10 Best Solar Companies in Cresco, IA (2023 Reviews)

We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation,
and have selected the top 10 in Cresco based on:

  • Customer review scores
  • Service area for Cresco, IA
  • Company policies and services offered
  • Accreditations and certifications

Average Cresco homeowner saves $1,769/year with solar panels

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Best Solar Companies in Cresco

Finding the right solar panel installation company for your home is a big decision, but it's one that can reap a lot of rewards in Cresco. With good amounts of average daily sunlight in Cresco, the solar industry is growing steadily. An underrated reason for this growth has been Iowa's statewide incentives that support residential and commercial solar projects.

The cost of installing solar panels can vary considerably depending on your home's layout and your overall energy needs. Interested in knowing the cost of installing solar panels on your roof? Click "get quote" below to get a free, no-obligation quote from a top Cresco solar installer.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch Rankings for Solar Companies in Cresco

Best Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

5.0/5

Champion Solar

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Integrated roofing

Website: http://www.championsolar.com/
Address: 7010 US-61, Minnesota City, MN 55959
Phone: 5073120190
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

MiEnergy Cooperative

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.mienergy.coop/
Address: 24049 IA-9, Cresco, IA 52136
Phone: 8004322285
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

greenpenny

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: https://www.greenpenny.bank/
Address: 202 E Water St Suite 101, Decorah, IA 52101
Phone: 8884736690
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.4/5

Blake Electric, Inc.

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon End-to-end services
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Skilled repairs
  • Service icon Business installations

Website: http://www.blakeelectricinc.com/
Address: 3 W Main St, Waukon, IA 52172
Phone: 5635683686
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.6/5

Austin Electric

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Family-Operated Business
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Skilled repairs

Website: http://www.austinelectric.net/
Address: 1111 5th Pl SE, Austin, MN 55912
Phone: 5074348080
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.4/5

Kuntz Electric, Inc.

  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Skilled repairs
  • Service icon End-to-end services
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: http://www.kuntzelectric.net/
Address: 1847 3rd Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Phone: 5072859658
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.8/5

Solar Connection

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.solarconnectioninc.com/
Address: 6254 34th Ave NW a, Rochester, MN 55901
Phone: 5072928400
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.3/5

Waverly Utilities

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Home installations

Website: http://www.waverlyutilities.com/
Address: 1002 Adams Pkwy, Waverly, IA 50677
Phone: 3195592000
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.8/5

Olson Solar Energy

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.olsonsolarenergy.com/
Address: 1447 Oak Forest Dr, Onalaska, WI 54650
Phone: 6087802347
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

American Energy LLC

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions

Website: http://www.americanenergysolar.com/
Address: 50905 320th St, Blooming Prairie, MN 55917
Phone: 5073831547

Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Solar Companies in Cresco

EcoWatch's solar experts analyzed each solar company in Cresco based on criteria such as its reputation in the industry, customer reviews, services, warranty coverage and financing. Using this solar methodology, we used the data we collected to rate and rank each company and narrow down our picks for the best solar companies in Cresco


Below are some the criteria we examined specifically for Iowa solar companies

  • Brand reputation and certifications (20%): We take each company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) score into consideration, as well as how long the installer has been in business (at least 5 years is required, 10 preferred) and what type of solar certifications it holds.
  • Customer reviews (20%): Trust is a top priority at EcoWatch, so we take customer experience under close consideration. We scour different review sites and customer testimonials when ranking our top solar companies, checking sites such as Trustpilot and Google Reviews. We also consider any potential complaints or lawsuits filed against these companies and award or remove points accordingly.
  • Warranty (20%): A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers 25-year warranties that cover performance, product and workmanship. The industry standard that we measure companies against is 25-year product and performance warranties, along with a 10-year workmanship warranty. We also look closely into the track record of the post-installation support each company provides in terms of honoring its contracts
  • Solar services (10%): All of the companies we review install solar panels, but we award companies higher points if they offer additional services for customers, like battery installation, energy-efficiency audits, and EV chargers.
  • Pricing and financing (10%): It's hard to get exact quotes for solar projects, but we use marketplace research to determine how each company prices its equipment and installation services. Additionally, companies that offer more help for panel financing — like in-house loans, leases, or PPAs — score higher than those that don't.
  • Availability (10%): The bigger the service area, the higher the company will score.
  • Transparency and accessibility (5%): Solar installers that offer free consultations and easy contact methods score higher in this category.
  • Environmental, social and corporate governance factors (5%): A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers public data disclosure, addresses end-of-life (EOL) products or processes, and demonstrates a commitment to uplifting the communities that it serves.

