Best 5 Solar Companies in Milford, CT

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Milford

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar energy system. Make your choice based on the following key factors.

Licensing and Training

In Connecticut, a journeyman who meet minimum experience requirements can take an exam to become a licensed solar PV or thermal contractor. Once they're licensed, they'll need to sign up with the state's Clean Energy Fund, so their customers can earn incentives. Solar companies can also pursue certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Milford

The kind of solar panels you select dictates how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can maximize your solar system's efficiency. Not every solar provider includes these add-ons, so look for a provider that sells them if it's important for you.

If you're a resident of Milford and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $18,750 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Milford

Solar contractors offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments and solar leases. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in certain circumstances. We suggest working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Ask each salesperson about what's available, and acquire more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your budget.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Milford.

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Municipal and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and specialized financing options that could save you more.