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Best Solar Companies in Maine

We compared 54 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • ShopSolar
      4.7(157)
    • Project Solar
      4.8(76)

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      Best Solar Companies in Maine

      If you’re ready to go solar in Maine but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal.

      Our 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.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,566,694 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies reviewed

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      157 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      ShopSolar is an awesome place to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. We like that ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication. 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’s great for homes, RVs and outbuildings.

      “The reps from [ShopSolar] were very nice people, and it was very easy to deal with them,” Rodney in West Enfield, Maine, told us. “I ordered a kit and two hours later, I changed my mind and wanted to order a bigger one. I called them and they had already shipped the first one. I sent them back and then, they sent me the one that I eventually ordered. They were awesome about it.”

      The important thing to keep in mind is that ShopSolar doesn’t offer professional installation services. So, it’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work. Otherwise, you might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly.

      Additionally, some customers experienced problems with their purchases, such as damaged or faulty equipment, but ShopSolar generally resolved these issues with refunds or replacements.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment, such as generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      • New and used solar panels
      • 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

      • Free shipping
      • Price match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products
      Our pick for price transparency

      Project Solar

      4.8
      76 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2016

      Project Solar reps take a no-sales-gimmicks approach that appeals to more budget-conscious solar clients. 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.

      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 do-it-yourself 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.

      Project Solar services

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

      A manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in materials of solar panels, inverters and other equipment for 25 years. There’s also an 84% production level guarantee for 25 years.

      Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer two main financing options for professional solar installations: a short-term loan and long-term loan. DIY customers have to pay cash or finance their project through a third-party lender, such as LightStream or a home equity loan/line of credit.

      Pros

      • Transparent pricing
      • Streamlined process
      • Great for cost savings

      Cons

      • Fewer equipment options
      • No in-house financing

      Maine solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve heard from more than 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018. A couple of things we know for sure: People like powering their homes with a reliable source of cheap, clean energy. They don’t like getting into solar contracts that don’t meet their expectations. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in Maine.

      Key insights

      • In Maine, a typical residential solar panel system costs $11,445 to $32,700, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.
      • The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for buying solar panels in Maine. 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. Watch out for door-to-door solar scams that attempt to gather your personal information, misleading claims, false advertising and aggressive sales tactics.

      Going solar in Maine

      In 2023, a man from Manchester was accused of scamming a homeowner in York County, Maine. The homeowner said she paid $33,000 for a solar panel installation, but investigators said the man’s business address was fake, and he cut off communication once he received the payment upfront.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Maine ranks No. 18 in 2024

      What to look for in a solar company in Maine

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Maine. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

      • Check certifications: Look for companies with NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously. Maine solar installers need a valid electrician’s license issued by the Electricians’ Examining Board. You can also reference the Efficiency Maine Registered Vendor search tool to vet potential installers.
      • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags — complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others — this may indicate lower quality.
      • Ask questions: Consider if you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in Maine.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask.

      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.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      How much does it cost to go solar in Maine?

      Average solar panel costs in Maine typically range between $11,445 to $32,700. 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.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Maine, the average cost per watt is $3.27.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Maine

      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 people finance their system through a solar loan. If you have enough savings to pay upfront, the biggest advantage of paying upfront is you don’t have to worry about interest.

      Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system. 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 lease agreement.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar panel incentives in Maine

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, labor and additional features for monitoring the system.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000. You don’t get these benefits automatically, though. You have to claim your solar equipment, labor and permits on your federal taxes for the same year you started using your system on Form 5695.

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

      In Maine, there’s also a property tax exemption for solar panels, which means you won’t pay property taxes on the increased value they add to your home. The state’s new Solar for All program, which will help low-income households get solar panels and energy storage batteries, is expected to launch by the end of the year.

      » EXPLORE: Maine solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

      Are solar panels worth it in Maine?

      Installing solar panels leads to big long-term savings on electricity bills. Many solar customers we spoke to have seen their monthly costs drop dramatically since going solar. On average, Maine homeowners with solar panels can avoid $64,522 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      It’s a common misconception that solar panels always eliminate your monthly power bill — this is not always the case. On the bright side, people who still have a bill after going solar typically pay significantly less than before.

      The return on investment of a solar panel installation depends on the efficiency and size of your system. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 10.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      The general consensus is that solar panels are worth it in Maine. Many reported significant savings. Some just appreciate the environmental benefits. For a lot of residents, it’s a combination that makes installing solar panels worth it in the long run.

      » 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 system, which will be cheaper.

      Use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      Should I replace my roof before installing solar panels?

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on 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.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      Can I get free solar panels in Maine?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Maine. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can end up costing you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components. Ultimately, deciding between a solar broker and a solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process.

      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.

      How does net metering work in Maine?

      Sometimes, your solar panels might generate more electricity than your household can use. Net metering lets you sell that extra to the local power grid. Maine has two types of net energy billing programs. One compensates you for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity you generate, and the other offers credits based on what the energy is worth, which can better offset future demand charges. The Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) establishes the rates for both programs each year.

      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 Maine. 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. Companies with the most positive recent ratings left by local reviewers on our site were given preference.

      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 product and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranties terms. All of 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.

      Not sure how to choose?

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        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, "Maine Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Maine.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Maine Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in Maine?” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
        6. Interstate Renewable Energy Council, “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed April 28, 2024.
        7. WMUR-TV, “Man accused in Maine solar panel scam.” Accessed May 21, 2024.

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