Best 5 Solar Companies in Oakton, VA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Oakton

The cost and efficacy of solar panels often rely on the provider that mounted them. Consider each of these criteria in your service provider search.

Licensing and Training

Since 2012, Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors installing solar PV systems. Even if a contractor has an AES license, they may still need to subcontract electrical, HVAC or plumbing work. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most recognized are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, backed 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 Oakton

The type of solar panels you purchase decides how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. 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 the best for large residential installations, but they are excellent accessories for non-traditional roofs.

If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more effective and convenient to use. Not every solar provider provides these optional components, so look for a provider that sells them if it's crucial for you.

A majority of Oakton homeowners choose solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $17,950 to set up, considering both materials and labor. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Oakton

Solar installers 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 leases, solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and cash payments. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment 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. Like a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, similar 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. Ask each business you're considering about the financing options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the most suitable option for your pocketbook.

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

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