Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Clifton, New Jersey. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Trinity Solar is one of the largest and most established residential solar providers in the Northeast. They are a family-owned company known for handling the entire process in-house, from design and financing to installation and maintenance. Their strong reputation is built on longevity and a high volume of installations in New Jersey.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar with a significant presence in New Jersey. They are best known for their flexible solar lease and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) options, which allow homeowners to go solar with little or no upfront cost. They have extensive experience with New Jersey's specific incentive programs.
A highly-rated regional installer based in New Jersey, Green Power Energy is praised for its customer service and custom system design. They are a certified installer for top-tier equipment and focus heavily on the homeowner experience, from initial consultation through post-installation support.
The home solar market in Clifton, New Jersey, is robust and highly competitive, driven by the state's strong incentives like the Successor Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC-II) program and federal tax credits. The average quality of installers serving the area is high, with numerous established national and regional players vying for business. Homeowners benefit from this competition, which helps keep pricing competitive. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in New Jersey ranges from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives, meaning an average 8 kW system can have a gross cost between $22,400 and $28,000. However, after applying the 30% federal tax credit and state SREC benefits, the net cost can be significantly lower, often by 40-60%. Clifton's proximity to major solar markets and its suburban density make it a key service area for top-tier installers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Clifton regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Clifton, New Jersey.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Clifton, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this through the 30% federal tax credit and New Jersey's strong state incentives, including the Successor Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC-II) program, which pays you for the clean energy your system produces over 15 years. Additionally, Clifton homeowners benefit from the state's sales and property tax exemptions for solar installations.
Clifton's four-season climate is excellent for solar. While production peaks in sunny summer months, modern panels are efficient even on cloudy days and in cold weather, which actually improves panel conductivity. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle for snow to slide off, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. Annual production estimates account for our regional weather patterns, ensuring reliable performance year-round.
Installing solar in Clifton requires a building permit from the Clifton Building Department and an electrical permit. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. Furthermore, your system must be approved by your utility provider (PSE&G) for interconnection to the grid. From signing a contract to "flipping the switch," the entire process, including permitting, installation, and inspections, typically takes 2 to 4 months.
Prioritize local, New Jersey-licensed installers with strong experience in Clifton and Passaic County. They will be most familiar with local building codes, PSE&G's interconnection process, and optimal designs for our area. Check for North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification, read verified customer reviews on platforms like Google and EnergySage, and ensure they offer robust warranties. Always get multiple detailed quotes for comparison.
A professional assessment is key. Installers will evaluate your roof's age, condition, material, and sun exposure. Most asphalt shingle roofs in Clifton are suitable, but if replacement is needed soon, it's best done before solar installation. Maintenance is minimal—occasional cleaning with a garden hose to remove pollen or dirt is usually sufficient. The panels are durable and designed to withstand New Jersey's hail, wind, and snow loads.