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10 Best Solar Companies in Gaithersburg, MD

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Written By David Cusick

Last Updated June 2024

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular for Gaithersburg homeowners. A solar panel array can help you provide a dependable source of power, decrease your carbon footprint, and add value to your property. Going solar helps cut your utility bills and lower your environmental impact. But you'll want to find a trustworthy installation company first. That’s why we’ve reviewed the options and assembled a guide to the most dependable solar Installers in Gaithersburg. These top providers consistently deliver high-quality and dependable services.

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Top Pick
4.2/5
  • Long warranty options
  • Insurance available on panels
  • Free Tesla Power Wall maintenance

Top 10 Best Solar Companies in Gaithersburg

Advertisement This site receives compensation from some of the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. When you click "Get Quote," you will be connected with partners who may contact you with information related to your inquiry. This listing doesn't feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.

Ethical Energy Solar

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144 Roosevelt Ave # 100, York, PA 17401 (717) 594-0003 ethicalenergysolar.com

Informative resources

Free quotes

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Off-grid solar systems
Cleaning and maintenance
Permit assistance
Financing assistance
Battery storage
Panel installation
Tesla powerwall
Consultation

GreenBrilliance

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13655 Dulles Technology Dr Suite 130, Herndon, VA 20171 (703) 657-0090 greenbrilliance.com

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Skilled repairs
Panel installation
Cleaning and maintenance
Financing assistance
Consultation
Battery storage
Permit assistance

American Solar Enterprises LLC

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46400 Benedict Dr STE 203, Sterling, VA 20164 (703) 589-1136 thesolardr.com

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Free quotes

Services Offered

Skilled repairs
Panel installation
Consultation
Financing assistance
System decommissioning
Cleaning and maintenance

EDGE Energy

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6854 Distribution Dr, Beltsville, MD 20705 (301) 321-7868 edge-gogreen.com

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Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Financing assistance
Skilled repairs
Battery storage
Panel installation
Cleaning and maintenance
Consultation

SunGaze Solar, L.L.C.

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137 National Plaza Suite 300 - #1, Forest Heights, MD 20745 (844) 786-4293 sungazesolar.com

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Services Offered

Financing assistance
System decommissioning
Permit assistance
Panel installation
Grid-tied solar system
Cleaning and maintenance
Skilled repairs
Battery storage

Sky NRG Solar Inc.

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12020 Sunrise Valley Dr #100, Reston, VA 20191 (703) 935-2350 skynrgsolar.com

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Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Panel installation
Battery storage
Permit assistance
Consultation

Solar Energy Services, Inc.

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1514 Jabez Run, Millersville, MD 21108 (410) 923-6090 solarsaves.net

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Clear pricing policy

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Cleaning and maintenance
Consultation
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Panel installation

American Sentry Solar

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221 Gateway Dr, Bel Air, MD 21014 (410) 557-0555 americansentrysolar.com

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Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Panel installation
Permit assistance
Grid-tied solar system
System decommissioning
Tesla powerwall
Battery storage

Suntuity Solar

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4351-4395 Nicole Dr #4371, Lanham, MD 20706 (443) 775-7860 suntuitysolar.com

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Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

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Cleaning and maintenance
Financing assistance
Consultation
Battery storage
Panel installation

The Solar Brokers USA

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16701 Melford Blvd #400, Bowie, MD 20715 (443) 758-0947 solarbrokersusa.com

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Clear pricing policy

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Financing assistance
Consultation
Panel installation
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on solar companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

How To Choose a Solar Company

Putting solar panels on your roof could cut your electricity payments while benefiting the planet by reducing your carbon footprint through renewable energy use. Key considerations when looking at local solar installers are as follows.

Check Licensing

Hiring a licensed solar installer is critical. This helps ensure that the work is done properly using current best installation practices. The installation team for a solar photovoltaic (PV) system in Maryland must include a Home Improvement Commission-licensed contractor and a master electrician with at least seven years' experience. The contractor installs the panels, while the master electrician handles permit business and connects the system to the grid. If you're installing a solar water heater, your contracting team must include a master plumber for permits and utility connections.

Read Customer Reviews

Check review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and TrustPilot to see customer feedback about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you evaluate a company's reliability and customer service. Use caution with companies that have no reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Contact 3–5 solar companies to get free, detailed quotes. Quotes should clearly explain all costs and list the exact solar components included. Comparing multiple quotes helps identify the best value based on your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

Quality solar installations should have comprehensive workmanship and performance guarantees. The workmanship warranty covers any installation issues such as poor alignment, poor wiring, or cracks in the panels. The performance guarantee ensures a specific energy output level. Strong warranties indicate that a solar installer has faith in its installations.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Installing solar panels can help decrease your electric bills over time. When weighing the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.

  • Compare system purchase options: Solar panels can be purchased outright or paid for over time through a lease or loan. Confirm all terms when financing, such as fees, payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), and ownership implications.
  • Look into utility rebates: More financial incentives might be available from utility companies looking to motivate homeowners to install solar panels. Contact your local utility provider to learn rebate values and qualification criteria, so you can calculate your possible savings.
  • Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal tax credit for solar the applies to the full system cost is available through 2032. Many states also have incentives. These credits offer substantial savings for solar buyers.

Cost of Solar Installation in Gaithersburg

The cost of home solar panels in Gaithersburg varies depending on several factors, including the area and generating capacity of your panel array and the type of panels you'll use. Generally speaking, a typical solar energy system could range from $3,540 per kilowatt, not including preliminary work, labor, or permit fees. Most solar systems in Gaithersburg are 5.6 kilowatts, and the typical Gaithersburg homeowners spends $13,851 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer leasing their solar panels to reduce upfront costs.

