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Best Solar Companies in Delaware

We compared 72 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Project Solar
      4.7(78)
    • ShopSolar
      4.8(174)

    Best Solar Companies in Delaware

    Author picture
    Written by Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by Justin Martino

    Our top 2 solar company picks for Delaware

    1. Best for value: Project Solar
    2. Best for DIY and off-grid systems: ShopSolar

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    Our top solar companies, reviewed

    Our pick for value
    Project Solar
    Project Solar
    4.7
    78 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    20.9%
    Equipment warranty
    25 years
    Workmanship warranty
    10 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Read Reviews

    Project Solar reps focus on a simple, streamlined customer experience. We like the fact that they don’t work on commissions. This no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious solar clients who want either professional or do-it-yourself installation.

    We also appreciate the price transparency. The website provides clear information on pricing models and potential savings. As of publishing, full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt, and Power Purchase Agreements are between 10 cents and 15 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Anything over 13 kilowatts is a flat rate.

    What reviewers like: We’ve heard from over 50 verified Project Solar customers over the last year. Compared to solar industry averages, reviewers have more positive feedback on pricing and equipment quality.

    Customers in other states have told us about installation delays and inconsistent communication. The focus on streamlining might mean fewer customization options or handling complex roof situations. There might also be some room for improvement when it comes to quality control.

    Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Q-Cell, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase. As part of the full-service installation, it offers Enphase IQ 5P batteries or Tesla Powerwall. DIY projects only have the Enphase IQ 5P option. It currently operates in multiple states across the US. Systems.

    Project Solar services

    • System design
    • Equipment procurement
    • Pro and DIY installations
    • Financing solutions

    Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer two main financing options for professional solar installations:

    • Option A is cheaper overall: Ideal for customers who plan to pay off their solar loan in a shorter period, typically around seven years. It has a higher interest rate, but any extra payments go directly towards reducing the principal amount. This can save you from paying excess interest if you pay off the loan early, as many homeowners tend to move within 13 years on average.
    • Option B has a lower monthly payment: Designed for customers who plan to stay in their current home for at least 20 years and prioritize a consistent, low monthly payment over the long term. While the interest rate is lower, there may be additional costs that cannot be avoided by paying off the loan early.

    For DIY solar projects, Project Solar's financing partners cannot provide loans. DIY customers need to pay cash or finance their project through a third-party lender, such as LightStream or a home equity loan/line of credit.

    Project Solar provides two main warranties: a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Both are limited and have exclusions like weather damage or misuse.

    • Manufacturer’s warranty: Covers defects in materials of solar panels, inverters and other equipment for 25 years.
    • Workmanship warranty: Covers issues like faulty wiring or improper mounting for 25 years if you pay for full installation services.
    • Performance guarantee: There’s an 84% production level guarantee for 25 years, and it provides reimbursements if production levels are not met during this time.

    Pros

    • Transparent pricing
    • Streamlined installations
    • Great for cost savings
    • Roof-leak warranty

    Cons

    • Less equipment options
    • Subcontracted installers
    • No in-house financing
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    ShopSolar
    ShopSolar
    4.8
    174 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Equipment warranty
    Varies
    Workmanship warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Read Reviews

    We like that ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment, including complete solar packages, fast deliveries and good communication. It’s great for homes, RVs and outbuildings.

    You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It also sells different monitoring systems that connect through Bluetooth or manufacturer apps.

    What reviewers like: We’ve heard from over 140 ShopSolar customers since 2022. They often tell us about a good online experience and helpful customer service, particularly on off-grid and DIY projects

    ShopSolar does not provide professional installation services. So, it’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work. You might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly otherwise.

    » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

    ShopSolar is an online retailer that stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow and sells custom solar kits. It offers a variety of solar solutions, including solar panels, generators, batteries, cables and racks for DIY and off-grid projects. Equipment is available in full kits containing everything you need for self-installation or professional setup. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

    ShopSolar products

    • New and used solar panels
    • Custom solar kits
    • Solar generator bundles
    • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
    • Additional hardware and accessories

    ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

    You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. It also has financing options for as little as $0 down.

