Utilities / Xcel
Data last verified: August 2026Xcel Energy Solar Policy in 2026
Net metering & export credits
Retail net metering in MN/CO (with caps); varies elsewhere. Minnesota and Colorado offer retail-rate net metering and host the country’s largest community solar programs (Xcel “Solar*Rewards” / community gardens).
Electricity rates
Rates ~13–17¢/kWh across service states (EIA 2026).
What this means for solar
- MN Xcel community solar subscribers save 10–18% (~$200–320/yr, 2025–26 data).
- CO Xcel community solar gardens: 8–15% savings (~$160–260/yr).
Sources: EIA electricity rates (2026), state PUC orders and DSIRE (2026). Estimates only — verify with your utility tariff before deciding. Federal residential ITC (Section 25D) expired Dec 31, 2025.