Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Catskill, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar with a strong local presence. They are known for their comprehensive service, from design to maintenance, and are a top choice for homeowners interested in solar leasing and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), in addition to direct purchases.
Apex Solar is a highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company based in the Capital Region. They have built an exceptional reputation for customer service, high-quality installation, and deep knowledge of New York State incentives like NY-SUN.
PlugPV is a specialized solar installer known for technical expertise and custom system design. They focus heavily on both grid-tied and advanced off-grid battery backup systems, making them an excellent choice for homeowners concerned with energy independence and reliability.
The home solar market in Catskill, New York, is active and supported by strong state-level incentives, making it an attractive area for reputable regional installers. The market is characterized by **moderate competition**, primarily from established Hudson Valley and Capital Region companies rather than many small, hyper-local outfits. The **average quality** of providers is high, as companies operating in New York must adhere to strict licensing and code requirements, and many are NABCEP-certified. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, but the net cost is significantly reduced for homeowners through the **26% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)**, NYS property tax abatements, and the NY-SUN Megawatt Block incentive, which provides a direct rebate. Consumers in this market are generally well-informed and have a choice between national providers with extensive financing options (like Sunrun) and high-touch local experts (like Apex Solar and PlugPV) who offer more customized solutions.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Catskill regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Catskill, New York.
A typical residential solar installation in the Catskill area ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 before incentives, depending on system size and roof complexity. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this cost with the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), NYSERDA's Megawatt Block Incentive (which offers a per-watt rebate), and the NY State Solar Tax Credit (up to $5,000). Combined, these can reduce your net cost by 40-50%. Local property tax exemptions also ensure your assessment won't increase due to the solar installation.
Solar panels are very effective in our climate; they generate power from daylight, not just direct sun, and perform better in cooler temperatures. Snow typically melts quickly off dark, tilted panels, and a light dusting often slides off. While December and January see lower production, the sunny spring, summer, and fall months generate surplus power. Net metering with Central Hudson Gas & Electric credits you for this surplus, banking it to offset your winter usage, ensuring year-round savings.
Installing solar in Catskill requires a building permit from the Town of Catskill Building Department. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process, ensuring plans comply with the NY State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code. If your home is in a historic district or has special zoning, additional review may be needed. The installer will also handle the mandatory interconnection agreement with Central Hudson, which is required to connect your system to the grid and participate in net metering.
Prioritize installers who are NYSERDA-approved and have specific experience in the Catskills/Hudson Valley region. Check for proper licensing (they should be a NY-licensed electrical contractor), strong local references, and multiple years in business. Ask for proof of workmanship and production warranties, and ensure they handle all local permitting and Central Hudson paperwork. Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics and always compare detailed proposals from at least three local companies.
A qualified installer will assess your roof's structure, age, and material (common in Catskill are asphalt shingle, metal, or flat roofs). If your roof is within 10-15 years of needing replacement, it is highly recommended to replace it before solar installation to avoid costly removal and re-installation fees later. Solar panels can extend the life of the roof sections they cover by protecting them from weather. Many local providers offer roofing services or partnerships to bundle these projects.