Best 5 Solar Companies in Cranston, RI

Cranston homeowners are lucky to live in abundant sunlight, both to bask in and harness as energy. Many are working with top solar companies to get panels on their roofs. While switching to solar energy comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $1,100 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional company can help you select the best panels to maximize your savings. Discover Cranston's top-rated solar companies and learn vital decision-making strategies on this page.

Ranking Methodology

Our team used the following criteria to assess the best Cranston solar companies.

• Customer feedback and reviews: Most Cranston solar providers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio demonstrates a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.
• Panel quality and brand offerings: The premier solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, offering equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
• Professional licenses and credentials: Each contractor on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Cranston community for a decade or longer.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar providers should stand behind their products and services with warranties. We evaluated how each company responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Educational approach: Solar technicians must be excellent teachers. They should tap into their years of experience answer your questions on how to maintain your system and optimize its performance.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy has several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on fossil fuels.
• Reduced energy costs: Sourcing some or all of your own power will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that enable you to sell your unused energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery storage systems work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the electrical grid for your safety and comfort.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Cranston Homeowners?

Rhode Island homeowners who upgrade to solar could qualify for rebates, reimbursements, tax credits and special financing. Here are just a few of the local incentive offerings.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Cranston

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and valuable solar energy system. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Licensing and Training

To install a solar energy system in Rhode Island, an installer will need both a State Electrical Contractor's License and at least a Journeyperson's License from the Department of Labor and Training. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), one of the solar industry's most credible trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Cranston

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. 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.

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

You can plan to spend about $20,350 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Cranston. Check the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Cranston solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Cranston

There are many ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. A few of the most common options include loans, leases, cash payments, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). We advise making a cash payment or securing 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 have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) allows you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. We suggest working with an installer that offers multiple financing options. Ask each salesperson about what's available, and acquire more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your financial plan.

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

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 discounts, rebates, and specialized financing options that could save you more.

Sources

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