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We can help your business go solar with these solar programs:
Federal Solar Incentives
When a commercial or residential solar PV system is built in New Jersey the owner is able to file for a federal income tax credit. The tax credit for New Jersey is currently 30%.
Commercial solar systems may also take advantage of Accelerated Depreciations (MACRS), which allows a commercial solar project owner to depreciate almost the full value of the cost basis year one.
Eligibility will vary depending on your precise location.
SuSi program
New Jersey has a performance based solar incentive system, called Successor Solar Incentives (SuSI). A solar system earns one credit for every 1,000 kilowatts hours (1 Megawatt hour) that the system produces. For most residential systems these certificates are $90 and most commercial solar systems would receive $100.
Powerlutions Solar Company is a NABCEP Certified-Led, full service solar installer in NJ, NY, FL, CT & MA. Enjoy a 1:1 project experience, overseen by one of our dedicated solar specialists.
Powerlutions was recommended by a friend of mine. After much research they were the best price, and they were able to achieve that without giving up anything on quality and service.
– Sydney S.
"Highly recommended"
They took care of every detail. Great customer service. They were there to answer any questions I had, installed everything right on schedule, and I don't even have to think about the solar system; I just see the savings on my bill each month. There were no surprises hidden in the fine print; everything was clearly spelled out. A very satisfied customer.
Choosing the right solar installer is one of the most important steps in going solar. New Jersey is a leading state for solar power, with over 200,000 installations statewide and a top-ten national ranking. With so many options, how do you identify a truly good solar company in New Jersey? This guide will walk you through the key qualities and services to look for – from the installation process and financing options to warranties, customer service, and local NJ incentives. By understanding what sets a great solar company apart, New Jersey homeowners can make an informed decision and enjoy a smooth transition to clean energy.
A Professional Solar Installation Process
A reputable solar company will make the installation process straightforward and stress-free. Going solar isn’t just about putting panels on your roof – it’s a multi-step project. Here’s what to expect from a high-quality solar installer in New Jersey:
Initial Consultation & Site Evaluation – The process typically starts with an on-site or virtual consultation. The installer will assess your roof condition, sun exposure, and energy usage. A good company will listen to your goals and answer questions, ensuring you understand solar potential for your home.
Customized System Design – Next, engineers design a solar PV system tailored to your needs. This includes determining the number of panels, inverter type, and layout that maximizes production (especially important in New Jersey’s climate). Top installers use advanced modeling tools to account for seasonal sun angles and any shading from trees or structures.
Permitting & Paperwork – A quality solar company handles all necessary permits and paperwork on your behalf. In New Jersey, this means obtaining local building and electrical permits and coordinating with the utility for interconnection approval. They will also register your system for state programs like SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) as required. This behind-the-scenes work ensures your system is code-compliant and approved for operation.
Professional Installation – Once permits are in, the company’s installation crew will schedule a convenient install date. Expect a skilled team (including licensed electricians) to arrive and safely install the mounting hardware, solar panels, wiring, and inverter. A good installer works efficiently, treats your property with respect, and follows industry best practices. They should also handle any needed upgrades (for example, installing a new electrical panel or roof reinforcements if required).
Inspection & Activation – After the physical installation, inspections are conducted. The municipal building inspector will check that the system meets code. Then the utility will approve the interconnection and swap out your meter for a net meter. A reliable solar company coordinates these inspections quickly. Once passed, they will power on the system – often called “PTO” (permission to operate). Your home will start producing solar energy!
Customer Orientation – A great installer doesn’t just flip the switch and leave. They will walk you through the system monitoring platform or app, so you can track your energy production. They’ll explain basic maintenance (which is minimal for solar) and how net metering credits appear on your electric bill. This final orientation ensures you feel confident and informed about your new solar panels.
Throughout the installation process, clear communication is key. Top NJ solar companies will provide updates at each stage – from design completion and permit approvals to scheduling the crew. If any challenges arise (like an unexpected roof repair need), they discuss solutions with you transparently. When the process is handled professionally from start to finish, going solar becomes an exciting, smooth experience rather than a headache.
