This article was written by Erin Kenney for CT Post. Original article published here.

If you’ve been considering a switch to solar power but find yourself overwhelmed by the process, this page is for you. We’re sharing seven steps to go solar in CT — from understanding federal and state cost incentives to estimating process hacks. In the next few minutes, you’ll know everything you need to know about the CT solar process.

Zero upfront payment, low maintenance costs, and hefty lifetime savings are just a few reasons to switch to solar in CT, and by using this straightforward guide and connecting with an expert from one of the best solar companies in CT, you can leap to clean and renewable energy in a few simple steps; that’s if you decide going solar is the right choice for you.

7 Steps to Going Solar in Connecticut

Step 1	Find a solar contractor & schedule the initial consultation
Step 2	Familiarize Yourself with the Estimating Process
Step 3	Understand how solar panels are priced in CT
Step 4	Identify the right financing options for you
Step 5	Save on solar in CT with incentives
Step 6	Obtain the proper permits
Step 7	Have your solar panels installed

Step 1: Find a solar contractor & schedule the initial consultation

Making the switch to renewable energy should be a stress-free process, but only if you’re working with the right solar company in CT. Reference customer reviews on Angi and Houzz for first-hand accounts and review the top solar providers featured in The Best Solar Companies in CT, an interactive list to help homeowners find vetted solar providers near you. After gathering your shortlist, it’s time to get started with initial consultations.

When making calls to CT solar companies, look for the representative you communicate with to be patient and willing to speak in-depth about various topics, like solar panel warranties and system maintenance requirements. A top-notch solar company in CT should offer both labor and product warranties spanning at least ten years for all-encompassing coverage. Some companies don’t cover labor, so it’s a good rule of thumb to check on this during your consultation.

This is your chance to get specific answers about all aspects of the solar conversion process, so don’t be afraid to ask any and every question that comes to mind. While there may be quite a few elements to discuss with your solar salesperson, understanding the estimating process is perhaps the most crucial factor when choosing the best solar company in CT.

Step 2: Familiarize yourself with the estimating process

Every residential solar installation process in CT begins with a solar estimator. Estimating is the process of gathering data from many different sources and using it to produce a cost estimate. Typically, solar panel companies look at your last 12 months of energy usage via electric bills to inform their quote, but other factors that contribute to cost include the pitch of your roof and the amount of tree coverage surrounding your home. Verify the estimate is honest and accurate by studying your last year of electric bills beforehand and ask the salesperson to walk you through their quote to understand the factors at play.

A reputable residential solar company has a resume of precise estimates ensuring homeowners aren’t blindsided by cost increases when it is time for installation. Comparison shopping from a few solar providers is smart, but beware, the cheapest option does not always mean it’s the best choice.

Expert Tip:

Experts at Shoreline Solar, a CT solar panel company based in Branford, CT, say that in most cases, the monthly payment is locked and no changes occur post-estimate. You can have peace of mind knowing surprise expenses are uncommon.

Step 3: Understand how solar panels are priced in CT

Solar energy costs are calculated in kilowatts, which contain 1,000 units of electricity. According to Everlast Energy, the average-sized residential solar system clocks in at around 10 kilowatts. The total system price can range from $15,000 to upwards of $100,000 for large estates, according to Shoreline Solar, but the average cost for solar in CT typically falls between $25,000-$45,000. Keep in mind this cost should be itemized in your estimate, clearly defining the price breakdown of labor, solar panels, installation, and permit fees.

Solar experts estimate that going solar in CT reduces your electricity bill payments between $30,000 to $32,000 over 20 years, so in many ways, the conversion pays for itself.

Be advised: your solar estimator may suggest a roof replacement if your roof is over 15 years old. However, a quick roof rejuvenation treatment for aging roofs is often enough to offset damage before going solar in CT.

Expert Tip:

According to Alex Ciccio and Joshua Jackson, solar experts at Everlast Energy, a CT solar company based in Rocky Hill, CT, only about 30% of homes need a full roof replacement. Should you have to replace your roof, the cost of roof replacement and solar panels can often be combined for an easy, affordable payment plan.

Step 4: Identify the right financing options for you

When considering solar, you have several options for payment, including purchasing, leasing, and financing. If you finance your solar installation through a solar company in CT, you can expect payments to be set on a  20- or 25-year term at a 1.99% interest rate, based on our findings. In some cases, payment timelines can also be customized.

Power Purchase Agreements

Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) may be attractive for CT homeowners interested in going solar through a third party. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, a PPA is a financial agreement between a homeowner and a developer, wherein the developer arranges for the design, permitting, financing, and installation of a solar energy system on a customer’s property at little to no cost.

Essentially, the third-party developer handles a homeowner’s entire solar journey, from installation to system operation over a five to 25-year period. At the end of the PPA term, a customer may be able to extend the contract, have the developer remove the system, or decide to buy the solar energy system from the developer.

Be warned that opting for a PPA discredits you from the landscape of tax credits and incentives available on a state and federal level, so it may not be the best option for everyone. (Solar Reviews)

Step 5: Save on solar in CT with incentives

Thanks to state and federal initiatives to increase renewable energy use, people considering switching from traditional energy to solar energy have several discount and payback options. The Connecticut-backed Residential Renewable Energy Solutions program allows residential solar users to sell conserved energy back to their utility company at a fixed 20-year price through one of two tariff program options: Buy-back and Netting.

The Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), is another way to save big on solar in CT. The program offers a 30% tax credit on installations occurring between 2022 and 2032. For a full breakdown — including more ways to save — read through our solar cost guide.

Step 6: Obtain the proper permits

After you’ve accepted the estimate and signed a contract for solar installation through your preferred Connecticut solar provider, the plan will be checked by a building inspector for compliance with local building codes. This inspector also verifies that all the proper permits are in place so work can begin on your home.

Permit stipulations include, but are not limited to, home distance to wetlands, relation to core forestry lands, and distance from flood land areas. (CT.gov) Getting cleared for installation after the inspection and permitting process may take several months.

Step 7: Have your solar panels installed

Once you’ve wrapped up the permitting process, it’s finally time to transition to solar! The installation process can be quick; typically solar installations are completed in as little as six hours or as much as three days. From there, an electrician will connect your system to the Connecticut power grid to activate your panels and install an electrical meter that measures your solar production.

It’s important to note that your contractor must be a certified E-1 Unlimited Electrical Contractor to complete both the electric grid and panel connection. A PV-1 Limited Solar Electric Contractor may also be on-site solely to connect your residential solar panels, as they are not licensed for power grid connection. (Ct.gov) Once installed, it will take between one and six weeks for a final city and utility company inspection to grant final approval. (Solar Reviews)

So, are you making the switch to solar in CT?

How often does something have both a financial and humanitarian upside? By using renewable energy, you will save tens of thousands of dollars while contributing to the health of our planet. It almost sounds too good to be true, but here’s the thing — it’s not! Need more information before starting your residential solar panel journey? Explore the steps to choose the best solar company and how to access stellar solar savings with our additional resources for going solar in Connecticut.

In the meantime, bookmark this page or save the handy recap of the seven steps to going solar in CT.