5 Best Solar Companies in Des Moines, IA (Aug 2022 Review)
We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation,
and have selected the top 5 in Des Moines based on:
-
Customer review scores - Solar installers near you
- Company policies and services offered
- Accreditations and certifications
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Updated 7/19/2022
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Best solar companies in Des Moines
If you're a homeowner looking to take advantage of the solar incentives in Des Moines, it can be a lot of work to narrow down which company to choose. But, the process is worth it since adopting solar energy is often a great choice. Because solar panels generate their own power, they can vastly reduce your electricity bill each month, if not fully eliminate it. In fact, you could look forward to about $15,000 of savings over 20 years.
There are lots of installers to consider, but in this article, we'll help you get a handle on all your options by recommending some of the best solar companies in Des Moines. Want to see the cost of installing a solar system on your roof? Click "get quote" below to get a free, no-obligation quote from a top Des Moines solar installer.
Best Technology
The Green Panel
- 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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch Rankings for Solar Companies in Des Moines
Local Service
1 Source Solar
-
Offers a free quote process - Can browse portfolio on website
- NABCEP-certified technicians
- Educational sales approach
- Excellent reputation
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Limited information available on website
Services Offered
-
Commercial Solar Services - Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
Nationwide Service
Average Cost
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- EV Chargers
- System Monitoring
Nationwide Service
Average Cost
The Green Panel
- 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
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- EV Chargers
- Solar Roof Shingles
- System Monitoring
Regional Service
Average Cost
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- EV Chargers
- Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
Local Service
Solar FX Corporation
- Educational sales approach
- Custom system designs
- More transparent pricing than competitors
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Commercial Solar Services
- Solar Panels
Solar Company Ranking Methodology
Click here to see a more detailed overview of our solar company ranking methodology.
The Cost and Benefits of Solar in Des Moines
The cost of putting up a solar panel system has decreased greatly in the past few years, but it's still a large investment for most homeowners. The cost and possible savings vary depending on a few important factors such as:
- How much power your household consumes: Homes that consume a lot of energy each month may call for more solar panels and, consequently, be more expensive, but will also enjoy more savings over time.
- Incentives: Those who buy and install a solar system this year can save 26% of their solar installation costs by using the federal solar investment tax credit. You can also save about $15,000 on your energy bills over 20 years not including incentives.
- The model of solar panels you have the money for: This hinges on what your budget is.
- The amount of sunlight your roof gets: If your rooftop doesn't see much direct sunlight, your solar panel system won't be able to generate as much energy, which will give you lower savings on power bills than someone with a roof that gets plenty of sunlight.
Because of solar panels now being cheaper than ever as well as several solar incentives, they are a sound investment for the majority of homeowners.
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To find out how much you can impact the environment and your wallet by making the switch to solar, try out the calculator below. You can also view our solar panel cost guide for Des Moines, IA.
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Solar Incentives in Des Moines
Although a solar power system is typically a $15,000 to $25,000 investment, it can save you a substantial amount of money over several years due to smaller power bills and government incentives. Local solar incentives depend on the location and, sometimes, utility company. A lot of states offer rebates for solar power systems, in addition to the federal solar tax credit. For detailed information about incentives for homeowners in Des Moines, see the table below.
| Name | Renewable Energy Equipment Exemption |
| Incentive Amount | 100% of sales tax |
| Incentive Max | None |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | ITC |
| Type | Tax Incentive |
| Incentive Amount | 26% of installation cost |
| Website | Visit here |
| Name | Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems |
| Incentive Amount | Solar and wind: 100% exemption for 5 years Geothermal: 100% exemption for 10 years |
| Incentive Max | Not specified |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
| Name | Solar Energy Systems Tax Credit (Personal) |
| Incentive Amount | 50% of Federal ITC (15% for 2019 and earlier, 13% for 2020, 11% for 2021, 5% for 2022, 0% for 2023 and later). |
| Incentive Max | $5,000 |
| Website | Visit here |
| More Info | Click here |
Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in Des Moines
One of the most compelling reasons to tap into solar power is to reduce your reliance on nonrenewable energy sources like burning fossil fuels, which are harmful for the environment. Something many people might be asking themselves is how much can they really help save the environment by going solar anyway? Regardless of your location, you can help the environment by switching to solar energy, but homes that consume a lot of energy will have an even greater impact. After you go solar, your carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced by about 90 pounds every year. Since solar power is renewable and makes electricity without releasing carbon emissions, making the switch to solar power is one easy step you can take to help the environment.
Best Technology
The Green Panel
- 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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Des Moines, IA Solar Company Rankings FAQs
What is the most reputable solar installer in Des Moines?
In Des Moines, 1 Source Solar is the best local solar company. Our team of experts rates it 5.00 stars, so it's a solid choice if you're planning on installing solar panels on your house.
Are solar panels really environmentally friendly?
Solar panels can be bad for the environment when manufacturers use toxic chemicals in the manufacturing process. Chemicals can make solar panels difficult to dispose of 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 buying solar panels?
The average payback period for solar panel installation is about 13.0 years, but the exact period varies depending on the cost of electricity where you are, incentives and net metering programs.
What are the different types of solar panels?
The different types of solar panels are monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient but also more costly. Polycrystalline panels are less expensive but also less efficient than monocrystalline. Thin-film solar panels are flexible, so they can be used where the other kinds can't, like on curved surfaces or cars, but they are also less efficient. The best one for you depends on your budget, roof configuration and how much efficiency you're looking for.
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.