The 6 Best Solar Companies in Pennsylvania (February 2024) – MarketWatch
Compare Our Recommended Installers
*Pricing is based on responses to two surveys we conducted in 2023 of 2,000 total homeowners with 8 kilowatt (kW) solar systems as well as pricing information obtained directly from Sunrun, Tesla, Palmetto and local providers. Your cost may vary.
Pennsylvania’s Top Solar Energy Companies
Based on our extensive market research, provider review methodology and in-depth surveys of homeowners with solar systems, the following are our picks for the top solar companies in the state.
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We compiled our list of the best solar companies in Pennsylvania by researching available installers and rating each company based on our in-depth provider review methodology. We also considered data from two nationwide surveys of solar system owners we conducted in March and September 2023, with responses filtered by Pennsylvania residents. Our research is further informed by talking to local experts and solar installers to understand the state’s solar market. Finally, we researched state-specific resources to better understand the cost of going solar and how to save money on a system installation in Pennsylvania.
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Solar Energy World
Our pick for long-term warranty coverage
BBB Rating A+
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Venture
Our pick for aesthetic panels
BBB Rating B-
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Sunrun Solar
Our pick for leasing options
Coverage 50 States
BBB Rating A-
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Palmetto Solar
Our pick for protection plans
Coverage 24 States
BBB Rating A+
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Bright Eye Solar
Our pick for local experience
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SunPower
Our pick for most experience
Coverage 50 States
BBB Rating A+
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What To Look for in a Solar Company
Pennsylvania has 491 solar companies operating in the state, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). While more choice is typically better, homeowners may find it difficult to select a provider that suits them best. Below are three key factors that can help you choose a solar installer for your home.
- System cost: The average cost of solar in Pennsylvania is $3.16 per watt — almost 11% higher than the national average. This rate makes it important to choose an installer that balances affordable pricing with high equipment quality. A reasonably priced system can offer faster payback and greater lifelong energy savings. We recommend you request multiple quotes before choosing an installer.
- Equipment and warranties: With 179 sunny days per year, parts of Pennsylvania’s cloudy climate will not always allow solar panels to generate large amounts of power. High-efficiency equipment allows homeowners to generate maximum solar energy, while lower-quality components could mean lower power production, more maintenance needs and faster system degradation. Also consider the warranty coverage a provider offers — the longer a warranty, the more peace of mind you will have in the event of any issues.
- Reputation: As the solar market becomes increasingly competitive, the number of unreliable installers also grows. Some residents of Pennsylvania have fallen prey to fraudulent sales practices, and we recommend homeowners conduct careful research on a company’s reputation before signing a purchase agreement. You can do this by checking the company’s BBB rating and online customer reviews in your area.
Benefits of Going Solar in Pennsylvania
To help you decide if solar is right for you, we compiled a list of benefits of installing a system in the state of Pennsylvania.
- Avoid high electricity bills: At more than 18 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), Pennsylvania residents pay more for energy than the national average. The state’s average electricity cost has also gone up from 17.06 cents to 18.01 cents per kWh in just one year. The average Pennsylvania family consumes over 10,000 kWh of electricity each year, spending thousands of dollars in power bills. Going solar can not only significantly reduce energy bills, but it can also protect you from rising power costs.
- Protection from power outages: Pennsylvania is among the top 10 states that experience power outages. Unfortunately, it is also the eighth-least prepared state for blackouts. More so, the state’s Public Utilities Commission predicts outages will become more common. Installing a solar panel and battery system can keep a home’s essential appliances running through a power outage.
- Beneficial solar incentives: Despite being known as the Coal State in the past, Pennsylvania is now a solar-friendly state with several pro-solar policies and incentives. Solar panel owners in the state can benefit from its Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC) market and a lucrative solar rebate program. Homeowners going solar can also save with a net metering program and by claiming the federal tax credit.
Common Concerns
Despite the significant savings that come with a solar conversion, some Pennsylvanians may remain skeptical about solar. One reason is the poor sunshine levels in certain parts of the state like Pittsburg, which can detract from solar panel power generation. However, installers can oversize a system to match any production deficit.
Another concern is the slightly higher pricing of solar panel systems. Pennsylvania’s average solar cost is $3.16 per watt, which is higher than the national average of $2.85. But with an average payback period of less than 10 years, solar customers can still save on energy bills for up to two decades.
Solar Trends in Pennsylvania
Despite being the nation’s third-largest coal supplier, Pennsylvania residents show increasing interest in adopting solar power. A study by Wood Mackenzie showed the state’s solar use grew an average of 32% per year over the past 10 years, higher than the national average (22.5%) over the same time.
The state saw 160% growth in the number of installations over the past five years, according to the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection.
Solar Incentives in Pennsylvania
Though solar systems are expensive, there are several ways to lower your installation costs. Pennsylvania homeowners qualify for the federal tax credit (ITC), which provides a federal tax deduction equal to 30% of your solar expenses. This rate will reduce to 26% in 2033 and drop to 22% in 2034 before ending 2035.
Pennsylvania also offers several state and local incentives. Learn about the key programs below.
- Net metering: Pennsylvania net metering allows you to sell the excess energy your system generates back to the grid at retail price. It is paid out in credits on your future utility bills or in an annual lump sum, depending on the program.
- Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs): Pennsylvania residents receive a SREC for every megawatt-hour (MWh) of solar energy their system generates. You can sell these SRECs at market price to utility providers, allowing you to make money from your solar system in addition to lowering your electricity bills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Solar Companies
No, you cannot get free solar panels in Pennsylvania. However, some solar companies offer as little as $0 down for qualifying customers. Additionally, the state offers a variety of statewide and local incentives to reduce costs.
Pennsylvania has a generous net-metering program. As a result, most residents who go solar can eliminate their energy bills.
While there is no statewide solar tax credit in Pennsylvania, other cost-saving incentives exist. Homeowners also qualify for the federal solar tax credit.
It costs an average of $3 per watt to go solar in Pennsylvania. You can expect to pay around $15,000 for a typical 5-kilowatt (kW) system, but the total cost will vary.*
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