Summit Energy and Green Power Energy top the This Old House team’s list of the best solar companies in Connecticut. The state has some of the highest electricity rates in the U.S., with rates nearly double the national average, which means you can achieve major energy savings with a home solar system.
In this article, we’ll review our picks for top solar companies in Connecticut based on an in-depth assessment by our team, and go over costs, ways to save, and more.
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Top Solar Companies in Connecticut
Here is our list of the five best solar companies in Connecticut based on our review and detailed rating methodology:
- Summit Energy: Best Regional Maine Installer
- Green Power Energy: Veteran New Jersey Installer
- Sunrun: Best Solar Panel Leasing
- Palmetto Solar: Best Customer Support
- Momentum Solar: Best Solar Panel Installation
Comparing Top Solar Companies in Connecticut
The table below compares our top-rated solar providers in Connecticut, highlighting our scores, Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, and warranty lengths. The featured warranties cover solar panel repairs or replacements if you experience equipment issues over a certain timeframe.
| Provider | Our Score (Out of 5) | BBB Rating* | Warranty Length |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | 25 years | ||
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | ||
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | ||
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | ||
 | A+ | 30 years | |
A+ | 25 years |
*The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of January 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Summit Energy is our top choice for a solar company in Connecticut for offering a 30-year warranty and highly positive customer reviews on Google and the BBB.
- You can expect to pay $18,930 for a 6 kilowatt (kW) home solar system in Connecticut, according to Green Power Energy. This figure decreases to $13,251 after subtracting the 30% solar federal tax credit, a nationwide incentive.
- In addition to the federal tax credit, Connecticut offers a sales tax exemption and property tax exemption for solar panel systems.
Our Reviews of the Best Connecticut Solar Companies
Here is an overview of our top five solar companies in Connecticut, highlighting key features such as solar equipment brands, warranty terms, and financing options.
Summit Energy
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 30-year equipment and workmanship
Performance Guarantee: Varies by equipment manufacturer
Company Overview
- Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Mansfield, Massachusetts, a fellow New England state
- Offers solar panels, battery systems, and roofing services
- Has installed over 3,200 home solar systems in the US Northeast
Keep in Mind
- Uses external financing partners for solar loans, which could impact service quality
- Installer availability can vary depending on your location
Our Review
Summit Energy is a solar installer in the U.S. northeast, with over 3,200 solar installations completed as of January 2025. The company offers multiple equipment options from leading manufacturers, including REC, Qcells, Tesla, and Enphase, which can boost system performance for Connecticut homeowners. Plus, the company’s 30-year Solar Insure warranty is one of its best features. This comprehensive warranty includes coverage for system parts, labor, and component monitoring, and allows for transferable ownership. In comparison, most warranties from competing solar installers range from 10–25 years.
Summit Energy offers three payment options: cash purchase, solar loan and power purchase agreements (PPAs). The company makes solar loans available through external financing partners such as Loanpal, Sunnova, and Sunlight Financial. The company also offers a “No Cost Solar Program,” which is essentially a PPA program with no money down, subject to a home energy assessment.
Customer Experiences
Summit Energy has mostly positive customer reviews, based on our research. Positive reviews highlight the company’s smooth installation process, equipment quality, and competitive cost. However, the company has also received some negative reviews noting issues with pricing estimates and installation and support delays.
“We installed a home solar system with Summit Energy. The entire process was very smooth, [and] we also replaced our roof [through] their roofing partner as part of the project. The entire project took less than two months from start to finish and we are now producing our own energy. My wife and I did a lot of research and comparison shopping between different solar providers and Summit stood out in terms of quality and cost.” —Kevin A. via the BBB on April 12, 2024
“I would give no stars if possible! For anyone seeking [a] solar system, this would be the last company I would call. They will deceive you [and] tell you your payment on the system will be less than your existing electrical bill.” —Paul B. via the BBB on Jan. 14, 2024
Green Power Energy
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment and workmanship
Performance Guarantee: 25 years
Company Overview
- Founded in 2009 and services four states, including Connecticut
- Offers solar panels, solar battery systems, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and solar repair services
- Featured on the 2024 Top Solar Contractors list
Keep in Mind
- Some online reviews mention above-average solar system costs
- Permitting and installation timelines can vary
Our Review
Green Power Energy (GPE) installs solar panel systems in Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The company uses REC and Qcells solar panels with Enphase microinverters, all considered high-quality equipment. For those interested in energy storage, GPE offers Tesla Powerwall and Enphase batteries, plus the company installs EV chargers made by Tesla.
