10 Best Solar Companies in Fair Lakes, VA

How To Choose a Solar Company

Going solar can be a great way to reduce electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint using renewable energy. Here are some key factors to consider when determining whether a solar installer is trustworthy.

Check Licensing

Hiring a licensed solar installer is critical. This help guarantee that the work is done correctly using current best installation practices. Since 2012, Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors working on solar PV systems. Even if a contractor has an AES license, they may still need to subcontract HVAC, electrical or plumbing work.

Read Customer Reviews

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

Compare Multiple Quotes

Get free, detailed quotes from three to five solar companies. The quotes should list all costs and identify the solar parts included. Looking at several quotes can help you find the option that best fits your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

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

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Solar power can help lower your electricity costs in the long run. When evaluating solar panel's cost and value, be sure to consider these considerations.

• Research federal and state tax credits: There’s a 26% federal tax credit available for the full cost of solar systems until 2032. Many states also provide incentives. The credits can add up to significant savings for solar buyers.
• Look into utility rebates: Local power companies may have extra rebates to encourage homeowners to go solar. Review the qualification rules and rebate amounts with your local provider to figure out your potential savings.
• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels may be paid for outright or financed over time with a lease or loan. Verify key financing details like fees, payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), and ownership implications when choosing to finance solar panels.

Cost of Solar Installation in Fair Lakes

In Fair Lakes, solar panels cost an average of $3,590 per kilowatt, with an average system size of 8.1 kilowatts. The typical Fair Lakes homeowner spends $20,263 on their solar array after federal tax refunds. An estimate from a local provider will factor in additional information based on your desired system's panel type, capacity, size, and required preliminary work. In some cases, homeowners may prefer to lease solar panels to reduce upfront costs.