Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Montpelier, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
SunCommon is a Vermont-based B-Corp and one of the most recognized residential solar installers in the state. They focus on making solar energy accessible and affordable through community-focused programs, various financing options, and a strong emphasis on customer experience. They handle the entire process, from initial consultation and design to installation, financing, and maintenance.
Norwich Solar is a highly-rated, employee-owned company known for its expertise and high-quality installations. They specialize in both residential and commercial projects, with a strong focus on custom system design and integrating battery storage for energy resilience. They are well-regarded for their technical knowledge and professional service.
A leading Vermont solar installer with a strong track record of successful residential and commercial projects. They offer comprehensive services from design to maintenance and are known for their expertise in navigating Vermont's specific incentives and net-metering policies. They are a SunPower master dealer, offering high-efficiency panels with strong warranties.
** The home solar market in Montpelier, and Vermont as a whole, is mature and highly competitive, driven by the state's strong renewable energy goals and supportive incentive programs. The average quality of installers is very high, with many companies holding advanced certifications (like NABCEP) and decades of collective experience. Competition is robust among a handful of established local and regional leaders, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and high service standards. Typical pricing for a residential system in Vermont ranges from **$3.00 to $4.00 per watt** before incentives. For an average 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$24,000 - $32,000**. However, the net cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), Vermont's state incentives, and net metering, which allows homeowners to receive credits for excess power sent back to the grid. Most top-tier providers offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible without large upfront payments.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Montpelier regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Montpelier, Vermont.
Solar panels are very effective in Vermont's climate. They generate electricity from daylight, not heat, and cold temperatures can actually improve panel efficiency. Snow typically slides off angled panels, and our long summer days provide excellent production, often creating a surplus that offsets lower winter generation through Vermont's net metering program with Green Mountain Power.
After federal and state incentives, a typical Montpelier home system costs between $15,000-$25,000 upfront. Key incentives include the 30% federal tax credit, a state property tax exemption, and a state sales tax exemption. Financing options include cash purchases, solar loans, and third-party leases or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) from local installers, with many offering $0-down plans.
Yes. Montpelier falls under the Vermont's "10-Day Rule" for permitting, which streamlines the process for standard residential systems. You must comply with local utility interconnection requirements (typically Green Mountain Power) and secure a Certificate of Public Good from the Vermont Public Utility Commission. Most residential rooftop systems in Montpelier do not require a complex local zoning permit.
Look for Vermont-based, licensed electrical contractors with specific solar experience. Check their certifications (like NABCEP) and membership in organizations like Renewable Energy Vermont. Always get multiple quotes, ask for local references, and verify they handle all permitting, interconnection, and incentive paperwork. A provider familiar with Montpelier's specific weather and utility requirements is crucial.
For safety reasons, standard grid-tied systems automatically shut down during an outage unless they include a dedicated battery storage system. Many Montpelier homeowners are now adding batteries (like the Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell) to provide backup power. This is a valuable consideration given Vermont's weather, and it qualifies for additional state incentives.