    • Online payments: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.
    • Financing: ShopSolar partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR.

    Pros

    • Wide selection for off-grid and DIY projects
    • Price-match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support

    Cons

    • Shipping and delivery restrictions or delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

    Solar Companies in Delaware Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

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      Delaware solar panel buyers guide

      Our team has talked to thousands of solar customers across the country — here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in Delaware.

      Key insights

      • In Delaware, a typical 10-kilowatt residential solar panel system is $24,900 before any financial incentives. That price drops to $17,430 after considering the full federal solar investment tax credit.
      • The federal Delaware investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for buying solar panels in Delaware. You can also lease a system with little upfront cost, but you aren't eligible for the ITC.
      • Many solar customers are happy with the service, installation and cost savings. Others felt misled by pushy sales tactics and ended up with monthly bills higher than expected. The state is taking steps to protect solar customers against unscrupulous sales pitches in the residential rooftop solar industry.

      Going solar in Delaware

      Delaware has relatively low installation costs, reasonably competitive solar potential and solar-friendly policies, including net metering and power purchase agreements. But, for some, there is a major obstacle in the technical details: Delaware Electric Cooperative, which serves 20% of the state’s residential customers, has blocked new rooftop solar installations from being connected to the electricity grid in these areas.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Delaware ranks 2nd

      What to look for in a solar company in Delaware

      Solar panels last a long time — you want to hire a well-established company that will still be around for system support for at least 25 years. In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common:

      • Good reputation: Don’t blindly trust what a sales rep tells you. Look at reviews on platforms like the ConsumerAffairs, Better Business Bureau and solar-specific forums to see real customer experiences. Look out for recurring complaints: equipment failures, misleading sales tactics and billing issues are major red flags.
      • Local experience: Companies with extensive experience installing solar panels in Delaware are better at navigating regional incentive programs, permit processes, utility policies and designing systems to maximize energy production given the state’s climate and weather patterns.
      • Free consultation: Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower quotes than others, as this may indicate lower quality.
      • Complete services: The best solar companies provide end-to-end services, from system design and engineering to permitting, installation, inspection, monitoring and maintenance. Consider if you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guard.
      • Transparent terms: The contract should be easy to understand. If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification. Warranties and productivity guarantees provide peace of mind once your system is up and running.
      • Industry credentials: Legitimate solar companies have proper licensing, insurance and NABCEP certification for installers. Bonding is also important as it protects you if the contractor fails to meet certain financial obligations, like paying for permits or subcontractors.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      How much does it cost to go solar in Delaware?

      Delaware solar panel costs typically range between $8,715 to $24,900. The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

      A typical Delaware household needs a system with a capacity of 10.15 kW to offset enough energy costs to make solar viable. You might need a smaller or larger system depending on your household energy usage.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Delaware, the average cost per watt is $2.49.

      Average solar panel installation cost by system size in Delaware

      This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is similar to buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance their system through a solar loan. If you have enough savings to pay upfront, the biggest advantage is that you don’t have to pay interest. On the other hand, leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25-30 years.

      Delaware also has legalized power purchase agreements (unlike many other states). PPAs work very similarly to leases. The biggest downside to both is that you’ll be disqualified from many of the best financial incentives, like the 30% federal solar tax credit. It also might make your house harder to sell since a new buyer will have to take over the agreement.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Delaware

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the biggest factor in reducing the cost of going solar in Delaware. ITC credits 30% of the system’s total cost — including equipment, labor and permits — toward what you owe on federal income taxes.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, then the ITC is worth $3,000. If in the year your system becomes operational, you owe $15,000 in taxes, it reduces what you owe to $12,000. It only offsets your tax liability; you can't take advantage of the ITC if you don’t owe taxes in the first place. However, the credit rolls over to future tax years if you don’t use the full amount.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      Don’t get confused: The ITC is not a rebate or a refund. It is a credit that goes toward what you owe on federal income taxes. Residents may take advantage of more solar incentives in Delaware, like the Green Energy programs through Delmarva Power, Delaware Electric Cooperative and DEMEC Member Utilities.

