Solar power is a growing source of energy production in Virginia, accounting for 6.15% of the state’s energy in 2023. While the state does not offer many incentives for solar power beyond the federal tax credit, solar panels can still be a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking to reduce their fossil fuel use and electricity bills. Incentives such as net metering and solar renewable energy credits can also help offset the cost of solar panel installations. For those considering installing solar panels in Virginia, there are several national and local solar companies to consider, each with their own specialties and offerings.
National solar panel companies such as Palmetto Solar, SunPower Solar, Freedom Forever, and Tesla Solar are among the best options for solar installations in Virginia. These companies offer various features and benefits, including top-of-the-line solar panels, monitoring services, production guarantees, and affordability. Local solar companies like Convert Solar, Ipsun Solar, and Nova Solar also provide high-quality installations with warranties and financing options. Homeowners should research these companies and get multiple quotes before making a decision.
To determine the best solar company for their needs, homeowners should consider factors such as the company’s certification, licensing, reputation, and experience with the type of system and roof they have. It is important to get multiple estimates and understand the federal solar tax credit before committing to a solar installation. Homeowners should also ensure that the installer addresses all their questions and concerns, provides transparent pricing and financing options, and has knowledge of local permit requirements and utility interconnection processes.
When it comes to paying for solar panels in Virginia, homeowners have multiple options, including cash payments, solar loans, personal loans, home equity lines of credit, solar leases, and power purchase agreements. Each payment option has its own considerations in terms of upfront costs, interest rates, and ownership of the solar panels. Community solar programs like Virginia’s Shared Solar Program provide alternative options for residents without suitable roofs or who prefer shared solar arrangements.
The cost of solar panels in Virginia varies depending on the system size and installed costs. Before factoring in tax credits and incentives, the average cash price for a typical solar panel system in Virginia is $32,310 for a 9 kW system. Incentives such as net metering, solar renewable energy credits, property tax exemptions, and the federal solar tax credit can help offset these costs and make solar installations more affordable for homeowners. It is essential for homeowners to weigh the upfront costs against the long-term energy savings and benefits of solar panels.
