Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in East Aurora, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local installer backed by the manufacturer of the highest-efficiency residential solar panels on the market. They offer a fully integrated solution, from custom design and financing to installation and maintenance, all supported by a comprehensive 25-year warranty.
A locally owned and operated company known for its personalized customer service and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They are certified installers for top-tier equipment and have deep knowledge of New York State incentives, including NYSERDA programs.
While headquartered on Long Island, Empower Solar is a major player across New York State with a strong presence and numerous installations in Western New York. They are a full-service provider offering design, installation, maintenance, and a strong focus on battery backup solutions like the Generac PWRcell.
** The home solar market in East Aurora and the wider Western New York region is mature and competitive. The area benefits from a strong net metering policy from National Grid, making solar a financially attractive investment. The combination of federal tax credits and NYSERDA incentives further reduces the upfront cost for homeowners. **Average Quality:** The market is bifurcated. There are several high-quality, established local and regional installers (like the ones listed) who use top-tier equipment and offer robust warranties and service. However, there are also national "door-knocking" companies and smaller, less-established contractors, so due diligence is critical. **Competition Level:** High. Homeowners in East Aurora are actively marketed to by a mix of local specialists and larger state-wide companies. This competition can be beneficial for consumers, leading to more competitive pricing and better service offerings. **Typical Pricing:** As of 2024, the average cost for a residential solar system in New York before incentives is between **$2.80 and $3.50 per watt**. A typical 8 kW system would have a gross cost between $22,400 and $28,000. After applying the 30% federal tax credit and any applicable NYSERDA rebates, the net investment is significantly lower, often paying for itself in 7-10 years depending on energy usage.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with East Aurora regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in East Aurora, New York.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in East Aurora, 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 a direct cash rebate, and the property tax exemption for the added home value from solar. National Grid also offers net metering, allowing you to earn credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Solar panels are efficient in cold, sunny weather, and snow typically slides off smooth panels quickly, especially on pitched roofs common in East Aurora. Winter production will be lower due to shorter days, but the system is designed to produce more than you need in summer to build up net metering credits with National Grid for use in darker months. Minimal maintenance is required; occasional clearing of heavy, persistent snow can be done with a roof rake (carefully) to maximize winter sun capture.
Installation requires an electrical permit and a building permit from the Town of East Aurora Building Department. Your installer should handle this process, ensuring compliance with the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and the National Electrical Code. Specific rules regarding roof setbacks and structural load apply, which a reputable local installer will navigate efficiently. There are no restrictive homeowners association (HOA) solar laws in New York State, protecting your right to install.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Erie County and specific knowledge of National Grid's interconnection process. Check for New York State licensure (like a NYS Electrical License), certifications (NABCEP), and a robust portfolio of installations in East Aurora and similar communities. Always get multiple detailed quotes, read local reviews, and ask for references from recent customers to compare equipment quality, warranty terms, and projected production estimates for our climate.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery storage system. Adding a battery (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar) is a popular and highly recommended upgrade in East Aurora to provide backup power during National Grid outages, which are more common in winter. This allows you to keep critical loads running using energy stored from your panels, providing independence and resilience during severe lake-effect snow events.