Colorado: Ideal for Solar
Colorado ranks among the top states for solar potential. Denver averages 300 days of sunshine per year. The high altitude means more direct sunlight. Cooler temperatures improve solar panel efficiency compared to hot desert climates.
A typical 6kW solar system in Colorado produces 8,500-9,500 kWh annually. That covers 100% of electricity needs for most Colorado homes. Excess production earns credits through net metering.
300+
Days of Sunshine
5.5
Peak Sun Hours/Day
25+
Year Panel Lifespan
Solar Panel Systems
System Sizing
- • Small (4-6 kW): Covers 50-75% of average home usage
- • Medium (7-10 kW): Covers 100% plus EV charging
- • Large (11+ kW): Full electrification with surplus
Panel Technology
Modern panels achieve 20-22% efficiency. Premium panels reach 23%+. All panels we recommend carry 25-year warranties. Performance degrades only 0.3-0.5% per year.
Battery Storage
Solar alone produces power only when the sun shines. Battery storage captures excess daytime production for use at night or during outages. Batteries provide energy security and maximize your solar investment.
Benefits
- • Power essentials during grid outages
- • Use stored solar at night
- • Avoid peak electricity rates
- • Reduce grid dependence
Sizing Guide
- • 10 kWh: Essential loads for 8-12 hours
- • 15 kWh: Whole home for 10-14 hours
- • 20+ kWh: Extended backup with AC
Financial Benefits
Federal Solar Tax Credit (25D)
30% of total system cost. No cap. Includes panels, inverters, batteries, and installation labor. Applies through 2032.
Net Metering (Xcel Energy)
Excess solar production earns bill credits. Credits roll over month to month. Annual true-up in April.
Typical Costs
- • 6kW solar: $15,000-$18,000
- • 10kW solar: $24,000-$28,000
- • 10kWh battery: $8,000-$10,000
After 30% Tax Credit
- • 6kW solar: $10,500-$12,600
- • 10kW solar: $16,800-$19,600
- • 10kWh battery: $5,600-$7,000
Typical payback period in Colorado: 7-10 years. Systems produce power for 25+ years.
Solar + Home Electrification
Solar pairs perfectly with home electrification. Power your heat pump, water heater, induction stove, and EV with clean energy you generate. A fully electrified home with solar achieves near-zero operating emissions.
- Heat pump uses 3-4 kWh daily in moderate weather
- Heat pump water heater uses 2-3 kWh daily
- EV charging adds 10-15 kWh daily for average commute
- 8-10 kW system covers most electrified homes
- Battery storage ensures power during outages