- Home
- Community
- Environment & Energy
- Energy
- Solar Energy
Solar Energy
Solar energy can be a cost-effective way to power your home or business while reducing your energy footprint. Check out the following resources to see if your property is a good fit for solar energy, what is required to install a solar system, and what resources are available for interested residents and business owners.
Is My Property Right for Solar?
A variety of resources exist for Fridley residents and business owners to help evaluate the suitability of solar for their properties:
- University of Minnesota Solar Suitability Analysis – Mapping tool for property owners to view the suitability of solar for their property based on available sunlight.
- Xcel Energy Solar Rewards – Verify your eligibility for the Xcel Solar Rewards incentive program, which can provide major cost savings on electricity bills.
- CERT Solar Directory – Use to find solar installation contractors that serve Fridley.
- State of Minnesota Contractor License Verification – Use to verify that your selected contractor holds a valid contractor license.
City Requirements for Solar
Fridley requires building and electrical permits to be obtained prior to the start of roof-mounted solar installation. Ground mounted systems must additionally receive a Special Use Permit. All permits can be applied for online at www.citizenserve.com/fridley.
A complete checklist and guide to the solar approval process in Fridley can be found here.
Financial Resources
MNCEE Residential Solar Financing – Solar financing loans up to $75,000; available for 100% of project costs.
US Department of Energy Solar Tax Incentive – Available federal tax credit for new solar installations.
Xcel Solar Rewards – Financial incentives for solar; rewards apply continuously after solar installation.
MinnPACE Energy Efficiency Financing – Low-interest financing for renewable energy via tax assessment; paid over time.
MNCEE Residential Solar Financing (Multifamily Buildings up to 4 Units) – Solar financing loans up to $75,000; available for 100% of project costs.
For residents and property owners that are unable to install solar systems or own properties considered unsuitable for on-site solar energy, alternatives exist for solar energy and other renewable options:
Xcel Energy Solar Rewards Community – Financial incentive program for purchasing energy from nearby solar gardens. No on-site installation necessary.
Xcel Energy Windsource – Switch partially or entirely to renewable wind energy, with 100% wind-powered energy costing on average only $4.50 a month.