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Best Solar Companies in Georgia

We compared 93 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Freedom Solar Power
      4.6(282)
    • Green Home Systems
      2.9(54)

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      Best Solar Companies in Georgia

      A typical solar panel installation in Georgia costs between $9,555 and $27,300, 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 the Peach State’s climate.

      ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. Our research team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide.

      Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,568,019 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies reviewed

      Our top solar company picks

      1. Freedom Solar: Our top pick overall
      2. Green Home Systems: Easy to get started

      Freedom Solar Power

      4.6
      282 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      22.8%
      Workmanship warranty
      25 years
      Year founded
      2007
      2x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best for Installation

      Freedom Solar is a great company with locations in multiple states. We’ve talked to more than 200 Freedom Solar customers all across the country. Over the last two years, 96% were satisfied with the installation and set up, 96% were satisfied with the price and 83% were satisfied with the customer service.

      Installers are very helpful, quick and thorough, according to Jason in Atlanta, Georgia. “The only problem I had with Freedom Solar is the cost,” he told us. “I financed my system but had I paid cash, I would have gotten a 25% discount. That tells me they're padding and the system doesn't have to be that expensive. Other than that, I recommend them.”

      Jason in Atlanta mentioned some dissatisfaction with the salesperson's lack of knowledge and communication throughout the early stages of the process.

      Freedom Solar Power installs American-designed solar panels that are built to last at least 25 years. It also offers Tesla Powerwall and SunPower SunVault backup power systems.

      Freedom Solar services

      • Residential and commercial installations
      • Rooftop and ground-mounted installations
      • Equipment maintenance and upgrades
      • Roof repairs
      • Energy monitoring

      Freedom has a 25-year lifetime warranty on equipment and installations. System performance is guaranteed between 84% and 92% of original production for 25 years.

      • Cash: You can pay for the system in full upfront.
      • Loan: Qualified customers can find reasonable rates with no money down.

      Pros

      • Excellent customer service
      • 24/7 performance monitoring
      • Transferable warranty
      • In-house, NABCEP-certified installation crews

      Cons

      • Somewhat limited availability
      • No in-house financing
      Our pick for easy sign-up process

      Green Home Systems

      2.9
      54 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20%
      Workmanship warranty
      25 years
      Year founded
      2017

      Green Home Systems makes it quick and simple for homeowners to switch to solar. Happy customers tell us about clear communication, knowledgeable representatives and smooth installations.

      “I've had my solar panels for a couple of years, and Green Home Systems is great,” Brenda in Crawford, Georgia, told us. “You couldn't ask for anybody to be any better when I worked with the reps. My power bill is tremendously down. If people could work with Green Home, they should do it.”

      Green Home Systems might not be the best fit if you’re on a tight deadline. Some customers have told us about installation delays.

      Green Home Systems offers a wide range of solar energy solutions, from panels and inverters to batteries and additional accessories, from brands we trust, including Panasonic, Qcells and Enphase. You can also get Generac backup generators, IronRidge racking systems and SPAN electrical panels.

      Green Home Systems services

      • Professional solar installations
      • Energy storage options
      • Monitoring app
      • Financing available

      Green Home Systems provides a 25-year warranty on solar panels and inverters. Batteries come with a 10-year warranty.

      • Cash: You can pay for the system in full upfront.
      • Loan: You can finance through a solar loan with annual percentage rates (APRs) starting at 0.99% (on approved credit).

      Pros

      • Lower monthly electrical cost
      • 25-year guarantee
      • Financing available
      • Energy storage options
      • Physical location in Lancaster

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Possible delays or rescheduling

      Georgia solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve heard from more than 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018. A couple of things we know for sure: People like powering their homes with a reliable source of cheap, clean energy. They don’t like getting into solar contracts that don’t meet their expectations. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in Georgia.

      Key insights

      In Georgia, a typical residential solar panel system costs $9,555 to $27,300, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

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

      Jump to insight

      Watch out for door-to-door solar scams. Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      Going solar in Georgia

      Georgia has a longer history with solar energy than most states. The Solar Easements Act of 1978 aimed to protect residents' rights to sunlight for their solar installations. Today, the state allows homeowners to connect small solar systems to the utility grid, potentially earning credits for surplus energy through net metering.

