Is it worth going solar in Utah? Let’s look closer at the Beehive state’s solar potential and conditions to get an answer. Utah, with its abundant sunshine throughout the year and its geographical features, including expansive deserts and towering mountains, is perfectly suited for generating solar power. The number of sunny days per year, 226 in Salt Lake City and 255 in Milford gives great potential for solar power development.
Thanks to the state’s favorable regulations, advancements in technology, and a growing consciousness of the environment, Utah’s solar energy development has recently increased.
We identified experienced local solar installers in Utah using the SolarPowerSystems platform, which hosts the most extensive database of solar providers in the US. This resource provides comprehensive information on each company, their solar packages, and a variety of user reviews, both positive and negative. Our selection from this platform is guided by its impartial methodology, assured by the absence of financial ties to any solar providers.
You can discover top solar installers in Utah either directly here, through an article on SolarPowerSystems.org, or by asking for your personal solar quote.
Many state residents choose solar power to lower their carbon emissions, reduce energy expenses, and get energy independence. We can witness the trend among businesses, utilities, and homeowners. Based on data from the Solar Energy Industries Association, there are currently 124 solar companies operating in the state.
Additionally, solar systems produce 13.92% of the state’s electricity generation. In the last decade, there has been a significant 47% decrease in prices, and the solar industry got a remarkable investment of over $322 million in 2023 alone.
Infographic of Utas Solar Capabilities
This article will examine Utah’s thriving solar energy industry, highlighting the state’s exceptional solar resources, significant market developments, and the best solar companies in Utah driving the state’s renewable energy revolution.
Utah Solar Landscape
Utah’s diverse topography and attractive natural environment provide numerous opportunities for solar energy development. With its abundant sunshine, Utah has great potential for solar energy production in the United States.
In addition to arid deserts, high-altitude mountains, agricultural and urban locations offer enormous solar potential. Utah is rapidly expanding its solar infrastructure, from huge solar farms to rooftop installations on individual residences.
Utah offers significant solar resources and favorable regulations for investment and operation. Thanks to net metering, renewable energy tax credits, and local incentives, solar energy is more affordable for homes and companies.
Large Utah corporations that have gone solar include Amazon, Meta, and Real Salt Lake. One of Meta’s big investments was a 104 MW solar farm in Utah that opened in 2020 to power its Eagle Mountain data center.
104 MWdc Graphite Solar Plant in Wellington, UT, Supplying Clean Energy to Meta Data Center.
The Utah Energy and Innovation Plan, unveiled by Utah’s Office of Energy Development, fully supports the expansion and development of the renewable electricity sector, particularly the solar industry. Utah, with its strong support and favorable natural environment, has a great chance of becoming one of the most developed solar states.
Featured Solar Installers
We carefully select Utah solar installers based on a set of criteria to ensure the best quality and functionality. We distinguish innovative companies that use the latest technologies and strategies to improve the efficiency of solar installations. Installers who receive positive client feedback are prioritized. Having access to companies that offer competitive and transparent pricing is critical for achieving affordability. We also highlight the ability of solar installers to design solar systems aligned with clients’ individual needs and preferences to ensure the highest possible performance and customer satisfaction. Our review ranks Utah’s top solar companies based on innovation, consumer satisfaction, price, sustainability, and personalized solutions.
Our Recommendation
So, which solar company is the best choice in Utah? Based on the previously described criteria, we have prepared a list of leading solar panel companies in Utah and highlighted their strengths. Now, let’s move to a more detailed description of the top five solar system installers in Utah that you should consider when selecting the best solar panel company for your unique household.
Skyline Solar
Smart Wave Solar
Green Solar Technologies
ION Solar
Blue Raven Solar
We suggest you prioritize your needs, review our summary, obtain multiple quotes, and confidently decide how to begin your solar journey in Utah.
