18 Best Solar Companies in Schenectady, NY (2023 Reviews)

We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation,
and have selected the top 18 in Schenectady based on:

  • Customer review scores
  • Service area for Schenectady, NY
  • Company policies and services offered
  • Accreditations and certifications

Average Schenectady homeowner saves $1,166/year with solar panels

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Best Solar Companies in Schenectady

Finding the best solar panel installation company for your house is a big decision, but it's one that can save you a lot of money in Schenectady. Since Schenectady is a city where the solar industry is on the rise, it's no wonder you're considering installing solar panels.

To help you sort through the large variety of Schenectady solar installers, we've narrowed in on a list of the top ones. To get free quotes from the best solar companies in Schenectady, you can click "get quote" below.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch Rankings for Solar Companies in Schenectady

Best National Provider
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

5.0/5

Average Cost

Read full review

SunPower

  • Pros icon Most efficient panels on the market
  • Pros icon National coverage
  • Pros icon Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Pros icon Great warranty coverage
  • Con icon Expensive
  • Con icon Customer service varies by local dealer

Services Offered

  • Service icon Solar Panels
  • Service icon Solar Batteries
  • Service icon EV Chargers
  • Service icon System Monitoring

Website: https://us.sunpower.com/
Best Regional Coverage
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EcoWatch Rating

4.5/5

Average Cost

Momentum Solar

  • Pros icon Great warranty coverage
  • Pros icon Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Pros icon Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Con icon Slightly limited service offerings

Services Offered

  • Service icon Solar Panels
  • Service icon Solar Batteries

Website: https://www.momentumsolar.com/
Best Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.1/5

SunCommon

  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Prompt Service Delivery
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Skilled repairs
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: http://suncommon.com/
Address: Kingston, NY 12401
Phone: 8664527652
Best for Leasing
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EcoWatch Rating

4.0/5

Average Cost

Sunrun

  • Pros icon Expansive service area
  • Pros icon Many financing options
  • Con icon Some reported issues with customer service
  • Con icon Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

Services Offered

  • Service icon Solar Panels
  • Service icon Solar Batteries
  • Service icon EV Chargers
  • Service icon Energy-Efficiency Upgrades

Website: https://www.sunrun.com/
Best Social Impact
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EcoWatch Rating

4.0/5

Average Cost

Palmetto Solar

  • Pros icon Expansive service area
  • Pros icon Makes charitable contributions
  • Pros icon Certified B Corp
  • Con icon No leases or PPAs
  • Con icon Quality of installation may vary by location

Services Offered

  • Service icon Solar Panels
  • Service icon Solar Batteries
  • Service icon Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
  • Service icon Maintenance & Repairs

Website: https://palmetto.com/
Solar Veteran
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EcoWatch Rating

4.0/5

Average Cost

Trinity Solar

  • Pros icon Many financing options
  • Pros icon Family-owned and -operated
  • Pros icon Makes charitable contributions
  • Con icon Limited service area
  • Con icon Relatively short workmanship warranty

Services Offered

  • Service icon Solar Panels
  • Service icon Solar Batteries
  • Service icon Energy-Efficiency Upgrades

Website: https://www.trinity-solar.com/
Best Technology
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.2/5

Average Cost

Read full review

Tesla Energy

  • Pros icon Price-match guarantee
  • Pros icon Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Pros icon Best solar battery on the market
  • Con icon Some reported issues with customer service
  • Con icon Customer service varies by local dealer

Services Offered

  • Service icon Solar Panels
  • Service icon Solar Batteries
  • Service icon EV Chargers
  • Service icon Solar Roof Shingles
  • Service icon System Monitoring

Website: https://www.tesla.com/energy
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

DSD Renewables

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Integrated roofing

Website: https://dsdrenewables.com/
Address: Schenectady, NY 12305
Phone: 5189490165
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

BARANI, LLC

  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Skilled repairs
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions

Website: http://barani.biz/
Address: Rotterdam, NY 12306
Phone: 8559463101
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

Infinity Energy - Albany NY

  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Recognized Excellence
  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Business installations

Website: https://thenewutility.com/
Address: Schenectady, NY 12304
Phone: 5185003045
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

Greentech Renewables Albany

  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Skilled repairs

Website: http://www.emsalesga.com/
Address: Albany, NY 12205
Phone: 5186084720
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

NYS Community Solar

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Integrated roofing

Website: http://www.nyscommunitysolar.com/
Address: Latham, NY 12110
Phone: 5184247787
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

AEC Solar

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Recognized Excellence
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: http://aecsun.com/
Address: Albany, NY 12203
Phone: 5182138786
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

American Energy Care Inc

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Prompt Service Delivery
  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Business installations

Website: http://www.americanenergycare.com/
Address: Albany, NY 12203
Phone: 5188696862
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

NYREER, LLC

  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: https://www.nyreer.com/
Address: Clifton Park, NY 12065
Phone: 5186331300
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

Magnolia Solar

  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Business installations

Website: http://www.magnoliasolar.com/
Address: Albany, NY 12203
Phone: 5189927357
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

