The 5 best solar installers in Delaware
CMI Solar & Electric Local
Why listed: Long-running Delaware residential and commercial solar installer with strong local presence.
Trinity Solar National
Why listed: 30+ years of experience, 100,000+ Northeast installations. Strong fit for DE's freeze-thaw climate.
Solar Energy World National
Why listed: Mid-Atlantic regional installer with strong DE coverage. Residential and small commercial focus.
Sunrun National
Why listed: Largest U.S. residential solar provider. Lease and PPA-focused.
Paradise Energy Solutions National
Why listed: Mid-Atlantic regional installer with strong reputation in residential, commercial, and agricultural solar.
Delaware solar economics in 2026
| Metric | Delaware average |
|---|---|
| Average residential rate | $0.14β$0.17 / kWh |
| Typical 8 kW system cost (cash) | $22,000β$28,000 before incentives |
| Average $/W | $2.75β3.50 |
| Average annual production (kWh per kW) | ~1,300β1,400 kWh/kW/year |
| Net metering structure | Net metering at retail (Delmarva Power) |
| Average cash payback | 10β12 years |
For full state-by-state cost comparison see solar cost by state.
Delaware incentives and rebates
- Green Energy Program: Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility offers grants for residential solar.
- SREC market: Delaware participates in the regional SREC market β additional revenue stream.
- Property tax exemption: Added home value from solar exempt from property tax.
- Federal commercial ITC: Lease and PPA structures benefit from the commercial ITC pass-through. See federal tax credit guide.
What to verify before signing in Delaware
- Contractor license: Verify with your state contractor licensing authority before signing.
- NABCEP certification: Most reputable installers carry NABCEP-certified installers on staff. Ask which crew member holds the certification.
- Insurance: General liability + workers comp + roofer's insurance separate from electrical insurance.
- References from your county: Permitting and inspection requirements vary. Ask for 2β3 references from your specific county.
- Get at least three bids: Solar bids vary by 20β35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Got bids from Delaware installers? Compare them properly.
Upload up to four solar proposals from any Delaware installer. The analyzer compares $/W, production estimates, equipment, and financing structure β and tells you which one to sign.
Analyze My Bids βFrequently asked questions about Delaware solar
Does solar make sense in Delaware?
Yes for most homeowners with a $150+ monthly electric bill, an unshaded roof, and 8+ years of expected ownership. Delaware's specific economics are summarized in the table above.
How much does a typical Delaware solar install cost in 2026?
$22,000β$28,000 for an 8 kW system before incentives. Effective net cost depends on your state and utility incentives.
Should I get more than three bids?
Yes β three is a minimum. Four or five is better. Solar bids vary by 20β35% on the same scope of work. See how to compare solar bids.
Are there other reputable Delaware solar installers besides these?
Many. The list above represents installers with strong public profiles in Delaware; reputable installers exist beyond it. Get bids from a mix and compare them objectively rather than relying on any one list.