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10 best solar companies in Branford, Connecticut
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 10 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Branford. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
High-quality solar panel installation in Branford, Connecticut requires you to hire a solar installer with the right certification, skills and experience. We've created a list of top solar companies in Branford to help you choose the perfect installer.
Prior to hiring an installer, ask others for recommendations, evaluate potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the right company for you. You can pick a local Branford solar company or select a well-known national brand.
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
Even though solar panels require a large initial investment, you can reduce your energy expenses in the long term by making the transition. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), adopting solar energy allows Branford homeowners to save a yearly average of about $1,200.
Solar companies do not all provide the same services and products. You should look at different companies and ask for quotes before scheduling your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Branford
Seek out Branford solar companies with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and similar customer review platforms. The company should also have a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Look at reviews to learn about other homeowners’ experiences with a company, and take note of mutiple bad reviews.
SunPower
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Green Power Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Aegis Solar Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Shoreline Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Ion Solar Pros
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Elite Energy Consulting
Services offered
Highlights
- Reliable customer support
- Informative resources
- Free quotes
Element Energy Systems (E2SYS)
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Savkat Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Helio Energy Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Synergy Smart Homes - Connecticut Solar & Elite SunPower Dealer
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
More providers
Below are additional solar installation companies that didn’t make our top picks based on their distance, ratings or service offerings.
Everlast Energy
EcoSmart Home Services
Long Island Power Solutions
SUNation Energy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Branford?
Even areas with fluctuating sun amounts, including rainier and overcast places such as Branford, can still benefit from solar panels. Major reasons to adopt solar are:
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy lets you fuel electric cars at your house. Using your own power is the ideal way to ensure your electric vehicle runs on renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Using solar energy enables you to reduce your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be purchased from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar panels reduces your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to supply your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation ranks among the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about Branford
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Branford?
According to our survey conducted in October 2023, the average national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of installing solar panels varies based on several elements, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof orientation, shading, system dimensions and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you choose any add-ons like solar trackers, animal guards or batteries.
According to statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the EIA and NASA the mean cost to install solar panels in Branford is $11,885.
How much can you save by going solar in Branford?
While installing solar panels requires a major investment to start, you can see considerable savings on your energy bills in the long term.
Money savings in Branford from going solar
In Branford, you can expect to save money after switching fully to solar. However, it takes time to recoup the initial investment, and factors such as rain and tree coverage impact how long it takes to see a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the amount of time required for a solar panel system to recoup its upfront cost through energy bill savings. Based on our calculations, which leverage data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, Branford's standard solar payback period is 9 years.
- Annual solar savings in Branford: Homeowners in Branford typically save an average of $1,214 per year by using solar energy, based on our analysis using data from NASA, the Department of Energy and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Over 25 years, you can anticipate saving $21,486 after switching fully to solar, according to our calculations based on data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration and NASA.
Energy savings in Branford from going solar
Not only does switching to solar save you money, but it also lowers your carbon footprint and its impact on the environment. Below are estimated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from going solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Branford?
Homeowners in Branford can be eligible for several solar incentives. Some are available across the state for all Connecticut residents, and others differ by your municipality, utility company and city.
Per the DSIRE, here are the solar incentives offered to Connecticut residents:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Local Option - Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems | Varies (local option) |
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems | 100% of value added by renewable system |
Sales Tax Incentive Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Solar and Geothermal Systems | 100% exemption |
Rebate Program Residential Solar Investment Program | Customer-owned (EPBB): Up to 10 kW PTC: $0.358/W 10 to 20 kW PTC: $0.207/W Incentive is reduced accordingly for Design Factors below 75%. Minimum design factor is 60%. Third-Party-Owned (PBI): Up to 20 kW PTC: $0.03/kWh for 6 years Minimum Design Factor 60% |
Green Building Incentive Connecticut Green Energy Building Solutions | See Website |
Loan Program Smart-E loans | See Website |
Sales Tax Incentive Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Energy-Efficient Products | 100% exemption |
Loan Program Energy Conservation Loan | Single family homes (1-4 family units): $25,000 Landlord Loan: $40,000 |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program The United Illuminating Company - Small ZREC Tariff | $98.18 per ZREC (for Year 6 round of solicitation) |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program Eversource - Small ZREC Tariff | $100.74 per REC (for Year 7 round of solicitation)Tariff for Small ZREC determined through PURA |
Loan Program Energy Efficiency Fund (Electric and Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Financing | $25,000 |
Rebate Program (Electric and Gas) Residential Rebate Program | Ductless Heat Pump: $500 Refrigerators/Freezers, Room A/Cs, Dishwashers, Clothes Washers, Dehumidifiers: Incentive Included in Retail Price Central A/C: $200 Air Source Heat Pumps: $500 Heat Pump Water Heater: $750 Lighting: Incentive Included in Retail Price Geothermal Heat Pumps: $500-$1,500 High Efficiency Furnace, Natural Gas Boiler, and Boiler Circulator Pump: Instant Discounts of $25-$800 |
PACE Financing Local Option - Residential Sustainable Energy Program | Locally determined |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 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. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Branford solar installer?
Take time to reflect on these questions prior to hiring a solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
Your solar panel system's size is contingent upon your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Larger homes use more electricity and may require larger solar panel systems. An undersized system may be unable to fully energize your house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project may be subject to the necessary codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to apply for the required permits from your local building department, as well as schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get equal amounts of sunlight. Area tree cover, rainfall levels and harsh weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get enough sun, it may require more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A number of solar panel systems include a solar battery. Solar batteries save extra energy, which can be crucial for ensuring continuous power during storms. Opting for battery storage could raise the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have options among solar panel types, as they differ in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These elements affect cost, how soon you'll need to swap panels and space used on your roof.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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