      » GREENEST STATES: Georgia ranked 23rd in 2024

      What to look for in a solar company in Georgia

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Georgia. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

      • Check certifications: Solar panel installers must work with a licensed electrical contractor, a requirement enforced by the Georgia Secretary of State. This ensures all electrical aspects of solar installations adhere to state guidelines. You can verify a contractor’s licensing status through the State’s website’s license search feature. 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 Georgia.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations, and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Georgia?

      Average solar panel costs in Georgia typically range between $9,555 and $27,300. 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. On the higher end, a solar customer in Bogart, Georgia, was quoted $40,000 for a system.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Georgia, the average cost per watt is $2.73.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Georgia

      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, especially if you go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is similar to buying a car. You could pay cash, but many people finance their system through a solar loan. If you have enough savings to pay upfront, the biggest advantage of paying upfront interest charges.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years.

      Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system. Georgia also has legalized power purchase agreements (unlike many other states). PPAs work very similarly to leases. The biggest downside to both is that you’ll be disqualified from many of the best financial incentives, like the 30% federal solar tax credit. It also might make your house harder to sell since a new buyer will have to take over the lease agreement.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Georgia

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners. Georgia residents may take advantage of additional solar incentives in Georgia, including the solar loan programs.

      The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, labor and additional features for monitoring the system.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000. You don’t get these benefits automatically, though. You have to claim your solar equipment, labor and permits on your federal taxes for the same year you started using your system on Form 5695.

      Are solar panels worth it in Georgia?

      The general consensus is that solar panels are worth it in Georgia. On average, homeowners can avoid $57,429 in total utility costs over 25 years.

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

      With electricity costs continuing to rise, more Georgia homeowners find solar power is financially worth it in the long run. “It was an excellent decision, and a great experience,” one resident, JD in Kennesaw, Georgia, told us. “We are saving so much money and helping the environment.”

      However, we’ve also heard about problems with leaks and roof damage caused by the installation of solar panels, leading to frustration and difficulties in getting repairs. 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.

      Use NREL’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.

      The return on investment of a solar panel installation depends on your system's efficiency and size. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 10 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      » 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. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. If you have a lot of shading around your house, panels might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Reducing your electrical loads now means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper.

      Can I get free solar panels in Georgia?

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

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components. Ultimately, deciding between a solar broker and a solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process.

      A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, it’s best to work directly with a solar installer.

      What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a PPA, you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a fixed rate that’s lower than you would receive without a PPA.
      How does net metering work in Georgia?

      Net metering is a system of give-and-take between you and your utility company. It lets you access power from the grid when your panels don’t generate enough electricity.

      Net metering also lets you earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to the grid. These credits can offset the cost of electricity consumed at other times.

      What are the different kinds of solar inverters?

      Two primary kinds of solar inverters are used for residential solar setups: string inverters and microinverters. String inverters link up multiple panels and channel the electricity to a spot where it's turned into a current your home can use. Microinverters are miniature inverters attached to each individual panel. They're more efficient at preventing any loss of power capacity.

      » EXPLORE: What are grid-tied solar systems?

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team objectively evaluates solar providers to highlight those best equipped to meet most homeowners' needs. To choose our top picks for this guide, we started with a list of popular providers. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Georgia. We then weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with the most positive recent ratings left by local reviewers on our site were given preference.

      Equipment selection: 20%
      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Warranties: 20%
      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Financing and payment options: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Overall reputation: 10%
      We considered each company's history, mission and value. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect.

      To recap, our top picks for the best solar companies in Georgia are:

      1. Freedom Solar: Our top pick overall
      2. Green Home Systems: Easy to get started
      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, “Georgia Solar Programs.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
      2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Georgia.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
      3. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Georgia Solar.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
      4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Georgia, 2024." Accessed March 29, 2024.
      5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council, “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
      6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
      7. Georgia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed June 24, 2024.

      Not sure how to choose?

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