Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Cortland, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Renovus Solar is a leading employee-owned solar installer based in the Finger Lakes region. They are highly regarded for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and design to installation and maintenance. Their deep knowledge of New York State incentives, including NY-SUN and the NYSERDA Megawatt Block program, is a significant strength for homeowners.
As a premier installer based in nearby Syracuse, this company has a strong presence in Central New York, including Cortland County. They are known for their robust manufacturer partnerships (e.g., with Qcells and Enphase) and offer strong warranty packages. They provide a full suite of services and are experts in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
Paradise Energy Solutions is a multi-state installer with a strong reputation for quality and customer service in the Northeast, including New York. They are known for their high-touch, consultative approach and are a SunPower Master Dealer, offering some of the industry's most efficient solar panels. They provide thorough energy assessments and stand behind their work with a strong Triple Guarantee warranty.
** The home solar market in Cortland, New York, is characterized by moderate competition primarily from established regional installers rather than large national companies. This benefits homeowners, as local and regional providers often have a deeper understanding of New York-specific incentives, local permitting processes, and the region's climate. The average quality of service is high, with companies holding necessary state licensing (like NYSERDA eligibility) and certifications from organizations like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Typical pricing for a residential system in Cortland is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before incentives. However, the effective cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and additional state-level incentives from NYSERDA, making solar a financially attractive investment. The market is mature, with providers offering a full range of services including battery storage (like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase batteries) to provide backup power, which is an increasingly popular addition.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Cortland regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Cortland, New York.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Cortland, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this with the 30% federal tax credit and New York's specific incentives, including NYSERDA's Megawatt Block Incentive (which provides a cash rebate per watt) and the property tax exemption for the added home value from solar. Net costs after incentives can often be 50% lower, and financing options like solar loans can make the upfront cost minimal.
Cortland's cold winters are actually beneficial for panel efficiency, as solar panels produce electricity more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle, and dark surfaces help snow slide off or melt quickly. It's generally recommended to let snow clear naturally; manual removal is rarely needed and can risk damaging panels or voiding warranties.
Installation requires a building permit from the City of Cortland or your specific town/village. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. Importantly, if you are a customer of NYSEG (the primary utility in the area), you must also submit an Interconnection Application to connect your system to the grid and enroll in Net Metering, which credits you for excess power sent back to the utility.
Look for installers who are NYSERDA-approved and have the necessary electrical and roofing licenses to operate in New York. Ask for local references and examples of past installations in Cortland County to see their work firsthand. It's also wise to choose a provider familiar with navigating NYSEG's interconnection process and local building department requirements to ensure a smooth installation.
Yes. While production is highest in sunny summer months, your system is designed based on Cortland's annual sun exposure (about 4 peak sun hours per day on average) to meet your yearly needs. Net Metering with NYSEG is key here: the excess credits you bank during high-production months offset your usage during lower-production periods like winter, effectively balancing your annual electricity costs.