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Best Solar Companies in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

We compared 16 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Green Home Systems
      2.9(54)
    • Community solar
      CleanChoice Energy
      4.7(58)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

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      Best Solar Companies in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

      Our top solar company picks for Pittsburgh

      1. Our top pick overall: Green Home Systems
      2. Our pick for community solar: CleanChoice Energy
      3. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies in Pittsburgh based on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations. Read the full methodology for all the details on how ConsumerAffairs makes solar company recommendations.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,571,386 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 in Pittsburgh

      Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Pittsburghers’ energy needs.

      Our top pick overall

      Green Home Systems

      2.9
      54 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2017

      Green Home Systems makes it simple for homeowners to switch to solar. Happy customers tell us about clear communication, knowledgeable representatives and smooth installations.

      • “My last energy bill showed a $50 credit in my favor. The process was simple with Green Home Systems. They helped in working out the placement and number of units. However, the installer wasn't told that I had a metal roof. That was something he didn't wanna pierce. That's something they might wanna look into in the future.” — Scott in Wexford

      Green Home Systems might not be the best fit if you’re on a tight deadline. Some customers have told us about installation delays.

      Green Home Systems offers various solar energy solutions with equipment from brands we trust, like Panasonic, Qcells and Enphase. You can also get Generac backup generators, IronRidge racking systems and SPAN electrical panels.

      • Services: The company handles your system’s design, installation and permit requirements.
      • Warranty information: All installations are backed by a 25-year performance and product warranty.
      • Payment options: You can pay upfront or finance through a loan.

      Pros

      • Savings on their energy bills
      • Knowledgeable reps
      • Solid warranty

      Cons

      • Some installation delays
      • Some battery backup issues
      Our pick for community solar

      CleanChoice Energy

      4.7
      58 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Panel warranty
      N/A
      Payment options
      Varies
      Year founded
      2012

      CleanChoice Energy isn't a solar panel installer. Instead, the company purchases renewable energy on your behalf in the form of grid power and renewable energy certifications. This makes it a good option for people who rent or otherwise can't install a solar panel system.

      • “I like CleanChoice Energy's price. I will encourage everybody to use clean energy because it's better for the next generation.” — Mohamad in Pittsburgh

      CleanChoice generally buys the cheapest clean energy available in your area, but you should be aware that energy prices can still fluctuate. While a few negative reviews mention issues with promotional rates, the majority of customers are satisfied with their experience.

      CleanChoice Energy acts as an alternative energy supplier. Instead of getting your electricity from the default utility company in your area, it can provide electricity sourced from wind and solar power that is generated in the region. Your local utility still handles the poles, wires and infrastructure that brings power into your home.

      It has monthly, quarterly and annual memberships. Pricing plans may vary depending on the market conditions. There are no cancellation or early termination fees for residential customers, so you can stop at any time without penalty.

      Pros

      • 100% clean energy from local sources
      • Variable and fixed payment plans
      • No termination fees
      • Referral bonuses

      Cons

      • Services vary by location
      • Prices are dependent on market

      ShopSolar

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

      ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment and fast deliveries. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

      • “I bought a 2,000 watt system from ShopSolar for $2,300. I built a cabin off the grid and the system is made more for off-the-grid cabins that aren't gonna have a lot of need. I went with propane everywhere I could and added some extra solar panels to give me a little more because I wanna upgrade with the second battery eventually. With the system, I can watch TV all day, use the refrigerator and run some power tools. As long as the sun's out, the battery will stay on the charge position all day. … I have a lot of people that when they come and see the cabin, they look at the solar system and wanna know more about it. I explained to them how simple it was to install.” — John in Loretto

      Some customers have told us about problems with damaged equipment. On the bright side, reps try to quickly resolve these issues with refunds or replacements.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      • Services: Reps can help you design a custom solar system based on your specific energy requirements. The company doesn't offer direct installation services, but online tutorials and video guides are available.
      • Warranty information: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by individual manufacturers’ warranties.
      • Payment options: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International. It also partners with Affirm to offer financing options.

      Pros

      • Great for RVs and outbuildings
      • Price-match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

      How we chose the best solar companies in Pittsburgh

      We took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the humid continental climate, to choose the best solar companies in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, based on the following key features and respective weightings:

      • Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      • Warranty terms: 20%
      • Equipment selection: 20%
      • Financing and payment options: 20%

      » MORE: Full methodology

      Pittsburgh solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Pennsylvanians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Pittsburgh residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with government incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $28,679 in Pittsburgh.

      Jump to insight

      Solar loans, leases and other programs make it easy to go solar with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers in Pittsburgh may falsely claim to be affiliated with an Allegheny County or Pennsylvania government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Pittsburgh

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $9,870 to $28,200 in Pennsylvania. Prices in Pittsburgh are comparable, ranging from $9,870 to $28,200.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Pittsburgh household needs a system with a capacity of 10.17 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Pittsburgh

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment.

      • Solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright.
      • Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Is solar worth it in Pittsburgh?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Pennsylvania for the environmental benefits. “I'm not here to save the planet though,” George in Homestead told us. “I wanted to get money away from Duquesne Light. They were robbing me blind and I detested paying them so much.”

      On average, Pittsburgh homeowners with solar panels can avoid $58,076 in total utility costs over 25 years. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 9.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      It’s at least worth considering if your house is a good candidate for solar panels. We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator.

      Potential roof problems

      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 is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Pittsburgh

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Pennsylvania have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: You can verify your contractors licensing through Pittsburgh’s Permits, Licenses, and Inspections database. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Solar incentives in Pittsburgh

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for most homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. You can combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Pennsylvania to maximize savings. 

      For instance, the state’s Sunshine Program offers rebates and other financial incentives, but funding availability varies, and certain guidelines apply. Once your installation is complete, net metering lets you earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to your local power grid.

      Pittsburgh solar FAQ

      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Pittsburgh?

      Local permits are generally required for most residential solar panel installations, which you can apply for through the city of Pittsburgh’s website.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Pennsylvania ranked 15th in 2024

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      Yes, Homeowners Associations (HOAs) in Pennsylvania can prohibit solar panels in their neighborhoods. Pennsylvania does not have a right-to-access law that prevents HOAs from restricting solar panel installation.

      » GREENEST STATES: Pennsylvania ranked 24th in 2024

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Pittsburgh?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Pittsburgh. You can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with minimal upfront costs, but there is usually an ongoing monthly fee. In general, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.

      How does a power purchase agreement work?

      A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis. It’s typically a fixed price, with a cheaper cents/kWh rate than traditional utilities have for the same amount of electricity.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Pittsburgh

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. For this guide, we objectively 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 generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Pittsburgh customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

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

      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.

      Financing and payment options: 20%

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

      ConsumerAffairs Research Team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Green Home Systems
      2. CleanChoice Energy
      3. ShopSolar

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide Sources

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

        1. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Pittsburgh, PA." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        2. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Pennsylvania Solar." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        3. DSIRE, "Pennsylvania Programs." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        4. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Pennsylvania." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.

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