Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hornell, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in Rochester, NY, with a strong reputation for comprehensive service. They handle the entire process from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and maintenance. They are known for their expertise in local incentives and their strong customer service track record.
A well-established, family-owned solar company with a significant presence across New York State, including Western NY and the Southern Tier. They offer a full suite of services and are known for high-quality installations and robust warranty packages. They have experience with both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems.
A more localized contractor specializing in both roofing and solar installations, providing an integrated solution for homeowners. Based in the broader Southern Tier/Western NY region, they offer personalized service and are a good option for homeowners looking for a combined roofing and solar project or more direct, local contractor attention.
** The home solar market in Hornell, NY, is characteristic of a smaller, upstate New York city. The competition is moderate, with no major national installers having a physical local presence, creating an opportunity for strong regional and local providers. The average quality of service is high, as the companies that succeed in this market are typically established, reputable, and rely on word-of-mouth. Typical pricing is competitive with state averages, with the average residential system cost before incentives ranging from $15,000 to $30,000, heavily dependent on system size and equipment. Homeowners in Hornell benefit from strong state-level incentives like NYSERDA's Megawatt Block program and the Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC), which reputable installers are well-versed in navigating. The market is primarily focused on grid-tied systems with battery storage becoming an increasingly popular add-on for energy resilience.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hornell regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hornell, New York.
For a typical Hornell home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. 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. Combined, these can reduce your net cost by 40-50%.
Yes, absolutely. While Hornell has snowy winters, solar panels are efficient in cold, sunny weather and the snow often melts and slides off angled panels quickly. More importantly, New York has strong net metering policies, allowing you to earn credits from surplus summer production to offset your higher winter usage. The region receives sufficient annual sunlight to make solar a strong financial and environmental investment.
Installation requires a building permit from the City of Hornell's Code Enforcement Office. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process. They will ensure the system meets the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, including specific requirements for roof load and electrical work. There is no specific city ordinance prohibiting solar, but your installer will check for any historic district or HOA restrictions.
Look for New York State-licensed electrical contractors (or subcontractors) with specific solar experience. Choose a provider familiar with navigating local permits, NYSERDA incentives, and interconnection with NYSEG (the local utility). Always get multiple quotes, check reviews, and verify they offer strong warranties (25-year is standard for panels). Local or regional installers often have the best knowledge of Hornell's specific roof styles and weather considerations.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After design and contract signing, your installer secures the Hornell building permit and submits interconnection paperwork to NYSEG. Physical installation usually takes 1-3 days. The longest wait is often for NYSEG to approve the interconnection and install a net meter, which can take several weeks. Planning for a spring installation is ideal to maximize summer production.