Innovator in Solar Technology – Smart Wave Solar
Founded in: 2007
Licenses, insurance, and certifications: North American Board of Certified Energy Professionals (NABCEP), BBB-accredited, License AEC9410 from Utah state authorities
Cost of 5kW solar system: $10,000-$15,000
Cost of 10kW solar system: $24,000-$30,000
Brands offered: Solana, SunPower, Silfab Solar, Enphase
Types of solar panels installed: Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, Thin-Film Solar Panels
Number of states served: 2
Financing options: Cash purchase, solar loan, solar lease, PPA
Warranty Information: 25-year Panel Warranty
Customer Referral Program: Yes
Smart Wave Solar is also one of Utah’s top-rated solar panel companies. It offers high-quality services and tailored solutions to residential clients. The company covers the whole process of solar system implementation, from consultation and design to installation and maintenance.
However, the installer’s most noteworthy offering is its emergency system. Smart Wave Solar strives to guarantee that its solar clients experience as little stress as possible during power outages. As a result, the company provides an emergency power supply to all clients at no additional cost using the unique technology it has developed.
Power Outage Image
Another prominent offer from the installer is a backup battery system for its emergency solution and the referral program. If you refer four new clients to Smart Wave, you can be lucky enough to get an emergency backup battery for free.
As the owner of a Smart Wase Solar emergency system, you can configure it to power your most vital gadgets during outages. Modern energy systems are built to display how long they can power plugged-in devices, which is highly beneficial for some devices, like medical equipment. At the same time, energy storage devices are lightweight, resilient, and portable so that they may be used outside and indoors.
Leader in Customer Satisfaction – ION Solar
ION Solar is a full-service solar system provider with in-house designers, surveyors, and installers. The company was founded by combining two solar businesses.
ION Solar, a rather young company, installed over 85,000 units across the United States. Unsurprisingly, Inc. 5000 named it one of the country’s fastest-growing companies. Top Solar Contractors ranked it as one of the top ten residential solar companies in 2021. The company also engages in community service through its ION Earth Program. It provides a solar system for every two megawatts of panels installed in a home, business, or school in need.
The company only installs all-black contemporary panels for a more modern appearance. To create a stylish and tidy home look, they carefully place every piece of equipment.
Solar Panel Installation Process by ION Solar in Utah
ION Solar is happy to have received positive internet reviews and an average of 4.4 points on Google feedback. Solar installation may not be easy, but ION claims that most clients rate its services as seamless, simple, and efficient. The organization has a great support crew that can assist you via phone, email, or internet messengers. They say that with over 85,000 solar installations, the crew has the knowledge and experience to solve any difficulty that may arise.
Pioneer in Affordable Solar Solutions – Blue Raven Solar
Blue Raven is another Utah solar company with a near-perfect reputation and multiple awards, including Company of the Year in Energy by the American Business Awards. Blue Raven Solar is proud to be part of SunPower and collaborate with GivePower, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to improving and developing clean water and energy systems in communities worldwide.
The company provides services ranging from consultation to installation, ensuring that each customer receives the maximum possible return on their investment. Blue Raven does not sell specific types of panels; rather, it sources them based on what is most readily available in each local market, including brands such as Maxeon, REC, Qcells, SEG, SunPower, and others.
The company also offers battery storage options for its home customers. Blue Raven collaborates with businesses such as FranklinWH, Enphase, and Tesla.
Tesla Solar Energy Storage
Nonetheless, the company’s financing programs are its most notable offering. The main financial programs are BluePower+ and SmartStart.
BluePower+ program’s main points are:
No Advance Fees: No up-front cost for installation, design, and permission.
18 Months of Free Solar Power: BluePower Plus+ provides free solar power for 18 months.
Prepayment Option: There is no early repayment penalty if you choose to pay off the loan at any time.
Additional benefits of BluePower+ include:
The solar system is yours.
Utilizing the federal tax credit is still possible.
For the duration of the loan, your monthly payment is set and will not increase.
SmartStart Program:
Consumers pay a discounted promotional fee for the first eighteen months with the five-year SmartStart program. When the deal ends, customers will receive a check for 42 months to maintain the same rate.
