Best 5 Solar Companies in Manchester, NJ

Manchester residents are intentional about preserving its natural resources and living sustainably. That's why many people are purchasing panels from the best solar installers for their homes. Local homeowners might go for solar to break free of high power costs from sources like natural gas. A professional solar company can help you set up and adjust a system that fulfills your energy needs without costing a fortune. In this article, we'll highlight Manchester's best solar installers and offer tips for your company choice, so you can find the right one for your residence.

Ranking Methodology

Our team focuses on the following criteria to determine the best Manchester solar companies.

• Service offerings and warranties: Solar contractors should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer satisfaction.
• Panel brands and quality: The top solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
• Experience and professional licensure: Each contractor on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Manchester community for over 15 years.
• Customer reviews and feedback: Most Manchester solar contractors have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio shows a company's dependability and responsiveness to issues.
• Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should use their years of experience answer your questions on how to look after your system and optimize its performance.

Benefits of Solar Energy

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

• Reduced energy costs: Sourcing some or all of your own electricity will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states provide net metering programs that enable you to sell your surplus energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home functioning through blackouts and emergencies, giving you additional security. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing solar is a surefire way to decrease your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Manchester Homeowners?

New Jersey agencies and electric companies offer a range of solar incentives to help cut your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Manchester

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar energy system. Here are some important factors to bear in mind while searching for a solar specialist.

Licensing and Training

Licensing requirements mean that your New Jersey solar installation team may have a variety of different professionals, including an electrician for wiring work and a master plumber for piping work. The most experienced professionals on the team will also handle permit work for the job. Solar companies 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 Manchester

Your photovoltaic panels' type will influence how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.

If you need to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your panel array more effective and user-friendly. Not all solar contractors include these optional components, so look for a provider that sells them if it's important for you.

You can expect to pay about $17,650 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Manchester. Use the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Manchester solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Manchester

There are many ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include cash payments, power purchase agreements (PPAs), loans, and leases. 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 own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce 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 benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, much like an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. We recommend working with a provider that offers multiple financing options. Talk to 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 Manchester.

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.

Sources

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