      Are solar panels worth it in Delaware?

      Delaware is one of the best states for solar panels. It’s generally worth it if you like the idea of lower monthly utility bills and more energy independence.

      Your current electric bill is the starting point for assessing the financial benefits of transitioning to solar energy. Getting a loan for solar panel installation makes sense as long as your loan payment is cheaper than what you’d be paying for electricity anyway. Then, once the loan is paid off, you essentially get free electricity.

      Delaware is our third-best state for solar in 2024.

      Buying solar panels is still a big upfront investment. It takes time to recover this initial investment through savings on your electricity bills. If you plan to move before recovering these costs, you might not fully realize the financial benefits. The payback period is typically five to 10 years, depending on your installation costs, utility rates, available incentives and other factors.

      If electricity rates continue to go up, your net savings will equal even more over the lifetime of the solar panel system. Your savings with solar depend on how much electricity your system can produce and the cost of electricity in your area.

      In the past, net metering in Delaware let people with solar panels sell their excess energy at the same retail rate for which they bought it from the grid. As of publishing, DEC is saying that this leads to non-solar customers indirectly subsidizing those with solar, which is why their electricity rates are increasing. It’s currently preventing customers from connecting their solar systems to the grid across much of the state.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. If you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home.

      It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Reducing your electrical loads now means you can get a smaller, cheaper system. The condition of your roof matters too — if it needs replacement soon, do that before installing solar panels. Going solar with an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      Homeowners associations have some authority over how you install solar in Delaware. Still, their restrictions must not “significantly increase the cost of the system or significantly decrease its efficiency or specified performance,” according to Delaware law.

      Do I really need a solar battery?

      A solar battery system protects against fluctuating energy costs and policy changes while maximizing the benefits of your solar panels. As regulations change, batteries can insulate you from unfavorable policies and offer opportunities for future financial benefits, like participating in demand response programs or selling stored energy to the local grid.

      Solar batteries are also a must if you want real energy independence and are essential if you go off-grid.

      Is it cheaper if I install solar panels myself?

      It’s potentially cheaper to install solar panels yourself. It’s also dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing, especially for a large residential project.

      » DIY solar panels: Pros and cons

      What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a PPA, you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a fixed rate that’s lower than you would receive without a PPA.
      What is the difference between a solar installer and a solar broker?

      A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, it's best to work directly with a solar installer.

      • Broker: A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. It typically has relationships with various installers and can help you compare options. Often, people selling solar panels door-to-door work for solar brokers.
      • Installer: A solar installer specializes in the design, procurement and installation of solar panels and related components. It typically has its own team of trained technicians who handle the installation process.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team objectively evaluates solar providers to highlight those best equipped to meet most homeowners' needs. To choose our top picks for this guide, we started with a list of popular providers. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Delaware. We then weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. We gave preference to companies with the most positive recent ratings left by local reviewers on our site.

      Equipment selection: 20%
      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Warranties: 20%
      A long warranty is important—it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on equipment and craftsmanship warranties. All our top picks have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Financing and payment options: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Overall reputation: 10%
      We considered each company's history, mission and value. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect.

      To recap, our top picks for the best solar companies in Delaware are:

      1. Best for value: Project Solar
      2. Best for DIY and off-grid systems: ShopSolar
      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

      1. DSIRE, "Delaware Solar Programs." Accessed March 2, 2024. 
      2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Delaware.” Accessed March 2, 2024. 
      3. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in Delaware, 2024?” Accessed March 2, 2024. 
      4. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Delaware Solar." Accessed March 2, 2024. 
      5. The Delaware Code Online, “Title 25 Chapter 3.” Accessed March 2, 2024.

      Not sure how to choose?

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