Gaithersburg Solar Incentives Guide

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: energy.maryland.gov

Incentive Amount:

PV: $1,000/project (flat per installation/household incentive)
SWH: $500/project (flat per installation/household incentive)
New GHC: $3,000/project
GHC Replacement: $500/project

Incentive Type: Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program

Website: psc.state.md.us

Incentive Amount:

Varies based on market conditions

Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

100% exemption from sales and use tax

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

100% real property tax exemption for solar and wind energy property

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: energy.maryland.gov

Incentive Amount:

Stick Burning Stove: $500
Pellet Burning Stove: $700

Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

100% exemption

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

Varies

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Incentive Amount:

Varies by jurisdiction; credit may be available for up to 3 years.

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: bgesmartenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

Appliances & Recycling
Clothes Dryer (Electric): $50
Clothes Washer: $75 - $100
Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater: $500
Pool Pump: $150 - $400
Refrigerator: $100
Dehumidifier: $30
Refrigerator or Freezer Recycling: $50, plus $25 bonus when recycling an old, working room A/C or dehumidifier at the same time
Room A/C or Dehumidifier Recycling (*May 20, 2017 only*): $25
Smart Thermostat: $100

Heating & Cooling
Air-Source Heat Pump: $400 - $650
Central A/C: $300 - $500
Gas Furnace: $250
Furnace Blower Motor: $50 - $100
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500

Lighting
Instant discounts vary by participating retailer; see program website

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: bgesmartenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

Appliances & Recycling
Clothes Dryer (Electric): $50
Clothes Washer: $75 - $100
Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater: $500
Pool Pump: $150 - $400
Refrigerator: $100
Dehumidifier: $30
Refrigerator or Freezer Recycling: $50, plus $25 bonus when recycling an old, working room A/C or dehumidifier at the same time
Room A/C or Dehumidifier Recycling (*May 20, 2017 only*): $25
Smart Thermostat: $100

Heating & Cooling
Air-Source Heat Pump: $400 - $650
Central A/C: $300 - $500
Gas Furnace: $250
Furnace Blower Motor: $50 - $100
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500

Lighting
Instant discounts vary by participating retailer; see program website

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: energy.maryland.gov

Incentive Amount:

Residential: $4,000/kW of normalized capacity at 11 m/s
Community: $1000/kW - $4000/kW, depending on the system capacity

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: pepco.com

Incentive Amount:

LightingGet instant, in-store discounts on select ENERGY STAR certified lighting.
LED Bulbs: Up to $3 per bulb
LED Fixtures: $8 per fixture
Appliances
Clothes Dryer: $50
Clothes Washer: $75 - $100
Hybrid Water Heater: $500
Pool Pump: $150 - $400
Refrigerator: $100
Smart Thermostat: $100
Dehumidifier: $30
HVAC
Air-Source Heat Pump: $400 (Tier 1) - $650 (Tier 2)
Central A/C: $300 (Tier 1) - $500 (Tier 2)
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500
ECM Furnace Motor: $50 - $100
Home Energy Check up: Free
Recycling
Refrigerator or Freezer: $50
Room A/C or Dehumidifier: $25

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: firstenergycorp.com

Incentive Amount:

Appliances
Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling: $50
Lighting
LED Fixtures: Up to $8/unit
LED Bulbs: Up to $5/bulb
Occupancy Sensors: Up to $7/unit
HVAC & Other
Air-to-Air Heat Pump: $400 - $650
Central A/C: $300 - $500
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump: $250 (Tier 2); $400 (Multi Zone)
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500
Packaged Terminal Heat Pump: $125
Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner: $125
Furnace Fans: $100
Smart Thermostat: $100
Circulating Pump: $30
Variable-Speed Pool Pump: $400
Two Speed Pool Pump: $150
Home Performance Audit: 75% of home improvements cost, up to $7,500
Quick Home Energy Checkup: Up to $75 in Energy-Saving Products

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: ecowatch.com

Incentive Amount:

30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Gaithersburg, MD

Generally speaking, a solar photovoltaic (PV) array can be used to power any household system or appliance that uses electricity. In the simplest case, you can use a solar water heating system.

There are a number of advantages of home solar energy. You can qualify for tax benefits, reduce emissions, and raise your property values. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also provide you with additional energy security and offer some protection from power outages.

Of course. The grid in Gaithersburg already uses a large share of renewable energy sources, and you may be able to sell your excess generated energy to your utility for additional cost savings.

Generally speaking, your energy bills will significantly decrease after you install solar panels. This is because you're using the energy you generate for free rather than buying it from your power company. In Gaithersburg, the average amount someone can save is $922 per year. With net metering programs offered by many utilities, you could ultimately make a profit from your system once the payback period passes.

Your payback period is the time to achieve an ROI on your solar panels. It will vary based on the average sunlight in your area, their rated capacity, and the rate your utility charges per kilowatt of power. Gaithersburg gets quite a bit of sunlight per day, so an average payback period could last up to 15.0 years per 5 kW of capacity.

Although solar energy is a valuable option for many, it might not be ideal for homeowners in wet, dark areas. In these cases, a contractor might recommend other forms of renewable energy, such as wind or geothermal power, as a primary source. It is also important to speak to a qualified installer to determine if their solar system is compatible with the climate and environment of your area. Even if you choose a different form of renewable energy altogether, you'll still lower your emissions and could still qualify for distributed generation or other money-saving programs.

Yes, solar panels can still generate energy during a grid outage. To ensure that your solar system will keep working during a power outage, make sure to choose a quality solar provider that offers battery backup systems or emergency generators.

Other Gaithersburg, MD Home Services