Best 5 Solar Companies in York, PA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in York

The price and performance of solar panels often hinge on the solar company that installed them. Consider all of these criteria in your business search.

Licensing and Training

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania does not issue state-level contracting licenses, so each city or county can set its own requirements and regulations. Solar providers can also earn certifications from trade groups and standards organizations. The most respected 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 York

The kind of solar panels you select decides how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

If you need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar contractor provides these additional features, so look for a provider that installs them if it's essential for you.

A majority of York homeowners choose solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $17,750 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in York

There are various 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), cash payments, leases, and loans. Though it requires 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 home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. Look for contractors that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.

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

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