Flexible Financing Options: Lease, Purchase, and PPA
Solar is a significant investment, and how you pay for it is a big decision. The best solar companies offer flexible financing options and will help you choose the one that fits your financial situation. In New Jersey, homeowners generally have three main ways to go solar:
Purchase (Cash or Loan) – You buy the solar system outright or finance it with a solar loan. This means you own the system and all the energy it produces. Owning offers the highest long-term savings because you pay no ongoing solar lease payments and you get to keep all the incentives (like federal tax credits and SRECs). Upfront cost is higher, but New Jersey’s incentives and the 30% federal tax credit significantly reduce the net cost. Many NJ homeowners opt for low-interest solar loans so they can go solar with little or no money down, then use the energy savings and incentive earnings to pay off the loan.
Solar Lease – You pay $0 down (typically) and lease the solar panels from the company for a fixed monthly fee. The solar company installs and owns the system on your roof, and you essentially “rent” it. The benefit is that you avoid upfront costs and usually the lease payment plus your new lower electric bill is less than your old bill, yielding immediate savings. Maintenance is often included since the company owns the equipment. However, because you don’t own the system, you do not get the federal tax credit or NJ SREC payments – those go to the company that owns the system. Long-term savings are also smaller than with a purchase, and you’ll have a lease contract (often 20 years) to adhere to. Leases may include an escalator (annual increase in payments), so review terms closely. Still, for some homeowners a lease can make going solar accessible with no initial expense.
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) – A PPA is another $0-down option where the solar company owns the system, but instead of a fixed lease payment, you agree to buy the solar power it produces at a set per-kWh rate. It’s like agreeing to purchase electricity from the panels on your roof, usually at a rate lower than what your utility charges. If the system generates 800 kWh one month, you pay for that 800 kWh at the agreed rate. The advantage is similarly no upfront cost and maintenance handled by the provider. As with a lease, you typically don’t claim incentives or tax credits – the provider does, since they own the system. PPAs in New Jersey often have an annual price increase clause (e.g. 2-3% per year), so it’s important to understand the long-term costs. A well-structured PPA should still save you money over utility rates, especially as New Jersey’s electricity prices tend to rise over time. PPAs are common in states with high electric rates and have been popular in NJ for making solar affordable to more people.
To better understand the differences, here’s a comparison of key points:
Factor
Purchase (Own)
Solar Lease
Solar PPA
Upfront Cost
High (or financed with loan)
Usually $0 (no upfront payment)
$0 (no upfront payment)
Ownership
You own the system and equipment
Solar company owns the system
Solar company owns the system
Savings
Highest long-term savings (free power after payback)
Moderate savings (bill + lease payment < old bill)
Moderate savings (pay per kWh < utility rate)
Incentives & Tax Credit
You receive all (30% federal tax credit, SREC payments)
Company receives incentives, not you.
Company receives incentives (you buy power only)
Maintenance
You are responsible (panel warranties cover equipment)
Company handles maintenance/repairs
Company handles maintenance/repairs
Monthly Payment
None (after loan payoff if financed)
Yes – fixed lease payment (may escalate)
Yes – pay per kWh for energy produced (may escalate)
Contract Length
None (you own it indefinitely)
Typically 20 years (lease contract)
Typically 20-25 years (PPA contract)
Selling Your Home
You can transfer system with property (adds value, no liens)
Must transfer or buy out lease when selling home
Must transfer or buy out PPA when selling home
Which option is best? That depends on your priorities. A good solar company in New Jersey will educate you on these choices rather than push you into one. If maximizing financial return and owning an asset is your goal, purchasing (with cash or a loan) is likely best. If you prefer no upfront cost and hassle-free use, a lease or PPA could work – just be aware of the trade-offs. Make sure the company clearly explains who gets the solar renewable credits and tax benefits in each scenario. Also, reputable installers help with paperwork for incentives no matter which route you choose. For example, if you purchase, they’ll guide you on claiming the tax credit and registering for SRECs; if you lease, they handle all incentive filings since they own the system.
