Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Cranberry, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally owned and operated company with a strong reputation for high-quality residential solar installations and exceptional customer service. They handle the entire process in-house, from design and permitting to installation and maintenance, and are known for their expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems.
A national leader in residential solar with a significant local presence. Sunrun is a strong option for homeowners seeking flexible financing, including popular Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and lease options, minimizing upfront costs. They have strong manufacturer partnerships and offer comprehensive monitoring and maintenance services.
A well-established regional contractor with deep expertise in energy systems, including solar. They are highly regarded for their professional system design and energy efficiency assessments, ensuring the solar system integrates well with the home's overall energy usage. They are a certified installer for top-tier equipment.
** The home solar market in Cranberry, Pennsylvania, is **moderately competitive and of high quality**, dominated by a mix of strong regional installers and national providers. The high quality of life and relative affluence in Cranberry make it a prime market for solar adoption. Homeowners have access to several reputable companies, reducing the risk of dealing with "fly-by-night" operations. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there aren't dozens of providers, the existing competition between established local experts (like EIS/ESD) and national giants (like Sunrun) drives a focus on customer service and technological offerings. **Average Quality:** High. The leading providers are professionally licensed, insured, and carry certifications from organizations like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). They use tier-1 solar panels and reputable inverter brands. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Pennsylvania ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For a typical 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 to $28,000**. The net cost is significantly reduced by the **30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)** and other state-specific incentives, which all top providers will help homeowners navigate. Financing options are widely available, including loans, leases, and PPAs, making solar accessible with little to no money down.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Cranberry regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Cranberry, Pennsylvania.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Cranberry, the gross cost before incentives is usually between $18,000 and $28,000. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, and Pennsylvania offers additional incentives like sales and property tax exemptions for solar equipment. Furthermore, you can participate in the state's Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards (AEPS) program, earning Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) for the power you generate, providing ongoing income that improves your return on investment.
While Cranberry experiences all four seasons, solar panels are effective year-round. They perform best in the sunny, long days of spring and summer, but cold, clear winter days can also yield good production as panels operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and their dark surfaces help melt light accumulations quickly, minimizing long-term impact on your annual energy harvest.
Installing solar in Cranberry Township requires a building permit from the Township's Community Development Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process, ensuring the system design meets all local building and electrical codes. Additionally, they will manage the interconnection agreement with your utility provider (like West Penn Power or Duquesne Light), which is mandatory to connect your system to the grid and participate in net metering.
Prioritize local, established installers with extensive experience in Butler County and Cranberry Township's specific permitting process. Verify they are properly licensed (PA Home Improvement Contractor license) and insured, and ask for references from recent local installations. A trustworthy provider will conduct a detailed site assessment of your roof's condition and sun exposure and provide a clear, customized proposal without using high-pressure sales tactics.
Yes, Pennsylvania has a statewide net metering policy mandated by Act 213. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses (e.g., on a sunny day), the excess is sent to the grid, and your utility meter runs backward, building a credit. At night or during cloudy periods, you draw power from the grid, using those credits. Your utility (such as West Penn Power) will true-up your account annually, ensuring you get full value for your solar generation.