Best 5 Solar Companies in Freeport, NY

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Freeport

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar energy system. Here are some important factors to consider while searching for a solar installer.

Licensing and Training

New York regulators do not issue licenses to contractors, so you should check with your city or county government for its specific regulations and requirements. Solar installers can also pursue accreditations 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 Freeport

Your solar panels' type will influence how much energy you can produce. 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.

Additional accessories, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will raise your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar contractor offers these extras, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's essential for you.

If you're a resident of Freeport and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $18,250 for parts and installation. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Freeport

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 cash payments, solar loans, solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Most solar experts recommend paying cash 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. Like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee 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 won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in particular circumstances. Look for companies that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.

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

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