The bottom line: flexibility and transparency in financing is a hallmark of a good solar company. They should offer multiple financing paths (cash, loan, lease, PPA) and help you crunch the numbers to see your savings in each case. New Jersey has relatively high electricity rates, so most well-designed solar deals – whether purchase or third-party owned – will save money from day one. The key is ensuring you understand the long-term implications. A trustworthy solar provider will never use high-pressure sales tactics or hide the details; instead, they empower you to make the best choice for your home and budget.
Maintenance and Warranty: Long-Term Peace of Mind
Solar panels are a low-maintenance addition to your home, but “low-maintenance” doesn’t mean “no maintenance.” A good solar company stands by their work for the long haul with solid maintenance support and warranty coverage. Here’s what to look for:
Product Warranties: Quality solar panels generally come with a 25-year manufacturer warranty on power output (meaning the panel will still produce ~80-90% of its original output after 25 years). They also often include a 10-12 year warranty against any defects or equipment failure. Inverters – which convert DC power to AC for your home – typically have warranties around 10-15 years, though some premium microinverters carry 25-year warranties. A reputable installer will use equipment from trusted brands and explain the warranty terms for each component (panels, inverters, batteries, etc.). They should provide you with all the manufacturer warranty documentation upon installation.
Workmanship Warranty: Beyond product warranties, top solar installers offer a workmanship or labor warranty on their installation. This covers issues like roof leaks or wiring problems caused by the installation, typically for 10 years or more. For instance, if your roof developed a leak at a panel mounting point two years after install, a company with a good workmanship warranty would fix it at no cost to you. This warranty shows the installer’s confidence in their quality of work. In New Jersey, many reputable companies offer 10-year workmanship coverage (some even longer), aligning with state Home Improvement Contractor requirements and giving homeowners peace of mind.
Maintenance and Monitoring Services: While solar systems require little upkeep (no moving parts to break), a good company will still be available for maintenance needs. They often provide a monitoring platform where you and the installer can track system performance in real time. If a panel or inverter drops in output, the company might alert you or even proactively service it. Some installers offer optional maintenance packages – for example, annual system check-ups, panel cleaning services, or extended support plans. Even if you don’t opt for a maintenance plan, ask how the company handles service calls. Will they come out to troubleshoot if your production seems low? Do they assist in filing warranty claims on equipment? A reliable solar firm will not disappear after installation; they remain your partner in keeping the system running optimally.
Battery and Equipment Support: If your solar setup includes battery storage (like a Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem battery), ensure the company is experienced with those and will support the battery’s maintenance. Batteries often have 10-year warranties. The installer should help you understand the battery warranty conditions (for instance, some warranties are for a certain number of cycles or percent capacity retention over time).
Service Transfer: If you sell your home, find out how warranties and any maintenance agreements transfer to the new owner. A good solar company can facilitate transferring monitor accounts and educating the new homeowner, so the system continues to be cared for.
In summary, strong warranties and responsive maintenance service distinguish the best solar companies. Solar panels will reliably produce power for decades, and New Jersey’s climate (with snow, rain, sun, and salt air near the shore) makes it important that your installer will be around to honor warranties. Don’t hesitate to ask a company about their service policy after the sale. The ones that take pride in their installations will be happy to support you for the long term. After all, a solar system is a 25+ year asset – a trustworthy solar company treats it as a long-term relationship, not a one-time transaction.
Customer Service and Reputation
When evaluating a solar company in New Jersey, the importance of customer service cannot be overstated. Going solar is a significant project for a homeowner, and you want a company that is responsive, honest, and truly cares about your satisfaction. Here are some customer service factors that make a solar installer stand out:
Communication & Responsiveness: From your first inquiry, notice how the company communicates. Do they respond to calls or emails promptly? Are they willing to come to your home for a consultation and answer all your questions? A good solar company educates the homeowner rather than giving one-word answers or dodging questions. Throughout the process (design, installation, post-install), they should keep you updated. If you reach out with a concern, a responsive company will address it quickly rather than leaving you in the dark.