GPE offers three payment options—cash purchase, solar loan or PPA—all of which include a 25-year warranty that covers equipment and system labor for your peace of mind. GPE also provides solar repair services, which Connecticut customers can take advantage of even if their system was installed by another company. If your home solar system is malfunctioning, GPE can diagnose and repair the hardware. You can request a free system repair quote directly on the company website.
Customer Experiences
Green Power Energy stands out for its mostly positive online reviews, suggesting high levels of customer satisfaction. Positive reviews mention satisfaction with system installation, company communication, and power bill savings. The company only seems to receive a small number of negative reviews, with most focused on permitting and installation delays or aggressive sales tactics.
“When we decided to go solar we chose Green Power Energy and are very glad we did. [The company representative] was very helpful and answered all our questions. They handled all the permits and incentive programs. When it was time to do the installation the team worked seamlessly and completed the job in one day! We couldn’t be happier and recommend anyone considering solar to contact them.” —Michael P. via the BBB on Dec. 12, 2024
“They call me six times a day! I have solar already. Take me off the list … The guy laughed at me when I finally yelled stop calling me. I block all the different numbers that make it look local.” —Daniel H. via the BBB on Jan. 10, 2025
Sunrun
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship
Performance Guarantee: 90% of estimated energy production
Company Overview
- Has nearly 20 years of experience in the solar industry
- Installs solar panels, battery systems, EV chargers, and smart electrical panels
- Has served over 1 million residential customers across its service area, which includes Connecticut
Keep in Mind
- Focuses heavily on solar leasing, which offers less savings than owning a solar system over time
- Uses third-party solar installers, which may impact communication and quality
Our Review
Sunrun is one of the largest solar companies in the U.S., operating in Connecticut and over a dozen other states. Sunrun installs solar panels with a factory warranty of at least 10 years, but the company doesn’t disclose specific panel brands on its website. However, Sunrun extends warranty coverage to 25 years for customers with a solar lease, which allows you to essentially rent a solar system from an installer in exchange for a monthly payment. Sunrun specializes in solar leasing, offering both traditional monthly leases and prepaid options, or you can pay in cash or with a loan.
In addition to solar panels, Sunrun offers the Tesla Powerwall battery and its own Sunrun Shift energy storage system, which utilizes LG batteries. The company also installs the F-150 Lighting EV charger system, which can use your vehicle battery as a backup power source for your home. Additionally, Sunrun provides smart electric panels that optimize the performance of your home battery while improving energy efficiency.
Customer Experiences
Sunrun has mixed reviews online, notably with 3.5 out of 5 stars on the BBB based on over 2,300 customer reviews. Positive feedback often includes customers satisfied with their energy savings. However, Sunrun has received complaints related to installation issues and the cost of its solar leases.