Since the consumers can benefit from federal solar tax credits as well as state and municipal incentives, Blue Raven firmly promotes client ownership and does not provide solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs).
Blue Raven Solar is a suitable choice if you’re looking for a solar firm that offers loan financial options.
Champion of Sustainable Practices – Green Solar Technologies
Green Solar Technologies has been involved in solar power for a considerable time, recognizing the benefits of energy savings and reducing carbon emissions. The company works with both residential and commercial customers. Established in 2010, Green Solar has successfully executed projects in over a dozen states and is expanding.
Panel Installation Process in Utah by Green Solar Technologies
The solar company has a wide range of products available, including solar panels, inverters, and batteries. Let’s delve into the range of services it offers:
Solar Panel Installation: Green Solar partners with multiple manufacturers to provide customers with top-notch solar panels. The company offers L.G. solar modules with a 25-year warranty. L.G. is renowned for its solar equipment, which is designed to be highly energy-efficient. It also offers other brands, such as Mission Solar and REC TwinPeak.
Inverters: A good solar panel system requires reliable inverters. Green Solar collaborates with well-known and high-quality inverter producers, like Enphase, SolarEdge HD-Wave, SMA, and Fronius.
Solar Energy Storage: Green Solar can help you find the best battery solution if your solar system requires energy storage.
Financing: Not everyone has the means to invest in solar equipment. Green Solar offers solar loans to homeowners and commercial clients. The loans help to lower initial expenses, and the organization works with reliable partners to assist with financing.
Expert in Custom Solar Installations – Skyline Solar
Skyline Solar is another reliable supplier of solar panels in Utah. The installer’s primary services are installing solar panels and battery solutions. The organization helps with every stage of the solar energy process, including installation, support, and consultancy.
The company’s adaptable, locally relevant expertise is one of its best qualities. Skyline Solar asserts that it can offer a customized solution for your area because it knows the unique climates in the regions where they do business. Additionally, Skyline Solar treats every home as a unique customer and carefully considers elements like:
energy consumption
roof evaluation, which covers your roof’s orientation and condition
neighboring area investigation to find any elements that could reduce solar effectiveness, like large trees that shade your roof
Roof Evaluation Process
If you choose to use Skyline Solar to supply a battery storage system, then the team will additionally assess your home’s energy usage and purpose to ensure you receive the battery solution that best suits your needs.
Breaking Down Solar Incentives in Utah
State incentives can significantly reduce solar panel installation costs in Utah. Switching to solar energy for your home is pricey, but the state’s benefits offset the cost. The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit can save you a good amount of money, but how much you save will depend on the size of your system. Before any incentives, Utah’s typical solar panel system costs approximately $16,080 for the 6 kW system, which is less than the national average of $17,580 That price falls to $11,256 after the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC), which provides a 30% federal income tax credit for your solar energy system.
Besides ICT, Utah State has several other solar power-saving programs. Below is a quick summary of UTAH solar incentives.
An overview of solar rebates and incentives
The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers a substantial benefit, providing a 30% income tax credit for the entire cost of your solar system. This includes labor, panels, inverters, batteries, and other components. The tax credit is applied once during the tax year when you install your panels.
The Rocky Mountain Power (PacifiCorp) Wattsmart Battery Program offers an upfront rebate of $400 for each kilowatt (kW) of battery storage installed alongside your solar panels. This rebate is received once you install the batteries.
Net Metering allows you to earn credits on your electricity bill for any excess power that your solar panels generate and send back to the grid. This program is ongoing, enabling you to accumulate net energy metering credits as long as your panels continue to produce electricity.
Financing Solar: A Closer Look
Because solar energy is an expensive investment, weighing your choices financially before making the switch is important. When you get a solar quote from a company, you often receive the available payment choices. In Utah, solar panel system payment options include the following.
Cash: Since there is no interest to pay, buying the system all at once is the most economical option.
