Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Rutherford, New Jersey. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Trinity Solar is one of the largest regional residential solar installers in the Northeast. They are a well-established, employee-owned company known for a comprehensive, in-house process from consultation and design to installation and maintenance. They have a very strong local presence in New Jersey.
Skylands Energy is a highly-rated, local New Jersey company specializing in residential HVAC and solar solutions. They are praised for their customer service, expert consultations, and high-quality installation work. They focus on integrating solar with home energy efficiency.
Sunrun is one of the nation's largest dedicated residential solar, battery storage, and energy services companies. They are a major player in the New Jersey market, offering strong manufacturer partnerships and a prominent PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) and leasing program, in addition to purchase options.
The home solar market in Rutherford, New Jersey, is robust and competitive. As a state with strong solar incentives (including the Transitional Renewable Energy Certificate (TREC) program and federal tax credits) and high electricity rates, North Jersey is a prime market for solar adoption. The average quality of installers serving the area is high, with many nationally recognized and well-established local companies competing for business. Homeowners have a wide range of choices from large national providers (like Sunrun) to top-tier regional specialists (like Trinity Solar and Skylands Energy). Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive, but consumers are advised to get multiple quotes. The final cost is highly dependent on system size, roof complexity, and equipment choices, but a typical 6kW system can range from $18,000 to $25,000 before incentives, with financing, loans, and leases widely available to reduce upfront costs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Rutherford regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Rutherford, New Jersey.
For a typical Rutherford home, a 6-8 kW solar system costs between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, New Jersey homeowners benefit from the state's exemption from the 6.625% sales tax on solar equipment and the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which covers 30% of the total system cost. Additionally, you earn valuable Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs) for the power you generate, providing ongoing income that significantly improves payback time.
New Jersey's four-season climate is excellent for solar energy production. Rutherford receives ample annual sunshine, with peak production in the sunnier spring and summer months. While winter snow can temporarily reduce output, modern panels are efficient at low temperatures and snow usually slides off angled panels quickly. The system is designed to account for seasonal variations, ensuring you generate enough annual power to meet your needs.
Installing solar in Rutherford requires a building permit from the Borough's Construction Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process, which includes ensuring your roof structure meets code and submitting an electrical diagram. You do not need a variance for a standard roof-mounted system, but if your home is in a historic district, there may be additional aesthetic review. The installer will also manage the interconnection agreement with PSE&G.
Select a provider with extensive local experience in Bergen County. They should be familiar with Rutherford's specific permitting process, PSE&G's interconnection requirements, and optimal designs for local weather patterns. Verify they are New Jersey-licensed electrical contractors, certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), and check reviews from nearby customers. Always get multiple detailed quotes that compare equipment, warranties, and projected SREC production.
No. New Jersey offers a 100% property tax exemption for residential renewable energy systems. This means the added value from your solar installation will not increase your Rutherford property tax assessment. This state law, combined with the sales tax exemption and SREC program, makes solar a financially advantageous home improvement with protected long-term value for New Jersey homeowners.