Best 5 Solar Companies in Wallingford, CT

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Wallingford

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

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 enroll 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 top 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 Wallingford

Your solar panels' style will affect how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.

You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar contractors provide these optional components, so look for a provider that installs them if it's essential for you.

Most Wallingford homeowners opt for solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $18,750 to install, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Wallingford

Solar installers offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases, solar loans and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a home or auto loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in certain circumstances. Ask each company you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A representative can help you determine the best option for your financial situation.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.