Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Chemung, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based on Long Island with a significant presence in New York State, including the Southern Tier. They are known for comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation and long-term maintenance. They are a certified installer for top-tier equipment and have a strong reputation for customer service and handling complex projects.
A locally-owned and operated company specializing in bringing solar energy to the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions of New York. They emphasize personalized service, local expertise, and deep knowledge of New York state incentives like NYSERDA programs. They handle everything from grid-tied residential systems to off-grid and battery backup solutions.
** The home solar market in the Chemung area is served by a mix of strong regional players and dedicated local contractors. Due to Chemung's smaller size, residents typically rely on companies based in nearby Elmira, Corning, or broader New York State installers who service the region. Competition is healthy, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. The average quality of installers is high, with many holding NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certifications. Typical pricing for a residential system in New York State falls between **$2.50 and $3.50 per watt** before incentives, meaning a standard 6 kW system could have a gross cost of $15,000 to $21,000. However, with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and New York State-specific incentives like the NY-Sun Megawatt Block incentive from NYSERDA, the net cost can be significantly reduced, often by 25-50%. Providers in this area are generally well-versed in these financial incentives and offer various financing options, including loans and leases.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Chemung regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Chemung, New York.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Chemung County, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with New York State's specific incentives, including the NY-Sun Megawatt Block incentive, which provides an upfront rebate, and the removal of state sales tax on eligible systems. This combination can significantly reduce your net cost, often by 40-50%.
Chemung's four-season climate is excellent for solar, as cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency, and snow cover is typically manageable. While production is lower in shorter winter days, panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. Furthermore, NY's net metering policy credits you for summer overproduction, which can offset lower winter generation, ensuring year-round savings.
Prioritize installers who are NYSERDA-approved and have specific experience navigating the interconnection process with your local utility, like NYSEG or RG&E in our region. Look for established local companies with a physical presence, as they understand local building codes, roof structures common to older Chemung homes, and can provide reliable long-term service and maintenance support.
From contract to activation, plan for 2 to 5 months. The timeline includes site assessment, system design, securing permits from your local Chemung town or village, NYSERDA incentive approval, and scheduling the interconnection agreement with your utility. Working with an experienced local installer streamlines this, as they are familiar with the specific permit requirements and utility timelines in our area.
New York's net metering policy is a major benefit. When your panels produce more electricity than your home uses (like on sunny summer days), the excess is sent to the grid, and your utility (NYSEG/RG&E) credits your account. You then use these credits to offset the cost of power you draw from the grid at night or during low-production periods, like cloudy winter days, effectively rolling your meter backward and maximizing your financial return.