Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
A solar panel array could give you a renewable power source that will pay for itself in time. Transitioning to solar energy can reduce your monthly energy expenses and shrink your carbon output. Before you begin the process, you want to make sure you find a trustworthy installer. Luckily, we’ve conducted comprehensive research local solar installers and created a guide to the best solar companies in Smithfield. These reputable providers are reliable options known for their quality services.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
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:
Putting solar panels on your roof could cut your electricity payments while helping the environment by reducing your carbon footprint through renewable energy use. Key considerations when looking at local solar installers are as follows.
It's imperative that your solar installer has the proper licensing. This helps ensure that the work is done correctly using the most up-to-date installation methods. To work on a solar energy system in Rhode Island, a company will need both a State Electrical Contractor's License and at least a Journeyperson's License from the Department of Labor and Training.
Check TrustPilot, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to see what past customers have to say about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you evaluate a provider's trustworthiness and customer service. Stay away from companies with few or mainly poor reviews.
Call three to five solar companies for free, itemized quotes. These quotes should outline all costs and list the solar equipment included. Reviewing multiple quotes helps identify the best option that fits your budget.
Top-notch solar installations should have strong workmanship and performance warranties. A workmanship guarantee covers installation issues, such as poor alignment, poor wiring, or cracks in the panels. A performance warranty guarantees a minimum energy output. Comprehensive guarantees indicate that a solar company believes in its work.
Solar panels can help decrease your electricity costs long-term. When weighing solar panel's cost and value, be sure to factor in these considerations.
The cost of home solar panels in Smithfield varies depending on several factors, including the size of the system and the type of solar technology being used. Generally speaking, a typical solar energy system costs $4,070 per kilowatt, not including preliminary work, labor, or permit fees. Most solar systems in Smithfield are 4.2 kilowatts, and the typical Smithfield homeowners spends $11,860 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer to lease solar panels and reduce upfront costs.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Varies (local option)
A solar photovoltaic (PV) array can generate power to run any electric appliance or system in your home. If you don't want to use solar power for your entire home, you can install a solar water heating system.
There are many 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 offer you further energy independence and offer some protection from power outages.
Yes, you can use home solar energy alongside conventional power sources. In most parts of the country, solar panels are designed to supplement your existing energy sources, which means you can reap the savings and environmental benefits of solar energy without having to completely switch over.
You might be pleasantly surprised at how short it takes to get a return on investment from your solar panels. The sun shines frequently in Smithfield, meaning your payback period could last 13.3 years per 5 kW of capacity on the high end.
Net metering is a power purchasing policy that allows solar energy system owners to get paid for the amount of energy they put back into the grid. It's available in most states and is a great way to reduce energy costs.
Ultimately, the answer will depend on your specific situation. You'll be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to 30% of the system's cost, as well as state or local incentives depending on where you are. As for insurance, you'll need to let your insurer know about your new solar panels. Your premium may increase due to added property values, but you'll have peace of mind if a covered event happens to the system.
Solar panels are gaining in popularity for their low upkeep costs and high efficiency under a variety of conditions. Depending on how much sunlight your property receives, you may find they're the best performing source of renewable energy compared to others.