Solar Energy Systems

1. Get a Quote: Complete the "Get a Quote" form on our homepage. You’ll receive an email—reply with your utility information to get a detailed proposal.

2. In-Person Consultation: After receiving and reviewing the proposal, call us at 763-317-6038 to arrange an in-person consultation and site survey.

3. In-Person Consultation: We’ll cover financials, contract specifics, and conduct a site survey.

4. Financing & Contract Signing: Secure your financing approval and sign the installation contract with us, finalizing the project details.

5. Installation Begins: Submit any initial payments required to start the installation of your solar system.

6. Solar Savings: Once installed and activated, complete any final payments and enjoy the benefits of solar energy! Remember to file Form 5695 to receive your 30% solar tax credit!

At North Peak Solar, we recommend both Enphase and Solar Edge system manufacturers as they are top of the market when it comes to efficiency, durability, functionality, monitoring capabilities, and warranty coverage. 

Enphase:

• 25-year extended warranty.

• Monitor energy with their mobile/web application

• Enphase revolutionized solar technology with the world's first micro-inverter-based system, boasting superior efficiency for heightened production, reliability, and intelligence.

Solar Edge:

• 25-year power optimizer warranty.

• 12-year standard inverter warranty.

• Solar edge optimizers maximize the performance of solar panels, enabling them to generate electricity at peak efficiency.

• Monitor energy with their mobile/web application

• SolarEdge power optimizers enable superior performance through individual maximum power point tracking of each panel.

Batteries: (Only installed with systems upon specific request)

• Implement backup energy systems for power outage resilience and grid optimization to maximize cost savings. 

• Batteries can be integrated into existing solar panel systems

• To request a battery, include it in your reply to the initial North Peak Solar email with your utility information, stating whether you would prefer partial or whole-home coverage. 

The following list outlines the various ways in which solar energy contributes to savings:

• Federal Tax Credit: The Government offers a 30% tax credit, covering a significant portion of the system cost.

• Loan service: North Peak Solar operates with Government-Backed lenders that feature interest rates as low as 2.1% and no hidden fees.

• Stable Solar Loan Rates: Amidst increasing utility expenses that have nearly doubled since 2003 and are projected to increase by an even more exponential rate in the next two decades. North Peak Solar offers solar loans through our loan service at fixed rates, providing a stable financial alternative.

• Customized Solar Designs: Our team tailors solar systems to match your environment and financial profile, ensuring maximum savings by significantly reducing or eliminating your utility bills.

• Net Metering Benefits: Solar Panel Systems contribute to additional savings through net metering. This process involves your utility company compensating you for excess energy fed back into the grid. Our system designs often exceed the required wattage to optimize these earnings. 

• Integrating a solar panel system substantially boosts your home's resale value. If you're not committed to a long-term residency, this investment typically adds at least 70% of the system cost to your property's overall worth.

• You also may qualify for additional incentive programs listed on the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency

Does North Peak Solar warranty its labor/products?
In addition to the warranties provided by the manufacturers, North Peak Solar provides a guaranteed 5-year workmanship warranty.

Are solar panels practical in hail-prone areas?
Yes, installing solar panels in hail-prone areas is practical. North Peak Solar uses Hanwha Q Cell panels, known for their durability and capable of withstanding hail up to 1" in diameter at speeds up to 50mph. While severe hail may reduce their efficiency, minor cracks often do not affect performance significantly. Insurance coverage for hail damage varies, so check your policy to understand protection levels and process claims as needed.

Should I install batteries with my solar energy system?
Incorporating batteries into your solar energy system increases the initial investment but ensures power availability during outages and nighttime. However, it's important to note that under Minnesota Statute 216B.164 Subd. 3d, utility companies are required to purchase excess solar power at retail rates. This provision may reduce the need for batteries if your primary goal is to maximize financial returns from the energy generated. Batteries are particularly beneficial if you seek a reliable backup power source.

Is damage to solar systems covered by my homeowner's insurance?
Coverage for solar system damage depends on your specific homeowner's insurance policy. Most insurance providers cover the costs associated with uninstalling and reinstalling solar panels when replacing a roof. It is advisable to consult with your insurance provider to understand the specific terms and extent of coverage for solar system damages. 

What happens if my solar system produces excess energy?
Under Minnesota Statute 216B.164 Subd. 3d, utility companies are obligated to buy back excess solar power at the same retail rates that they charge for electricity. This means you can earn credit for the surplus energy your system generates. 

What is the rate of performance degradation for solar panels?
North Peak Solar uses Hanwha Q Cell panels, which are guaranteed to maintain at least 97% of their nominal rated power during the first year of operation. Beyond the first year, the performance degradation is limited to approximately 0.6% annually. This reliability is backed by Qcells' 25-year limited linear performance warranty.