Best 5 Solar Companies in Islip, NY

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Islip

The more informed your company investigation is, the better your solar installation will ultimately function. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.

Licensing and Training

The New York state government does not issue licenses to contractors, so you should check with your county or city government for its specific requirements and regulations. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most respected are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, awarded by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Islip

The style of solar panels you purchase dictates how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can increase your solar system's efficiency. Not every solar company includes these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's a priority for you.

Most Islip homeowners opt for solar systems designed for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $18,250 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Islip

Choosing the right financing solution will affect your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, loans, and power purchase agreements. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the next best option. As with a car loan or mortgage, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) enables you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and cannot use solar incentives. Look for installers that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your financial needs.

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

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