Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Etna, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Renovus Solar is a leading local employee-owned company specializing in comprehensive residential and commercial solar solutions. They are deeply embedded in the Finger Lakes community and are known for their expert design, high-quality installations, and extensive knowledge of New York State incentives like NY-SUN.
TSI Solar is a well-established, family-owned contractor serving Central New York. They have a strong reputation for professionalism, custom system design, and excellent customer service. They handle the entire process from consultation and design to installation and maintenance.
SunCommon is a prominent B-Corp certified solar provider with a strong presence in the Hudson Valley and Upstate New York, including the Ithaca/Etna area. They focus on making solar accessible and are known for their community-focused approach, no-money-down financing, and streamlined process.
** The home solar market in and around Etna, New York, is robust and competitive, characterized by high-quality, established regional providers. Being in Tompkins County, which has a strong focus on sustainability and renewable energy, residents have access to several top-tier installers. The competition level is moderate to high, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and strong service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential system is aligned with national averages, but is significantly offset by strong state-level incentives like NY-SUN Megawatt Block incentives and the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), making the net cost of installation more affordable. Companies in this area are generally well-versed in both grid-tied and battery backup solutions, catering to a range of homeowner needs from simple energy bill reduction to full energy independence.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Etna regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Etna, New York.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Etna, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). New York State offers additional benefits, including a $5,000 NYSERDA solar rebate (which varies based on system size and income) and the property tax exemption, which ensures your local property taxes in Tompkins County won't increase due to the solar installation.
While winter days are shorter, solar panels are very effective in cold, sunny weather and can still produce significant energy. Snow will temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle, and dark surfaces help snow slide off or melt quickly. You generally do not need to manually clear them, as production loss over a winter is minimal and clearing can risk damaging the panels or voiding warranties.
Installation requires a building permit from the Town of Etna. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. If your home is part of a Homeowners Association (HOA), you should review its covenants, but New York State's Solar Rights Act (Property Law § 336-b) significantly restricts HOAs from prohibiting solar installations, though they may have reasonable aesthetic guidelines.
Prioritize installers who are NYSERDA-approved and have extensive local experience in Tompkins County. They will be most familiar with Etna's specific permitting, interconnection with NYSEG, and optimal system design for our climate. Always check reviews, ask for local references, and compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment quality, warranty coverage, and projected production estimates.
Yes, community solar is an excellent option if your roof isn't suitable. You can subscribe to a share of a local solar farm and receive credits on your NYSEG electric bill. Several projects are available in the region, and as an Etna resident, you can enroll without any installation on your property. This provides savings and supports renewable energy with no upfront cost or maintenance responsibility.