Expert reviews, Pepco net metering, Maryland state incentives, and everything Washington DC homeowners need to go solar with confidence in 2026.
About This Guide
Washington DC homeowners on Pepco benefit from some of the highest effective electricity rates in the region (~$0.18/kWh) and exceptional solar incentives including a $5,000 DC solar rebate, SRECs, and Pepco's 1-to-1 net metering.
Maryland's incentive stack remains strong in 2026 — SRECs provide ongoing passive income, the MSAP grant offers up to $5K,500 for income-eligible homeowners, and the RCES battery grant (up to 0.18,000) is available until June 2026. Pepco's 1-to-1 net metering credits roll over month to month indefinitely.
Our guide evaluates installers in Washington DC across 8 criteria including Pepco interconnection experience, NABCEP certification, warranty quality, and verified customer reviews.
Key Considerations
2026 Rankings
Our top picks independently evaluated on product quality, Pepco expertise, warranties, and verified customer satisfaction.
Maryland's oldest family-owned solar company, serving Washington DC since 2007 with exclusively in-house crews — never subcontractors. Premium QCELLS panels with a 30-year performance warranty. Full Pepco interconnection management, SREC enrollment, and all incentive paperwork handled on your behalf.
A consistently top-rated solar installer in the Washington DC area with proven expertise in Pepco interconnection, full incentive paperwork management, and strong verified customer reviews. Offers a comprehensive system guarantee and $0-down financing options.
A top-rated owner-operated installer in the Washington DC area with strong verified reviews on Angi and Yelp. 100% in-house team — no subcontractors — with systems designed for maximum energy offset from day one. Full Pepco coordination and SREC enrollment managed in-house.
A well-established installer with strong customer ratings in the Washington DC market. Offers competitive pricing, flexible financing, and a solid warranty package. Handles all Pepco interconnection and incentive paperwork on your behalf.
* Editor ratings reflect our independent 8-point methodology. We receive no compensation from any listed company.
2026 Pricing
Average cost per watt in Washington DC is $2.61/W. Estimate your investment at common system sizes before and after Maryland incentives.
| System Size | Gross Cost | After MD Incentives | Est. Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | ~$13,000 | ~$6,500 | $700–$1,000/yr |
| 8 kW | ~$21,000 | ~$14,500 | $1,200–$1,500/yr |
| 10 kW | ~$26,400 | ~$19,900 | $1,600–$2,000/yr |
| 13 kW | ~$34,000 | ~$27,500 | $2,000–$2,500/yr |
* Incentives include MSAP grant (income-eligible), sales tax exemption, and SREC income. Federal ITC expired December 2025. Consult a tax professional.
Save More
Stack Maryland state and local programs to reduce your net investment and maximize long-term savings.
$750/kW for income-eligible homeowners. FY27 program expected summer 2026. Apply via MyMEA portal before installation.
Earn one SREC per MWh generated and sell on Maryland's open market to utilities meeting the Renewable Portfolio Standard.
Pepco credits surplus solar at the full retail rate (~$0.18/kWh). Credits roll over month-to-month indefinitely.
All solar equipment exempt from Maryland's 6% sales tax — saving $1,000–$1,600 on a typical system automatically.
Solar-added home value is exempt from property tax assessment for 20 years statewide.
Local tax credit or exemption available for qualifying solar installations in this county. Ask your installer to confirm current amounts and application process.
Our Methodology
Our 8-point framework includes city-specific criteria. No company pays for placement in our rankings.
Verified ratings across Google, Yelp, Angi, and EnergySage with attention to long-term satisfaction patterns in Washington DC.
Maryland MHIC license, Master Electrician supervision, and NABCEP certification — required for Maryland grant eligibility.
Proven track record with Pepco interconnection, net metering enrollment, and timeline management in Washington DC.
Tier 1 panel brands and comprehensive warranty coverage — equipment, performance, and workmanship with 10-year minimum labor warranty.
Transparent per-watt pricing, range of financing options, and no hidden fees or pressure tactics.
Whether the company proactively navigates MSAP, SRECs, county credits, and Pepco net metering enrollment.
Deep knowledge of Washington DC permitting processes, local code requirements, and area-specific installation considerations.
Monitoring, maintenance, and warranty service availability throughout the 25-year panel lifetime.
Common Questions
Yes for most homeowners. Maryland SRECs, the MSAP grant (up to $7,500 for income-eligible), the sales tax exemption, DC Solar Rebate, and Pepco's 1-to-1 net metering combine to make solar financially compelling. Typical payback periods in Washington DC range from 7–12 years, followed by 13–18 years of deeply reduced electricity bills.
The average cost in Washington DC is $2.61/W per watt. For a typical 10 kW system that's approximately $26,000–$28,000 gross before incentives. After the MSAP grant, SREC income, and sales tax exemption, the effective cost is substantially lower. Always get at least 3 quotes — prices vary 15–25% between installers.
Pepco provides full 1-to-1 retail net metering under Maryland law. Surplus solar exports are credited at the full retail rate (~$0.18/kWh), with credits rolling over month-to-month indefinitely until the annual true-up. Top installers manage all Pepco interconnection paperwork on your behalf.
Physical installation takes 1–3 days. The full process from contract to activation — including design, local permitting, inspection, and Pepco interconnection — typically runs 8–14 weeks. Top installers manage all permits, Pepco coordination, and SREC registration on your behalf.