting and updating energy efficiency standards for municipal capital improvement projects. Any new city buildings must meet the Gold level of LEED certification. Existing buildings are grandfathered in to the LEED requirement, but they are encouraged to use its principles to operate sustainably. Certain exceptions exist to balance the LEED requirement with the necessity of keeping costs low. New buildings may meet LEED Silver standards instead if it would take at least ten years longer for the city to recoup construction costs at a Gold tier. New capital built through public/private partnerships may also be exempted from the requirement at the discretion of the Fort Collins City Manager.

City of Denver - Green Building Requirement for City-Owned Buildings

Value:Varies

Denver's modern Office of Sustainability is the spiritual successor to the city's 2007 "Greenpoint Denver" initiative. New sustainability targets for the city (set as of 2020) include doubling the city's renewable energy capacity and reducing energy usage in existing buildings by 20%. In addition to setting overarching goals and advising city leaders on other sustainability practices, the Office has also set energy efficiency standards for municipal buildings. Any new city building or remodeling project after 2013 should meet at least LEED Gold certification, though designers should pursue the Platinum level wherever possible. Further, any new or existing building meeting ENERGY STAR requirements but not yet certified should pursue that certification.

Renewable Energy Standard

Value:Varies

The state of Colorado has held itself to a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) since Amendment 37 was approved by voters in 2004; they were the first state to adopt such a policy. Current RPS procedures require each retail electric utility to source a certain percentage of its energy from renewable means. The actual percentage will depend on each utility's ownership and the size of their service area. Solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, hydroelectric, and synthetic gas are just a few of the technologies utilities may use to meet the standard. Annual compliance reports from each utility are made publicly available via the Colorado Public Utilities Commission.

Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency for Schools Loan

Value:Varies

Through the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency for Schools (REEES) program, the state of Colorado offers school districts funding assistance to build renewable energy and water efficiency systems, purchase efficient buses, and conduct other green building and procurement projects. Districts that qualify may take out low-interest loans up to $1 million with a maximum 15-year payment term. Charter schools are also eligible for funding assistance, but they must use the school district as a middleman rather than having funds disbursed directly to them. There are two application periods annually with uniform submission deadlines: one ending April 30th and one ending October 31st. The application committee will consider various criteria during the review process which are publicly available on the state Energy Office website. After the district receives loan funding, it must publish progress reports on a quarterly basis.

City of Boulder - Solar Access Ordinance

Value:Varies

Since 1982, both property owners and renters within the City of Boulder have been guaranteed solar access by city ordinance. Zoning laws currently set three "Solar Access Areas" on individual lots, the locations of which depend on the type of zone. Should a property owner require additional access beyond what is guaranteed, they may obtain a solar access permit. Provided the system maintains consistent usage and function, the permit will last through the useful life of the solar system. Any new subdivisions within the Boulder city limits must be constructed with specific solar access sites. Structures within the subdivision must be capable of supporting a minimum of 75 square feet of rooftop solar panels.

Greening of State Government

Value:Varies

Throughout their terms, Colorado governors Bill Owens, Bill Ritter, and John Hickenlooper implemented mandatory environmental standards for state government property and entities to follow. Initiatives established under each governor's executive orders include auditing agency sustainability practices, lowering consumption of paper and plastic bottles, expanding recycling and composting, investing saved energy costs in sustainability programs, and establishing building standards for new state capital construction and remodeling projects. Additional information is available from the Colorado website.

Green Colorado Credit Reserve

Value:Varies

The Colorado Energy Office has established the Green Colorado Credit Reserve (GCCR) as a loss reserve incentive to private banks and lenders in the state. Individual loans of up to $250,000 for energy efficiency improvements on commercial property qualify. In the event a property owner defaults on their loan, GCCR funds can cover institutional losses on up to 15% of the total amount. The CHFA keeps a database of participating lenders and manages new applications. Institutions considering GCCR participation may apply to join if they meet prescribed guidelines.

City and County of Denver - Solar Panel Permitting

Value:Varies

The city of Denver is recognized as a Solar Friendly Community through its efficient and flexible solar permit procedures. Builders must apply for electrical, plumbing, and zoning permits to construct new solar panels and PV systems. Most projects will have roofing and electrical plans reviewed on the day the application is submitted. If the project is located in a Landmark District, the review process will take longer and an additional Certificate of Appropriateness may be required. New solar panel permit fees have a fee ceiling of $50 per permit. Construction fees may also apply; these will depend on the nature of each specific project. "Walkthrough fees" may also be assessed on applications for high-value projects seeking same-day review.

