Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Kirkwood, Delaware. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading national provider known for its integrated Solar Roof and solar panel systems, paired seamlessly with the Powerwall battery. They offer a streamlined, primarily online process and are a major player in battery storage technology.
A highly-rated, local Delaware-based company known for personalized service and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They handle the entire process from design and consultation to installation and maintenance, with a strong focus on customer education.
A well-established regional installer based in Pennsylvania with extensive experience serving Delaware. They are known for high-quality craftsmanship, strong manufacturer partnerships, and offering comprehensive services including maintenance, repair, and battery backups.
** The home solar market in and around Kirkwood, Delaware, is served by a mix of prominent national providers and strong regional specialists. The competition is healthy, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on service quality. Delaware offers favorable conditions for solar, including its SREC (Solar Renewable Energy Credit) program and state rebates, which reputable installers are well-versed in navigating for their customers. The average cost for a residential solar panel system in Delaware typically ranges from **$15,000 to $25,000** before incentives for a standard 6kW to 8kW system. After applying the 30% federal tax credit and state-level incentives, the net investment can be significantly reduced, often by 40-50%. The market is dominated by grid-tied systems with battery storage becoming an increasingly popular add-on for energy resilience. Overall, the quality of service available to Kirkwood residents is high, provided they choose an established, licensed, and locally-experienced contractor.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Kirkwood regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Kirkwood, Delaware.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Kirkwood, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Delaware offers strong incentives, including the state's Green Energy Program rebate (which can provide thousands upfront) and a sales tax exemption. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost is significantly reduced, often by 40-50%.
Kirkwood's climate is favorable for solar, with ample sunny days, though production peaks in spring and summer. Winter months see reduced output due to shorter days and potential snow cover, but modern panels are efficient even in diffuse light and cold temperatures actually improve panel voltage efficiency. Annual snowfall is moderate, and panels are angled to help shed snow.
Installation requires a building permit from New Castle County and an electrical permit. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. Crucially, you must interconnect with your utility (most likely Delmarva Power), which has specific requirements for grid-tied systems. Delaware has statewide interconnection rules that streamline this process for standard residential systems.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Delaware, as they will understand state rebate paperwork and local utility requirements. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by organizations like NABCEP. Ask for references from recent installations in New Castle County and compare detailed proposals that include equipment brands, warranty terms, and projected production specific to Kirkwood's weather patterns.
Going completely off-grid is technically possible but uncommon and costly due to the need for extensive battery storage for periods of low sun, especially in winter. The standard and recommended approach is a grid-tied system with net metering. Delmarva Power offers full retail net metering, crediting you for excess power sent to the grid, which acts as a virtual battery and ensures reliability year-round.