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Best Solar Companies in Alaska

We compared 32 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Residential installations
      Wolf Solar Electric
    • Commercial installations
      Remote Power
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
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    Written by Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Alaska

    Going solar isn’t just a green move. It's also a smart money move. With the right solar company, you’ll be on your way to more sustainable living, cheaper electric bills and greater energy independence. If you’re ready to invest in solar panels, we’re here to help you compare your options and get the best deal in Alaska.

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      Solar Companies in Alaska Buyers guide

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        Alaska solar panel buyers guide

        A typical solar panel installation in Alaska costs between $8,435 and $24,100, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money. Let’s make sure that your installation is reliable, efficient and suitable for Alaska’s climate.

        Key insights

        Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Alaska. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

        Jump to insight

        Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Alaska, the average cost per watt is $2.41.

        Jump to insight

        The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant solar incentive for many homeowners buying solar panels in Alaska.

        Jump to insight

        What to look for in a solar company in Alaska

        In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties.

        • Check certifications: In Alaska, solar installers must be licensed electricians registered with the Department of Community & Economic Development. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
        • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
        • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
        • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Alaska.
        • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. Ensure you understand the payment terms, warranty and ongoing services.

        How much does it cost to go solar in Alaska?

        The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

        Average solar panel costs in Alaska typically range between $8,435 to $24,100. This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid.

        Average solar installation cost by system size in Alaska

        How can I pay for solar panel installation?

        Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance instead. A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest. Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option if you don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system.

        » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

        Solar incentives in Alaska

        Alaska has relatively few residential solar incentives. Rural communities throughout the state are pioneering different approaches to generating electricity, including installing solar panels, even with little or no help or incentives from government agencies or large utility companies.

        Incidentally, the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the biggest incentive for homeowners. The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. For example, if you spend $10,000 going solar, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes that year, it reduces what you owe to $12,000.

        » EXPLORE: Alaska solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

        Are solar panels worth it in Alaska?

        The general consensus is that solar panels are worth it in Alaska. On average, Alaskans with solar panels can avoid $54,668 in total utility costs over 25 years.

        Alaska has a surprisingly good climate for solar panels. The most densely populated area of the state, Southeast Alaska, is seeing more solar panels on rooftops as residents observe that already-high grid electricity prices are likely to go even higher.

        Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

        The return on investment of a solar panel installation depends on your system's efficiency and size. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 9.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

        We suggest using the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery. As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering.

        » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

        FAQ

        How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

        Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Alaska averages 2 to 3 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first.

        How are solar costs trending in Alaska?

        The cost to go solar in Alaska has fallen 47% over the last 10 years, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.

        Can I get free solar panels in Alaska?

        We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Alaska. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can cost you quite a bit of money.

        » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

        How does net metering work in Alaska?

        Net metering lets homeowners get credits for extra electricity their solar panels generate. In Alaska, utility companies are required to purchase up to 1.5% of the average load from customers with solar. Residents with systems up to 25 kilowatts can qualify for the program.

        Some utilities have compensation programs that are similar to net metering. For example, Golden Valley Electric Association's (GVEA) SNAP program pays customers for solar. Customers who signed up with this program get monthly credits on their bills and yearly payouts.

        Should I replace my roof before going solar?

        As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

        » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

        Guide sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. DSIRE, "Alaska Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Alaska Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Alaska?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
        5. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Aug. 23, 2024.
        6. Alaska Energy Authority, “Solar Energy Basics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
        7. Anchorage Daily News, “Developers set to flip switch at Alaska’s largest solar farm.” Accessed Aug. 23, 2024.
        8. Alaska Beacon, “Urban Alaska can learn from energy innovation in rural Alaska.” Accessed Aug. 23, 2024.

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