10 best solar companies in Watertown, 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.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Watertown, Connecticut, requires you to hire a solar installer that is certified, qualified and experienced. To assist your search for the best possible installer, we've gathered a list of the highest-ranking solar companies in Watertown.
Prior to picking an installer, get referrals, vet potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to determine the ideal company for you. You can pick a local Watertown solar company or choose a well-known 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
While putting in solar panels requires a large initial investment, it can decrease your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy allows Watertown homeowners to save an average of $1,100 every year.
Not every solar company has the same offerings. Before booking your solar panel installation, compare different companies' offerings and get quotes from each.
Find the top solar company for you in Watertown
When researching Watertown solar companies, look for those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a positive reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reading through previous customer reviews will give you a sense of how other homeowners viewed the company, so make a note if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
SunPower by New York State Solar Farm
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SunPower
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Ion Solar Pros
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Savkat Solar
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Solara Solar
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Elite Energy Consulting
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Green Power Energy
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Everlast Energy
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EcoSmart Home Services
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Synergy Smart Homes - Connecticut Solar & Elite SunPower Dealer
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What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Watertown?
Even areas with changing sun amounts, including rainier and overcast places such as Watertown, can still benefit from solar panels. Major reasons to adopt solar include these:
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar reduces your carbon footprint by decreasing 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.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can charge electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the best assurance that your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Adopting solar can help reduce your electricity expenses. Solar panel systems generate power to replace the electricity you would have otherwise purchased from the utility company.
Facts about Watertown
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 Watertown?
Based on a survey we carried out in October 2023, the average cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The cost of installing solar panels varies based on several factors, including your location, sunlight access, roof orientation, shading, system dimensions and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you choose any accessories like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
Based on statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA the mean cost to install solar panels in Watertown is $12,323.
How much can you save by going solar in Watertown?
While solar panel installation might be a substantial initial cost, you stand to see significant savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Watertown from going solar
In Watertown, you can anticipate saving money once you've transitioned fully to solar. But it takes time to recover 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), the EIA and NASA, Watertown's average payback period for solar is 11 years.
- Annual solar savings in Watertown: On average, Watertown homeowners can save $1,081 per year by adopting solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the EIA, NASA and the Department of Energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: According to data we've compiled from the EIA and NASA, by switching fully to solar, you can expect to see a total savings of around $33,777 after 25 years.
Energy savings in Watertown from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, moving to solar energy decreases your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the approximated CO2 emission reductions you can achieve by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Watertown?
There are a number of solar incentives available to homeowners in Watertown. Specific programs are applicable to all Connecticut residents, while others are determined by your utility company, municipality and city.
Available solar incentives to Connecticut homeowners, per DSIRE, include:
| 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 Watertown solar installer?
Take time to evaluate these questions prior to hiring a professional solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
The right solar system size for you is based on how much energy your household utilizes, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Larger homes often need more extensive solar installations. If the system isn't large enough, it might not generate sufficient electricity to power your whole home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project might be subject to relevant codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to apply for the required permits from your local building department, as well as schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get similar amounts of sunlight. Area tree cover, rainfall levels and harsh weather can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn't get enough sun, it may require more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A solar battery facilitates the storage of extra power in solar panel systems. This proves particularly beneficial when you're trying to prevent power loss in overcast weather conditions. The extra battery storage can increase the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have options among solar panel types, as they differ in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These elements influence cost, how soon you'll need to swap panels and space used 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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