Best 5 Solar Companies in Linton Hall, VA

With Linton Hall's clear skies and below-average rainfall, it's an ideal area for homeowners and businesses looking to harness the added sunlight by purchasing panels from one of the best solar installers. With all the options to choose from in this vibrant community, you might feel burnt out searching for a good installer. On this page, we'll showcase Linton Hall's top solar companies and provide expert advice for your solar journey.

Ranking Methodology

Our team has thoroughly vetted dozens of solar providers near Linton Hall, with emphasis on the following criteria:

• Customer feedback and reviews: Most Linton Hall solar contractors have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's dependability and responsiveness to issues.
• Panel brands and quality: The premier solar companies keep up with new technology, providing equipment from reliable, innovative manufacturers.
• Educational approach: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should use their years of experience address your questions on how to maintain your system and improve its performance.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar contractors should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each company responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Certifications and credentials: Each company on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Linton Hall community for more than a decade.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy provides multiple advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery storage systems operate through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the grid for your safety and comfort.
• Lowered energy bills: You can skip the added cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to credit part of your bill.
• Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Linton Hall Homeowners?

Virginia agencies and electric companies offer a range of solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Linton Hall

The more comprehensive your provider search is, the better your photovoltaic system will ultimately work. Consider all of these elements in your company search.

Licensing and Training

Since 2012, the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors who work on solar PV systems. A contractor with an AES license may need to subcontract electrical, HVAC or plumbing work. Solar providers can also pursue certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The most prestigious 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 Linton Hall

Your solar panels' type will influence how much electricity 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 add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar providers include these optional components, so look for a provider that sells them if it's crucial for you.

Most Linton Hall homeowners select solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $17,950 to install, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Linton Hall

Solar installers offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar leases, cash payments, solar loans and power purchase agreements (PPAs). We advise paying with cash or using 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 cut your total costs. Solar loans are another good option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still benefiting from 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) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, as with an electric bill. We generally don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each business you're considering about the financing options it offers. A representative can help you determine the most suitable option for your financial situation.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, local governments and utilities may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.

Sources

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