Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in UVM, 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 prominent and trusted solar installers in the state. They are known for their community-focused approach, extensive educational resources, and streamlined process. They strongly emphasize making solar accessible to a wide range of homeowners through various financing options.
Originally founded in Maine, Revision Energy has a strong and respected presence in Vermont. They are a employee-owned company (ESOP) known for technical expertise, high-quality installations, and a strong focus on heat pumps and battery storage solutions to create comprehensive home energy systems.
A highly-rated, locally-owned installer known for exceptional customer service and custom system design. They have deep expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems, making them a go-to for rural properties and homeowners seeking energy independence. Their reviews consistently praise their professionalism and attention to detail.
** The home solar market in the UVM/Burlington area is highly developed and competitive, characterized by a high density of skilled, reputable installers. The average quality of service is exceptional, largely due to Vermont's strong regulatory standards and the technical demands of the region's climate. Competition is fierce, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a strong focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For a standard 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$16,800 to $21,000**. However, Vermont's robust incentive structure significantly reduces this net cost. Homeowners can leverage the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), a state-level incentive that accelerates depreciation, and Vermont's unique "Addison County" renewable energy credits, making the return on investment one of the strongest in the country. Most reputable installers in the area are NABCEP-certified and have deep expertise in navigating these local and state-specific incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with UVM regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in UVM, Vermont.
Solar panels are highly effective in Vermont's cold, sunny winters as they operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Snow will temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and the reflective properties of snow can even boost production on clear days. Vermont's net-metering policy ensures you earn full credit for summer overproduction to offset your higher winter usage, making the annual system balance very favorable.
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Vermont ranges from $18,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Critically, you can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with Vermont's own state incentives, including a $5,000 state tax credit and a sales tax exemption. Furthermore, Green Mountain Power (GMP) offers specific rebates and programs, and you can sell Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) through the Vermont SPEED program, significantly reducing your net cost.
Prioritize installers who are deeply familiar with Vermont's interconnection process with utilities like GMP or Burlington Electric Department (BED), and local permitting. Look for a Vermont-licensed electrician (or a company that employs them) and strong certifications like NABCEP. It's essential to choose a provider with extensive experience installing systems designed for Vermont's snow and wind loads, and who can provide clear examples of local projects.
From contract to interconnection, plan for a timeline of 3 to 6 months. This period includes system design, securing local building and electrical permits (which vary by town), the physical installation (often just 1-3 days), and the final inspection and utility interconnection approval. Scheduling can be affected by seasonal demand, with installers often busiest in late summer and fall.
A south-facing roof with minimal shading is ideal, but east-west setups are also productive in Vermont. An installer will assess your roof's structural integrity, age, and orientation. Modern systems require virtually no maintenance; the primary task is ensuring snow slides off naturally, which the installation angle facilitates. It's wise to consider your roof's remaining lifespan, as replacing it *before* solar installation is much more cost-effective.