Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Olney, Maryland. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, employee-owned company focusing on custom-designed solar and battery storage systems. They are known for their consultative approach, high-quality craftsmanship, and deep expertise in local incentive programs. They serve the entire DMV area, including Montgomery County.
A rapidly growing, locally-owned Maryland company that has built an exceptional reputation for customer service and streamlined installation. They offer a comprehensive suite of services from design to maintenance and are particularly strong in explaining financing and the transition to clean energy.
One of the longest-standing solar companies in the region, bringing decades of experience and institutional knowledge. They are a certified B Corporation, highlighting their commitment to social and environmental performance. They excel in both residential and commercial projects with a focus on durability and long-term performance.
** The home solar market in Olney, Maryland, is mature and competitive, characterized by high-quality service providers. Olney residents benefit from being in Montgomery County, which has its own strong local incentives on top of Maryland state programs and the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). The competition level is high, which generally benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential system in this area can range from $15,000 to $40,000+ before incentives, heavily dependent on system size (typically 6kW to 12kW for an average home) and the inclusion of battery storage. The high quality of providers means consumers should expect companies to be fully licensed, insured, NABCEP-certified, and highly knowledgeable about the complex web of local utility (Pepco) interconnection rules and financial incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Olney regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Olney, Maryland.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Olney, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, Maryland homeowners benefit from the state's Residential Clean Energy Grant, which provides $1,000 directly, and the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) that covers 30% of the system cost. Additionally, you can earn Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) through the MD program, providing ongoing income for the electricity your system generates.
Olney receives ample annual sunshine for effective solar production, though seasonal variations are significant, with peak output in summer and reduced production in winter. The area's mature tree canopy is a primary local consideration; a professional site assessment is essential to identify shading issues and optimize roof placement (typically south-facing is best). Modern panels perform well in diffuse light and cooler temperatures, but trimming or removing obstructive branches may be recommended to maximize your system's annual yield.
Installation requires an electrical permit from Montgomery County and must comply with local building codes. Your chosen installer will typically manage this entire process. The timeline from contract signing to "Permission to Operate" can take 1 to 3 months, as it includes system design, permitting, installation, and a final inspection and interconnection approval from Pepco, our local utility.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience, as they understand Montgomery County's specific permitting and interconnection processes. Look for Maryland-licensed electricians (MHIC #), check reviews on local platforms like Nextdoor, and ask for references from Olney installations. Reputable local and regional companies have a proven track record here, ensuring they navigate Pepco's requirements efficiently and provide reliable long-term service.
Going completely off-grid in Olney is generally impractical and cost-prohibitive due to seasonal weather variations and local regulations; staying connected to Pepco's grid is standard. Importantly, standard grid-tied systems shut off during a power outage for safety. To maintain power during outages common to our area, you must install a dedicated solar battery backup system (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar), which adds to the cost but provides essential backup electricity.