Community Solar Gardens

Value:Varies

Colorado HB 1342 established provisions for "community solar gardens" (CSGs) managed by investor-owned utilities. The current maximum capacity for a CSG is five megawatts. Capacity limits will increase to ten megawatts in July of 2023. The law also standardizes subscriptions to CSGs throughout the state. Subscribers to CSGs must be located in the same utility service area as the CSG itself (previously, both the garden and subscriber were required to be in the same county). The minimum subscription is for 1 kW of power capacity at the total aggregate retail price. Total subscribed capacity cannot exceed the customer's average annual consumption by 120%.

City and County of Denver - Elevations Energy Loans

Value:Varies

The City and County of Denver offer renewable energy and energy efficiency loans to homes and businesses through a partnership with Elevations Credit Union. Property owners may choose from a variety of eligible projects and contractors in an "open market". The gateway into the Elevations program is through a property's EnergySmart advisor. Upon determining that loans may be necessary to fund an energy efficiency project, the advisor will submit application paperwork on behalf of the property owner. As a part of the application process, customers must pass a credit check and become members of Elevations Credit Union. Rates and fees are subject to change. Additional information is available through the Elevations website.

Renewable Energy Property Tax Assessment

Value:Varies

In Colorado, renewable energy systems and facilities rated under 2 MW are considered locally-assessed property for tax purposes. Local assessors should use approaches outlined by the state assessor, using cost, sales comparison, and income. Green energy systems rated for over 2 MW, as well as hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass facilities rated for any capacity, are considered state-assessed property. They are taxed at the same rates and schedules as non-renewable energy systems. Nonrenewable comparison value for state-assessed renewable energy systems is determined on an annual basis and takes into account the past five years of rates.

Residential Energy Upgrade (RENU) Loan Program

Value:Varies

Homeowners enrolling in the Residential Energy Upgrade (RENU) program may be eligible for specialized loans to fund energy efficiency improvement projects. The program is administered by the Colorado Energy Office with loan servicing through Elevations Credit Union. Interested homeowners will consult with a RENU advisor to determine eligible projects and obtain quotes. They may choose from a variety of eligible contractors to perform necessary work, but they must become a member of Elevations Credit Union to apply for the loan. Additional information is available from the Colorado Energy Office website.

City of Boulder - Solar Grant Program

Value:Varies

Owners or managers of low and moderate-income housing within the city of Boulder may be eligible for grants to install solar PV and water heating systems. Local sales/use taxes from solar installations within the city fund these grant initiatives. The amount of a grant will vary from property to property, but on average they will cover up to 50% of system and installation costs after any rebates or other incentives have been applied. There are two application cycles annually with uniform submission deadlines: one ending April 30th and the other ending October 31st. Additional information for interested homeowners and nonprofits is available from the City of Boulder website.

Building Energy Code

Value:Varies

As a "home rule" state, Colorado does not have an energy code; however, the state government has set energy efficiency standards for public-sector buildings to follow. While adoption of these standards is voluntary for local governments, the state does incentivize cities and counties to implement them with grant funding. Any Colorado city or county with its own set of building codes has historically been required to comply with different versions of the International Energy Conservation Code by 2008 at the latest. Currently, localities must enforce state residential codes. For example, the state requires single-family home builders to offer rooftop solar PV/water heating and other energy-efficient systems and appliances as an add-on option. At the very least, new homes should have the proper infrastructure to accommodate a future solar system, and the builder should provide the customer with a directory of area solar contractors.

Fort Collins Utilities - Home Efficiency Loan Program

Value:Varies

Residential customers of Fort Collins Utilities who undertake energy efficiency improvements on their existing home may be able to finance up to 100% of their project costs under the Home Efficiency Lending Program (HELP). HELP loans are managed by any of a variety of banking partners. All loan packages have tailored low interest rates, a 15-year maximum repayment term, and no down payment. Additional information is available from the FCU website or by contacting its funding partners.

Colorado Springs Utilities - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Residential customers of Colorado Springs Utilities may be entitled to any of a series of water or energy efficiency equipment rebates. Incentive amounts vary based on the type of equipment installed. For renewable energy equipment, rebates will be based on total system capacity or estimated cost savings. For energy-efficient building materials and appliances, rebates will be based off estimated efficiency gain. During the application process, customers may choose from a variety of approved contractors. Further information on the application process may be found on the CSU website.

Are solar panels worth it in San Miguel County, CO?

For those in San Miguel County looking to stay in their homes past the payback period of their solar system, solar panels make good sense. Having a 5 kW solar system in San Miguel County, CO can potentially save you around $25,382.2 over a span of 20 years, with an average break even point of 7 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in San Miguel County, CO

Without solar panels or another backup power source, you miss out on the savings discussed previously and are entirely on your electric utility for electricity. Recent news examples have revealed that complete dependence on your utility provider isn't always the most favorable condition.

Annually, customers in San Miguel County experience about 1.45 outages. On average, the length of an outage is 116.4 minutes. Major events like winter storms, wildlife damage, or overloaded power grids can cause these durations to rise considerably.

