5 Best Solar Companies in Delaware (2024 Guide)
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Delaware may rank 39th in the United States for solar energy production,* but government officials have developed an aggressive Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) goal to increase its clean energy use. Delaware will dedicate 40% of its electricity use to green energy resources by 2035. The government has also introduced state incentives and programs to make going solar more affordable for its residents.
Our team spent over 60 hours researching the best solar installers nationwide, including regional and local companies. We’ve selected Delaware’s best solar companies and offered shopping advice for finding the right solar installer for your home.
*According to data from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).
Compare Solar Installers in Delaware
Delaware’s Top Solar Energy Companies
- SunPower: Best High-Efficiency System
- Venture Solar: Best Northeast Regional Installer
- Solar Energy World: Best East Coast Installer
- LGCY Power: Best Solar Consultation
- Trinity Solar: Best Certified Installer
- Paradise Energy Solutions: Best Mid-Atlantic Regional Installer
Our Top Picks for Solar Installation in Delaware
Learn more: SunPower review
Learn more: Solar Energy World review
What Are the Available Solar Incentives in Delaware?
Delaware offers several solar incentives, credits, and rebates to help lower solar panel installation costs and support its aggressive green energy goals. Although it has fewer incentives than other states, homeowners can still save money. The federal solar tax credit provides 30% off installation costs for photovoltaic (PV) panels, solar shingles, and stand-alone solar batteries. All Delaware residents who legally own their systems qualify; leasing and PPA customers are excluded.
- The Delaware Sustainable Electric Utility (DESEU) offers a renewable energy credits program. Customers earn solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) for generating solar energy. You can sell these credits in a specialized SREC marketplace for cash. Residents earn one SREC for each megawatt-hour (MWh) their solar power system generates. Homeowners must apply for the program to begin earning SRECs. It’s a very competitive program, so acceptance is not guaranteed.
- Delaware’s net metering program means you receive a one-to-one bill credit on your electric bill for any excess electricity you produce and send back to the grid. Though payment rates vary among states, Delaware ensures customers receive the full retail electricity rate.
- Certain utility companies offer other solar rebates and credits directly to their customers. The Delmarva Power Green Energy Program offers up to 70 cents per watt for a solar system, with a $6,000 maximum. The Delaware Electric Cooperative (DEC) Green Energy Program provides rebates for 50 cents per watt up to 5 kW and 20 cents for any additional watts.
What Should You Look For in a Solar Company?
Consider the factors below as you compare solar panel companies.
Solar Services
The solar installation process affects your customer experience and your system’s quality. Many companies use either in-house or third-party installers. In-house installers allow the company to maintain higher quality and better cross-team communication. Third-party installations involve various local contractors who may maintain varying standards. You’ll also have more points of contact with third-party teams, adding to communication issues. We recommend choosing solar companies with in-house installers to ensure a smooth process.
We also suggest looking for companies that offer additional support services, such as ongoing system monitoring and energy audits. System monitoring offers insight into your panel performance, average energy usage, and system issues. Energy audits check your home for air leaks or poor insulation that could impact your energy costs. Resolving these efficiency issues will boost your solar system’s effectiveness and lower your energy bills.
Warranties and Power Performance Guarantees
Most solar panel systems last 25 years or longer, so you’ll want excellent warranty coverage to protect long-term performance. Most solar installation companies offer manufacturer and workmanship coverage for each system. A manufacturer warranty covers any issues resulting from the manufacturer’s error. Workmanship warranties protect against issues caused by your solar installer. Both warranties are crucial to your system’s performance, ensuring your energy production and savings last through the system’s lifetime. Ideally, you’ll want the longest coverage available, so look for warranties that last 25 years or longer.
Your installer may also offer a power production guarantee, which protects your system’s energy production. Solar panels lose 0.5% efficiency annually. Solar companies know about this gradual decline and add warranty provisions to back their panels’ performance. Top-performing residential panels include production protection for 25 years or longer, while cheaper solar panels include 10–15 years of coverage. During our solar company research, we’ve seen protections as low as two to 10 years. Although a power production guarantee isn’t typical, it’s an excellent added protection for your system’s long-term performance.
