Transitioning to solar energy is an exciting move that nearly 16,000 Vermont households have already taken. With abundant financial incentives and Vermont‘s commitment to 100% renewable electricity by 2030, now is the time to go solar if you haven‘t already.
But with over 250 solar installation companies operating in the state, the options can feel overwhelming.
Not to worry, I‘ve done the homework for you. I analyzed the top five solar providers in Vermont across key factors like pricing, quality, warranties, and customer satisfaction. Read on for my insider‘s guide to the best options to save money and go green.
Solar Power is Booming in Vermont
Vermont has charted an ambitious goal of sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Solar energy will play a major role in hitting this target.
The state already generates 11% of its electricity from solar, amounting to over 400 MW of capacity. And each year, the amount of solar energy produced grows significantly:
Solar Energy Growth in Vermont
| Year | Solar generation (MWh) | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 484,294 | +26% |
| 2020 | 620,149 | +28% |
| 2021 | 790,035 | +27% |
Roughly 15,900 Vermont homes have already gone solar. The Department of Energy estimates that 77% of households could cut their electricity bills in half through solar installation.
And thanks to Vermont‘s generous financial incentives, payback periods for solar investments can be under 5 years.
Let‘s look at five of the most reputable solar companies helping Vermont residences tap into the power of the sun.
SunCommon
SunCommon is a local company based right in Waterbury, VT. Operating since 2012, they have installed over 5,000 solar systems statewide.
Why SunCommon stands out:
- Community solar options – Subscriptions to shared solar farms to offset home energy use
- Battery storage – Full systems with solar + Tesla Powerwall batteries
- Electric vehicle support – Compatible charger installation
- One of few B Corp certified solar companies meeting highest standards of social/environmental performance
| Facts | Stats |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Statewide |
| Installs | 5,000+ |
| Reviews | 4.7/5 Stars |
| Warranty | 25 years on labor & equipment |
| Price | $3.25/W (Premium equipment) |
I recommend SunCommon for their experience tailoring solar solutions to Vermont homes, commitment to sustainability, and fair pricing.
Sunpower
Founded in 1985, SunPower is one of the most trusted national solar companies. They are known for premium quality and solar innovation.
What makes SunPower a top choice:
- Efficiency – Their panels convert over 22% of sunlight into energy, topping competitors
- Durability – Special panel materials and coatings protect against wear and tear
- Guaranteed production – Systems guaranteed to deliver 92% of rated output after 25 years
| Facts | Stats |
|---|---|
| Installs | 500,000+ |
| Reviews | 4.6/5 Stars |
| Warranty | 25 years equipment, 10 years labor |
| Price | $3.40/W |
While premium, SunPower offers peace of mind and electricity bill savings you can take to the bank. Their expertise and advanced equipment justify higher costs.
Tesla
Today, Tesla has become a major player in solar through their sleek shingled solar roofs. Their offerings also extend to more traditional solar panels.
Why Tesla Energy is worth considering:
- Seamless aesthetic – Their solar shingles are practically indistinguishable from ordinary roofing
- Storage included – Every solar purchase comes with their compact Powerwall battery
- Electric vehicle centric – As an EV leader, Tesla facilitates easy home charging
| Facts | Stats |
|---|---|
| Installs | 200,000+ |
| Reviews | 4.8/5 Stars |
| Warranty | 25 years roof/equipment |
| Price | $2.01/W (After tax credit) |
Tesla makes it easy to charge your EV, power your home, and cut energy bills through an integrated system.
Green Mountain Solar
Green Mountain Solar is local to South Burlington and specializes in Vermont projects. Since 2011 they have installed over 2,500 solar arrays locally.
Why Green Mountain Solar excels:
- Knowledge of incentives – Ready to help customers capitalize on all federal, state and utility solar incentives and programs
- Flexible financing – Offer 0% interest solar loans covering 100% system costs in partnership with VSECU
- Full-service – Handle all monitoring and maintenance in-house after installation
| Facts | Stats |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Statewide |
| Installs | 2,500+ |
| Reviews | 5/5 Stars |
| Warranty | 25 years labor, 10-25 years equipment |
| Price | $3.25/W |
I suggest Green Mountain Solar for smooth-sailing solar installations and hassle-free ownership thanks to their continued local support.
REC Solar
The final company making my list is REC Solar. Founded in Norway in 1996, REC brings over 25,000 installs of experience to the table.
What REC Solar delivers:
- Tier 1 equipment – High-efficiency solar panels from trusted brands like LG, Panasonic and Jinko
- Storage agnostic – System designers integrate the latest battery options based on home needs/budget
- Solar+EV options – Seamless coordination for powering electric vehicles
| Facts | Stats |
|---|---|
| Installs | 25,000+ |
| Reviews | 4.8/5 Stars |
| Warranty | 25 years labor, 25 years equipment |
| Price | $3.00/W |
I recommend REC Solar for their broad experience, top-rated equipment, and excellent warranties.
Federal Tax Credits and Vermont Incentives Cut Costs by 50%
The investment needed to go solar has never been less thanks to incentives aimed at accelerating Vermont‘s transition to renewables.
Federal and state initiatives can reduce out-of-pocket solar expenses by 50% or more!
Here are the main savings opportunities:
- Federal Solar Tax Credit – 26% credit on total system cost
- Small Scale Renewable Energy Incentive Program – Up to $4,000 state rebate
- Solar Sales Tax Exemption – No 6% sales tax on solar purchases
- Net Metering – Bill credits for solar electricity sent back to the grid
- Renewable Energy Credits – Utilites like GMP purchase credits from solar producers
And the savings keep mounting thanks to near zero operating costs and avoided purchases from your utility. Within 5-7 years, your solar array will have covered your initial investment and provide electricity at no cost.
Finding Your Solar Match
With the right installer, realizing the financial advantages of solar is a breeze. As you evaluate companies, watch out for:
Equipment Quality & Warranties – Well-engineered solar gear lasts 25+ years. Go Tier 1 panels.
Production Guarantees – Most offer 80%+ of rated system output, verified yearly.
Technical Expertise – Advanced system design maximizes efficiency and payback in VT seasons.
Service Reputation – check for transparent pricing, responsive support and happy customers.
I‘m always happy to offer more solar pointers for Vermont homeowners. Reach out anytime! Wishing you sunshine and savings ahead my friend.