View the info below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in San Miguel County.

A solar panel system, whether or not it has a backup battery, could help reduce the impact of future outages you might experience.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in San Miguel County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in San Miguel County, CO?

Your Energy Needs - Even if the initial expense is greater, the price per watt decreases with larger solar panel systems. Individuals often discover that setting up a solar system that can offset their entire electric bill is advantageous, ensuring optimal savings.

Make & Model - Just like any other product, solar panels are available in a wide variety of makes and models. Considering the system preferences that your installer may have, it's important to select a reputable contractor. For a superior long-term experience, buyers should consider better quality models.

Solar Panel Type - For good reasons, monocrystalline panels have become the industry standard. They come with a higher price, but they generate more energy. Many solar panel installers choose this material.

Your Property - Each property and home has its own characteristics. Factors such as trees, sloped land, or additional considerations can make the installation more challenging. Nowadays, most solar installers can assess your home with satellite images and incorporate these considerations in the first cost estimate.

Labor Rates - The costs connected to the varying wages offered by companies to their employees are passed on to the consumers. Companies that invest in higher wages usually see higher reviews for their work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Permitting and utility interconnection fees change locally and will impact your installation cost. Good installers will factor these costs into your preliminary quotes to prevent unexpected expenses.

See what solar panels cost in other San Miguel County cities

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    Who are the best solar installers in San Miguel County?

    Freedom Forever

    Temecula, CA(800) 685-1850

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    The Solar Revolution

    Boulder, CO(303) 815-9360

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    Solar SME

    Duncanville, TX(832) 626-2337

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    Douglass Colony Group

    Commerce City, CO(877) 288-0650

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    Powur PBC

    Del Mar, CA(866) 467-6987

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    SunVest Solar

    Pewaukee, WI(262) 547-1200

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    Micrometer Engineering

    Scottsdale, AZ(602) 790-5749

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    Core Development Group

    (201) 825-2195

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    IonSOLAR

    Provo, UT(888) 781-7074

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    LUX Energy

    San Antonio, TX(830) 308-7475

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.

    Sunlight Solar Energy

    Bend, OR(541) 322-1910

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    SunPro Solar

    Mandeville, LA(866) 599-3643

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    RISE Power

    Richardson, TX(855) 747-3769

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Dividend Finance

    Cincinnati, OH(415) 805-7000

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    Hunt Electric

    Salt Lake City, UT(801) 975-8844

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    Sundance Solar Designs

    Montrose, CO(970) 209-0085

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Palmetto Solar

    Charleston, SC(855) 339-1831

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    Entero Energy

    Austin, TX(512) 551-0742

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    SunPower Corporation

    San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Fluent Solar

    Lehi, UT(844) 220-7415

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Sunnova Energy

    Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Reparation of batteries.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Sunrun

    San Francisco, CA(833) 394-3384

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    GRNE Solar

    Palatine, IL(312) 859-3417

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Knight Electric

    Justin, TX(801) 782-8219

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

    Entegrity

    Little Rock, AR(800) 700-1414

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Soltage

    Jersey City, NJ(201) 432-1786

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    REenergizeCO

    Denver, CO(303) 227-1000

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    Engie North America

    Houston, TX(713) 636-1900

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    Buglet Solar

    Golden, CO(303) 903-9119

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    City Electric Supply

    Dallas, TX(866) 634-9853

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

    LightEdison

    Denver, CO(888) 966-6377

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Reparation of batteries.
    • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    Empire Solar Group

    Salt Lake City, UT(800) 467-4562

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    Golden Solar

    Golden, CO(303) 955-6332

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Reparation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
    • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    KGT Renewables

    Phoenix, IL

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    Precision Renewables

    Snyderville CDP, UT(435) 602-4120

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

    Badass Energy

    Claremont, CA(909) 320-9860

    Services

    • Installation of solar arrays.
    • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
    • Consulting on all things solar related.

    San Miguel County, CO Solar Panel Cost FAQs

    • As of November, 2024, the average per-watt cost for solar panels in San Miguel County, CO is $3.79/W. With the federal tax credit, the cost of a 5 kW solar panel system in San Miguel County, CO drops to roughly $13,265.
    • As of now, there are 37 rebates and incentives offered by various utilities and government entities in Colorado. Additionally, the vast majority qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
    • Even though paying cash yields the most savings, there are now several financing options for solar panels that also are financially sensible. Installers often have partnerships with financing companies and will include this information in your initial quotes.
    • Yes, the typical payback time for 5 kW solar panel systems in San Miguel County, CO is 7 years, and the expected electricity cost savings over 20 years is $25,382.2.
    Alex Zdanov
    Last Reviewed By: Alex Zdanov
    Published: 2024-11-04