What to decide before framing
Roof orientation and obstructions matter most. A clean south- or west-facing plane without vents, dormers and skylights can hold far more panels than a chopped-up roof of the same size.
Inside, we plan a conduit path from the attic to the main panel, reserve wall space near the service for a battery, and size the main panel with EV charging and a heat pump in mind. None of that is expensive during construction; all of it is expensive to retrofit.
The federal picture for new homes
For builders, §45L ended for homes acquired after June 30, 2026. For buyers, the §25D homeowner credit ended for systems where the home’s original use begins after December 31, 2025, so owned solar on a new home no longer comes with a federal credit (as of September 2026; verify current terms).
A lease or PPA is still possible on a new home, and the provider may claim the business credit if the system is placed in service by the end of 2027. Colorado’s 10% battery tax credit applies to batteries purchased for a residence through tax year 2026.
Mountain and rural builds
Mountain homes bring heavier snow loads, wildfire-interface considerations and sometimes long utility line extensions. A battery with solar can be a practical answer to frequent outages on a rural co-op line.
We only build grid-tied systems, so a home far enough off-grid to have no utility service isn’t a fit for us.
FAQ
Questions we hear
Can I roll solar into my construction loan or mortgage?
Often yes, depending on your lender and appraisal. Ask your lender early; we provide the equipment list and pricing they need.
Is the §45L builder credit still available?
Not for homes acquired after June 30, 2026, as of September 2026. Homes acquired on or before that date follow the prior rules; confirm with your tax advisor.
Should I pre-wire for solar even if I’m not installing it yet?
Yes. Conduit to the attic, space by the main panel and a service sized for future loads cost little during construction and save a lot later.
Do you work with production homebuilders?
Yes. We can standardize designs across floor plans and coordinate with your construction schedule. Contact us with your community and plan set.