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10 best solar companies in Washington, New Jersey
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 Washington. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Washington, New Jersey, requires you to hire a solar technician that is properly certified, trained and experienced. To guide your search for the right installer, we've gathered a list of the top solar companies in Washington.
Before hiring an installer, request referrals, vet potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Washington or go with an established national brand.
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
Although solar panels require a large initial investment, you can lower your energy expenses in the long run by making the transition. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), adopting solar energy allows Washington homeowners to save a yearly average of around $840.
Solar companies do not all provide identical services and products. You should assess different companies and ask for quotes before scheduling your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Washington
When researching Washington solar companies, search for those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should look through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Watch for frequent negative feedback as a potential red flag.
SunPower
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
SunPower Builders
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Ad Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Reliable customer support
- Prompt service delivery
- Informative resources
- Free quotes
Impact Solar LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Advanced Renewable Solutions - Solar 4 South Jersey
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Sunwise Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
MACK Solar and Roofing
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Kaitanna Solar Installation Company
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
JK Renewables
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Energy World
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.
Soaring Solar
EcoGen America
Solar States
Finray Solar
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Washington?
Places with differing amounts of sun, including those with more rain or cloud coverage like Washington, can still utilize solar energy. Here are the biggest reasons for considering solar energy:
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy gives you the ability to charge electric cars at your house. Leveraging your own power is the ideal way to make sure your electric vehicle operates on renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Using solar energy enables you to reduce your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels substitutes for electricity that would otherwise be purchased from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint by preserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be used to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electricity production is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about Washington
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 Washington?
Based on a survey we did in October 2023, the average cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The price of installing solar panels varies based on several elements, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you pick any extras like animal guards, batteries or solar trackers.
According to numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA, solar panel installation in Washington has an average cost of $11,485.
How much can you save by going solar in Washington?
Solar panel installation is a substantial initial investment, but you can expect to see big savings reflected in your energy bills over time.
Money savings in Washington from going solar
In Washington, you can expect to save money after transitioning fully to solar. However, it takes time to recoup the initial investment, and factors such as rain and tree coverage affect how long it takes to see a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The typical payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to recover its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, Washington's average payback period for solar is 13 years.
- Annual solar savings in Washington: On average, Washington homeowners can save $845 per year using solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the EIA, NASA and the Department of Energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from NASA and the EIA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can anticipate saving approximately $12,112 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Washington 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 projected CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 56 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 1400 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Washington?
A variety of solar incentives are available to Washington homeowners. Certain programs are available to all New Jersey residents, though others change by municipality, city and utility company.
The following solar incentives are available for New Jersey residents, as listed in DSIRE:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Sales Tax Incentive Solar Energy Sales Tax Exemption | 100% exemption |
Performance-Based Incentive Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) Program | Net-Metered Residential: $90/SREC-II Small Net-Metered Non-Residential located on Rooftop, Carport, Canopy and Floating Solar Projects smaller than 1 MW (dc): $100/SREC-II, $120 for public entities Projects 1 MW to 5 MW (dc): $90/SREC-II, $110 for public entities Net Metered Non-Residential Ground Mount Projects smaller than 1 MW (dc): $85/SREC-II, $105 for public entities Projects 1 MW to 5 MW (dc): $80/SREC-II, $100 for public entities Community Solar LMI: $90/SREC-II Community Solar Non-LMI: $70/SREC-II |
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems | 100% of value added by renewable system |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) Registration Program | Determined by the market. In June 2016, SREC traded at an average price of $229.90. |
Other Incentive PSE&G - Solar Loan Program | See Website |
Rebate Program NJ Clean Energy- Residential New Construction Program | Incentives depend on the HERS score and the classification Single family homes: Ranges from $1,125 to - 24,250 Multi-single homes: Ranges from $1,125 to $18,188 Multifamily homes: Ranges from $625-$12,125 |
Rebate Program Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program | Rebates Single family : $2,000 to $4,000 Multi-family : $500-$1,500 per unit Rebates for single family and multi-family should not exceed 50% of the cost of the measures used to calculate total estimated savings (TES) See table below for details Loans Single-family: $5,000 (Tier II) or $10,000 (Tier III)4.99% interest loans up to $15,000 (where utility 0% financing is unavailable) |
Rebate Program COOLAdvantage Program | Central AC: Tier 1 $300(Tier 1), $500 (Tier 2) Ductless Mini Split A/C or Heat Pump: $500 Air Source Heat Pump: $300 (Tier 1), $500(Tier 2) Geothermal Heat Pump: $500 |
Rebate Program NJ Clean Energy- WARMAdvantage Program (Electric and Gas) | Residential Electric Customers (including municipal utility customers): Solar Hot Water Heater: $1,200 Heat Pump Water Heater: $500 Geothermal Heat Pump: $500 Air-Source or Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump: $300- $500 Residential Gas Customers (including propane): Gas Furnace: $250- $500 Gas Boiler: $300 Gas Water Heater: $300 Solar Hot Water Heater: $1,200 Oil Heating Customers: Oil Furnace: $250 Oil Boiler: $300 Combination Rebate Boiler and Water Heater Combination Rebate: $700 Furnace and Water Heater Combination Rebate: $700- $950 |
Rebate Program New Jersey Renewable Energy Incentive Program (Sustainable Biopower) | $900,000 or 30% of the cost per project, which ever is less |
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 Washington solar installer?
Consider these questions before hiring a solar installation expert.
What size system do you need?
The size of your system is determined by your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households generally use more energy and may require a bigger setup. If the system isn’t big enough, it may lack enough energy to power your entire house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local requirements could affect your solar project. You’ll need to secure the required permits through your local building department and schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not every house gets the same amount of sun. Local tree coverage, rainfall and extreme weather conditions can limit sunlight. If your home lacks adequate sunlight, you may need more panels with increased wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems come with a solar battery. Solar batteries save extra energy, which can be vital for ensuring continuous power during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could raise the total cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Multiple solar panel varieties exist, each varying in efficiency, design and life expectancy. These factors affect pricing, the frequency of replacing panels and the amount of roof space you'll need.
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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