Transparency: Beware of companies that promise unrealistically high savings without backing it up. The best installers will be transparent about costs, timelines, and potential challenges. You should receive a clear written proposal or contract detailing the equipment, project timeline, warranty terms, and payment schedule. There should be no “surprise” fees. Also, a reliable solar provider will be upfront if your home isn’t a good candidate for solar (for example, too much shading or structural issues) instead of pushing a sale at any cost.
Reputation & Reviews: Thanks to New Jersey’s thriving solar market, there are many installers – but not all are equal. Research the company’s reputation. While no company has a perfect record, look for overall patterns of customer satisfaction. Consistent positive feedback about things like workmanship, savings achieved, and post-install support is a great sign. Also see how (and if) the company responds to any negative reviews – do they try to resolve issues? Word-of-mouth is powerful: ask neighbors or friends who have gone solar about their experience. A local company with many years in business and a solid reputation in NJ communities is likely doing something right.
Local Experience: Does the company have experience working in your area of New Jersey? Local installers understand state-specific procedures (utility interconnection, township permitting quirks, NJ incentive programs) better than a newcomer. They may also have relationships with local inspectors or utility personnel that help streamline the process. A company that’s done many installations in your county or utility territory (be it PSE&G, JCP&L, Atlantic City Electric, or others) will know how to avoid common pitfalls and expedite your project.
After-Sales Support: Great customer service continues after the panels are on your roof. Does the company schedule a follow-up or check-in after a few weeks of operation? Will they assist you in monitoring your system or answer questions about your first net metering bill credit? Good companies often schedule a post-install check or at least make themselves available for any help you need. As mentioned in the maintenance section, being able to reach them down the road for service is crucial. The relationship shouldn’t end the day of installation – it’s an ongoing commitment.
Professionalism & Etiquette: Solar installers will be working on your property, so you want crews that are professional and respectful. Top companies train their staff not only in technical skills but also in customer etiquette – cleaning up after the job, not smoking on your property, being courteous if you’re home during installation, etc. These “little” things reflect the company’s overall values and respect for customers.
In short, customer service is about trust. Your solar company will be your partner for decades of energy production. New Jersey homeowners should feel confident that their installer has their best interests at heart. One tip is to contact a few solar companies before deciding – you’ll quickly sense which ones treat you like a valued customer and which ones are just trying to hit a sales quota. Choose the company that listens to you, addresses your concerns, and has a proven track record of happy customers. This will pay off in peace of mind and a positive solar journey.
New Jersey Incentives and Solar Policies
One major reason solar is so popular in the Garden State is the strong New Jersey-specific incentives and policies that support home solar. A good solar company will be knowledgeable about these programs and help you take full advantage. Here are the key NJ factors to know:
Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs/SREC-II): New Jersey has a program that rewards solar owners for the clean energy they produce. For every 1,000 kilowatt-hours your panels generate, you earn one Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC). These certificates can be sold or traded for cash. New Jersey’s current Successor Solar Incentive (SuSI) program sets the value of each residential SREC-II at about $85. For example, an average-sized home solar system (around 7-8 kW) might produce ~9 SRECs per year, translating to roughly $765 of extra income annually. These incentive payments last for 15 years under the program. This is a huge benefit unique to NJ – essentially, the state pays you for producing clean energy, on top of your electric bill savings! A quality solar installer will handle the registration of your system in the SREC program and explain how you’ll receive or sell the certificates. Note: if you opt for a lease or PPA, the leasing company typically receives the SRECs as they own the system. When you purchase, you as the homeowner retain this valuable incentive.
Net Metering: New Jersey has one of the best net metering policies in the country. Net metering allows your electric meter to run backwards when your solar produces more power than your home is using, sending excess energy to the grid. In exchange, you receive a credit on your utility bill for that excess, effectively “banking” the energy for later use. NJ state law requires utilities to credit solar homeowners at the full retail electric rate for these excess kWh. In simpler terms, every kilowatt-hour your panels send to the grid is credited at the same price per kWh that the utility charges you. This one-for-one credit is extremely beneficial – it means you can cover your nighttime or winter electricity usage with the credits earned during sunny days or summer months. In fact, with full retail net metering, many solar homes in NJ reduce their electric bills to nearly $0 over a 12-month period. A good solar company will design your system with net metering in mind, often sizing it to produce about as much as you use annually (NJ rules allow systems up to 100% of your yearly usage). They will also guide you through the process of getting your bi-directional meter installed and understanding your monthly statements with credits.
