With All Energy Solar’s expansion into North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska in 2026, the Midwest is emerging as a promising growth area for residential and commercial solar, despite some common misconceptions. Here’s why the region is worth watching.
Eyeing demand across three new states
While North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska have historically lagged in solar adoption—and some rural communities continue to resist large-scale projects—momentum is building. North Dakota currently ranks 52nd in the U.S. with roughly 0.5 MW installed, but that figure is expected to grow as new policies and customer interest take hold. South Dakota saw solar generation jump by 3,600% in 2023 after its first utility-scale farms came online, and Nebraska’s capacity quadrupled from under 50 MW to over 200 MW in 2024. In addition, a number of large businesses in the Midwest have set ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets, driving demand for renewable energy sources like solar to meet those goals.
Plenty of sunlight and shifting grid needs
Despite its northern latitude, the Midwest receives more than enough annual sunlight to make solar economically viable, especially with modern advancements like bi-facial panels. Across the region, growing industries such as data centers—known for their heavy energy demands—could drive further investment in renewable energy. Xcel Energy’s Upper Midwest plan includes major solar and battery additions aimed at cutting carbon emissions by over 80% by 2030.
Abundant land resources and rural economic development
The Midwest has vast expanses of relatively flat land, including agricultural areas, landfills, and brownfields—well-suited for large-scale solar farms. In rural areas, solar offers cost savings, stability, and new economic opportunities—appealing to agricultural owners, community leaders, and utilities alike. South Dakota’s clean energy growth is boosting trade and installation jobs, while Nebraska is adding multiple community solar projects this year.
Stability, resilience, and energy independence
With rising rates and extreme weather, rural communities are looking for reliable power. Solar plus storage can keep the lights on during storms and grid outages, and new grid service programs are adding extra value.
As rural parts of the Upper Midwest face rising electricity rates and climate-driven weather instability, the appeal of stable, clean energy grows. Solar paired with storage offers resilience during outages—especially valuable in areas that experience harsh storms or grid disruptions.
What makes this expansion timely?
- Tax credits and policy urgency: With the federal 30% solar tax credit set to expire after December 31, 2025, many homeowners in the Midwest are eager to lock in savings while they still can. Many Midwestern states and utilities also offer their own incentives, further boosting solar adoption. All Energy Solar is helping new customers in these states act now to benefit from these incentives.
- An underserved yet promising region: These states have excellent solar potential and growing public interest—but relatively few local installers. All Energy Solar’s expansion fills a gap, offering quality service and expertise to new markets that have lacked reliable residential solar options.
- National momentum supports regional growth: Across the U.S., solar and battery storage are driving record capacity additions. In 2025, solar is expected to make up more than half of new electricity generation capacity, with battery storage accounting for over 80% of total growth—with similar dynamics reaching into the Midwest.
What this means for homeowners and businesses
Access to proven expertise: All Energy Solar can support everything from solar and storage to EV charging and grid services—all backed by local presence and industry experience.
Long-term savings and resilience: In states where energy costs and climate volatility are rising, solar systems paired with batteries offer predictability and protection.
Opportunity to lock in federal incentives: With the tax credit ending soon, early adopters stand to save significantly.We believe the Upper Midwest—from the Dakotas to Wisconsin—is a region of both immediate and long-term potential. With new energy-intensive industries, including planned data centers expected to increase demand and compete for grid capacity. Most states offer net metering programs that allow homeowners and businesses to earn credit for excess power sent to the grid (with Illinois as a notable exception). By installing solar now, property owners can secure clean, predictable energy and reduce exposure to rising rates. All Energy Solar’s deep experience in midwestern states such Minnesota, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin make it a perfect partner to help complete the midwest map. For homeowners and businesses in these states, it’s a perfect storm of opportunity: clean energy access, long-term value, and expert support.
