Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Cabot, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A Vermont and New York B-Corp focused on making solar energy accessible and affordable. They are one of the most prominent residential solar installers in the state, known for their community-focused approach, extensive local marketing, and comprehensive service from consultation to maintenance.
A highly respected, employee-owned solar installer known for high-quality craftsmanship and expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems. They serve Vermont and New Hampshire, with a strong reputation for tackling challenging installations in rural areas.
A local Vermont company that has grown significantly by emphasizing customer service and quality installations. They offer a full suite of solar services and are known for their knowledgeable staff and clean, professional installations.
** The home solar market in and around Cabot, Vermont, is characterized by high-quality, specialized regional installers rather than national corporations. This results in a competitive environment focused on service quality and local expertise, not just price. The competition level is moderate but sophisticated, with providers deeply knowledgeable about Vermont-specific incentives like net metering, the state's Renewable Energy Standard, and federal tax credits. Typical pricing for a residential system in Vermont is competitive with the national average, 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 - $28,000**. However, after applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and other potential state incentives, the net cost can be significantly reduced. The challenging terrain and weather conditions in the Northeast Kingdom mean that expertise in snow load and off-grid capabilities is a valuable asset among the 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 Cabot regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Cabot, Vermont.
Vermont's winter reduces production, but modern panels are efficient and shed snow well. A key design consideration for Cabot homeowners is tilting panels at a steeper angle (closer to 45 degrees) to maximize winter sun capture and encourage snow slide-off. Your installer will also size your system to generate excess power in the sunny summer months to build up credits with Green Mountain Power to offset your higher winter usage, ensuring year-round savings.
Beyond the 30% federal tax credit, Vermont offers strong local incentives. You can receive a state tax credit of up to $5,000, and most importantly, participate in net metering with Green Mountain Power. This program credits you at the full retail rate for excess energy you send to the grid. Additionally, installing a solar system increases your property value and, in Vermont, this increased value is exempt from property tax for 20 years.
Yes, your installer will typically manage this process. In Cabot, you'll need a permit from the town, and Vermont has a streamlined "Certificate of Public Good" process for residential systems under 15 kW, which most homes are. A crucial local consideration is ensuring your site isn't shaded and that the installation complies with any local aesthetic or historic district guidelines, though these are less common in rural Cabot.
Look for Vermont-based installers with extensive experience in the Northeast climate. They should be licensed, insured, and NABCEP-certified. Ask for references from recent installations in Washington or Caledonia counties and verify they handle all local permitting and interconnection with Green Mountain Power. Reputable providers will offer a detailed production estimate specific to your property's sun exposure and Cabot's weather patterns.
This is a critical consideration. Solar panels have a 25+ year lifespan, and removing them for a roof repair is costly. If your asphalt shingle roof in Cabot is over 15 years old or shows signs of wear, it is highly recommended to replace it before installation. Vermont's freeze-thaw cycles and snow loads stress roofs, so starting with a sound, new roof protects your major investment and avoids future complications.