Best 5 Solar Companies in Pittsburgh, PA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Pittsburgh

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar array. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.

Licensing and Training

There are no state-level contracting licenses issued in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, so each city or county can set its own requirements and terms. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most reputed trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Pittsburgh

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options 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.

Additional accessories, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies provide these optional components, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's crucial for you.

A majority of Pittsburgh homeowners opt for solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $17,750 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Pittsburgh

Solar contractors use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases and cash payments. 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. Much like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases let you use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin to 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 suggest working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each agent about what's available, and secure 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 Pittsburgh.

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own rebates, incentives, and financing programs that could save you more money.