Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Elkridge, Maryland. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer with a strong, long-standing presence in Maryland. They operate a major headquarters and showroom in Elkridge, making them a local fixture. They are known for comprehensive in-house services, from initial design and financing to installation and maintenance, and have extensive knowledge of Maryland-specific incentives.
A highly-rated, employee-owned B-Corp focused on quality installations and customer service. While headquartered in Virginia, they have a significant and active presence in the Maryland market, including Elkridge. They are known for their expertise in complex system designs and a strong commitment to energy efficiency.
A fast-growing, locally-owned solar company based in Maryland that has quickly built a strong reputation for competitive pricing and transparent customer service. They focus on making the solar process straightforward and are well-versed in local financing and incentive programs.
The home solar market in Elkridge, Maryland, is robust and competitive, benefiting from its strategic location within Howard County and proximity to Baltimore and Washington D.C. The market is characterized by a mix of large regional players (like Solar Energy World, which has a physical presence in the area) and highly agile, customer-focused local installers from surrounding suburbs. The average quality of service is high, as companies must compete on reputation, credentials, and knowledge of state-specific incentives like the Maryland Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program. Competition is strong, which is advantageous for consumers, leading to competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Elkridge generally aligns with national averages, ranging from **$15,000 to $25,000 for a standard 6kW system before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any other local incentives**. The final cost is highly dependent on roof complexity, energy needs, and the inclusion of battery storage. Most reputable companies offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to accommodate different homeowner preferences.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Elkridge regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Elkridge, Maryland.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Elkridge, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, Maryland offers significant savings through the Residential Clean Energy Grant Program (up to $1,000), a state sales tax exemption, and a property tax exemption for the added home value from solar. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, these incentives can reduce your net cost by 40-50%.
Elkridge's climate is excellent for solar. While summer offers the most peak sun hours for maximum production, panels are highly efficient in cooler temperatures. Winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover, but modern panels still generate power on cloudy days. The seasonal variation means your system will over-produce in summer, building credits with your utility to offset lower winter production under Maryland's net metering rules.
Installation requires a building permit from Howard County's Department of Inspections, Licenses, and Permits. The process typically involves submitting your engineered plans, and the county will review for compliance with the building and fire codes. For most standard rooftop installations in Elkridge's residential zones, no special zoning variance is needed, but your chosen installer should manage this entire permitting process for you.
Prioritize Maryland-licensed, insured, and certified installers (like NABCEP) with strong local experience. Ask for references from Elkridge or nearby Howard County homes and verify they understand local permitting and interconnection with BG&E. Reputable local and regional companies serve the area; check their standing with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) and read verified reviews to assess their track record for service and support.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a grid outage for safety, so you would not have power. To have backup power, you must install a system with a solar battery storage solution (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar). This is a valuable consideration in Elkridge, as it provides energy security during storms. Some Maryland incentive programs, like the SGIP rebate, can help offset the cost of adding battery storage.