Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Plainfield, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
SunCommon is a Vermont and New York B-Corp focused exclusively on home solar and heating. They are one of the most prominent and well-marketed solar providers in the state, known for a community-oriented approach and strong expertise in local incentives and financing. They offer a full suite of services from consultation to installation and maintenance.
A highly-rated, employee-owned company based in White River Junction. They have a strong reputation for quality installations, expert system design, and exceptional customer service. They work with top-tier equipment manufacturers and have extensive experience with both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems for Vermont's rural landscape.
Norwich Solar is a reputable installer known for its engineering-focused approach and high-quality craftsmanship. They specialize in custom-designed systems for residential and commercial properties, often handling more complex projects. Their team has deep knowledge of the latest battery storage technologies and state regulations.
** The home solar market in Plainfield, Vermont, is robust and competitive, characterized by a high concentration of skilled, local installers rather than national corporations. The market quality is generally very high, as Vermont's regulatory environment and incentive structures attract knowledgeable and certified professionals. Competition is strong among the top-tier regional companies, which drives a focus on customer service and quality. Typical pricing for a residential system in Vermont is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of $20,000 - $28,000. However, this cost is significantly offset by the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC), Vermont's state incentives, and net metering policies that provide bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid. Most leading providers offer a variety of financing options, including loans and leases, making solar accessible with little to no money down. The challenging Vermont climate also means that top installers are experienced in designing systems that optimize production despite snow and fewer sun hours in winter, often incorporating battery storage for resilience during power outages.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Plainfield regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Plainfield, Vermont.
Solar panels are quite effective in Vermont's cold climate, as they operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and the dark surfaces melt snow relatively quickly. Importantly, Vermont's net-metering policy credits you for all energy produced year-round, so strong summer generation offsets lower winter production.
A typical residential system in the Plainfield area ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size. Key incentives include the 30% federal tax credit, a state property tax exemption, and Vermont's robust net-metering program. Additionally, you may benefit from local financing options like the Vermont Solar Loan Program, which offers attractive rates to reduce upfront costs.
Yes, you will need a permit from the Plainfield town office, and your installer will typically handle this. Vermont has a streamlined "Certificate of Public Good" process for net-metered systems under 500 kW, which your provider manages through the Public Utility Commission. It's also wise to check with your local electric cooperative, Washington Electric Co-op, for their specific interconnection requirements.
Look for Vermont-based installers with extensive experience in the local climate and with Washington Electric Co-op's interconnection process. Check for certifications like NABCEP, read reviews, and ask for references from recent installations in Caledonia or Washington counties. A reputable provider will offer a detailed site assessment that accounts for your roof's condition, local shading from trees, and optimal panel placement for our latitude.
Yes, you will remain connected to the grid, ensuring power when solar production is low. Vermont's net-metering policy is annual, allowing you to "bank" excess kilowatt-hours (kWh) generated during sunny months as credits. These credits are then used to offset your usage at night and during winter months on your Washington Electric Co-op bill, providing significant savings across the entire year.