Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Cheltenham, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar with a strong presence in Pennsylvania. They are known for their comprehensive service, offering purchase, loan, and popular Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) leasing options. Their strength lies in seamless project management, strong manufacturer warranties, and their Brightbox solar battery storage integration.
Tesla is a major player known for its sleek, integrated solar roof and solar panel systems. Their key differentiator is the Tesla Powerwall battery, which pairs seamlessly with their solar installations. They focus on a direct-to-consumer model, which can be more cost-effective, but customers should be prepared for a more streamlined, less hand-holding sales process.
Momentum Solar is a rapidly growing national installer that has expanded significantly in the Pennsylvania market. They receive positive marks for their customer service throughout the installation process and their focus on custom-designed systems. They offer both purchase and loan options and are proficient with the local permit and incentive process.
Contact our editorial team to learn about being featured as a top-rated home solar provider in Cheltenham.
Get in Touch** The home solar market in Cheltenham, PA, is active and competitive, characterized by a mix of large national providers and strong regional installers vying for business in the affluent Philadelphia suburbs. The average quality of providers is high, as companies operating in this market must be well-versed in Pennsylvania-specific incentives, such as the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which provides significant long-term financial benefits. **Competition Level:** High. Residents of Cheltenham are likely to be contacted by multiple installers, providing them with a good range of options and competitive pricing. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Pennsylvania ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. For a typical 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost between **$20,000 and $28,000**. The final cost is highly dependent on roof complexity, equipment chosen, and the installer's pricing structure. The presence of lucrative SRECs in PA improves the return on investment, making solar an economically attractive option for many homeowners in the area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Cheltenham regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Cheltenham, Pennsylvania.
For a typical Cheltenham home, a 6-8 kW solar system costs between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, Pennsylvania homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit and the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which can provide significant long-term income. Additionally, Cheltenham residents should check PECO's net metering policies and any potential local property tax exemptions for the added system value.
Cheltenham's four-season climate provides excellent solar potential, with sunny summers yielding high production and colder, clear winter days still generating meaningful power. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage shedding and often melt quickly. The key is annual production, and Pennsylvania receives enough sunlight to make solar highly effective, with systems designed to maximize output across all seasons.
Installing solar in Cheltenham requires a building permit from the Cheltenham Township Building and Zoning Department. Your installer should handle this process, ensuring the system meets local zoning codes, setback requirements, and structural load standards for your roof. A final inspection and approval from the Township and a connection agreement with your utility (PECO) are required before your system can be activated.
Prioritize local or regional installers with proven experience in Montgomery County, as they will be most familiar with Cheltenham Township's specific permit process and PECO's interconnection requirements. Check for Pennsylvania-specific licenses (like Home Improvement Contractor registration), read local reviews, and ask for references from recent installations in the area. A reputable provider will conduct a detailed site assessment considering your roof's condition, orientation, and local shading.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, meaning you will not have power unless you add a critical component. To maintain electricity during Cheltenham outages, you must install a solar battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar). This setup creates a home microgrid, allowing your panels to power essential circuits. Some homeowners pair batteries with generators for extended backup, given our occasional severe winter storms.