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Performance payment · Xcel Energy · Colorado

Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards (Colorado)

$0.05–$0.15 per kWh production-based + REC payment

Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards is the Colorado utility-administered solar performance payment program. Customers receive ongoing payments based on kilowatt-hours generated (paid at $0.05–$0.15/kWh depending on system size and PV production tier) plus Renewable Energy Credit (REC) payments from Xcel's compliance market obligations. The program also offers an upfront rebate option for income-qualified customers via Solar*Rewards Community. Xcel's structured incentive favors the long-term value of solar in Colorado markets and pairs well with Xcel's strong 1:1 net metering tariff.

Eligibility

Who qualifies?

Xcel Energy residential customers in Colorado service territory.

System size limits?

Up to 10 kW residential. Larger systems require commercial track.

Solar*Rewards Community track?

Income-qualified track for ≤80% AMI. Provides upfront rebate option in addition to performance payments.

How to apply for Xcel Solar*Rewards CO

  1. Choose Xcel-approved installer

    Most Colorado solar installers are Xcel-approved.

  2. Reserve at contract

    Installer files Solar*Rewards reservation. Reservation locks the per-kWh rate.

  3. Install and interconnect

    Standard 1–3 day install. Xcel interconnection 4–8 weeks.

  4. Monthly performance payment

    Xcel pays based on metered solar production. Payment via utility bill credit or direct deposit.

Stacking with other programs

Stacks with federal 25D (30%, uncapped), Colorado Energy Star Tax Exemption (sales tax exempt on solar equipment), and Xcel net metering. Solar*Rewards is meaningful long-term revenue (≥$25k over 25 years for typical install).

Frequently asked questions

Stack with federal 25D? +
Yes. Solar*Rewards is performance payment (revenue), not basis-reducing. Federal 30% applies to full system cost.
How much does Solar*Rewards pay annually? +
8 kW system in Denver produces ~12,000 kWh/yr. At $0.10/kWh average (with REC), that is $1,200/year — over 25 years, $30,000 cumulative income.
Solar*Rewards Community vs standard? +
Community is income-qualified with upfront rebate option (less common). Standard is open to all customers with performance payments only.

Official program page: https://co.my.xcelenergy.com/s/renewable/solar-rewards

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