Best 5 Solar Companies in Severn, MD

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Severn

The more informed your company investigation is, the better your solar panels will ultimately work. Make your choice based on the following important considerations.

Licensing and Training

A Maryland solar photovoltaic installation team must include a Home Improvement Commission-licensed contractor and a master electrician with at least seven years of experience. The contractor installs the panels, while the master electrician handles permits and connects the system to the grid. If you're installing a solar water heater, your contracting team must include a master plumber for utility connections and permits. Solar installers can also earn accreditations 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 Severn

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

If you need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your panel array more effective and convenient to use. Not all solar providers offer these extras, so look for a provider that installs them if it's a priority for you.

You can plan to spend about $17,700 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Severn. Check the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Severn solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Severn

There are numerous ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, leases, and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require 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. Much like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, akin to 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 considering about the payment options it offers. A consultant 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 Severn.

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