US Light Energy

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Business installations

Website: http://www.uslightenergy.com/
Address: Latham, NY 12110
Phone: 5182887800
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

GRNE Solar

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Outstanding Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon End-to-end services
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Professional reinstallation
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.grnesolar.com/
Address: Albany, NY 12205
Phone: 5189132636

Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Solar Companies in Schenectady

EcoWatch's solar experts analyzed each solar company in Schenectady based on criteria such as its reputation in the industry, customer reviews, services, warranty coverage and financing. Using this solar methodology, we used the data we collected to rate and rank each company and narrow down our picks for the best solar companies in Schenectady


Below are some the criteria we examined specifically for New York solar companies

  • Brand reputation and certifications (20%): We take each company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) score into consideration, as well as how long the installer has been in business (at least 5 years is required, 10 preferred) and what type of solar certifications it holds.
  • Customer reviews (20%): Trust is a top priority at EcoWatch, so we take customer experience under close consideration. We scour different review sites and customer testimonials when ranking our top solar companies, checking sites such as Trustpilot and Google Reviews. We also consider any potential complaints or lawsuits filed against these companies and award or remove points accordingly.
  • Warranty (20%): A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers 25-year warranties that cover performance, product and workmanship. The industry standard that we measure companies against is 25-year product and performance warranties, along with a 10-year workmanship warranty. We also look closely into the track record of the post-installation support each company provides in terms of honoring its contracts
  • Solar services (10%): All of the companies we review install solar panels, but we award companies higher points if they offer additional services for customers, like battery installation, energy-efficiency audits, and EV chargers.
  • Pricing and financing (10%): It's hard to get exact quotes for solar projects, but we use marketplace research to determine how each company prices its equipment and installation services. Additionally, companies that offer more help for panel financing — like in-house loans, leases, or PPAs — score higher than those that don't.
  • Availability (10%): The bigger the service area, the higher the company will score.
  • Transparency and accessibility (5%): Solar installers that offer free consultations and easy contact methods score higher in this category.
  • Environmental, social and corporate governance factors (5%): A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers public data disclosure, addresses end-of-life (EOL) products or processes, and demonstrates a commitment to uplifting the communities that it serves.

The Cost and Benefits of Solar in Schenectady

Although solar panels can help save you a good amount of money on energy over time, it's important to know the upfront costs. There are quite a few factors you should consider when trying to determine the overall cost and how much you can save, such as:

  • Incentives: Along with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which lets you deduct 30% of your total installation cost, your local government may offer additional tax exemptions, credits or rebates that can help you save even more. Excluding incentives, you can save an average of $14,000 over the first 20 years with your system, too.
  • Your income and budget: This determines what kind of solar panels you can get.
  • The amount of sunlight your roof gets: If your roof doesn't see much direct sunlight, your solar panel system won't be able to make as much energy, which will give you lower savings on power bills than a house with a roof that gets a lot of sunlight.
  • Your current energy bills: Solar panels can dramatically decrease, or completely get rid of, your utility bills. In Schenectady, you can save an average of $54 a month.

Solar is a valuable investment for most homeowners. You can generate your own power instead of paying for it from the grid and benefit from solar tax credits and rebates, all while helping the planet.

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Solar Incentives in Schenectady

Since solar power is more sustainable than burning fossil fuels, there are a number of government incentives in place to encourage people to make the switch. When you install solar panels on your home, you can claim the federal tax credit, or ITC. This credit currently lets you lower your tax bill by 30% of the cost of your solar panels. Plus, there are often some local incentives that you can use to further save. Take a look at our article on solar incentives to see what incentives are available to you.

Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in Schenectady

If you're planning on adding solar panels to your home, one of the major reasons why may be to reduce your reliance on nonrenewable energy. But how much can switching to solar actually affect the environment? The more energy your house uses, the better off the planet will be if you switch to solar as you won't need to rely on traditional energy sources as much. In fact, if you install solar panels, you could be looking at reducing your carbon dioxide emissions by about 20 pounds each year. If you care about the environment, you'll most likely understand that there are many good things about adopting solar power other than just saving money on electricity. You can also help protect the environment, which some would argue is more valuable.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Schenectady, NY Solar Company Rankings FAQs

Which solar company is the best in Schenectady?

In Schenectady, J&A Electrical Construction LLC is the most reputable local solar company. Our team of experts rates it 5.00 stars, so it's a great choice if you're planning to add solar panels to your home.

What is the negative environmental impact of solar panel manufacturing?

Solar panels can be detrimental for the environment when manufacturers use toxic chemicals when they're made. Chemicals can make solar panels difficult to dispose of safely once they've reached the end of their lifespan. Solar panel manufacturing requires a lot of energy as well. The energy payback period is about 1 to 4 years.

How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?

The average payback period for solar panel installation is about 14.2 years, but the exact period varies depending on local electricity costs, incentives and net metering programs.

How much solar panel capacity do I need for my house?

Solar panel capacity is rated depending on the amount of power they produce under standard testing conditions. Since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watts per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert’s opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.