10 Best Solar Companies in Arlington, VA

How To Choose a Solar Company

Installing solar panels can lower your electricity costs and benefit the planet by reducing your carbon footprint. When deciding if a solar provider is a good fit for you, consider these key factors.

Check Licensing

It's imperative that your solar installer has the proper licensing. This help guarantee that the work is done correctly using the most up-to-date installation methods. Since 2012, Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors who install solar photovoltaic systems. Even if a contractor has an AES license, they may still need to subcontract HVAC, plumbing or electrical work.

Read Customer Reviews

Check review sites like TrustPilot, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see customer feedback about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you evaluate a company's dependability and customer service. Use caution with companies that have barely any reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Call at least three solar companies for free, itemized quotes. These quotes should outline all costs and list the solar equipment included. Reviewing multiple quotes helps identify the most cost-effective option for your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

High-quality solar installations should come with robust workmanship and performance guarantees. The workmanship guarantee covers any installation issues like cracks in the panels, poor alignment, or poor wiring. The output guarantee ensures an energy generation baseline. Strong warranties reflect a solar provider's faith in its installations.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Switching to solar power can help decrease your energy expenses. Be sure to evaluate these aspects when determining the cost and value of solar panels.

• Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal tax credit on the full cost of solar systems is available through 2032. Many states also provide incentives. These credits can result in substantial savings for solar buyers.
• Look into utility rebates: More rebates might be available from local power companies looking to motivate homeowners to switch to solar power. Contact your local utility provider to find out rebate values and qualification criteria, so you can determine your possible savings.
• Compare system purchase options: Homeowners may purchase solar panels upfront or spread out payments over time with a lease or loan. Be sure to confirm key details like payment schedule, fees, annual percentage rate (APR), and what ownership means when financing solar panels.

Cost of Solar Installation in Arlington

The cost of solar panels varies based on system capacity and the technology being used. The average solar system in Arlington has a capacity of 8.1 kilowatts. Homeowners in the area should expect to pay approximately $3,590 per kilowatt; the average Arlington homeowners spends about $20,388 on a new solar system after accounting for federal tax breaks. (Some homeowners prefer to lease solar panels to reduce their upfront costs.) A personalized quote from a local solar provider will account for things like the size, panel type, and capacity of the planned system, and should include fees for labor, permit fees, and preliminary work.