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How I finally went solar in Denver

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March 23, 2026

My name is Steve and I’m a proud solar owner in Denver, Colorado. We built an addition onto our home back in 1981, and it faces the south side. Even then, I remember thinking this would be a natural place for solar. During President Carter’s administration (1977-1981), there were some incentives available, but unfortunately it was not quite enough for us to afford at the time. Still, the idea stayed in the back of our minds for years.

Several years ago, we looked into solar panel leasing companies. At that point, our house was all gas appliances, and we did not use enough electricity to justify leasing or buying. Because of that, we put solar on hold again.

Finding Solar United Neighbors

Things started to change when our daughter and son-in-law began actively searching for solar and came across Solar United Neighbors. Talking with them really piqued our interest. The idea of being involved in a cooperative, sun-sourced organization sounded like a great approach. And our children were moving forward with solar themselves.

Not long after that, there was a festival in Washington Park where one of SUN’s representatives was present. He explained how easy the process could be and how uncomplicated it was to get involved through a Solar Co-op. Having someone right there to answer questions, plus giving me contact information for any questions that came up later, made it feel approachable. It felt like we were finding good information again, and this time it stuck.

Incentives that made it possible

Around the same time, we applied for the City of Denver solar rebates that were being offered. We were able to receive a substantial incentive, which helped move things forward. With that in place, we committed to working with Solar United Neighbors.

Working with SUN was incredibly helpful and cooperative. We were less informed at the time about what it really takes to go solar and how involved the process can be. SUN walked us through everything step by step. The online information was especially helpful, and the coordination around the rebate made a big difference for us. 

From there, we selected a contractor, and they came out and did a good job with the installation. 

How solar fit into our home

When everything came together, including the 30 percent federal tax credit, it turned into an amazing situation for us. The system was essentially covered. After installing solar, we went on to put in a new kitchen, electric appliances, and new laundry.

What we found was that the solar panels now cover the expense of those appliances. Even after adding them, our electric bill is the same as it was before.

Feeling confident in the process of going solar

The hardest part for me was doing the homework upfront. I wanted to confirm that SUN and the installers were quality organizations. That took some legwork before we decided to move forward. That was really the most work on my part. There were no major obstacles beyond that.

We did not walk away with unanswered questions. Because of how thorough the SUN team was in explaining everything and guiding us through the process, we felt secure in moving forward and confident in the results we have seen since.

— Steve Walsh