Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Covington, Virginia. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sigora Solar is a leading Virginia-based solar installer known for its comprehensive in-house services, from initial design and consultation to installation and maintenance. They are a certified B Corporation and have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers. They are highly experienced with both grid-tied and battery backup systems.
A national provider with a strong presence in Virginia, Blue Raven Solar is known for its streamlined process and attractive financing options, including their proprietary "BluePower Plus" program. They handle the entire project from permitting to installation and are a good option for homeowners seeking a straightforward, financed solar solution.
A well-established local company serving Virginia for over two decades, Solar Services Inc. specializes in both solar electric and solar thermal systems. Their longevity speaks to their reputation for quality and customer service. They offer robust maintenance and repair services, which is a key differentiator.
The home solar market in Covington, VA, is characteristic of a smaller, rural city. There are very few, if any, solar installation companies physically headquartered within the city limits. Therefore, the market is served by reputable regional and national companies based in larger hubs like Roanoke, Salem, and even Virginia Beach, all of which regularly service the Covington area. Competition is moderate, with 3-5 major players actively vying for projects. The quality of service is generally high, as these established companies have the resources to operate across wide geographic areas. Typical pricing for a residential system in Virginia ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 before incentives, heavily dependent on system size and equipment. Homeowners in Covington benefit from the federal solar tax credit (26%) and Virginia's state incentives, including sales and property tax exemptions, which reputable installers are well-versed in explaining. The trend is moving towards systems that include battery storage for increased energy independence.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Covington regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Covington, Virginia.
For a typical 6kW to 8kW residential system in Covington, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, Virginia offers a state tax credit of up to 15% of the system cost (capped at $2,000), and you remain eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit. Covington residents served by Appalachian Power should also investigate their specific net metering program, which credits you for excess power sent back to the grid.
Covington's four distinct seasons create a predictable solar production cycle. While winter months see shorter days and potential snow cover (which panels shed easily due to their angle), spring and fall offer excellent production with cool temperatures and sunny days. Summer provides the most peak sun hours, though panel efficiency can slightly dip during extreme heat. Overall, the region receives ample annual sunlight to make solar highly effective.
Solar installations in the City of Covington require a building permit from the local Building Inspections Department. If your home is within a designated historic district, there may be additional architectural review requirements. Your chosen installer will typically manage this entire process. For interconnection, Appalachian Power requires an application and approval to connect your system safely to the grid under their net metering tariff.
Prioritize Virginia-licensed, bonded, and insured contractors with specific experience in the Alleghany Highlands. Ask for local references and physical addresses (not just P.O. boxes). Verify they are familiar with Appalachian Power's interconnection process and Covington's permit requirements. It's wise to get multiple quotes and check reviews on trusted platforms to compare equipment warranties, workmanship guarantees, and projected production estimates.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup. For outage protection, you must install a battery like a Tesla Powerwall. For winter, panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow, and they often begin producing power again once a small section is exposed to sunlight. Cold weather actually improves panel efficiency, and production on clear, cold winter days can be quite good.