Payment Options
Solar financing options affect your up-front costs and return on investment (ROI). Cash and solar loans are the two most common payment options and provide the best financial benefits. These options make you the legal system owner and qualify you for most solar incentives. You’ll benefit from additional solar savings and a better solar payback period, which is the time it takes for your system to pay for itself.
Additional options, such as solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs), keep system ownership with the solar company. You won’t qualify for additional incentives and receive minimal financial benefits. However, solar leases work well for homeowners uninterested in owning a solar system.
When we spoke with solar experts, they recommended cash payments and solar loans for maximum financial benefits.
Customer Support
You should also consider each company’s customer support options. When reading customer reviews, we noticed that some homeowners complained about unresponsive customer support teams. Some companies offer limited contact options, such as phone or email. Other companies include added contact features, such as online chat and in-app correspondence. Check each company’s contact options and customer reviews to gauge customer experience.
How To Get a Solar Quote in Delaware
You’ll need detailed product and service quotes to compare each solar company. Below is an overview of the typical quote process when researching Delaware solar installers.
- Contact each solar installer: Most companies offer online forms or phone numbers to begin the quote process. When using online forms, check the terms to ensure you aren’t signing up for automated SMS and phone calls. When our team conducted secret shopping for solar installers, it was common to speak with at least two representatives. The first rep qualifies you for the company’s solar services, the next is the sales representative.
- Schedule a consultation: You’ll meet with a company representative for an in-person or virtual appointment. Check your phone or computer for any system requirements indicated on the website for virtual visits.
- Review your electricity use: This step requires access to your most recent energy bills. Solar companies review your past energy use to determine the best system size for your energy needs. Although some companies only require the most recent bill, having multiple months available is best.
- Assess your roof layout: Companies must check your roof layout and available space to accurately plan your solar array. They’ll consider structural designs, such as chimneys and skylights, and check for surrounding objects and trees. Since solar panels work by absorbing sunlight, any objects that cast surface shadows will impact their efficiency. Reps may recommend tree removal, roof repair, or electrical services before your solar system installation.
- Create your solar system: The solar company will build your system based on your previous assessments. You’ll have input into the type of solar panels, available inverters, and any add-ons or upgrades, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and solar batteries. Customization options vary between providers.
- Check the final system design and contract: You’ll receive a detailed quote listing all items for your new solar system. Your itemized quote includes all equipment details, solar panel costs, labor charges, and warranty coverage. Installers also provide details on financing options and your estimated solar panel payback period. Some solar installers also assist with solar incentive applications to help reduce your up-front costs. We recommend reviewing each company’s final quote and contract before committing to a provider.
Our Conclusion
SunPower tops our list of best Delaware solar installers thanks to its industry-leading, high-efficiency systems and 25 years of system protection. Although it’s more expensive than many providers, it’s worth it to invest in a reputable company with leading solar technology.
We recommend getting free quotes from at least three companies as you search for the right solar provider.
Other Delaware Home Service Resources
FAQ About Solar Companies in Delaware
Can you get free solar in Delaware?
No, free solar panels are not available in Delaware. However, you can use federal and state solar incentives to reduce your solar conversion costs. Local utility companies also offer rebates and credits to customers converting to solar power. Check with your utility company for more information.
Does Delaware have a solar tax credit?
No, Delaware does not offer a state solar tax credit. Instead, homeowners should use the federal solar tax credit to qualify for up to 30% off their solar panel installation costs. This credit is available to all residents who own their solar panel system.
Does Delaware offer property tax exemption for solar?
No, Delaware does not exempt property taxes for solar panel installation. Residents benefit from the boost in home value with solar but will face high property taxes.
Can I lease solar panels in Delaware?
Yes, Delaware allows solar panel leasing. However, leases offer the least financial benefits and ROI. Unless you’re adamant about not owning your solar system, we recommend a cash payment or solar loan for the best financial benefits.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. After over a thousand hours of research on solar companies, interviews with experts, and common customer needs, we’ve created a detailed rating system for solar providers based on six factors:
- Solar equipment, installation, and services (25%)
- Warranty and performance guarantees (25%)
- Brand reputation and certifications (15%)
- Financing options (15%)
- Experience (10%)
- Availability (10%)
Total scores are divided by 20 for a final 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
