Solution:
The following changes may be a superset of how to address this problem.
-Run DCOMCNFG.exe and navigate to 'Component Services>Computers>My Computer'.
-Right click 'My Computer' and click 'Properties'.
-Open the 'COM Security' tab. Add your account for everyone of the buttons listed ('Edit Limits...' and 'Edit Default...' buttons under 'Access Permission' & 'Launch and Activate Permissions'). Give your account all access options. Click 'Apply' then 'OK'.
-While still in DCOMCNFG expand the 'My Computer' link and open the 'DCOM Config' folder.
-Right click on 'Microsoft Excel Application' and select 'Properties'.
-Under the 'Security' tab choose the 'Customize' option for 'Launch and Activation Permissions' and 'Configuration Permissions'. For both click the 'Edit...' button. Give your account access to everything.
-While still in the 'Properties' for 'Microsoft Excel Application' go to the 'Identity' tab.
-Select the 'The Interactive User' option.
-Click 'Apply' then 'OK'.
-Restart your computer.