Minnesota is continuously increasing its solar capacity at a rate that can lead the state to become a leader in the solar industry in the near future. Minnesota gets about 4.53 sun peak hours per day, which ranks it in the middle with other US states, but because of geographical location, they are much longer during summer. Going solar in Minnesota is not only a proven way to generate electricity but also a smart financial investment thanks to the great tax credits, rebates, incentives, and very favorable net metering policy.
As of right now, the prices of solar panels vary depending on the region where you live in Minnesota and are between $2.69 and $3.65 per watt. The typical cost of a solar power system installation of the 5kW in Minnesota ranges from $13,500 to $18,500. This price does not reflect Federal Tax credit or any other state incentives or rebates.
The Federal Investment Tax Credit – the government program also known as Investment Tax Credit (ITC). It allows you to claim 30 % of the total cost of the solar equipment and its installation as the tax credit and has no cap on its value.
Sales Tax Exemption - everyone who installs a solar system on their home in Minnesota is exempt from almost 7% sales taxes on that solar equipment.
Sales Tax Exemption - In Maryland, you are exempt from paying sales taxes when purchasing solar power system.
Property Tax Exemption - Solar panel installation will increase the value of the house. However, the residents of Minnesota are 100% exempt from the higher property taxes on the increased value of the house due to solar system installation.
Net Metering Program – The Net Metering policy applies to all utility companies in Minnesota. It requires utilities to monitor how much energy your solar power system generates and how much you actually use. If there is a surplus in energy, you can sell it back to the utility at the retail rate of electricity. In Minnesota, you either get an actual check for it or get a credit on your next electric bill.
Minnesota Solar Power Rebates – There are a few great rebates offered by utility companies in Minnesota. If you are a customer of one of these utilities, do not wait to take advantage of this special incentive.
Minnesota Solar Performance Payments – Solar Performance Payments are given to homeowners to reward them for their generated solar energy. Xcel Energy pays its customers $0.08 per kWh as a part of their Solar Rewards Program. The program does not have a limit and will help you save even more on your electric bill.
Looking at the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy in Minnesota, one can clearly see that adopting solar is a great investment for many homeowners. The latest technology development, decreasing solar equipment costs, and financial assistance in the form of tax credits and rebates make solar an attractive clean energy option in the beautiful Land of 10,000 lakes.
When you install your solar system, 30% of your project expenses apply toward a credit to offset any taxes you owe that year. This federal tax credit is a major incentive to go solar, but it is being phased out by 2022.
Most people are eligible to claim this credit (you must owe federal taxes to be eligible).
Example of 4 kW system calculation in Minnesota for electricity bill $100
Get the results of the calculation in the mail