State Tax Exemptions: New Jersey provides two nice tax incentives for solar installations:
Sales Tax Exemption – Solar energy equipment in NJ is exempt from the state’s sales tax. This means when you purchase a solar system, you won’t pay the 6.625% state sales tax on the equipment costs. The savings are immediate – it’s like an instant discount. A $20,000 solar project, for instance, would avoid about $1,325 in sales tax. All reputable NJ solar companies are aware of this and should automatically quote your system without sales tax. (They may have you fill out a simple form ST-4 to certify the purchase is for solar equipment, which is standard procedure to apply the exemption.)
Property Tax Exemption – Normally, adding value to your home (like an addition or certain upgrades) could increase your property taxes. But NJ law exempts the added value of a solar system from local property taxes. In other words, if solar panels increase your home’s value by, say, $20,000, you won’t be taxed on that added value. Your property tax stays based on the pre-solar value. This incentive ensures that going solar won’t accidentally raise your annual taxes, keeping your savings intact. Usually, you or the installer will submit a certificate or paperwork to your local tax assessor to get this exemption. A knowledgeable solar installer will remind you or even assist with this step so you can formally secure the exemption.
State Rebates or Programs: Aside from SRECs, New Jersey’s previous upfront rebate programs have sunset, but the state continues to evaluate new incentives. For example, there have been pilot programs for battery storage incentives and community solar projects. While these may not directly impact a home installation, a good solar company stays up-to-date on any new state initiatives that could benefit you. They will also be aware of the New Jersey Clean Energy Program guidelines and any changes in policy by the NJ Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) regarding solar.
High Electricity Rates: While not an incentive, it’s worth noting that NJ has higher-than-average electricity rates (around $0.16-$0.20 per kWh), which makes solar savings particularly attractive. A quality solar provider will likely point this out and might even analyze your utility bills to show how much you can save. High rates combined with net metering and SRECs make New Jersey one of the best states economically for homeowners to go solar.
In summary, New Jersey offers a solar-friendly environment: earnings from SRECs, big savings via net metering, and tax exemptions all improve your return on investment. The best NJ solar companies are experts in these local factors. They’ll ensure your system is set up to maximize SREC generation, seamlessly integrate with net metering, and that you file any necessary forms for tax exemptions. When a company demonstrates deep knowledge of New Jersey’s solar landscape, it’s a strong sign they are equipped to get you the most value from your solar panels.
(And don’t forget the 30% Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) available to homeowners who purchase a system. Although it’s a federal incentive, any good solar installer will include this in your financial analysis. As of now, the ITC is 30% of your system cost as a credit on your federal taxes, helping bring down the net cost dramatically.)
Certifications, Experience, and Licensing
Solar may seem simple at a glance, but it’s a specialized electrical installation that should be handled by qualified professionals. A good solar company in New Jersey will have the right certifications, experience, and licenses to do the job safely and effectively.
Electrical Licenses: In New Jersey, solar installers need to have licensed electricians perform the electrical work (connecting panels, inverters, wiring to your home’s service). Many solar companies employ one or more NJ licensed Electrical Contractors, or they partner with licensed subcontractors. Either way, ensure that the team has the proper NJ electrical license to do the work. This is not usually a problem with established companies, but if you’re considering a very small contractor, it’s worth asking. A permit will not be approved without a licensed electrician’s sign-off. Reputable companies will readily provide their license numbers and evidence of qualifications.
Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) Registration: New Jersey requires all businesses that perform home improvement work (which includes solar installations) to be registered with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs as a Home Improvement Contractor. This registration ensures the company is legit and has the appropriate insurance. You might see an HIC registration number on their website or paperwork. It’s a basic credential, but the absence of it would be a red flag.
