Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Northampton, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A regional leader in residential and commercial solar installations, known for its strong customer service, transparent pricing, and high-quality workmanship. They are a full-service provider handling everything from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing.
A highly-rated, local electrical contractor that has specialized in solar energy systems for over two decades. They are praised for their expertise, personalized service, and deep knowledge of Pennsylvania's incentive programs and electrical codes.
A well-established local contractor focusing on residential and small commercial solar projects. They are known for providing customized system designs and a hands-on approach, often working directly with the property owner throughout the process.
** The home solar market in Northampton, Pennsylvania, and the broader Lehigh Valley is robust and competitive. The average quality of providers is high, with several long-standing, reputable companies holding key certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size (kW), panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. Pennsylvania offers a strong incentive environment, including the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), net metering programs from utilities like PPL and Met-Ed, and the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) market, all of which reputable local installers are well-versed in navigating for their customers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Northampton regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Northampton, Pennsylvania.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Northampton, homeowners can expect an average gross cost between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal tax credit with Pennsylvania's Solar Alternative Energy Credit (SAEC) program, which provides additional income by selling the clean energy credits your system generates. Northampton County has no specific property tax for solar, and net metering with PPL Electric Utilities ensures you get credit for excess power sent to the grid.
Northampton's four-season climate is very suitable for solar. While winter snow and shorter days reduce production, panels are efficient in cold weather and snow typically slides off angled installations. The summer months provide long, sunny days for peak generation. Importantly, Pennsylvania receives a solid average of over 4 peak sun hours per day annually, making solar a reliable investment for offsetting your yearly electricity usage from PPL.
Yes, a permit is required. You or your installer must obtain an electrical and building permit from the Northampton Borough or Township building department, depending on your specific municipality. Local regulations typically address structural load, fire code setbacks, and aesthetic considerations. A reputable local installer will handle this entire process and ensure the system meets all Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC) and utility interconnection requirements.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in Northampton County and the Lehigh Valley. Verify they are properly licensed, insured, and certified by organizations like NABCEP. Ask for references from recent installations in your area and confirm they handle all local permitting, PPL interconnection, and SAEC program enrollment. Checking reviews on trusted third-party sites and their standing with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection is also wise.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a PPL outage for safety, to prevent sending power back to the grid and endangering utility workers. To have power during an outage, you need a system with battery storage (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar) that can island your home. Some newer inverters offer a limited emergency power outlet, but for whole-home backup, a battery is essential and is a popular add-on for Northampton homeowners concerned about grid reliability.