Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Chittenden, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
SunCommon is a Vermont-born and B-Corp certified company that has become a dominant force in the state's residential solar market. They emphasize a community-focused model, making solar accessible through various purchase and loan options. Their strength lies in a seamless, customer-centric process from consultation to installation and maintenance.
ReVision Energy is a employee-owned, mission-driven company with a strong regional presence in Northern New England. They are known for their technical expertise, high-quality installations, and deep knowledge of both grid-tied and off-grid systems, including leading battery storage solutions from Tesla and Enphase.
Previously operating as Oakleaf Energy, this provider was a long-standing, trusted local installer that was recently acquired and now operates under the SunPower by Palmetto banner. They bring the combination of local installation expertise and the premium, high-efficiency solar equipment of SunPower.
** The home solar market in Chittenden County, Vermont, is mature, competitive, and of high average quality. Driven by Vermont's strong net-metering policies, state-specific incentives (like the VT Solar & Storage Incentive Program), and a community ethos focused on sustainability, the region is a hub for solar activity. The competition is primarily between a few large, well-established regional players (like SunCommon and ReVision Energy) who have deep roots and excellent reputations. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.80 per watt** before incentives, meaning an average 8 kW system costs between $22,400 and $30,400 gross. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and state incentives can reduce this net cost by 30% or more. Customers benefit from a market where companies are not only technically proficient but also highly knowledgeable about local permitting, utility interconnection (with Green Mountain Power), and maximizing financial returns. Battery storage installation is a rapidly growing segment due to its appeal for backup power and energy independence.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Chittenden regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Chittenden, Vermont.
Solar panels are quite effective in cold, sunny weather, and snow can actually reflect light, boosting production on clear days. While shorter winter days and snow cover will reduce output, Vermont's long summer days provide abundant generation. Importantly, panels are installed at an angle, so snow typically slides off, and systems are designed to produce a net annual surplus to offset lower winter production, ensuring year-round savings.
Vermont offers a strong incentive package: a 30% federal tax credit, a state property tax exemption for the added home value from solar, and net metering with Green Mountain Power and other local utilities that provides full retail credit for excess energy sent to the grid. Additionally, there is no state sales tax on renewable energy equipment, making the overall net cost very competitive.
Permitting is managed at the town level, so requirements vary between Burlington, South Burlington, Essex, Williston, etc. Most towns in Chittenden County have streamlined the process for residential rooftop solar, but some may have specific aesthetic or historic district guidelines. A reputable local installer will handle all necessary permits, including interconnection with Green Mountain Power, and will be familiar with your town's specific rules.
Look for established, local Vermont companies with strong track records in Chittenden County. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for references from recent installations in your specific town and confirm they handle all local permitting and utility interconnection (GMP, BED, etc.) directly. The Vermont Department of Public Service maintains a list of registered contractors.
For a standard rooftop system, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing local town permits (which can vary by municipality), equipment procurement, and the installation itself. The final step is the "Permission to Operate" from Green Mountain Power or your local utility, which involves installing a net meter and a final inspection. Scheduling can be affected by seasonal demand, so starting in spring or fall can avoid winter installation delays.