Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Erie, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A nationally recognized residential solar installer known for its streamlined process and strong financing options, including their "BluePower Plus" program that covers initial costs. They handle the entire process from design to permitting and installation, making solar adoption accessible for many homeowners.
As one of the largest dedicated residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun offers extensive experience and a variety of plans, including purchase, loan, and popular lease/PPA options. They are a leader in battery storage with the Brightbox battery system, providing backup power.
A Pennsylvania-based solar contractor offering a more localized, personalized approach. They specialize in custom system design for both grid-tied and off-grid applications and are known for their expertise with energy efficiency assessments to maximize homeowner savings.
** The home solar market in Erie, Pennsylvania, is moderately competitive and growing, characterized by a mix of large national installers and dedicated regional companies. The average quality of service is high, as companies must adhere to strict state licensing and electrical codes. Competition helps ensure competitive pricing and a range of service options. Erie's climate, with more sunny days than the Pennsylvania average, makes it a viable location for solar. The competition level is healthy, providing homeowners with several reputable choices without being oversaturated like some sunbelt states. Typical pricing for a residential system in Erie is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before incentives, depending on system size and complexity. The key financial driver for the region is the combination of the **30% Federal Solar Tax Credit** and Pennsylvania's net metering policies, which significantly improve the return on investment. Financing options are widely available, with loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) offered by most top providers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Erie regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Solar panels are very effective in Erie. While peak production occurs in sunnier months, panels still generate significant power on cloudy days and from reflected light off snow. Importantly, Pennsylvania's net metering policy allows you to bank excess summer credits to offset your higher winter electricity use from Penelec, making a system viable year-round.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Erie is between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal tax credit. Pennsylvania also offers a state-specific solar rebate program (often through the PA Sunshine Solar Program, when funded), and your system will be exempt from state sales tax, enhancing long-term savings.
Yes. You will need an electrical permit from the City of Erie's Bureau of Code Enforcement or your local township. Your installer will typically handle this. For interconnection, you must submit an application to Penelec (FirstEnergy) for net metering approval. They have specific requirements for system certification and safety equipment that your provider will manage.
Look for installers with strong local experience, as they understand Erie's specific climate, snow load requirements, and permitting processes. Verify they are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Always check reviews, ask for local references, and ensure they are properly licensed and insured to work in Pennsylvania.
Erie's significant lake-effect snow requires consideration. Installers will mount panels at an optimal angle (often 30-40 degrees) to help snow slide off more easily. The panels' dark surfaces also aid melting. You should plan for safe, occasional clearing of heavy snow drifts to maximize winter production, but generally, maintenance is minimal.