Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Fairfax Station, Virginia. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A large, regional installer with a strong presence in the Mid-Atlantic. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from design and installation to maintenance, and their extensive knowledge of local incentives and net metering policies with Dominion Energy.
A premium, locally-owned and operated solar company focused on high-quality design and customer service. They are a certified B-Corp and emphasize ethical business practices and energy efficiency. They have deep expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems.
A well-established local installer known for its strong customer relationships and robust service department. They offer a full suite of services and have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers, ensuring high-quality system performance and long warranties.
** The home solar market in Fairfax Station, Virginia, is robust and highly competitive, characterized by well-established, knowledgeable companies. The average quality of installers is high, as the affluent and educated demographic demands premium service and reliable technology. Homeowners in this area benefit from a combination of strong sun exposure, high electricity costs from Dominion Energy, and valuable federal tax incentives. **Competition Level:** High. Numerous regional and local installers compete on price, service, and technology. This competition benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer satisfaction. **Typical Pricing:** As a general benchmark, the gross cost for a typical residential system (before incentives) in this market ranges from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt**. A standard 8 kW system would therefore have a gross cost between $22,400 and $28,000. The 30% federal solar tax credit significantly reduces this net cost. Financing options (loans, leases, PPAs) are widely available and aggressively marketed, making $0-down installations common. **Key Local Factors:** Installers must be highly proficient with Dominion Energy's interconnection and net metering process. Furthermore, expertise in navigating Fairfax County's specific permitting and inspection requirements is essential for a smooth installation. The demand for battery storage (like Tesla Powerwall) is growing rapidly among homeowners seeking energy resilience against occasional 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 Fairfax Station regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Fairfax Station, Virginia.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Fairfax Station, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces the net cost. Virginia also offers a state sales tax exemption on solar equipment, and you may benefit from net metering with Dominion Energy, allowing you to earn credits for excess power sent to the grid.
Fairfax Station's four distinct seasons mean solar production peaks in sunny summers but is lower in shorter, cloudier winter days. The area's abundant mature trees can cause shading issues, making a professional site assessment critical to identify the optimal, unobstructed roof plane (typically south-facing) for panel placement. Fortunately, modern systems with micro-inverters can mitigate partial shading, and seasonal leaf drop can improve winter sun exposure.
All installations require an electrical permit and a building permit from Fairfax County. The process involves submitting system plans for review to ensure compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC) and local zoning ordinances, which may include rules on setback from roof edges. Your reputable local installer will typically manage this entire permitting process on your behalf, including coordinating the final inspection and interconnection agreement with Dominion Energy.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Northern Virginia, as they will be familiar with Fairfax County's specific permitting process, interconnection with Dominion Energy, and common architectural styles. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by organizations like NABCEP. Always solicit multiple detailed quotes, check reviews on independent platforms, and ask for references from recent installations in nearby neighborhoods like Clifton or Burke.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated solar battery backup (like a Tesla Powerwall), which is a popular add-on in our area. Regarding weather, panels are rated to withstand Fairfax's hailstorms and high winds; they are tested for impact and typically carry a wind rating up to 140 mph. Proper installation per local code ensures your roof's integrity is maintained.