Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Swanton, Vermont. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
SunCommon is a Vermont-based B-Corp and a market leader in residential solar. They are highly regarded for their community-focused approach, extensive local expertise, and comprehensive in-house services from design to installation and maintenance. They have a strong physical presence in nearby St. Albans.
A family-owned electrical contractor with decades of experience, Peck Electric has a dedicated and highly skilled solar division. They are known for high-quality, professional installations and expertise in both grid-tied and more complex electrical integrations, including battery storage.
All Earth Renewables has been a major player in the Vermont solar scene for years. They are recognized for their robust solar tracking systems and their deep knowledge of local and state incentives. They offer a full suite of services and have significant experience with the specific climate and regulatory environment of Vermont.
** The home solar market in Swanton, Vermont, is robust and competitive, characterized by high-quality, established providers. Due to Vermont's supportive net metering policies, state incentives (like a sales tax exemption), and the federal investment tax credit (ITC), the adoption rate is strong. The market is dominated by a few key Vermont-based companies that have built their reputation on reliability and local knowledge, which is crucial for navigating Vermont's specific climate, weather patterns, and interconnection rules with utilities like Green Mountain Power (GMP). **Average Quality & Competition:** The average quality of service is high, with companies holding necessary state licensing and often featuring NABCEP-certified installers. While Swanton itself may not host a large number of corporate offices, it is actively served by the state's top-tier providers located in the nearby Burlington metro area and St. Albans. This creates a healthy, competitive environment for homeowners. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing for residential solar in Vermont is generally in line with the national average, ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This means a typical 10 kW system would have a gross cost between **$28,000 and $35,000**. However, after applying the 30% federal tax credit and other potential state incentives, the net cost can be significantly reduced. Most companies offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible with little to no money down.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Swanton regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Swanton, Vermont.
While solar production is lower in winter due to shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient in cold, sunny weather. Snow typically slides off angled panels, and Vermont's high number of sunny, clear winter days can yield strong production. Importantly, Vermont's net-metering policy allows you to bank summer overproduction credits to offset winter usage, making a system viable year-round.
The gross cost for a typical home system in Swanton ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal tax credit with Vermont's state incentives, like the 6% state property tax exemption and the favorable net-metering program. Local installers often offer financing, and you may also explore options through VSECU or other Vermont-based green energy loan programs.
You will need an electrical permit from the Town of Swanton and interconnection approval from Green Mountain Power (GMP), the local utility. Vermont has streamlined "permit by rule" for residential solar under 50kW, simplifying the process. It's essential to work with a licensed Vermont electrician or installer who will handle these permits and ensure compliance with state electrical and building codes.
Prioritize Vermont-based installers with extensive local experience, as they understand regional weather and utility requirements. Check their certification (like NABCEP) and verify they are licensed Vermont electricians. Ask for references from Swanton or Franklin County projects and compare detailed proposals that account for local snow and wind loads. The VT Department of Public Service maintains a list of registered contractors.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during an outage for safety. To have power during Swanton's occasional winter outages, you must install a dedicated solar battery backup system (like a Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell). This is a common upgrade in Vermont, storing excess solar energy to provide critical backup power for essential circuits when the grid is down.