5 best solar companies in Saratoga Springs, New York
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.
To complete a high-quality solar panel installation in Saratoga Springs, New York, you'll need to hire a certified, qualified and experienced solar installer. We've compiled a list of the leading solar companies in Saratoga Springs to help you choose the right one.
Before selecting an installer, ask others for recommendations, vet potential installers and request multiple quotes to find the best company for your needs. You can look for a local solar company in Saratoga Springs or use 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
While installing solar panels requires a large initial investment, it can reduce your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that transitioning to solar energy enables Saratoga Springs homeowners to save an average of $630 annually.
The services from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Take the time to compare companies and get quotes before you schedule your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Saratoga Springs
Search for Saratoga Springs solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars based on customer critiques on Google Reviews and similar sites. Make sure the company has a favorable rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) when choosing a solar company.
Looking at previous customer reviews will give you a sense of how other homeowners viewed the company, so take note if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
Kasselman Solar
Services Offered
AEC Solar
Services Offered
New England Solar + Green
Services Offered
Seed Solar, Electric and Engineering
Services Offered
High Peaks Solar
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Saratoga Springs?
Places with different sunshine levels, including rainy or cloudy areas like Saratoga Springs, can still benefit from solar power. The major reasons to adopt solar energy are:
- Save on energy bills: You can lower your energy bills by using solar energy. Power from solar panels takes the place of the electricity bought from utility companies.
- Reduce environmental impact: Going with solar panels shrinks your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels that would otherwise be used to run your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation is one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can power electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the optimal way to verify your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
Facts about Saratoga Springs
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 Saratoga Springs?
According to the results of our survey carried out in October 2023, the median cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
The cost of installing solar panels varies based on several elements, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof orientation, shading, system dimensions and labor. Be prepared to pay extra if you pick any add-ons like solar trackers, animal guards or batteries.
According to data from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), installing solar panels in Saratoga Springs typically costs $11,457.
How much can you save by going solar in Saratoga Springs?
While solar panel installation might be a big initial cost, you stand to see major savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Saratoga Springs from going solar
Homeowners in Saratoga Springs who transition fully to solar energy can anticipate saving money. However, it takes time to recoup the initial investment, and factors such as rainfall and tree coverage impact the time it takes to see returns on your investment in solar panels.
- Payback period: The average payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to recover 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, Saratoga Springs' average payback period for solar is 18 years.
- Annual solar savings in Saratoga Springs: Saratoga Springs homeowners can anticipate saving around $626 per year on average by adopting solar power, according to our analysis of data from NASA, the Department of Energy and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After fully switching to solar power, you can anticipate savings of about $6,385 over 25 years, according to our calculations from the EIA and NASA.
Energy savings in Saratoga Springs from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, switching to solar energy reduces 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 Saratoga Springs?
There are multiple solar incentives open to homeowners in Saratoga Springs. Specific programs are applicable to all New York residents, while others are dependent on your municipality, city and utility company.
The following solar incentives are available for New York residents, as listed in DSIRE:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
PACE Financing State of NY Commercial PACE Financing Program | Locally determined |
Personal Tax Credit Residential Solar Tax Credit | 25% for solar-electric (PV) and solar-thermal systems; for third-party owned systems this is in reference to the aggregate amount owed under the contract rather than the amount owed in any single year |
Corporate Tax Credit Refundable Clean Heating Fuel Tax Credit (Corporate) | $0.01/gallon for each percent of biodiesel |
Loan Program NY-Sun Loan Program | Residential Customers: $1,500 - $25,000 Small Business and Not-for-Profit Organizations: Participation Loans: up to $100,000 (at low interest rate) On-Bill Recovery loans: $50,000 at 2% |
Sales Tax Incentive Residential Wood Heating Fuel Exemption | 100% exemption |
Sales Tax Incentive Local Option - Solar Sales Tax Exemption | Upon local authorization, 100% exemption from local sales tax |
Sales Tax Incentive Solar Sales Tax Exemption | 100% exemption from state sales tax |
Property Tax Incentive Local Option - Real Property Tax Exemption for Green Buildings | Upon local adoption, 20% - 100% of real property taxes owed; varies by year and certification level |
Property Tax Incentive Energy Conservation Improvements Property Tax Exemption | 100% of the value added to the residence by the improvements |
Property Tax Incentive Local Option - Solar, Wind & Biomass Energy Systems Exemption | 100% exemption for 15 years (unless local jurisdiction has opted out) |
Rebate Program NY-Sun PV Incentive Program (Residential, Low-Income, and Small Business) | Incentive rates step down over time as MW goals are met. Incentive rates as of 11/27/2019 are: Residential: Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed) Con Edison Region: $0.30/W Upstate Region: $0.35/W Low-to-Moderate income customers: $0.80/W (up to 10 kW) Small Commercial (Non-Residential):Long Island Region: $0.00/W (MW blocks have been fully subscribed) Con Edison Region: $0.60/W Up State Region: $0.45/W Multifamily Affordable Housing Adder: additional $0.40/W (up to 50 kW) |
Rebate Program Ground Source Heat Pump Rebate Program | Small Systems (≤ 10 cooling tons): $1,500/cooling ton Large Systems (> 10 cooling tons): $1,200/cooling ton |
Loan Program Home Performance with ENERGY STAR | See Website |
Other Incentive NY Green Bank | See Website |
Personal Tax Credit Refundable Clean Heating Fuel Tax Credit (Personal) | $0.01/gallon for each percent of biodiesel |
Rebate Program On-Site Wind Incentive Program | Tier I: 10,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $3.50/annual kWh Tier II: 10,000 kWh - 125,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $1.00/annual kWh Tier III: 125,000 kWh - 1,000,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $0.30/ annual kWh Tier IV: Greater than 1,000,000 kWh of expected annual energy production: $0.15/ annual kWh These incentives are additive. |
Performance-Based Incentive Anaerobic Digester Gas-to-Electricity Rebate and Performance Incentive |
|
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 Saratoga Springs solar installer?
Before choosing a professional solar panel installation company, reflect on these important questions.
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 residences tend to use more power and will potentially need larger solar installations. An undersized system risks inadequate energy generation to fully power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state codes could impact your solar project. Be sure to obtain necessary permits through your local building department and book an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Tree coverage, precipitation 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?
For extra power storage, many panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature is invaluable in cloudy conditions and helps to mitigate power loss. However, opting for battery storage may lead to increased overall installation expenses.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Several solar panel varieties are available, each differing in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These factors impact pricing, the frequency of replacing panels and the amount of roof space you'll need.
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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