More and more companies are joining the solar bandwagon as of late, and for good reason. Solar installation companies are a critical component to meeting growing demand for innovative renewable energy solutions.

If you’re a homeowner, it’s important to hire a certified contractor rather than an unreliable installer or even an electrician without experience in the solar arena. Incorrect installation can negatively impact your solar system’s efficiency and ultimately result in damage to your home. It can also pose a safety hazard when heavy equipment is improperly mounted.

Longevity is one sign of success, and if you’re looking for seasoned installers, CalFinder Solar works with numerous companies with over a five-year history in the business. Here are some of them:

Light Energy Systems

Light Energy Systems has been in operation for 28 years. Owner Karen Campbell says the company was one of five in 1998, but one of 500 today. “Everybody’s trying to do it,” Campbell explains, “but that doesn’t mean that everybody can.” Along with the experience, Light Energy Systems in Contra Costa, California offers a one-stop-shop in solar, offering PV, pool heating, domestic hot water, and radiant heating solutions. (more…)

New York’s total energy consumption is among the highest in the U.S. According to the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the goal is to get 25% of all power used in New York to come from renewable resources, including solar, by 2013.

Incentives in New York include solar loans through NYSERDA, covering $2,000 to $20,000 in costs, or up to 100% of the thermal or PV install. NYSERDA also offers a Solar Electric Incentive Program. Then there’s a government sponsored solar fuel cell tax credit and other solar property and sales tax exemptions.

When it comes to transportation, New Yorkers have it all worked out. The region’s transportation systems are widely used, lowering per capita energy consumption to among the lowest in the country. However, the transportation sector is one of the major consumers of energy in the state. Those who drive may occasionally run across a solar powered parking meter. (more…)

And no wonder, the city’s finalizing a solar lending program that’s been making news throughout the country. Through this model, homeowners can afford solar panel installations because the city of Berkeley will finance them. Paybacks are set to happen over the course of 20 years, through the homeowners’ property taxes.

Berkeley, California residents have a lot of qualified solar installers to choose from. The following contractors are certified by CalFinder Solar, a service that provides homeowners with free residential estimates from the best the industry has to offer. (more…)