Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Paradise Energy Solutions is a highly-rated, faith-based company that has become a regional leader in residential and commercial solar installations. They are known for their customer-centric approach, high-quality equipment, and transparent, no-pressure sales process. They handle the entire project in-house, from design and permitting to installation and maintenance.
Brightside Solar is a local, employee-owned company dedicated to the Pennsylvania market. They emphasize custom system design and expert installation, backed by strong warranties. Their local expertise is a significant advantage for navigating Pennsylvania-specific incentives and utility interconnection processes.
While physically located in Lancaster, Pure Energy Solar is a well-established and reputable installer that serves a wide area of central PA, including Hummelstown. They focus on providing comprehensive, high-value solar solutions and are known for their professional customer service and quality workmanship.
** The home solar market in Hummelstown, and central Pennsylvania at large, is mature and competitive, characterized by several high-quality, regional installers rather than national corporations. The average quality of service is high, as the leading companies are established, hold necessary NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certifications, and have strong track records. Competition is robust, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 to $28,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost. Pennsylvania also offers a solar renewable energy credit (SREC) market, which can provide ongoing income for system owners. All top-tier installers will provide detailed consultations that include a breakdown of these incentives and financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hummelstown regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Hummelstown, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, Pennsylvania offers significant savings through the federal solar tax credit (26-30% of system cost) and its own Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, where you earn income for the clean energy your system produces. Additionally, you can benefit from net metering with your local utility, like PPL Electric Utilities, which credits you for excess power sent back to the grid.
Hummelstown's four-season climate provides excellent solar potential, with sunny summers yielding high production and clear, cold winter days often boosting panel efficiency. While shorter days and occasional snow in winter reduce monthly output, modern panels are effective in diffuse light and the annual average is strong. Proper installation at an optimal angle (around 34-38 degrees for our latitude) ensures snow sheds efficiently and maximizes year-round energy harvest.
Yes, you will need to obtain a building permit from Derry Township (which governs Hummelstown) and your installation must pass an inspection by the township's code official. If your home is part of a Homeowners Association (HOA), Pennsylvania's Solar Rights Act (Act 40 of 2022) significantly restricts an HOA's ability to prohibit solar installations, though they can establish reasonable rules for placement and aesthetics. Always verify with your specific HOA covenants.
Prioritize installers with strong local experience, proper Pennsylvania licensing (Home Improvement Contractor registration), and certifications from manufacturers like SunPower or Tesla. Look for companies familiar with PPL Electric Utilities' interconnection process and Derry Township's permitting requirements. Always check reviews, ask for references from recent Hummelstown-area installations, and ensure they provide a detailed production estimate specific to your roof's orientation and local weather patterns.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during a power outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup like a Tesla Powerwall. For weather resilience, panels installed in Hummelstown are rated to withstand Pennsylvania's hailstorms, high winds, and snow loads. Reputable installers will engineer your mounting system to exceed local building codes, and the tempered glass on panels is extremely durable against typical storm debris.