Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Ontario, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Paragon Solar is a leading local and employee-owned solar installer based in Rochester. They are highly regarded for their custom system design, exceptional customer service, and deep knowledge of New York State incentives, including NYSERDA and tax credits. They focus on a high-touch, consultative approach from initial design through post-installation support.
While headquartered in Buffalo, this company has a significant presence and installs extensively throughout Western New York, including the Rochester and Wayne County areas. They are known for their robust operations, strong manufacturer partnerships (like Panasonic and Enphase), and offering both purchase and PPA financing options.
CIR is a well-established, full-service electrical contractor that has diversified into a premier solar installer. Their long history as a master electrician company gives them a distinct advantage in system integration, electrical work, and understanding local building codes. They are an excellent choice for complex installations and integrating solar with home electrical systems.
** The home solar market in Ontario, New York, and the broader Rochester area is mature and competitive. The quality of providers is generally high, with several established, locally-owned companies competing with a few regional players. The market is driven by favorable New York State policies, including NYSERDA incentives and net metering, which make solar investments financially attractive. Competition helps keep pricing competitive, with the average cost for a residential system typically ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before incentives, depending on system size and complexity. Post-incentives, homeowners often see a significant reduction in this net cost. Consumers benefit from a range of choices between specialized solar-only installers and diversified electrical contractors, all of whom are well-versed in the local climate considerations, such as snow load and maximizing production in a four-season environment.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ontario regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Ontario, New York.
In the Ontario, NY area, a typical residential solar system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this cost through the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and New York's specific incentives, including NYSERDA's Megawatt Block Incentive, which provides a cash rebate per watt installed. Additionally, New York State offers a solar property tax exemption, ensuring your property taxes won't increase due to the added value of your system.
While Ontario experiences all four seasons, solar panels are highly effective here as they generate electricity from light, not heat, and actually perform more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Snow will temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle so snow typically slides off, and the dark surfaces help melt it quickly. System production is highest in the sunny spring and summer months, which helps build credits through net metering to offset lower winter production, ensuring annual savings.
New York has a robust net metering policy administered by your local utility (like RG&E). It allows you to send excess solar energy you produce back to the grid in exchange for bill credits. These credits roll over month-to-month and are used to offset your energy consumption at night or during less sunny periods. This system effectively turns your electric meter into a two-way street, ensuring you get full value for every kilowatt-hour your panels generate throughout the year.
Prioritize installers who are NYSERDA-approved and have extensive local experience, as they will be familiar with Ontario's specific permitting, utility interconnection processes, and snow load requirements. Look for companies with strong warranties (both on equipment and workmanship), proven local references, and certifications from organizations like NABCEP. A reputable local installer will also provide a detailed production estimate specific to your roof's orientation and our regional weather patterns.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes the design phase, securing permits from your local municipality and the utility (RG&E), the physical installation (which usually takes 1-3 days), and finally the utility inspection and interconnection approval to "turn on" the system. Seasonal factors can influence timing; for instance, installations are very busy in the spring, and winter weather may occasionally cause short delays for roof work.