Minnesota Department of Commerce
Energy Information Center – 651.296.5175

On their website located at www.commerce.state.mn.us and www.SolarMinnesota.org they report that there were recent changes made that have increased the financial incentives available for solar energy and solar energy systems for both solar thermal, including solar hot water, and solar electricity that is  improving their economics. These changes took place in 2006 – and it is important to check you’re your tax advisor or tax attorney before taking action based on tax incentives.  Most notably, there is now a 30% Federal tax credit and a Minnesota sales tax exemption for solar energy systems. This briefing, they wrote on their website, is designed to provide information for consumers evaluating their solar options.

The solar resource in Minnesota is average when compared nationally – about equal to that in parts of Florida and Texas.  The  solar resource within Minnesota varies about 10-15% from the highest in the southwest Minnesota to the lowest in the northeast Minnesota. The differences across Minnesota are not as significant as proper sitting in the performance of your system.

Shading from trees, buildings, and other structures will significantly reduce energy production and should be calculated rather than guessed – the sun’s path changes significantly throughout the year and shading from nearby buildings and trees may not be obvious. A professional solar energy installer can perform a site assessment to ensure your solar system reaches its potential. A list of solar energy dealers in Minnesota is available from the Department web site or call Suntrek Solar at their 800 number above or call collect at the Irvine office