Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hardwick, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A Vermont-based B-Corp and one of the most recognized residential solar installers in the state. They are known for their community-focused approach, strong customer service, and comprehensive in-house services from design to maintenance. They excel at navigating Vermont-specific incentives and offering accessible financing.
A highly-rated, local installer known for exceptional craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. They are a certified partner for top-tier equipment like Tesla Powerwall and Qcells. They offer robust solutions for both grid-tied and off-grid systems, making them a great fit for the more rural areas around Hardwick.
A leading regional installer serving New England with a strong commitment to sustainability and high-quality installations. They have extensive experience with cold-climate solar and offer a full suite of services including heat pumps, aligning with whole-home energy efficiency goals for Vermont homeowners.
** The home solar market in and around Hardwick, Vermont, is characterized by high-quality, specialized regional installers rather than a high volume of national companies. This results in a competitive but not oversaturated market where reputation and local expertise are paramount. The challenging Vermont climate demands installers with specific experience in snow loads, efficient winter production, and durable equipment. **Average Quality:** The quality is generally very high, as the companies that succeed in this market are established, certified (often NABCEP), and use top-tier equipment from manufacturers like Tesla, Enphase, and Qcells. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there aren't dozens of companies vying for business, the top few providers are highly competitive on service, technology offerings, and customer experience. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with the national average, typically ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 10 kW system, the gross cost would be ~$28,000 - $35,000. However, the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), along with Vermont-specific incentives like a state tax credit and net metering, can reduce the net cost by 40-50%, making solar a financially attractive investment for Hardwick homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hardwick regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hardwick, Vermont.
Solar panels do produce less energy in winter due to shorter days and snow cover, but they are designed for Vermont's climate. A properly angled system will shed snow efficiently, and the cold temperatures actually improve panel performance on clear days. Local installers will design your system with a higher capacity to ensure you generate enough excess power in the sunny summer months to build up credits with Green Mountain Power, offsetting your higher winter usage.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Vermont ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Critically, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit, a state property tax exemption, and net metering with your utility. Many local providers offer financing, and you should also explore low-interest loans from the Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) or a Home Energy Loan from Efficiency Vermont to make the upfront cost manageable.
Yes, you must comply with local and state rules. In Hardwick, you'll need a zoning permit from the town office, and a building/electrical permit is always required. Vermont has specific net metering interconnection rules with your utility (like GMP or Washington Electric Co-op), and your installer will handle this process. If you live in a historic district or have a unique property, early consultation with the town zoning administrator is recommended.
Look for established, local Vermont companies with strong track records in the Northeast Kingdom. They will have the specific experience needed for our climate and utility requirements. Essential checks include verifying they are licensed, insured, and NABCEP-certified. Always get multiple quotes, ask for local references in Hardwick or nearby towns, and confirm they will handle all permitting, interconnection, and incentive paperwork for you.
Yes, Vermont's net metering policy is excellent. Your system will over-produce in sunnier months, banking kilowatt-hour credits with your utility. You then draw down those credits at night and during low-production winter months, effectively zeroing out your annual bill. However, standard grid-tied systems shut off during a power outage for safety. To have backup power, you must discuss adding a critical-load battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall) with your installer.