Solar Loan: Since installing solar panels in Utah requires a significant financial outlay, many people will consider solar loans. Like other loans, solar loans are paid back over time with interest. You can still use the solar tax credit with solar loans.
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Solar Leasing: There are minimal or no upfront costs. The primary drawback is that you are not the system’s owner and cannot receive the solar tax credit.
Some Utah solar panel companies may have different financial alternatives or offers. During the appointment, ask the manager about them and make sure you choose the most efficient option for you.
The True Value of Solar in Utah
Utah boasts a remarkable number of sunny days each year, making it one of the top states in the country for solar capacity. The Utah solar power industry is growing rapidly, and installing a solar system is definitely a smart choice.
When considering the figures, it’s worth mentioning that the average payback period for solar power in Utah homes is nine years if paid in cash. Utah residents who choose to go solar can enjoy significant savings of $10,202 over 25 years.
Before deciding to go solar, carefully evaluating your specific requirements and expectations is important. First and foremost, it is crucial to assess the compatibility of a solar system with your household by considering the following factors:
House Location: The installer will consider the location and roof direction to determine the efficiency of solar panels for your home.
Energy Consumption: Calculating the potential payback period and savings requires an analysis of your average energy consumption.
Roof Condition: The panels have been installed for a significant period, like 25-30 years or more, and are quite heavy. Ensure your roof is in proper condition to support the system for an extended period.
Additionally, it’s crucial to understand the estimated expenses associated with your system. The cost of a residential solar panel system in Utah can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or even higher, with individual costs varying. Here, numerous additional factors come into play:
System Size: The size of the system can vary based on your energy consumption and the unique characteristics of your household.
Costs of Equipment: The price of solar panels varies based on the brand and panel efficiency. Similarly, the cost of inverters depends on the size of your system. Battery storage and monitoring systems are optional additions.
Payment Method: The price of your panels will vary depending on whether you choose to pay in cash or through a loan. Another option is to consider a PPA, which allows you to benefit from solar energy without owning the system or qualifying for a solar tax credit.
Utah Solar Incentives: Calculate the total cost after reducing all relevant incentives. Our previous chapter provides more details about Utah’s energy-saving initiatives.
A solar system in Utah may be beneficial for many, but it is crucial to consider all factors before making a decision.
What Sets a Top Solar Installer Apart?
There isn’t a single defining factor that sets a solar company apart as a leading solar panel company in Utah. A top solar installer should possess a set of factors to help distinguish the best solar company in Utah based on the customer’s priorities.
Expertise and Experience
Highly skilled solar installers usually possess extensive knowledge in designing and installing solar energy systems. They have a deep understanding of solar technology, local regulations, and best practices for installation.
Product and Services Quality
They prioritize the use of top-notch solar panels, inverters, mounting hardware, and other components to guarantee the system’s durability and effectiveness. By collaborating with trusted manufacturers, they are able to provide dependable solutions to their customers.
Personalized Solutions
Instead of providing generic solutions, leading installers customize their designs to cater to the unique needs and preferences of every customer. They evaluate various factors, including energy usage patterns, roof positioning, shading, and financial limitations to recommend the most appropriate system.
Warranty
Top installers provide robust warranties and guarantees to ensure customer satisfaction and peace of mind. This gives customers a sense of assurance and reassurance that their investment is secure.
Customer Service
Providing exceptional customer service is a top priority for leading solar installers. They ensure that every step of the process, from the initial consultation to post-installation support, is handled with utmost care and attention to ensure customer satisfaction. They are highly committed to effective communication, promptly addressing any concerns, and providing ongoing assistance to ensure the system operates optimally.
Professional Client Consultation
Efficiency and Timeliness
Top solar installers are known for their professionalism and commitment to completing the job quickly and effectively. They prioritize meeting deadlines, minimize any disruptions during installation, and are committed to completing projects promptly while maintaining high-quality standards.
