Write a review
  3. Homeowners
  4. Going Solar
  5. Best Solar Companies

Best Solar Companies in South Dakota

We compared 40 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Complete Solaria
      5.0(194)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Complete Solaria logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Find a Solar Energy partner near you.

      Author pictureAuthor picture
      Author picture
      By:
      Author picture
      Edited by:

      Best Solar Companies in South Dakota

      ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. Our research team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties and other factors to select the top picks for this guide.

      Our top solar company picks

      Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,564,720 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies, reviewed

      Our top pick overall

      Complete Solaria

      5.0
      194 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.5%
      Workmanship warranty
      25 years
      Year founded
      2022

      Complete Solaria is a leader in shingled solar panel design technology. Instead of using the usual metal steps, installers cut and connect the solar cells so they overlap like roof shingles. This improves performance and increases energy production.

      Most customers seem happy with their decision to go with Complete Solaria, but we’ve heard some complaints about subcontracted installers and delays in installation.

      Complete Solaria was formed when Complete Solar and Solaria — two companies in the solar industry for a long time — merged in 2022. Its panels are known for high power output and efficiency.

      Complete Solaria services

      • Residential and commercial installations
      • System design and engineering

      Complete Solaria offers comprehensive warranties covering power, parts and labor for up to 30 years. The PowerXT 300 and PowerX Advantage series are covered for 25 years. The PowerXT 400 Series panels have a 30-year warranty.

      • Cash: You can pay upfront, which gives you immediate ownership and potentially better long-term savings on electricity costs.
      • Loan: Financing partners include Dividend, Sunnova, Mosaic, Sungage Financial and Sunlight Financial.

      Pros

      • Proprietary software platform
      • Quick online quotes
      • Fast installations

      Cons

      • No in-house financing
      • Some installation delays

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      157 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      ShopSolar is an awesome place to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. We like that it has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication. You can find everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It’s great if you want to install solar equipment on homes, RVs and outbuildings.

      Some customers experienced problems with their purchases, such as damaged or faulty equipment. Generally, ShopSolar resolved these issues with refunds or replacements.

      The important thing to keep in mind is ShopSolar does not offer professional installation services. It’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work. Otherwise, you might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment like generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find top-quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      ShopSolar products

      • New and used solar panels
      • Solar generator bundles
      • Custom solar kits
      • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
      • Additional hardware and accessories

      ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by manufacturer warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

      You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. It also has financing options for as little as $0 down.

      • Online payments: Accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.
      • Financing: Partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR as of publishing.

      Pros

      • Free shipping
      • Price match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

      South Dakota solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about going solar in South Dakota but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. Our team has talked to thousands of solar customers across the country — here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

      Key insights

      Professional solar panel installation can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for most homeowners buying solar panels in South Dakota.

      Jump to insight

      Watch out for solar reps who use pushy sales tactics — you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      What to look for in a solar company in South Dakota

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in South Dakota. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

      • Check certifications: South Dakota solar installers are required to have an electrical contractor license. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations, and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. Make sure you understand everything about the payment terms, warranty and ongoing services.

      How much does it cost to go solar in South Dakota?

      Average solar panel costs in South Dakota typically range between $8,365 and $23,900. This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence, especially if you want to go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In South Dakota, the average cost per watt is $2.39.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in South Dakota

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance instead. A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest. Alternatively, leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years.

      Using a home equity line of credit or loan to finance a solar installation can be another option — home equity interest rates are relatively low, and homeowners can still take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in South Dakota

      Solar incentives in South Dakota are relatively limited, and the state government did not apply for federal Solar For All funding. Incidentally, the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners.

      The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, as well as labor and additional features for monitoring the system.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000. The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe.

      However, the credit rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount. So, if you only owed $2,000 the year you went solar, you could claim the remaining $1,000 the next taxable year.

      Are solar panels worth it in South Dakota?

      South Dakota gets a moderate solar potential — not as much sunlight as in the Southwest, but still enough to make solar panels worth it for homeowners. On average, South Dakotans with solar panels can avoid $54,751 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Going solar is especially valuable if you also have an electric vehicle (EV). Having an EV increases your electricity demand. By using solar panels to meet this increased demand, you maximize the utilization of your solar energy system. This leads to a quicker return on your investment in solar panels, as you’re offsetting more electricity that you would otherwise have to purchase from the grid.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      The general consensus is that solar panels are worth it in South Dakota. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 11 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels?

      Most towns have their own set of rules regarding permits required for solar energy system installation, and these permits can contribute to your total costs. The good news is that South Dakota passed a bill to streamline permit procedures for solar energy facilities and help the state’s Public Utilities Commission (PUC) manage its docket.

      If you're residing outside city limits, you might not need permits, but it's always best to check before planning your installation. Some solar companies handle your permit-related tasks, so don't forget to ask about this service when you're ready to sign your contract — it could save you a lot of hassle.

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. South Dakota averages 4.5 to 5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      Can I get free solar panels in South Dakota?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in South Dakota. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can cost you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Should I replace my roof before going solar?

      As a rule of thumb, consider fixing or replacing your roof before going solar if it’s more than 10 years old. If you do replace your roof, expect removing and reinstalling the panels to cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      » MORE: Should I replace my roof before going solar?

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components.

      Ultimately, deciding between a broker or solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process. A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, working directly with a solar installer is best.

      What are the different kinds of solar inverters?

      Two primary kinds of solar inverters are used for residential solar setups: string inverters and microinverters. String inverters link up multiple panels and channel the electricity to a spot where it's turned into a current your home can use. Microinverters are miniature inverters attached to each individual panel. They're more efficient at preventing any loss of power capacity.

      » EXPLORE: What are grid-tied solar systems?

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified South Dakota customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 10%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Reputation and local experience: 10%

      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in South Dakota. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most South Dakotans’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      • Complete Solaria
      • ShopSolar

      Not sure how to choose?

      Get buying tips about Solar Companies in South Dakota delivered to your inbox.

        By entering your email, you agree to sign up for consumer news, tips and giveaways from ConsumerAffairs. Unsubscribe at any time.

        Thanks for subscribing.

        You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.

        Read South Dakota solar company reviews

        Sort
        • Best Rated
        • Most Reviewed
        • Highest Rated
        Guide sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. DSIRE, "South Dakota Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in South Dakota." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "South Dakota Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in South Dakota, 2024?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
        6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb, 8 2024.

        Want your company to be on this guide?

        Yes, continue
        Comparing

        ×
        Trending in Solar