Years of Experience & Track Record: How long has the company been in the solar business, and how many installations have they completed? Experience matters because it indicates the company has dealt with various scenarios and can handle your project smoothly. Many top NJ solar installers, like PowerLutions Solar, have been around 10+ years, riding through policy changes and market ups and downs. Longevity can also indicate that they’ll be around in the future to service warranties. That said, don’t discount a newer company if they have strong credentials and expertise – just do a bit more vetting in such cases. Ask for references or to see photos of past projects. An experienced solar company will also be knowledgeable about different roof types (as NJ has everything from asphalt shingle to flat roofs in urban areas) and how to mount panels on each properly.
Local Knowledge & References: As mentioned earlier, a company’s experience in New Jersey specifically is valuable. Installers who know the local permitting offices and utility processes can often get your system running faster. They’ll also be familiar with state rebate paperwork (if any) and the SREC registration portal. Don’t hesitate to request local references – a good company will have past customers in your region who can speak to their experience. Some companies even arrange open-house style events or tours where you can see an installation in your area.
Insurance and Safety: A trustworthy solar installer carries proper insurance – both general liability insurance (to cover any accidental damage during the project) and workers’ compensation insurance (to cover any injuries to workers on your property). While you as a homeowner might not see these directly, you can ask for proof of insurance. It protects you from liability. Additionally, check if the company’s crew is OSHA-certified or follows strong safety protocols. Solar installation involves roof work and electrical work, so safety culture is important. Professional firms have regular safety training and proper equipment (like fall protection harnesses for roof work).
In essence, you want qualified professionals handling your solar project. Certifications, appropriate NJ licenses, and a solid track record are indicators of a good solar company. In New Jersey, there are nearly 460 solar companies in operation, but focusing on those with the right credentials and experience will narrow the field to the truly reliable ones. Remember, a solar installation should last 25+ years – picking a well-qualified installer will ensure your system is safe, compliant, and optimized for decades of performance.
Quality Equipment and Advanced Technology
The best solar companies don’t just have good people – they also offer top-notch equipment and technology solutions. The solar components and system design choices can affect your system’s performance, reliability, and ability to meet your needs. Here’s what a good New Jersey solar provider will consider and discuss regarding equipment:
High-Efficiency Solar Panels: Solar panels vary in efficiency and brand quality. A reputable installer will use panels from well-known manufacturers (such as SunPower, Panasonic, LG, Q CELLS, Canadian Solar, etc.) that have strong warranties and a track record of durability. Higher-efficiency panels (which can exceed 20% efficiency) produce more power in less space – this can be important if your roof area is limited or partially shaded. In New Jersey, where homes might have complex roofs or tree shading, a good company might recommend high-efficiency or module-level power electronics (like microinverters or power optimizers) to maximize output. They should explain the differences: for instance, monocrystalline panels vs. polycrystalline, or standard panels vs. premium ones, and how that impacts cost and production. The key is that the company cares about optimizing your specific setup rather than pushing a one-size-fits-all panel.
Inverter Options (String, Optimizers, Microinverters): The inverter is the brain of the system, converting DC to AC. There are a few design approaches:
String Inverters: A central inverter with solar panels wired in series (strings). This is cost-effective and works great if panels get uniform sunlight.
String Inverters with Power Optimizers: Each panel has an optimizer that maximizes its output and sends DC to a central inverter. Good for handling partial shading and panel mismatch, common in NJ neighborhoods with trees or dormers casting shade.
Microinverters: Each panel has its own small inverter on the roof, converting to AC right at the panel. Microinverters (like those by Enphase) allow each panel to operate independently, which is excellent for shaded or complex roofs. They also provide panel-level monitoring.
A quality solar installer will present these options and recommend what suits your situation. For example, if your South Jersey home has a wide-open roof with full sun, a simpler string inverter may be fine. But if your North Jersey home has some shade in mornings, microinverters or optimizers might yield better results. The company should also discuss inverter warranties (typically 12-25 years) and reliability. Modern inverters often include online monitoring portals that both you and the installer can use to check system health.
