10 best solar companies in Bristol, Connecticut
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
High-quality solar panel installation in Bristol, Connecticut, requires choosing a solar installer that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To help you find the perfect team, we’ve assembled a list of the best solar panel companies in Bristol.
Before hiring an installer, request referrals, screen potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the right company for your needs. You can look for a local solar company in Bristol or go with an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
Even though solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can lower your energy bills over the long term. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), transitioning to solar energy enables Bristol homeowners to save $1,100 on average each year.
The offerings from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Take the time to compare companies and get quotes before you set up your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Bristol
Look for Bristol solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars based on customer critiques on Google Reviews and comparable sites. Make sure the company has a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) when selecting a solar company.
Looking at previous customer testimonials can provide insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth noting as a possible warning sign.
SunPower by New York State Solar Farm
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SunPower
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Savkat Solar
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Ion Solar Pros
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Elite Energy Consulting
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Everlast Energy
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EcoSmart Home Services
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Green Power Energy
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Synergy Smart Homes - Connecticut Solar & Elite SunPower Dealer
Services Offered
Earthlight Technologies
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What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Bristol?
Even areas with changing sun amounts, including rainier and overcast places such as Bristol, can still see the benefits of solar panels. Key reasons to consider solar are:
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of fossil fuels that would be required to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that electricity production is one of the biggest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Transitioning to solar allows you to cut your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels works in place of the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You have the ability to charge electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the greatest assurance that your electric car is fueled by clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Bristol
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Bristol?
Based on the results of our survey performed in October 2023, the median cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels depends on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The cost increases if you select any add-ons like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
Per statistics from NASA, the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the mean cost to install solar panels in Bristol is $12,323.
How much can you save by going solar in Bristol?
While solar panel installation can be a hefty initial cost, you stand to see significant savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Bristol from going solar
In Bristol, you can expect to save money once you've transitioned fully to solar. But it takes time to make back the upfront costs, and factors like precipitation and tree coverage influence how soon you'll get a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to recoup its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, Bristol's average payback period for solar is 11 years.
- Annual solar savings in Bristol: On average, Bristol homeowners can save $1,081 per year by adopting solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After transitioning completely to solar power, you can expect to save about $17,819 over 25 years, according to our calculations from the EIA and NASA.
Energy savings in Bristol from going solar
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also decreases your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the projected CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Bristol?
There are several solar incentives available to homeowners in Bristol. Specific programs cover all Connecticut residents, while others are based on your city, municipality and utility company.
Here are solar incentives offered to Connecticut residents, as listed by DSIRE.
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Local Option - Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems | Varies (local option) |
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Exemption for Renewable Energy Systems | 100% of value added by renewable system |
Sales Tax Incentive Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Solar and Geothermal Systems | 100% exemption |
Rebate Program Residential Solar Investment Program | Customer-owned (EPBB): Up to 10 kW PTC: $0.358/W 10 to 20 kW PTC: $0.207/W Incentive is reduced accordingly for Design Factors below 75%. Minimum design factor is 60%. Third-Party-Owned (PBI): Up to 20 kW PTC: $0.03/kWh for 6 years Minimum Design Factor 60% |
Green Building Incentive Connecticut Green Energy Building Solutions | See Website |
Loan Program Smart-E loans | See Website |
Sales Tax Incentive Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Energy-Efficient Products | 100% exemption |
Loan Program Energy Conservation Loan | Single family homes (1-4 family units): $25,000 Landlord Loan: $40,000 |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program The United Illuminating Company - Small ZREC Tariff | $98.18 per ZREC (for Year 6 round of solicitation) |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program Eversource - Small ZREC Tariff | $100.74 per REC (for Year 7 round of solicitation)Tariff for Small ZREC determined through PURA |
Rebate Program (Electric and Gas) Residential Rebate Program | Ductless Heat Pump: $500 Refrigerators/Freezers, Room A/Cs, Dishwashers, Clothes Washers, Dehumidifiers: Incentive Included in Retail Price Central A/C: $200 Air Source Heat Pumps: $500 Heat Pump Water Heater: $750 Lighting: Incentive Included in Retail Price Geothermal Heat Pumps: $500-$1,500 High Efficiency Furnace, Natural Gas Boiler, and Boiler Circulator Pump: Instant Discounts of $25-$800 |
PACE Financing Local Option - Residential Sustainable Energy Program | Locally determined |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 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. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Bristol solar installer?
Consider these questions before hiring a professional solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
The right solar system size for you depends on how much energy your household uses, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Houses with higher energy demands often need larger solar panel systems. If the system isn't expansive enough, it might not generate sufficient electricity to power your whole home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local requirements could affect your solar project. You’ll need to secure the required permits through your local building department and schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get the same levels of sunlight. Area tree cover, rainfall levels and harsh weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require extra panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A solar battery facilitates the storage of extra power in solar panel systems. This becomes incredibly helpful when you're trying to prevent power loss in overcast weather conditions. The extra battery storage might bump up the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You can choose from several types of solar panels, each varying in efficiency, life expectancy and design. These factors not only affect the price, but also how quickly you’ll need to replace panels and the amount of space the panels take up on your roof.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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