Why Fort Collins solar math is different from Denver’s
On Xcel, an exported kWh comes back later as a kWh. In Fort Collins, an exported kWh earns whatever the time-of-day rate is when it leaves — and at midday, that’s the off-peak price. You then buy evening power at on-peak prices, which are at least three times higher.
So a Fort Collins system earns most when its output is used in the home as it’s made, or stored and used later. Oversized systems that export heavily at noon earn less here than the same panels would in Xcel territory.
The rebates, worked out
The solar rebate maxes out at a 5 kW system ($300 × 5 = $1,500). For batteries, a 13.5 kWh Powerwall 3 works out to $4,050 under the $300-per-kWh formula, a 10 kWh Enphase system to $3,000, and a 9 kWh SigEnergy system to $2,700. The battery rebate stops at $6,000 (20 kWh), and solar plus battery together cap at $7,500.
These are the 2026 program amounts. Budgets and deadlines can close a program mid-year, so we confirm availability before quoting a rebate.
The contractor requirement
Rebates require installation by a Fort Collins Participating Solar Contractor, using CEC-listed equipment, and completion within six months. Ask any installer — including us — to show their current participating status before you sign a contract that assumes the rebate.
Edges of the city
Fort Collins Utilities serves the city; some unincorporated and recently annexed edges are still on Poudre Valley REA, which has different rules. We confirm the utility on your bill first.
Rebates & programs
Programs change often. Status shown is what we could confirm on the date listed — always check with the program before you count on it.
Residential Solar and Battery Storage rebates (2026)
OpenSolar: $300 per kW-DC, minimum 0.5 kW, maximum $1,500. Battery: $300 per kWh, minimum 6 kWh, paired with solar, maximum $6,000. Combined maximum $7,500. Installation must be by a Participating Solar Contractor with CEC-listed equipment, completed within six months, and include a shading analysis if the array is shaded between 9 am and 3 pm.
- 2026 rebates: solar $300/kW-DC (min 0.5 kW, max $1,500); battery $300/kWh (min 6 kWh, solar-paired, max $6,000); combined max $7,500.(source)
- Requirements: Participating Solar Contractor; CEC-listed equipment; shading analysis if shaded 9 am–3 pm; install within 6 months.(source)
Efficiency Works
OpenEfficiency Works is the shared energy-efficiency program for Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont and Estes Park, offering energy advisors, assessments and efficiency rebates. Worth doing before sizing solar.
- Efficiency Works serves Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont and Estes Park.
FAQ
Questions we hear
What rebates does Fort Collins offer for solar and batteries in 2026?
Solar: $300/kW up to $1,500. Battery: $300/kWh (at least 6 kWh, paired with solar) up to $6,000. Combined cap: $7,500.
Why is net metering in Fort Collins different from Xcel?
Fort Collins credits exported solar at the time-of-day rate active when it leaves your home, not as a 1:1 kWh credit.
Who supplies Fort Collins’ power?
Platte River Power Authority, which also supplies Loveland, Longmont and Estes Park.
Who issues solar permits in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins Building Services issues permits inside the city; Fort Collins Utilities handles the interconnection.
Is everyone in the Fort Collins area on Fort Collins Utilities?
No. Some unincorporated and recently annexed areas are served by Poudre Valley REA. Check your bill.