This solar co-op is not a legally incorporated entity. It is an informally organized group of engaged and educated consumers that SUN brings together for a limited time to leverage their buying power to get the best price and service from a local solar installer. Members of the group are encouraged to stay engaged with SUN after the solar co-op is disbanded, but this is not required.
What’s a co-op?
Imagine walking into a solar company’s office with 50 or 100 of your neighbors and saying, “We all want to get solar. What kind of deal can you give us?”That’s a solar co-op!
In fact, it’s even better than that. In addition to competitive pricing on solar panels, you get:
Info to help you understand solar. Our vendor-neutral solar experts are here to help you understand how solar works and make the best decision for your energy needs.
A direct line to ask specific questions. You can call or email us anytime you need help. We’ll be here now and long after you install solar.
A team that solicits and reviews proposals from solar companies. First, Solar United Neighbors requests bids on your behalf. Then, a committee of your fellow co-op members meet to assess the pros and cons and select the best installer for the group. (Note: If that sounds interesting to you, you’re also welcome to join the selection committee!)
Community. You’ll join the growing solar movement. You’ll have a built-in network of support and inspiration from others who, like you, are taking a stand for energy freedom and advancing the clean energy economy.
A bigger impact! Going solar creates jobs, and puts energy production and its benefits back in the hands of the people and contributes to cleaner air and water for everyone. A solar co-op amplifies those outcomes exponentially.
How does a co-op work?
Watch this short video to learn more about our solar co-ops!
Net Cost: Average MN solar co-op pricing ($2.85/Watt)
$13,538
$27,075
Estimated year 1 electricity savings
$749
$1,293
Estimated year 10 savings (cumulative)
$8,018
$13,834
Estimated lifetime savings (25 years)
$22,526
$38,826
Net Savings*
$8,989
$11,751
*Example Pricing only; Actual system size will vary. Modeling assumptions: Moorhead Public Service customer consuming 11,492 kWh/yr; 9.5kW system size; Residential (R) rate plan before and after solar; 2%/yr electricity price increase; -0.5%/yr panel degradation; 1,162 yearly kWh production per 1kW of solar; 180 degrees of azimuth; 20 degrees of tilt.
Otter Tail Power Company
Sample Cash Purchase
50% offset
100% offset
Net Cost: Average MN solar co-op pricing ($2.85/Watt)
$14,108
$28,215
Estimated year 1 electricity savings
$637
$1,261
Estimated year 10 savings (cumulative)
$6,821
$13,492
Estimated lifetime savings (25 years)
$19,180
$37,868
Net Savings*
$5,072
$9,653
*Example Pricing only; Actual system size will vary. Modeling assumptions: Otter Tail Power Company customer consuming 12,172 kWh/yr; 9.9kW system size; Residential (M101) rate plan before and after solar; 2%/yr electricity price increase; -0.5%/yr panel degradation; 1,231 yearly kWh production per 1kW of solar; 180 degrees of azimuth; 20 degrees of tilt.
Join us via Zoom and learn about solar energy and its benefits for your home, or small business. We’ll take you through the technology, economics, financing and more. You’ll also…
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm CST
Solar 101,
Virtual
Minnesota
Join us at the West Central Research and Outreach Center and learn about solar energy and its benefits for your home, or small business. We’ll take you through the technology,…
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm CDT
In-person,
Solar 101
Minnesota
Solar Celebration with West Central Initative and Solar United Neighbors
April 22, 2026
Join us and Solar United Neighbors for a free evening of solar inspiration as we reflect on the success of the Lakes and Prairies Solar Co-op, celebrate Earth Day, and explore what’s…
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm CDT
Community Event,
In-person
Minnesota
