8 best solar companies in Scarborough, Maine
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
Editorial note: Homefront (defined in the Disclosure below) may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations
Read MoreJoin more than 1,246 people who have received a quote in the last 30 days.
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.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Scarborough, Maine, requires you to hire a solar company that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To guide your search for the best installer, we've assembled a list of the leading solar companies in Scarborough.
Prior to choosing an installer, request referrals from others, vet potential companies and request multiple quotes to find the right company for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Scarborough or use a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
While putting in solar panels requires a substantial initial investment, it can reduce your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that changing to solar energy enables Scarborough homeowners to save an average of $900 annually.
Solar companies do not all offer identical services and products. You should look at different companies and ask for quotes before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Scarborough
When evaluating Scarborough solar companies, look for those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should read through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' experiences with the company. Take note of frequent negative feedback as a potential warning sign.
ReVision Energy
Services Offered
Goggin Energy
Services Offered
Maine Solar Solutions
Services Offered
Assured Solar Energy
Services Offered
ALL Solar Energy Solutions
Services Offered
Mains Electric, LLC
Services Offered
Univix Power Solutions
Services Offered
ReVision Energy
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Scarborough?
Even areas with variable sun amounts, including rainier and cloudier places such as Scarborough, can still use solar panels. Major reasons to adopt solar include these:
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar panels lowers your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels that would otherwise be consumed to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation is one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Transitioning to solar allows you to cut your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels replaces the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can power electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the ideal way to verify your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
Facts about Scarborough
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 Scarborough?
Based on the results of our survey carried out in October 2023, the median cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels is influenced by factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The cost rises if you choose any accessories like animal guards, batteries or solar trackers.
Based on data from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), installing solar panels in Scarborough typically costs $13,948.
How much can you save by going solar in Scarborough?
While solar panel installation may be a substantial initial cost, you are positioned to see significant savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Scarborough from going solar
After moving completely to solar power, Scarborough homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and elements like rain and tree shade impact the timeline for achieving returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to recoup its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, the average payback period for solar installations in Scarborough is 15 years.
- Annual solar savings in Scarborough: On average, Scarborough homeowners can save $905 per year using solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the Department of Energy, NASA and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from NASA and the EIA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can anticipate saving around $14,508 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Scarborough from going solar
Beyond cost savings, switching to solar power also lessens your carbon footprint and lowers your environmental impact. Provided below are the approximated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 39 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 975 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Scarborough?
Homeowners in Scarborough can be eligible for several solar incentives. Certain are available across the state for all Maine residents, and others depend on your utility company, municipality and city.
Here are solar incentives accessible for Maine residents, according to DSIRE.
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Solar and Wind Energy Property Tax Exemption | 100% exemption |
Loan Program Efficiency Maine - Home Energy Loans | $15,000 |
Rebate Program Efficiency Maine Residential Home Energy Savings Program | Geothermal Heat Pumps: One third of the installation cost up to $3,000 Air Sealing (6 hrs): $400 Insulation: 30% of project costs, up to $1,000 per zone Air-Source Heat Pumps: $500 for single or first zone heating; an additional $250 is available for second zone heating Biomass Boilers and Furnaces: One third of the installation cost up to $6,000 See rebate application for full list of rebate bonuses |
PACE Financing Local Option - Property Assessed Clean Energy | Residential PACE mortgage maximum: $15,000 |
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 Scarborough solar installer?
Before choosing a solar panel installation expert, go over these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio dictate the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive houses tend to use more power and will potentially need bigger solar panel systems. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to completely power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state codes could influence your solar project. Be sure to obtain necessary permits through your local building department and schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Surrounding trees, rain and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require more panels with more wattage capacity.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems include a solar battery. Solar batteries conserve extra energy, which can be helpful for ensuring continuous power during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could increase the overall expense.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in efficiency, life expectancy and design. These aspects impact not just the cost, but also panel replacement frequency and roof space requirements.
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
Our editors may use AI as an input tool to tailor information in local markets. All content goes through a rigorous research and review process led by our team of writers and editors.
More on this topic...
Our guide explores the best solar companies available. Trinity and Elevation top our list for their services, and Sunrun rounds it out with its leasing options.
solarApr. 23
While you can save money installing DIY solar panels, it’s not a simple home improvement project and does require electrical know-how as well as roofing skills.
solarMar. 27
Sleek and innovative, solar shingles are gaining rapid popularity. They cost more than traditional solar panels but are also more aesthetically pleasing.
solarMar. 25
Solar panels last about 25 years, according to our expert. Our guide explains how to get the most out of your system’s life.
solarMar. 27