Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Washburn, Maine. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading, employee-owned solar installer in the Northeast with a strong commitment to Maine. They offer a full-service approach from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing. Known for high-quality workmanship and deep expertise in handling Maine's climate and incentive programs.
A highly reputable, locally-owned solar installer based in Searsport, ME, with a significant presence and excellent reputation across the state, including Aroostook County. They specialize in both grid-tied and off-grid systems, making them an excellent choice for the more rural areas around Washburn.
While based further south, Evergreen is a major statewide provider that includes Washburn in its service area. They take a holistic "home performance" approach, often combining solar installations with energy efficiency upgrades like insulation and air sealing to maximize homeowner savings and comfort.
** The home solar market in Washburn, Maine, is characteristic of a rural northern community. There are no solar installation companies physically headquartered within the town limits itself. Therefore, the market is served by reputable regional and statewide contractors. The level of competition is moderate but specialized, with a handful of established players vying for projects in the region. The average quality of service is high, as the companies that operate here are seasoned professionals experienced with the specific challenges of the Maine climate, including heavy snow loads and less annual sunlight compared to southern states. Typical pricing for a residential solar installation in Maine is competitive, generally ranging from **$3.00 to $3.80 per watt** before incentives. For a typical 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$24,000 - $30,400**. However, Mainers benefit from strong incentives, most notably the Federal Solar Tax Credit (30% of system cost) and potentially local utility rebates. The knowledge of these incentives and how to navigate them is a key strength of the top providers serving the Washburn area. The trend is strongly towards systems that include battery storage (like the Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell) to provide backup power during the not-uncommon grid outages in the region.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Washburn regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Washburn, Maine.
While winter production is lower due to snow cover and fewer daylight hours, modern panels are efficient at low temperatures and shed snow fairly well due to their slick, angled surfaces. Importantly, Maine's net energy billing (NEB) program with Central Maine Power allows you to bank summer overproduction credits to offset winter usage, making a system viable year-round. Proper installation angle and occasional light snow clearing can further optimize your winter output.
After the 30% federal tax credit, a typical residential system in Aroostook County costs between $15,000-$25,000. Key incentives include Maine's state sales tax exemption on solar equipment and the federal tax credit. Financing is readily available through local installers, with options like solar loans, and you should also inquire about any potential local Washburn or Aroostook County energy efficiency grants or PACE-like programs that may arise.
You will need an electrical permit from the Washburn town office and a building permit if modifying your roof structure. Your certified Maine-licensed installer will typically handle this process, ensuring compliance with the Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code (MUBEC) and National Electrical Code. They will also manage the interconnection agreement with your utility (likely Central Maine Power) to participate in net billing.
Prioritize installers with extensive local experience in Aroostook County, as they understand regional snow loads, roof structures, and interconnection logistics with CMP. Look for Maine-licensed electricians, certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), and strong references from nearby projects. Be wary of out-of-state companies that may not provide reliable local service or understand Maine's specific climate challenges.
South-facing roofs with minimal shading from trees are ideal, but east-west configurations can also work well. The best time to install is late spring through early fall (May-September), as the ground is thawed, weather is more predictable, and crews are most active. This timing allows your system to be commissioned in time to capture the high-production summer sun and start banking credits with CMP for the winter.