With United Illuminating rates at 8.80¢/kWh — among the highest in Connecticut — Stratford homeowners have exceptional solar savings potential. Learn what's changed in 2026 and how to go solar the right way.
Stratford, Connecticut sits in United Illuminating's service territory — and UI rates of 8.795¢/kWh (January 2026, confirmed by CT OCC) are significantly above the national average. Higher utility rates directly translate to greater solar savings. When you're paying more per kilowatt-hour, offsetting that rate with solar produces bigger monthly bill reductions.
A typical Stratford home with a 7–10 kW solar system can expect:
A 7 kW residential solar system in Connecticut typically costs $18,000–$24,000 before any incentives. After Connecticut state incentives, your net cost is approximately $12,600–$16,800. The CT Energy Storage Incentive (CESLI) — up to $16,000 — applies to battery systems and can stack with other programs.
| Incentive | Amount | 2026 Status |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) | 30% of system cost | Expired Jan 1, 2026 (residential) |
| CT Energy Storage Incentive (CESLI) | Up to $16,000 | Applications open — limited funding |
| CT Green Bank Residential Solar | Below-market financing | Active — Greenworks Lending |
| UI ConnectedSolutions Battery Program | Up to $225/kW nameplate | Active for UI customers |
| Property Tax Exemption | 100% of added value | Automatic — file with town clerk |
| UI Smart Power Home Rebates | Varies | Check current availability |
Stratford is served by United Illuminating (UI), a subsidiary of AvanGrid. UI customers have access to specific programs that differ from Eversource:
The ConnectedSolutions battery program is particularly valuable in Stratford. With UI's high rates, the combination of monthly bill savings plus battery demand response earnings ($225/kW/year) can accelerate your payback significantly.
Evaluate installers based on: CT electrical contractor license, NABCEP certification, local installation history, warranty terms, and customer reviews. Always get at least 3 written quotes.
Installers known to serve Fairfield County include:
Research current licensing, insurance, and reviews before hiring. Solar Connect is an informational resource, not an installer.
A 7 kW residential solar system in Connecticut costs $18,000–$24,000 before incentives. After Connecticut state incentives (no residential ITC in 2026), your net cost is approximately $12,600–$16,800. Battery systems (eligible for CESLI up to $16,000) add $10,000–$16,000 but can qualify for additional incentives.
No — the residential federal ITC (Section 25C) expired January 1, 2026. Commercial and utility-scale solar retains its ITC. For Connecticut homeowners, state programs — especially the CT Energy Storage Incentive (CESLI, up to $16,000) and UI's ConnectedSolutions battery program — become the primary financial incentive pathway.
Stratford's combination of United Illuminating's high rates (8.80¢/kWh), coastal exposure providing good solar irradiance, and the ConnectedSolutions battery program (up to $225/kW/year in bill credits) makes Stratford one of the more economically compelling solar markets in Connecticut. UI's demand response battery program is one of the best utility programs available to CT homeowners.
Standard grid-tied solar systems shut down during outages for technician safety. To maintain power during outages, a battery storage system is required. The CT Energy Storage Incentive (CESLI) covers up to $16,000 of battery costs for qualifying installations.
Yes. Connecticut receives approximately 4–5 peak sun hours per day on average — comparable to central Pennsylvania and sufficient for residential solar. Stratford's coastal location typically means less fog and good direct sunlight exposure compared to inland areas.