Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hickory, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
EIS Solar is a highly-rated, veteran-owned company based in the Pittsburgh area. They specialize in end-to-end residential solar solutions, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are known for their customer service, expertise in local incentive programs, and offering both purchase and lease options.
ESD Solar is a leading regional installer with a strong track record in Western Pennsylvania. They offer comprehensive services, including energy efficiency assessments to maximize the benefit of a solar installation. They are a certified installer for top-tier equipment and are well-versed in both grid-tied and off-grid systems.
EZ Solar provides integrated solar and roofing services, which is a significant advantage for homeowners concerned about roof integrity before installation. They handle the entire process, including financing, permitting, installation, and interconnection, making the process streamlined for the customer.
** The home solar market in Hickory, PA, and the surrounding Washington County is robust and growing, characterized by high-quality regional competition rather than local, single-city operators. The market quality is generally high, with several established, well-reviewed companies based in the greater Pittsburgh area competing for business. These providers are typically well-versed in Pennsylvania-specific incentives, such as the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) market, and the federal investment tax credit (ITC). The competition level is **moderate to high**, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Homeowners in Hickory can expect to receive multiple quotes and should feel empowered to compare proposals. Typical pricing for a residential system in this region, before incentives, generally falls within the national average of **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**. For a standard 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$15,000 to $21,000**. However, after applying the 30% federal tax credit and other potential state incentives, the net investment can be significantly reduced, often by a third or more. Most companies offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to accommodate different financial situations.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hickory regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hickory, Pennsylvania.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Hickory, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Critically, Pennsylvania homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. Additionally, you can participate in Pennsylvania's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, where you earn credits for the electricity you generate and can sell them for extra income, improving your long-term return on investment.
Hickory experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and cloudier winters. While production is highest in the long, sunny days of spring and summer, modern panels are efficient and still generate power on cloudy days and in winter. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle, and their dark surface helps snow melt and slide off relatively quickly, minimizing long-term impact on your annual energy production.
Installing solar in Hickory requires a building permit from your local municipality (Robinson Township). Your chosen installer will typically handle this process. You must also comply with interconnection rules from your utility company (likely West Penn Power, a FirstEnergy company) to connect your system safely to the grid. Pennsylvania has strong net metering laws, ensuring you get full credit for excess power sent back to the grid.
Look for providers with strong local experience in Western Pennsylvania, proper licensing (PA Home Improvement Contractor registration), and certifications from organizations like NABCEP. Ask for references from recent installations in Robinson Township or nearby Washington County and verify they handle all local permitting and utility interconnection paperwork. It's also wise to get multiple detailed quotes to compare equipment, warranties, and projected savings.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a battery backup like a Tesla Powerwall. For storm resilience, panels are rated to withstand Pennsylvania's hail and high winds; installers in Hickory follow strict building codes for wind loads. A battery backup is a popular add-on that provides power during outages, which can be especially valuable during the region's occasional severe thunderstorms and winter storms.