Best 5 Solar Companies in Mount Vernon, WA

With Mount Vernon's clear skies and below-average rainfall, it's an ideal area for homeowners and businesses aiming to harness the added sunlight by buying panels from one of the best solar installers. While embracing solar power comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $840 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional company can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. On this page, we'll highlight Mount Vernon's leading solar contractors and provide insightful advice for your solar journey.

Ranking Methodology

We analyzed a multitude of Mount Vernon solar installers, using the following criteria to choose the finest:

• Reviews and feedback from customers: Most Mount Vernon solar companies have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio shows 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.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar installers should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer satisfaction.
• 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 Mount Vernon community for a decade or longer.
• Educational approach: Solar technicians must be excellent teachers. They should utilize their years of experience answer your questions on how to maintain your system and optimize its performance.

Benefits of Solar Energy

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

• Better energy independence: Photovoltaic solar panel systems with energy storage systems work through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the electrical grid for your safety and comfort.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power reduces your dependence on conventional, less environmentally-friendly sources.
• Lower utility costs: Generating some or all of your own energy will spend less on electricity long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that allow you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Mount Vernon Homeowners?

Governments and power companies often reward homeowners for going solar. Here are some of the tax credits, rebates, or other programs you could qualify for.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Mount Vernon

The more thorough your provider search is, the better your solar panels will ultimately operate. Here are some crucial criteria to consider while searching for a solar installer.

Licensing and Training

Solar energy contractors in Washington need to hold an electrical contractors' license from the Department of Labor and Industries. In specific situations, the department may also conduct permit inspections to verify compliance and the integrity and viability of a contractor's job. Solar providers can also earn certificates from trade groups and standards organizations. The top 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 Mount Vernon

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 provide a lower price point but produce less power. 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.

You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can improve your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar companies include these additional features, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's crucial for you.

You can expect to pay about $17,950 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Mount Vernon. Check the table in this section to get an idea of the amount Mount Vernon solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Mount Vernon

Choosing the correct financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements, and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical 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 cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, similar to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the panels and cannot use solar incentives. Look for contractors that offer two or more 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 Mount Vernon.

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.

Sources

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