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Best 5 Solar Companies in Reston, VA
The best solar company in Reston is GreenBrilliance.
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- Updated 2024-04-18 00:00:00
Reston homeowners are privileged to live in ample sunlight, both to bask in and harness as energy. Many are hiring top solar installers to get panels on their roofs. While going solar comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $900 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installer can help you select the best panels to maximize your savings. Discover Reston's top-rated solar companies and learn crucial decision-making advice on this page.
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Builds custom, high-efficiency solar systems suited to each home
- Extensive coverage area throughout the country
- Offers energy storage and EV charger add-ons
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
- Offers high-efficiency panels and storage options
- Provides unique in-house financing options
- Recognized as one of the most reputable solar companies
5 Best Solar Companies in Reston
Brands are algorithmically curated from a database of local service providers near you. We require a minimum number of Google reviews and average ratings for provider inclusion.
GreenBrilliance
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Sky NRG Solar Inc.
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Greenway home improvements
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
American Solar Enterprises LLC
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Prospect Solar LLC
Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.
Ranking Methodology
Our team has screened dozens of solar contractors near Reston, concentrating on the following criteria:
- Warranty and service offerings: 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 satisfaction.
- Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should utilize their years of experience address your questions on how to care for your system and optimize its performance.
- Customer reviews and feedback: Most Reston solar companies have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio shows a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
- Professional licenses and credentials: Each provider 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 Reston community for more than a decade.
- Panel quality and brand offerings: The best solar companies keep up with new technology, offering equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
Facts about Reston
- Average Max Temperature:64°F
- Solar Payback Period:14 years
- Average Daily Sunlight:55%
- Homes Powered by Solar:3,279
- Average Annual Energy Bill:$1,599
- Solar Power per Capita:48.4%
Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy comes with multiple perks. Here are some highlights.
- Lowered energy bills: Solar panels allow you to generate your own energy to power your home, reducing your monthly electricity costs. You can eliminate your bills completely if you go off-grid. Plus, a significant number of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home functioning through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery storage system.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power lowers your dependence on fossil fuels, which release greenhouse gases that damage the environment.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Reston Homeowners?
The state of Virginia offers a variety of solar incentives to help offset your solar system costs. Check out a breakdown of applicable solar programs where you live.
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Deduction
Incentive Amount:
20% of the sales tax paid by an individual
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Website:https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title58.1/chapter36/section58.1-3661/
Incentive Amount:
Depends on the local governing body
Incentive Type:Property Tax Incentive
Website:http://www.dmme.virginia.gov/DE/Energy_Incentives.shtml
Incentive Amount:
Varies (local option)
Incentive Type:Personal Tax Credit
Website:https://www.ecowatch.com/solar/ev-appliance-solar-tax-credit-calculator
Incentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Reston
The more comprehensive your company research is, the better your solar system will ultimately work. Make your choice based on the following essential elements.
Licensing and Training
Since 2012, Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors working on solar photovoltaic systems. Even if a contractor has an AES license, they may still need to subcontract HVAC, plumbing or electrical work. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most respected are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, awarded 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 Reston
The type of solar panels you choose determines how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. 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.
Additional accessories, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar company offers these add-ons, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's important for you.
Most Reston homeowners choose solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $17,950 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,205.36 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $940.18 |
| Thin-Film | $549.64 |
| Solar Battery | $771.43 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,892.86 |
Financing Solar Energy in Reston
Choosing the optimal financing option will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, leases, cash payments, and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. 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 money-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $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, 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. Ask each provider you're evaluating about the payment options it offers. A salesperson can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Reston.
You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.3 years |
| 2 kW | 4.6 years |
| 5 kW | 11.6 years |
| 10 kW | 23.2 years |
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar in Reston
On average, Reston homeowners spend roughly $1,599 per year on energy bills. Once you repay your solar array, you could reduce your costs by $898.00 per kilowatt you produce.
Yes, solar energy is gaining popularity in Reston. Some homes already benefit from solar power on-site or through utility grids, and they're supported by a state solar economy with 4489 job opportunities and counting.
Yes, new solar systems mean higher property values according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL.) Homeowners could project a $20 property value increase for each dollar they save on energy. Therefore, $600 in energy savings could boost your property value by $12,000.
One common way to find your home's solar viability is by using PVWatts. This free, powerful tool considers panel efficiency, system size, local weather and topography, and tree cover to determine how much energy your array could generate. However, it's not a substitute for consulting with a solar energy professional, who can build a full estimate with the most updated data.
Modern solar installations are designed for durability. The average unit lasts at least 25 years. Budget panels tend to have shorter lifespans than premium models.
A typical Reston solar home uses a 8.1-kW panel array, but you might need a bigger system if your energy needs are more demanding. Solar professionals will consider your property's power usage and roof shading to recommend the proper system for you.
Even the most renowned Reston solar providers will have both favorable and critical reviews. To make the most informed choice possible, focus on these signs to know if a company isn't worth your attention:
- Aggressive sales pitch
- Not being straightforward about cost, warranties, training and credentials and references
- "One-size-fits-all" approach
- Not thoroughly inspecting your site
- Limited customer feedback
A power purchase agreement is a contract between you and your provider. They install, own, and maintain the panels, and you purchase the generated electricity from them for 10–25 years. There will usually be options to buy out early to own your system and extend the agreement.
In contrast, solar loans can come from local banks, installer, specialty lenders and the government. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are larger, and you'll be responsible for taking care of the system, you'll also have complete ownership and can apply for many more financial rewards.
Sources
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