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10 best solar companies in Columbia, Maryland
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 Columbia. 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 Columbia, Maryland, requires hiring a solar installer that is certified, qualified and experienced. To help you find the right team, we’ve put together a list of the best solar installers in Columbia.
Before settling on an installer, ask others for suggestions, vet the installers you're considering and collect quotes from multiple companies to find the one that suits your needs. You can go with a local solar company in Columbia or choose a leading national brand.
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
Even though solar panels need a substantial initial investment, you can lower your energy bills in the long term by making the switch. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), moving to solar energy allows Columbia homeowners to save a yearly average of around $840.
The offerings from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Be sure to compare companies and get quotes before you schedule your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Columbia
Look for Columbia solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars based on customer commentary on Google Reviews and similar sites. Make sure the company has a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) when selecting a solar company.
You should read through past customer reviews to get insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Keep an eye out for repeated negative feedback as a potential red flag.
EDGE Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar-Verse
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
MSSI - Maryland Solar Solutions, Inc
Services offered
Highlights
- Informative resources
- Free quotes
410 Energy Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Energy Services, Inc.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Advanced Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Free quotes
- Reliable customer support
- Informative resources
- Prompt service delivery
Standard Energy Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Informative resources
- Reliable customer support
Advanced Green Home Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Glim Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Suntuity Solar
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.
The Solar Brokers USA
Power Factor
American Sentry Solar
Greenway home improvements
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Columbia?
Even areas with changing sun amounts, including rainier and cloudier places such as Columbia, can still benefit from solar panels. Key reasons to switch to solar are:
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar shrinks your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels otherwise used to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electricity production is one of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can power electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the best method to guarantee your electric car is running on clean, 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 bought from utility providers.
Facts about Columbia
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 Columbia?
According to the results of our survey carried out in October 2023, the average cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels is influenced by factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The price increases if you select any accessories like batteries, animal guards or solar trackers.
Based on data from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), installing solar panels in Columbia typically costs $13,837.
How much can you save by going solar in Columbia?
Putting in solar panels requires substantial spending upfront, but you can recoup those costs through significant reductions in your energy bills down the road.
Money savings in Columbia from going solar
In Columbia, you can expect to save money once you've fully switched to solar. But it takes time to make back the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage influence how soon you'll get a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to recoup its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, Columbia's average payback period for solar is 16 years.
- Annual solar savings in Columbia: Homeowners in Columbia typically save around $836 per year by using solar energy, based on our findings using data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After transitioning completely to solar power, you can expect to save around $10,067 over 25 years, according to our calculations from the EIA and NASA.
Energy savings in Columbia from going solar
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also reduces your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the estimated CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Columbia?
Several solar incentives are offered to Columbia homeowners. Some programs are open to all Maryland residents, whereas others vary by city, utility company and municipality.
Accessible solar incentives to Maryland homeowners, as stated by DSIRE, include:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Rebate Program Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program | PV: $1,000/project (flat per installation/household incentive) SWH: $500/project (flat per installation/household incentive) New GHC: $3,000/project GHC Replacement: $500/project |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) | Varies based on market conditions |
Sales Tax Incentive Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Residential Solar and Wind Electricity Sales | 100% exemption from sales and use tax |
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Exemption for Solar and Wind Energy Systems | 100% real property tax exemption for solar and wind energy property |
Rebate Program Clean-Burning Wood Stove Grant Program | Stick Burning Stove: $500 Pellet Burning Stove: $700 |
Sales Tax Incentive Wood Heating Fuel Exemption | 100% exemption |
Property Tax Incentive Local Option - Property Tax Credit for High Performance Buildings | Varies |
Property Tax Incentive Local Option - Property Tax Credit for Renewables and Energy Conservation Devices | Varies by jurisdiction; credit may be available for up to 3 years. |
Rebate Program Baltimore Gas & Electric Company (Electric) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Appliances & Recycling Clothes Dryer (Electric): $50 Clothes Washer: $75 - $100 Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater: $500 Pool Pump: $150 - $400 Refrigerator: $100 Dehumidifier: $30 Refrigerator or Freezer Recycling: $50, plus $25 bonus when recycling an old, working room A/C or dehumidifier at the same time Room A/C or Dehumidifier Recycling (*May 20, 2017 only*): $25 Smart Thermostat: $100 Heating & Cooling Air-Source Heat Pump: $400 - $650 Central A/C: $300 - $500 Gas Furnace: $250 Furnace Blower Motor: $50 - $100 Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500 Lighting Instant discounts vary by participating retailer; see program website |
Rebate Program Baltimore Gas & Electric Company (Gas) - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Appliances & Recycling Clothes Dryer (Electric): $50 Clothes Washer: $75 - $100 Hybrid Heat Pump Water Heater: $500 Pool Pump: $150 - $400 Refrigerator: $100 Dehumidifier: $30 Refrigerator or Freezer Recycling: $50, plus $25 bonus when recycling an old, working room A/C or dehumidifier at the same time Room A/C or Dehumidifier Recycling (*May 20, 2017 only*): $25 Smart Thermostat: $100 Heating & Cooling Air-Source Heat Pump: $400 - $650 Central A/C: $300 - $500 Gas Furnace: $250 Furnace Blower Motor: $50 - $100 Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500 Lighting Instant discounts vary by participating retailer; see program website |
Rebate Program Residential/Community Wind Grant Program | Residential: $4,000/kW of normalized capacity at 11 m/s Community: $1000/kW - $4000/kW, depending on the system capacity |
Property Tax Incentive Howard County - High Performance and Green Building Property Tax Credit | High Performance Buildings (except R-2, R-3 buildings): credit of 10% to 75% of taxes owed for 3 to 5 years; varies by building type and building rating High Performance R-2, R-3 Buildings: credit of 19% to 100% of taxes owed for 4 years; varies by building rating and declines for each year claimed (i.e., the Year 2 % is less than Year 1) Green Buildings (w/energy conservation devices): credit of 14% - 20% of cost of device for 3 years; varies by building rating |
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 Columbia solar installer?
When selecting a solar panel installation professional, first review these important questions.
What size system do you need?
The right solar system size for you depends on how much energy your household utilizes, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Larger homes often need more extensive solar installations. If the system isn't large enough, it might not generate sufficient electricity to power your whole home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar plans may be impacted by specific permits and state or local laws. You must secure proper permits through your local building department and coordinate an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get equal amounts of sunlight. Area tree cover, rainfall levels and severe weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Numerous solar panel systems provide a battery. Solar batteries keep extra power, which is particularly beneficial when you want to prevent power loss during inclement weather. Installing battery storage could raise the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These aspects affect not just the cost, but also how often panels will need to be replaced and roof space requirements.
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.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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