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1. What is the difference between onsite renewable energy programs and subscription programs?

• Onsite renewable energy programs are utility programs that support or incentivize the installation of rooftop solar panels. Examples include net-metering (offered by both Xcel Energy and United Power) and Solar*Rewards® (offered by Xcel Energy). 
• Renewable energy subscription programs allow customers to pay extra to access the renewable energy credits produced by renewable energy not produced through the customer’s rooftop solar panels. For instance, Xcel Energy’s Windsource® program allows customers to pay a small additional fee to offset their electricity use with electricity produced by Colorado windfarms. 

2. How to I select the best solar panel contractor?

If you’re looking to get solar panels installed on your roof, always get at least three quotes.  

Check out Xcel Energy’s tips on hiring a solar contractor or United Power’s list of questions to help you navigate your selection process. 

Use a pre-approved list of businesses, like the one provided by Boulder County’s EnergySmart program. Even if you don’t live in Boulder County, all of the contractors listed have demonstrated interest in helping residents complete renewable energy projects. The Colorado Solar and Storage Association can also help you navigate potential contractors. Or check out the contractors authorized through the Colorado RENU loan program.  

3. How can I find out the solar potential of my home?

Get an estimate of your home’s solar potential using free online tools, such as Google Project Sunroof or NRELS’s PVWatts Calculator.

4. Do solar panels increase home value?

Adding solar to your home now can increase its resale value by as much as $15,000

5. What is the average upfront investment in rooftop solar and how long does it typically take to recoup that investment?

According to EnergySage: “Colorado’s average cost of a solar panel installation ranges from $13,302 to $17,998. On a cost per watt ($/W) basis, you can expect a solar panel installation in Colorado to range in price from $2.66 to $3.60” 

Depending on a variety of factors (system size, financing, incentives) roof top solar systems typically pay back in 8 years. Solar panels have an average expected lifetime of 25 years.