Local Incentives and Rebates
Leading installers make it a priority to stay up-to-date with the latest federal, state, and local incentives, rebates, and tax credits that are available for solar installations. They assist customers in understanding and utilizing these incentives to optimize their savings and return on investment.
Commitment to Sustainability
Leading installers prioritize the promotion of renewable energy and the reduction of carbon emissions. They place a strong emphasis on environmentally friendly practices during the installation process and actively promote the widespread adoption of solar energy.
Strong Reputation and Positive Reviews
Personal recommendations and positive online reviews distinguish the best solar installers from their rivals.
Continuous Development
The solar industry is always adapting to new technology and shifting regulations. Top installers prioritize ongoing education and training for their staff to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and maintain their competitive edge.
When choosing the top solar company in Utah based on your preferences, it’s important to ensure that the companies you are considering meet the abovementioned criteria. With this information, you can decide on your sustainable energy future.
Step-by-Step: Getting Your Personalized Solar Plan
Here are the detailed instructions for obtaining your customized solar plan. Ensure that you are not overlooking any details.
Thoughtful Examination and Investigation
Find information on solar installers in Utah. Evaluate reputation, experience, warranties, and customer reviews.
Quotes and Initial Consultation
Requesting many quotes and properly comparing them will allow you to make an informed conclusion. After your research, consider scheduling a consultation with a solar company manager. During this session, you will discuss your energy needs, budget, and preferences.
Site Assessment
Site assessments conducted by solar installers help determine your property’s solar potential. This assessment will consider the roof’s orientation, present shading, and overall structural integrity.
Personalized Solar Plan
An expert in solar energy will design a tailored solar plan for your property based on the site’s evaluation and your specific preferences. This plan will detail the solar panel system’s size, installation, and energy output.
Financial Analysis
An installer can provide you with an estimate of the upfront costs, incentives, financing options, and long-term savings. Feel free to ask any questions and make adjustments to the strategy.
Dealing with Permits and Paperwork
Once you approve, the installer will handle the necessary permitting and documentation for the solar plan. Local licenses and utility connection agreements may be required.
Installation
Permits are necessary to begin a solar installation. The installer will carefully schedule a convenient installation and complete the work efficiently and in line with industry standards.
Examination and Activation
Once the installation is complete, representatives from local authorities or utility companies will thoroughly inspect the system to ensure it meets all necessary legal and safety requirements. Once approved, the solar system will be activated, enabling you to generate environmentally-friendly solar energy.
Solar System Inspection
Monitoring and Maintenance
Some solar installers provide monitoring services to evaluate the performance of your system and detect any potential issues. Regular maintenance, including panel cleaning and connection inspection, can help enhance performance and extend the system’s lifespan.
Enjoying the Advantages
Relax and enjoy your personalized solar system!
Your Next Steps Towards Solar Adoption
After going through our article, you will have a more comprehensive understanding of the solar installation process, the important factors to consider, and the criteria for selecting an installer. With that in mind, you can now proceed to the next steps in embracing solar energy.
Consider the factors that matter most to you when choosing a solar energy system, such as the cost of installation, the duration of the warranty, or the quality of the monitoring system. Begin researching top-rated solar companies in Utah County and reach out to those who appear to be a good match for your needs. Embrace the opportunity to advance solar cooperation and put your green energy plan into action.
Q&A Sign
Frequently Asked Questions
Are solar panels worth it in Utah?
Utah’s climate conditions make solar panels a worthwhile investment for many individuals. However, it could be influenced by various factors, including energy consumption, property location, and condition. If you’re interested in exploring the potential of solar energy, one option is to reach out to Utah solar companies and request quotes. This way, you can gather information and determine if solar power is viable for your needs.
What does the Utah Solar Tax Credit entail?
The Federal Renewable Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers a generous 30% tax credit on the total costs of installing solar and battery systems, with no limit on the value.
What is the payback period for solar panel installation in Utah?
The duration of the period can vary based on various factors, including energy usage, the size of the system, and the payment method you choose. The typical duration in Utah is nine years.
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