Battery Storage and Backup Power: As battery technology (like the Tesla Powerwall, Enphase Encharge, LG Energy Solution, etc.) becomes more popular, a good solar company will offer it as an option. New Jersey doesn’t yet have specific battery incentives and, thanks to full net metering, a battery might not increase savings on your bill. However, batteries can provide backup power during outages, which is a big plus for home resiliency. If you live in an area prone to outages or just want energy independence, discuss storage solutions. A reputable installer will explain the pros and cons: the extra cost, how much of your home a battery can backup, and how it integrates with solar. They should also be up-to-date on any evolving programs (for example, if NJ introduces time-of-use rates or incentives for batteries in the future). Whether or not you choose a battery now, knowing your installer has expertise in that area is useful – you might add one later. Many NJ solar companies are already experienced in battery installs since homeowners remember events like Hurricane Sandy causing long blackouts and are interested in backup power.
Roofing and Racking Technology: How panels attach to your roof matters for longevity. A good solar company uses proper flashing and racking systems that are waterproof and secure. They’ll be able to install on various roof types (shingle, flat membrane, metal, tile) using appropriate methods. If your roof is older, they might suggest re-roofing before solar and some even coordinate that for you. The bottom line is they won’t cut corners on the installation hardware – the mounting system should last as long as the panels. Ask what mounting system they use and why; a knowledgeable answer indicates a quality-focused installer.
Monitoring & Smart Tech: Nearly all modern systems include monitoring. A good installer will make sure you have access to a user-friendly monitoring app or website to see your solar production. Some companies go further and provide consumption monitoring (so you can see what your home uses in addition to what it produces). They might also integrate smart home or energy management systems, or offer add-ons like EV chargers. If you have an electric vehicle or plan to get one, a forward-thinking solar company can size the system accordingly and even install a charging station for you. These technology integrations show the company is experienced in more than just basic panel installation – they understand complete energy solutions.
Quality vs. Cost Discussion: A good solar company will be honest about equipment quality and price. If you have a tight budget, they might propose a cost-effective tier of equipment, but they should disclose differences (like shorter warranties or lower efficiency). Conversely, if you want the absolute best (say, all-black premium panels with microinverters and a battery), they can accommodate that, again explaining the costs and benefits. The key is that they offer choices and tailor the technology to your priorities. Avoid any installer that dismisses your questions about equipment or can’t explain why they chose a certain component – that could be a red flag that they are pushing what’s cheapest for them, not best for you.
In summary, the equipment a solar company provides is a reflection of their quality standards. Top solar companies in New Jersey will use reliable, well-regarded solar panels and inverters, and will stay current on new tech like battery storage. They’ll design your system with an eye on performance and longevity, not just the lowest price. As a homeowner, you may not be an expert on solar hardware – but you don’t have to be if you choose an installer who is transparent and knowledgeable. They will guide you through the options and ensure you’re comfortable with the technology that will be on your roof generating power for decades.
Bringing It All Together: Choosing the Best Solar Company in New Jersey
With all these factors in mind – installation quality, financing, warranties, customer service, local incentives, certifications, and equipment – you’re better prepared to evaluate solar providers. The best solar company in New Jersey for you will excel in all these areas, or at least openly discuss how they handle each aspect. It’s wise to consult with a few companies, compare their proposals, and see who you feel most comfortable with. Remember, the cheapest quote isn’t always the best if it cuts corners on service or quality.
As you do your research, you’ll likely come across some standout local companies. For example, PowerLutions Solar is a reputable solar company based in New Jersey that exemplifies many of the qualities discussed above. They are experienced in NJ installations, and known for personalized customer service
While not the only good installer in the state, their approach of being an “advisor and advocate” for the homeowner (rather than just a contractor) is what you should expect from any top solar provider. Ultimately, you want a company that will treat your solar project as if it were their own.
A good New Jersey solar company will design the right system, install it with expertise, provide flexible ways to pay, ensure it’s protected for the long run, and be there to support you as you reap the benefits of solar energy. New Jersey’s supportive solar policies make going solar a smart decision for many homeowners – but it’s the solar installer who will make the experience positive or negative. By focusing on the key points outlined in this guide, you can confidently choose a solar partner that will make your switch to clean energy smooth, rewarding, and worry-free. Here’s to a bright solar future for your New Jersey home!