Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards Program

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.