Best 5 Solar Companies in New Britain, CT

With New Britain's clear skies and below-average rainfall, it's an excellent area for families and businesses hoping to harness the added sunlight by purchasing panels from one of the best solar companies. While embracing solar power comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $1,200 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installer can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. In this guide, we'll highlight New Britain's best solar providers and offer suggestions for your company choice, so you can find the right one for your residence.

Ranking Methodology

We analyzed a multitude of New Britain solar providers, using the following criteria to choose the finest:

• Panel quality and brand offerings: The premier solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from innovative, dependable manufacturers.
• Professional licenses and credentials: Each company on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have served the New Britain community for over 15 years.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar providers should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Feedback and reviews from customers: Most New Britain solar providers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio demonstrates a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should tap into their years of experience address your questions on how to maintain your system and improve its performance.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy provides numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home powered through blackouts and emergencies, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
• Lower utility costs: Producing some or all of your own energy will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that enable you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating extra credits toward your energy bill.
• Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to New Britain Homeowners?

Connecticut homeowners who decide on solar could qualify for reimbursements, rebates, tax credits and special financing. Here are just a few of the area's incentive offerings.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in New Britain

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar array. Make your choice based on the following vital factors.

Licensing and Training

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

Cost of Solar Panels in New Britain

The style of solar panels you choose decides 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 the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.

Additional system add-ons, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company includes these optional components, so look for a company that installs them if it's a priority for you.

Most New Britain homeowners opt for solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $18,750 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in New Britain

There are a plethora of ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will minimize your overhead. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, leases, and cash payments. We suggest making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to cut your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases let you use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, much like an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each provider you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A team member can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.

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

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

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy