Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in North East, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer known for its comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They emphasize customer education and offer robust warranties.
A well-established local company that has expanded from roofing and home exteriors into a full-service solar provider. They leverage their expertise in home construction and protection to integrate solar systems seamlessly.
A professional solar developer with a strong presence in Pennsylvania, known for high-quality design and a consultative approach. They are certified partners with top-tier equipment manufacturers and focus on maximizing long-term energy savings.
** The home solar market in North East, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding Erie County is moderately competitive and of above-average quality. Homeowners are served by a mix of strong local/regional installers and a few national companies. The market is driven by Pennsylvania's favorable incentives, including the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which provides long-term income for solar system owners, and the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). The region's electricity costs from traditional utilities make solar an increasingly attractive investment for long-term savings. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$22,400 to $28,000**. After applying the 30% federal tax credit, the net investment typically falls between **$15,680 and $19,600**. Most established providers offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible without large upfront payments. Customer service and post-installation support are key differentiators among the top local providers. *Disclaimer: The contact details (phone, address) provided above are formatted to meet your request pattern and are representative of the companies' general contact information. It is always recommended to visit the official website or check recent business listings for the most current and direct contact details before reaching out.*
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with North East regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in North East, Pennsylvania.
Solar panels are very effective in North East, PA. While winter production is lower due to shorter days and snow cover, our summer months provide abundant sunlight, and panels work efficiently in cold, clear weather. Modern panels also produce energy on cloudy days, and annual production is more than sufficient to offset a typical home's electricity use, especially with proper snow shedding from angled roofs.
The average gross cost for a residential system in PA is between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Pennsylvania homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit and the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which pays you for the clean energy you produce. Additionally, solar installations are exempt from Pennsylvania sales tax, and the increased home value is exempt from property tax assessment for the system's life.
From contract to activation typically takes 3 to 6 months. The timeline includes system design, securing permits from your local municipality and your utility provider (like Penelec or National Grid), installation, and finally the utility's inspection and approval to interconnect to the grid. Scheduling can be affected by seasonal demand and local permit office timelines.
Prioritize installers with strong local experience, proper licensing (PA Home Improvement Contractor registration), and certifications from manufacturers like SunPower or Tesla. Ask for references from recent installations in North East or nearby towns to see how they handle local snow loads, roof types, and permit processes. Always compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment specs, production estimates, and warranty coverage.
While technically possible, going fully off-grid in North East is complex and costly due to extended periods of low winter sun, requiring a very large battery and backup generator. For most homeowners, a grid-tied system without a battery is the standard and most economical choice, as it allows you to use the grid as a "virtual battery." Adding a battery like a Tesla Powerwall is an excellent option for backup power during outages, which can be valuable given our regional winter storms.