“I just completed my second year as a Sunrun customer and I have been very pleased with my solar panels and solar production. [My] Sunrun consultant has been very helpful, especially in how to understand my [power] bills and how my solar panels save me money. He is very thorough in his explanations and patient with me. I highly recommend Sunrun for the quality of service and excellent products.” —Kathleen R. via the BBB on Jan. 30, 2024
“I do not recommend Sunrun … I had a problem with my system and got a run around for almost a year before they finally fixed it. Now almost a year later I’m having the same issue and they refuse to address it.” —Marilyn A. via the BBB on Nov. 12, 2024
Palmetto Solar
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship
Performance Guarantee: 95% of estimated energy production
Company Overview
- Sells solar protection plans with benefits such as system monitoring and performance reports
- Offers solar panels, battery systems, EV chargers, and HVAC upgrades
- Has installed over 25,000 solar panel systems across various states, including Connecticut
Keep in Mind
- Only offers basic system monitoring unless you pay for a protection plan
- Has limited information about solar panel and battery options online
Our Review
Palmetto is a leading solar installer that stands out for its protection plans, which offer benefits such as warranty coverage, a mobile app for system management, and system monitoring and monthly performance reports. The Palmetto Protect Essentials plan includes these features, while the Palmetto Protect Performance plan adds two more benefits: a 95% performance guarantee and parts and labor coverage. You can purchase a Palmetto solar system without a paid protection plan, but you will only get basic monitoring and factory warranties.
Palmetto does not provide information about its equipment brands on its website, but our market research indicates that the company installs Qcells solar panels. Palmetto provides three purchasing options: cash payment, solar loan, and the LightReach solar lease program. The Palmetto Protect plan is included in lease contracts, but costs extra for customers with directly-owned solar systems paying in cash or with a loan.
Customer Experiences
Online reviews from Palmetto customers generally trend positive. Positive reviews often highlight the savings achieved after installing a solar system with the company, as well as professionalism during the installation process. However, Palmetto has received complaints about slow communication and technical support.
“I had a great experience with my solar installation. I was informed about all the steps and process of the installation in advance. They were very transparent and upfront. When I had questions, they were available and informative.” —Javon B. via the BBB on Nov. 19, 2024
“[I] would never recommend this company. Installed solar two years ago [and the system has been] not operational for months now [with] very poor communication and follow through. Please look elsewhere when considering solar.” —Tandi S. via the BBB on Nov. 26, 2024
Momentum Solar
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment and workmanship
Performance Guarantee: Not specified
Company Overview
- Has over 15 years of experience and is headquartered in the North East
- Installs solar panels using a fully in-house team of technicians
- Offers four payment options to meet different financial needs, including cash, loans, leases, and PPAs
Keep in Mind
- Has limited information about its solar equipment options online
- Does not offer battery systems in Connecticut
Our Review
Momentum Solar has emerged as a leading solar company nationwide, installing solar panel systems across 12 states, including Connecticut. The company uses Tier 1 solar panels in all its installations, but does not disclose specific brands. Momentum offers Enphase microinverters, which get installed directly on each panel to optimize performance. Unlike some competitors that rely on third-party installers, Momentum also uses in-house teams to install all its solar panel systems.
While Momentum typically installs Enphase Encharge battery systems, this service is not available in Connecticut. The company only offers stand-alone solar panel systems in the state.
Customer Experiences
Momentum Solar receives mostly positive reviews from customers online. Reviewers frequently praise the company for providing clear information during the installation process and offering affordable prices. However, Momentum Solar has also received numerous complaints for its high-pressure sales tactics, such as repeated phone calls and door-to-door sales visits, even to homes with “no soliciting” signs.
“Amazing experience since day one! Everything they promised was just how it was. My electric bill is much much lower than what I was paying. Customer service was great [and] always there for me [with] any questions I had. The whole process for installation was smooth sailing.” —John S. via the BBB on May 30, 2024
“They call me 4–6 times daily. I have blocked all of their phone numbers, but [they] must be able to generate new ones. I have asked them to stop calling and they persist like it’s a game. I am in a condominium and solar panels are not allowed. When I called the guy that answered kept shouting over me. Just on the basis of their phone manners, I wouldn’t do business with them!” —Patricia D. via the BBB on Jan. 9, 2025
Local Connecticut Solar Companies
In the previous section, we compared large solar companies that operate across multiple states, including Connecticut. However, if you prefer to work with a smaller local installer, you might consider Ion Solar Pros. Here are some key highlights about the company:
- Installs solar panels, home batteries, and EV chargers
- Maintains higher-than-average customer review scores on platforms such as the BBB and Google Reviews
- Offers a 30-year warranty for its solar panels systems
Local solar companies typically have lower overhead costs than national installers, which can result in more affordable prices. Local installers also have ample experience with state-specific regulations—and often provide a more personalized customer experience as a result.
