You should consider several factors when looking for a solar installation company to install your home’s photovoltaic solar panels. One of the most important is the contractor’s license.
A licensed New Jersey solar contractor will be available if your solar system experiences any issues. Moreover, they can help you obtain necessary permits and apply for incentives.
Experience
Installing a solar power system in your home is an investment in the future. It can help you save money on electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint. It can also increase your property value. However, you must find a good New Jersey solar installation company to ensure the job is done properly. A good installer will inspect your roof and home to see if it suits solar panels. They will also walk you through the solar incentives available in your area.
New Jersey has been an early leader in clean energy and continues to be a top ten state for solar deployment. The state has several important solar programs, including net metering and a community solar pilot program, including solar panels reinstallation in NJ. New Jersey also has a strong SREC market and is a leader in integrating battery storage into its solar systems.
Homeowners who install solar panels in New Jersey can receive a federal Investment Tax Credit of 30% of the cost of their system. This incentive is a great way to offset the high upfront costs of solar. The tax credits can be claimed against your income taxes when you buy your system or roll over to the next year.
When you sell your home, you can transfer your solar energy production rights to the new buyer. This can significantly increase the resale value of your home and allow you to recoup some of your investment.
License
New Jersey has long been a leader in solar energy. The state is ranked eighth in the US for solar power production, boasts an average of 206 sunny days per year, and offers numerous rebates and incentives to reduce installation costs. It also bans homeowner associations from blocking solar panel installations, and the state’s Solar Easements Act allows homeowners to negotiate with neighbors for optimal sun exposure. Additionally, many home insurance companies now cover rooftop solar panels, making it even easier to invest in renewable energy.
Licensing and professional certification are two different things. While licensing is required to practice a trade, certification is a voluntary standard that installers can attain to distinguish themselves from the competition. Licensing requirements typically cover safety and equipment quality, while certification covers a more comprehensive set of competencies.
In addition to a license, finding an installer certified by the National Association of Boards of Examiners for Solar Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is important. While NABCEP is not required in all states, several need it to be eligible for solar incentive programs. This designation demonstrates that an installer has been trained and meets the industry’s highest standards of professionalism. It also helps differentiate an installer from its competitors and can lead to a quicker sales process. In addition, a certified installer can display their certification badge on their website to reinforce their credibility.
Insurance
New Jersey residents have numerous options when it comes to solar energy. It’s a state that has been an early leader in solar and continues to rank among the top 10 states for solar panel installations. It has 206 sunny days per year, strong state incentives, and more than 200 solar companies to choose from.
A solar company may have various types of insurance coverage, depending on the kind of work it performs and where it operates. General liability insurance protects the business in case someone is injured or property is damaged while a contractor works on a project.
For instance, a contractor might accidentally damage a skylight while installing solar panels on a client’s roof. The homeowner could sue the solar installation company for the cost of the repairs. Moreover, PV installers frequently drive to and from job sites, so commercial auto insurance is often required.
Local, state, and federal incentives are available to make solar energy a more affordable option for homeowners. For example, the Residential Clean Energy Credit can cut over $8,600 from a system’s initial cost. Additionally, the state solar tax credit and the community solar incentive can further reduce costs for a home-based approach. The federal solar Investment Tax Credit can save a homeowner even more money. The amount of savings that can be achieved with these incentives is substantial, so working with a solar energy expert is important to ensure that all the appropriate programs are applied.
Reputation
When choosing a solar panel installation company, choosing one with a strong reputation is important. This is because you’ll need support from your installer over the system’s 25-30 year lifespan. If you select a less-reputable solar panel installation company, you could end up with what are known as “solar orphans.” That’s why checking out solar installer reviews before choosing is important.
It would help if you also looked for a company that offers a warranty on its services and products. A company that provides a 25-year warranty is a good choice, as it shows that they stand behind their work and will be around to service your solar panel reinstallation in NJ if needed.
In New Jersey, where the state’s harsh climate conditions can impact a solar panel reinstallation, it is wise to choose a high-efficiency solar panel brand, such as SunPower. This will help your system produce more electricity, leading to a shorter solar payback period.
The cost of solar power in New Jersey has dropped significantly over the last five years, making it an affordable option for many homeowners. Additionally, local solar incentives can further reduce the initial costs of a residential solar system. If you’re interested in lowering your energy bills, adding value to your home, and creating energy independence, contact a New Jersey solar energy company today.
