Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Todays Homeowner Local Pros
Last Updated February 2024
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
These 5 residential solar companies embody the highest level of professional achievement and responsibility in Vermont. You can trust they'll provide you with honest opinions, reasonable prices, and safe, quality workmanship. We're proud to be trusted by homeowners nationwide as a reputable source for home improvement advice and local contractor recommendations. Learn more about our methodology here.
49°F
36°F
48%
36lbs CO2e/yr
3.79"
$1,200/yr
Today's solar energy systems can accommodate a variety of roof shapes, budgets and energy needs. Many of the providers on our list are experts in all three of the fundamental types of solar panels, and they'll help you find the right fit during the estimate process.
In the very hot summers of Vermont, you'll get the best results from monocrystalline panels. Each black-hued cell uses only one silicon crystal, meaning you can generate additional energy with a small array. They're the costliest of the three kinds because of their more elaborate manufacturing process, but you'll ultimately save more due to their higher performance under pressure.
Polycrystalline solar panels have dark blue cells made of multiple silicon fragments. Aside from their lower average cost, they have a less wasteful manufacturing process.
Even though you can build a high-capacity system with polycrystalline panels, it'll have a greater physical footprint when compared to a monocrystalline array at the same capacity.
Thin-film arrays are a good choice for value in more "partly sunny" areas of Vermont. They keep their efficiency as temperatures fluctuate and work with many different roof shapes. Thin-film solar panels use various metal alloys instead of silicon crystals. Some homeowners select them for their lower weight or ability to fit on non-rectangular roofs. Others select them for their superior heat resistance and low-light performance.
Although some thin-film panels are approximately as efficient as polycrystalline panels, other models are far less efficient or have very short lifespans.
While certain terms may vary based on your contractor and panel model, you might be able to take advantage of these financing tools to keep solar power as affordable as possible:
Going solar is a large investment, and utility companies and state governments frequently offer financial incentives to help cover costs and welcome you into the clean, decentralized energy world. Some of the most common kinds of programs include:
Solar energy continues to grow throughout Vermont, and with the right professional team, it's easy to adopt it for your home. Take a look at some of these impressive state statistics:
Want to learn more about solar energy in your area? Take a look at these pages and resources:
If you're still working to improve your home's solar viability or you want to install fewer panels, a solar water heating system might be the best starting point. However, if you have the budget and space for a photovoltaic system that can power your entire home, you'll have the best possible versatility and value.
Solar energy is more efficient and flexible than other types of renewable energy. You can utilize solar power for any appliance or fixture in your home or transfer it to the grid for more savings.
In today's market, homeowners can choose from three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient, with a conversion rate of approximately 22%. Polycrystalline panels convert around 17%, and thin-film panels convert only around 15%.
There are a few key questions to ask and topics to research for every contractor on your shortlist. Make sure that the company is licensed and insured according to Vermont regulations. Also, ensure that the company is registered with the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and the local chapter of the Better Business Bureau, and that it has a good reputation and sufficient experience installing solar systems like the one you want.
The most ideal time of year to install solar panels is in the fall or spring when the temperature is still pretty cool. This way, your new system will perform more efficiently, and you'll save the most money possible during the winter or summer months when energy use trends higher.
To estimate your payback period, your contractor will consider the amount of energy your solar panels can generate. The average payback period for a 5 kW system in Vermont is 9.3 years, but it can be as short as seven years with a higher production level or as long as 15 with a lower rate.
Yes, you can take advantage of certain tax breaks when installing solar panels on a home in the U.S., but they’re not always universal. At minimum, you will qualify for a 30% federal tax credit on the cost of your solar panels. You can look into your specific area to see if you qualify for additional credits or exemptions.
On average, a solar system can generate between 11.2 and 20 kW. The bigger your system is, the more electricity you'll generate and the higher your initial costs will be.