Solar Insights, Regulations, and Incentives in Connecticut
The Connecticut solar market is small but growing fast. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the state has installed over 1,630 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic capacity—enough to power more than 241,000 homes. Connecticut is projected to add another 1,363 MW within five years, representing an 84% growth from the current capacity.
Solar Regulations in Connecticut
Connecticut does not have any unique or uncommon regulations for home solar systems. The state follows the standard requirements used throughout the country, including:
- Interconnection requirements: Your solar system design must meet the interconnection standards of your local electric utility company. Eversource is the largest utility company in Connecticut, serving over 90% of local electricity users.
- Permission to Operate (PTO): Before connecting your system to the grid, it must pass an inspection by the local authority and receive PTO.
The best solar installers in Connecticut should have knowledge of state design requirements and permitting procedures. By purchasing your home solar system from a qualified installer, you can minimize delays related to permitting.
Connecticut Incentives and Rebates
Connecticut offers three main incentives for solar panel systems, which you can combine with the 30% federal tax credit for additional savings.
| Incentive | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems | If you install solar panels or other renewable energy technologies for your home, the resulting increase in property value is tax-exempt. |
| Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Solar and Geothermal Systems | Home solar systems are exempt from Connecticut’s 6.35% sales tax. For example, if your solar system has a price of $20,000, you would save $1,270 upfront. |
| Residential Renewable Energy Solutions | This is a type of net metering program, which allows you to sell excess energy from your home solar system back to the grid in exchange for billing credits. |
How To Choose the Best Solar Company
Before installing a home solar system, we recommend you take the time to compare quotes from multiple solar installers. If you accept the first quote, you could miss out on lower prices or higher-quality equipment from another company. Keep in mind that home solar systems have an average cost of around $25,000. You will likely see some price variations above or below this value, but watch for excessively cheap or overpriced offers.
Here is a quick checklist to help you compare solar offers:
- Ask for a detailed breakdown of each solar offer, and show caution with lump sum offers.
- Check the equipment brands and associated manufacturer warranties, including your solar panels, battery, and inverter. Reputable companies typically offer an equipment warranty of 25 years or more, but the length may vary by brand.
- Check if the company offers its own workmanship warranty to cover installation issues. As reference, many solar companies offer a 10-year or longer warranty.
- Check if your solar installer is North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certified, licensed in your state, and covered by insurance.
- Do a quick background check of each solar installer, considering key factors such as years of experience and customer reviews.
Watch out for solar companies offering “free solar panels”. This usually means you can pay $0 upfront, but sign up for a solar lease or PPA, both of which include a monthly payment. This is not necessarily a scam, but reputable solar providers should offer transparency about their service offerings.
We recommend paying for your home solar system in cash or with loan financing, since you own the system directly and can claim incentives. When you sign a lease or PPA, your solar provider retains ownership over the system and can claim certain incentives as a result.
How Much Does Installing Solar in Connecticut Cost?
According to Green Power Energy, one of our top-rated installers, the average cost of a 6 kW solar system in Connecticut is $18,930 or $3.16 per watt. Based on this figure, we calculated typical prices for commonly-sized residential systems in the state.
| System Size | Cost Per Watt | Total Installed System Cost | Cost After 30% Federal Tax Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $3.16 | $12,640 | $8,848 |
| 6 kW | $3.16 | $18,930 | $13,251 |
| 8 kW | $3.16 | $25,280 | $17,696 |
| 10 kW | $3.16 | $31,600 | $22,120 |
Cost of Solar in Connecticut vs. the National Average
The average home in Connecticut uses 8,136 kWh of energy per year, which falls below the national average usage of 10,260 kWh. We compare the cost of installing a solar system in Connecticut versus nationwide in the chart below, based on national data sourced from the SEIA.
| Connecticut | National Average | |
|---|---|---|
| Price per watt | $3.16 per watt | $3.33 per watt |
| Total price before incentives* | $20,540 | $24,975 |
*We based the total system cost before incentives on residential solar arrays sized between 6.5–7.5 kW.