The Cost and Benefits of Solar in Cresco

Solar panels run off a free energy source — the sun — but before you can take advantage of this you first need to pay to install your system. There are quite a few factors you should take into consideration when determining costs and your potential savings, including:

  • System size and type: Some models are more expensive than others, so the one you choose can raise or lower your upfront cost. Plus, the more solar panels you need to buy, the more it'll cost.
  • Typical energy usage: The more electricity your household consumes on average and the higher your current electricity bills are, the more money you could save by making the switch to solar.
  • The amount of sunlight your city gets: Because of Cresco's relatively low amount of average daily sunlight, you might not see as many savings on your energy bills.
  • Incentives: Along with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which lets you deduct 30% of your total installation cost, your state or local government may offer additional tax exemptions, credits or rebates that will help you save even more. Not including incentives, you can save an average of $21,000 over 20 years with your system, too.

There are several great benefits of solar in spite of the initial cost of installation. It can help the planet and your bank account. In addition, it can raise the value of your home, giving you even more benefits if you decide to sell your home later.

Solar Savings Calculator for {{ solarcalc.name }}

Adopting a renewable source of energy can greatly impact both the environment and your power bills. To see how much, try out the calculator below. You can also view our solar panel cost guide for Cresco, IA.

{{ solarcalc.time_period|number:0 }} -year savings {{ solarcalc.total_savings()|currency }}
Estimated cost {{ solarcalc.array_cost() | currency }}
Estimated incentives {{ solarcalc.incentive_savings() | currency }}
Payback period {{ solarcalc.payback_period()|number:1 }} years
CO2 emissions prevented {{ solarcalc.CO2_total()|number:0 }} lbs
Miles driven equivalent {{ solarcalc.CO2_total()/0.78|number:0 }} mi
Why leave {{ solarcalc.total_savings()|currency }} on the table? Help the environment and your wallet by switching to solar. SAVE NOW

Electricity rate:
{{ solarcalc.elec_cost/10 }} ¢
Shade:
{{ solarcalc.shade }} %
Time period:
{{ solarcalc.time_period }} years
System size:
{{ solarcalc.system_size }} kW
Additional Incentives:
{{ solarcalc.additional_incentives|currency }}

Switching to solar in {{ solarcalc.name }} can save you {{ solarcalc.total_savings() | currency }} over the course of {{ solarcalc.time_period|number:0 }} years. This means that with an average cost of {{ solarcalc.array_cost() | currency }}, it would take {{ solarcalc.payback_period()|number:1 }} years to recover the cost of of your solar array.

Solar Incentives in Cresco

One of the great things about installing a solar panel system is earning government incentives. There are several federal, state and local rebates and tax credits that can earn you anywhere from 30% to 50% of your money in return after installing solar panels. You can learn about the incentives available to you in our article on solar incentives

Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in Cresco

Installing solar panels is a powerful way to do what you can for a more sustainable future. Many homeowners might be wondering how much exactly they can impact the environment by switching to solar in Cresco, though. If your household consumes lots of energy, you can help the environment even more by switching to solar power. Because solar panels don't release carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere when producing electricity, they're a good substitute for nonrenewable energy sources. In fact, you could expect to reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by about 90 pounds each year. If you want to do what you can for the environment, you'll most likely get that there are many good things about adopting solar energy other than just saving money on bills. You can also help preserve the environment, which some would argue is priceless.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
3.2

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch's Cresco, IA Solar Company Rankings FAQs

Which solar company is the best in Cresco?

In Cresco, MiEnergy Cooperative is the top local solar company. Our team of experts rates it 3.00 stars, so it's a great choice if you're planning to add solar panels to your home.

What is the negative environmental impact of solar panels?

Solar panels can be detrimental for the environment when manufacturers use toxic chemicals in the construction. Chemicals can make solar panels difficult to recycle safely once they've reached the end of their lifespan. Making solar panels uses a lot of energy as well. The energy payback period is about 1 to 4 years.

How long does it take to see a return on your investment after getting solar panels?

The average payback period for solar panel installation is about 8.8 years, but the exact period is influenced by the cost of electricity where you are, incentives and net metering programs.

What is solar panel capacity and how much do I need for my house?

Solar panel capacity is how much energy the panels can produce under ideal conditions (a sunny day around noon). The average household requires between 20 and 35 panels to cover their energy needs.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert’s opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.