Solar in Colorado
Key Solar Metrics
15.8¢/kWh
5.9 peak sun hours
1,090 kWh/kW
Net Metering
5 active programs
Colorado Net Metering (Full Retail)
Mixed
Major Utilities
Solar Landscape in Colorado
Colorado's electricity market includes both investor-owned utilities and cooperative/municipal providers. Major utilities with solar programs include Public Service Co of Colorado. Residential customers should check with their specific utility provider for available solar incentive programs, interconnection requirements, and export credit rates.
Permitting
Colorado follows local jurisdiction permitting for residential solar installations. Permitting requirements and timelines vary by county and municipality. Homeowners should contact their local building department for specific permit requirements, fees, and inspection schedules. Some jurisdictions in Colorado have adopted streamlined solar permitting processes to reduce installation timelines.
Get Your Personalized Estimate
See what solar looks like for your specific situation with our calculator.
Solar Incentives & Rebates
Some incentive data is provisional and subject to verification. Programs may change — check official sources before making decisions.
State Programs
Colorado Net Metering (Full Retail)
Colorado requires IOUs to offer net metering at full retail rate for residential systems up to 25 kW.
Colorado Property Tax Exemption for Solar
Solar energy systems are exempt from property tax assessment in Colorado.
Colorado Sales Tax Exemption for Solar
Colorado exempts residential solar energy systems from state sales tax.
Colorado Solar Access Rights
Colorado Solar Rights Act (CRS 38-32.5-100.3) prohibits HOAs from preventing solar installations.
Utility Programs
Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Community
Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards ongoing REC payments of $0.005/kWh for residential systems under 25 kW.
Colorado Net Metering
- Policy Type
- Net Metering
- Credit Type
- Full Retail Rate
- Annual Credit Rollover
- Yes
- Effective Date
- January 1, 2005
Run the Numbers for Colorado
Solar in Colorado costs $2.79–$3.92 per watt
National average: $3.36/W
See how much you could save