Survey Insights from Connecticut Solar Customers
In our 2025 survey of 1,000 solar customers in the U.S., we found that 35 respondents from Connecticut reported an average installation cost of $19,286. This cost is higher than the national average of $16,129. However, Connecticut residents installed an average of 15 solar panels, compared to the national average of 14 panels.
Additionally, Connecticut respondents reported an average energy savings of $11 per panel, while the national average savings were $14 per panel, leading to total monthly savings of $154. Although Trinity Solar did not rank among the top solar installers in Connecticut in our survey, approximately 32% of residents still chose the company for their solar installation. While many customers focused on price and panel efficiency when shopping for a system, available financing options and add-ons did not play as big a role for Connecticut residents.
FAQs About Solar Companies in Connecticut
What is the best solar company in Connecticut?
Summit Energy and Green Power Energy topped our list of the best solar installers in Connecticut, each earning a score of 4.6 out of 5 stars in our review. Both companies install high-quality solar panels made by brands such as REC and Qcells, with 25–30 year warranty coverage. Plus, both companies maintain positive reviews and high ratings from customers on Google Reviews and the BBB.
Is it worth installing a solar system in Connecticut?
Installing a solar system is worth it in Connecticut if you want to lower your power bills with clean energy. Connecticut homeowners pay an average electricity rate of 29.96 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). By comparison, the national average electricity rate is 16.94 cents per kWh. At the national average rate, you can save $1,694 for every 1,000 kWh of clean energy generated by your home solar system. The same amount of solar electricity can save you $2,996 in Connecticut because of the state’s increased energy costs.
Does Connecticut offer a solar tax credit?
No, Connecticut does not offer a state tax credit for solar systems. However, owners of renewable energy-based technology can benefit from two other incentives in the Constitution State: sales tax and property tax exemptions. Additionally, you can claim the 30% solar federal tax credit, which is a nationwide incentive.
How much do solar panels cost in Connecticut?
The average cost of a 6 kW solar system in Connecticut is $18,930 before incentives, according to estimates from Green Power Energy. This equals a unit cost of $3.16 per watt of solar capacity. After subtracting the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost drops to $13,251.
How We Evaluated Connecticut Solar Companies
The This Old House team conducted an in-depth assessment of dozens of solar companies across the U.S. to determine our list of top companies in Connecticut. Below is a detailed breakdown of our rating system.
Our Rating System
Our team developed a scoring system to review and rank solar installation companies, awarding up to 5 stars based on the following factors:
- Solar Equipment and Services: Solar companies earned points in our review for offering other products in addition to solar panels, such as home batteries and EV chargers. Companies also scored more points for using in-house installers rather than third-party contractors, and providing additional services such as home energy audits and roofing.
- Warranty and Performance Guarantees: Companies receive higher scores for offering solar equipment with long warranty terms, such as 25 years for equipment and at least 10 years for workmanship. Companies earned additional points for offering warranties that cover other areas of solar installations, such as energy production and roof integrity.
- Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications: We gave installers points for holding NABCEP certification, BBB accreditation, and positive online customer reviews. Companies facing active consumer lawsuits or customer alerts lost points.
- Financing Options: Solar companies scored higher in our review for offering four purchasing options: cash purchase, solar loan, solar lease, and PPA. We also awarded additional points for installers with in-house financing, as opposed to using external partners.
- Industry Experience: Solar companies with more years of experience earned higher scores in our review, with the benchmark set at 20 years in the industry.
- State Availability: While companies can generally earn more points for operating in multiple U.S. states, we only considered installers operating in Connecticut for this review.
