Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program

Xcel Energy Minnesota

Available Solar & Renewable

About This Program

Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program is available to homeowners in St. Cloud, MN.

Upfront incentive payment for Xcel Energy customers who install qualifying solar photovoltaic systems. Incentive rate varies by system size and program availability, plus customers receive net metering credits for excess generation.

Incentive calculated per watt of installed solar capacity

Official program page checked live on 2026-06-22.

Data last verified 2026-05-25. How we verify our data.

In St. Cloud, MN, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • Upfront incentive for solar panel installation
  • Net metering for excess generation
  • Must be Xcel Energy customer
  • Professional installation required
  • System must meet Xcel interconnection standards

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

(800) 481-4700

A grant-savvy contractor in St. Cloud, MN can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

This grant requires a licensed contractor

This grant requires the work to be done by a licensed contractor, and you will likely need a written estimate to apply. Get a free estimate from a contractor in St. Cloud who knows grant paperwork.

Get matched with a contractor

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Solar*Rewards is an Xcel Energy Minnesota program that pays homeowners a per kilowatt-hour incentive (about $0.03 per kWh in 2026) for the electricity their rooftop or ground-mounted solar system produces, paid over a 10-year contract on top of net metering credits. You must get preapproval through Xcel's online application before you buy or install, funds are first come, first served, and most homeowners have their licensed solar installer handle the application.

Steps to apply

  1. Confirm you are an Xcel Energy Minnesota residential electric customer with a system between 0.5 kW and 20 kW DC, then review the Candidate Checklist, rules, and terms on the Solar*Rewards program page.
  2. Have your licensed solar installer (or you) register and create the application in Xcel's online Solar*Rewards application system. You provide an email to receive confirmations and an OID tracking number.
  3. Get preapproval BEFORE purchasing or installing, then upload the required documents and pay the $250 engineering fee when requested.
  4. Install the system, pass the final electrical inspection, and at the final documentation step e-sign (or sign and fax back) the Solar*Rewards contract and M-RETS form. Xcel installs the production meter and begins the 10-year per-kWh incentive payments.
  5. If you prefer not to use the portal, materials can be emailed to SolarProgramMN@xcelenergy.com, faxed to 612-318-4785, or mailed to Attn: MN Solar*Rewards, 414 Nicollet Mall, 6th Fl, Minneapolis, MN 55401.
Get the official form

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you are the Xcel Energy Minnesota account holder and own the solar system and the property
  • 12 months of electric usage history (or proof of square footage / blueprint for new construction)
  • Proof of $300,000 personal property liability insurance in the homeowner's name at the install address
  • Final electrical inspection of the installed system
  • Signed Solar*Rewards contract and M-RETS form (provided through the online application)
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Applications accepted on first-come basis

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

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Frequently asked questions

Who qualifies for Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program in St. Cloud?

Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program is open to homeowners in St. Cloud, MN. It has no income limit.

How do I apply for Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program in St. Cloud, MN?

Apply directly with Xcel Energy Minnesota using the official program link on this page or call (800) 481-4700. There is no middleman and no fee.

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