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Best Solar Companies in Kentucky

We compared 68 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Blue Raven Solar
      4.7(263)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(157)
    • Project Solar
      4.8(77)

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      Best Solar Companies in Kentucky

      ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. To choose our top picks for this guide, we compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties and other factors. Read our full methodology for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear.

      Our top solar company picks

      1. Our pick for professional installation: Blue Raven Solar
      2. Our pick for equipment selection: ShopSolar
      3. Our pick for value: Project Solar
      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
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      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      The best solar companies, reviewed

      Blue Raven Solar

      4.7
      263 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2014
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation

      Blue Raven installs quality solar panels and microinverters to maximize energy production. We like that the sleek, low-profile solar systems are designed to withstand variable climates. It also has a unique financing option that lets you go solar with no upfront costs — a good deal if you want the benefits of clean energy without making a big initial investment. Plus, you aren’t affected when electricity rates increase over time.

      Blue Raven Solar gets overall positive feedback. However, we have heard some complaints about installation issues, including delays in turning on the system, from reviewers in other states.

      Blue Raven Solar offers a simple and affordable way to go solar. It has zero-down financing with fixed interest rates and predictable payments. The company has a location in Louisville and serves surrounding areas, including Pleasure Ridge Park, Valley Station, Glenview, Okolona and Harrod’s Creek.

      Blue Raven Solar services

      • Consulting and design
      • Professional installations
      • Financing solutions
      • System monitoring

      Blue Raven Solar provides a standard 25-year warranty. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer. The company offers the FranklinWH aPower battery (12-year warranty) and the Tesla Powerwall 3 (10-year warranty).

      • Cash: You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system.
      • BluePower: This fixed monthly payment option lets you go solar without a significant upfront cost. There’s no prepayment penalty, and the plan is transferable to a new homeowner if you ever sell your house.
      • BluePower Plus+: Eligible customers can pay $0 upfront, get 18 months of free solar power and make fixed monthly payments after that. You own the system and are responsible for maintenance.

      Pros

      • Sleek, durable systems
      • $0-down financing options
      • Tier 1 solar equipment
      • 25-year warranty on all installations

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some communication issues

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      157 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      ShopSolar is a great option to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. We like that it has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication. You can find just about everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup on homes, RVs and outbuildings.

      • “ShopSolar had more of the batteries and they dealt more with SOLARC, which was what I was specifically looking for. They asked what I wanted and they listened and understood and I got everything in a timely manner. I'm very mechanically inclined and the installation was very straightforward and easy. Plus customer service will walk you through it if you have any questions. We've been running the system for a year and a half and I love it. It's 18 panels and two big batteries. The total is 30 kilowatt hours. We're 100% off the grid and my monthly bill is zero. It was an excellent experience and I'd recommend them.” — Jon in Sandy Hook
      • “Enrolling with ShopSolar was easy. Also, I did the installation myself.” — N. In Lick Creek

      The important thing to keep in mind is that ShopSolar doesn’t offer professional installation services, so it’s best to know about solar panels and electrical work. Otherwise, you might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment, such as generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      ShopSolar products

      • New and used solar panels
      • Energy storage batteries
      • Inverters
      • Charge controllers
      • Cabling and hardware
      • Mounts and racks

      ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

      • Online payments: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.
      • Financing: ShopSolar partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Annual percentage rates (APRs) range from 0% to 36%.

      Pros

      • Free shipping
      • Price-match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Occasional shipping delays
      • Occasional shipping errors
      Our pick for value

      Project Solar

      4.8
      77 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2016

      Project Solar reps take a no-sales-gimmicks approach that appeals to more budget-conscious solar clients. We like that pricing is competitive and transparent. As of publishing, all projects start at $1.26 per watt. You can get the equipment from Project Solar and then hire an installer directly.

      • “I got a power station and a foldout panel from Project Solar, and I can power everything in the house with them, except a 220-volt. Compared to everybody else, they're 10 to 15% cheaper and the products are high quality.” — David in Nicholasville
      • “The few couple of times I used the solar generator, everything was easy and worked out fine. It's plug and play. I start with the battery charged and it's ready to go. I recharge the battery after I'm done, and I would bring it up to capacity and that would make it ready for the next time. The literature said that it holds a good percentage up to a year.” — Michael in Goshen

      The important thing to keep in mind is that Project Solar doesn’t currently offer professional installation services in Kentucky. Consider hiring a local contractor if you don’t know about solar panels and electrical work.

      Project Solar specializes in do-it-yourself solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase. It currently operates in multiple states across the U.S.

      Project Solar services

      • Solar panel system design
      • Energy storage solutions
      • Equipment procurement

      A manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in materials of solar panels, inverters and other equipment for 25 years. There’s an 84% production level guarantee for 25 years, and the company provides reimbursements if production levels are not met during this time.

      Project Solar's financing partners cannot provide loans for DIY solar projects. You can pay cash or finance your project through a third-party lender, such as LightStream.

      Pros

      • Transparent pricing
      • Streamlined process
      • Great for cost savings

      Cons

      • No professional installation in Kentucky
      • No in-house financing

      Kentucky solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about going solar but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. We’ve heard from more than 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018, including several in Kentucky. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

      Key insights

      In Kentucky, 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 Kentucky.

      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

      What to look for in a solar company in Kentucky

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. In Kentucky, a licensed electrician must get the solar permit and assume responsibility for the meter connection.

      • Check certifications: We suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Read reviews: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are all red flags in 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 Kentucky.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. Make sure you understand everything about the payment terms, warranty and ongoing services.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Kentucky?

      Average solar panel costs in Kentucky typically range between $9,555 and $27,300. 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.

      The size of your solar panel system is another 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, one resident told us they paid around $87,000 for his system last year.

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

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Kentucky

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      You can pay the full cost upfront, but many finance their system through a solar loan. It works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay the loan back over time with interest. Another option is using a home equity line of credit or loan.

      Alternatively, you can lease solar panels. There are pros and cons to leasing. It’s sometimes cheaper in the short term, but you’ll be disqualified from some of the best financial incentives, including the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Kentucky

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners. 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, as well as 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. The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe. So, if you only owed $2,000 the year you went solar, you could claim the remaining $1,000 the next taxable year.

      » EXPLORE: Kentucky solar incentives

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in Kentucky?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Kentucky. 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?

      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. Kentucky averages three to four 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.

      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.

      Can I get free solar panels in Kentucky?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Kentucky. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. 

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Do I need any permits before going solar in Kentucky?

      Depending on your local municipality, there may be fees associated with permitting and inspections. In Kentucky, some utilities may charge a fee to connect your solar system to the grid. If you finance your solar system, interest and financing fees can add to the total cost over time.

      How does net metering work in Kentucky?

      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. Credit rates vary by utility. For instance, Kentucky Power, Kentucky Utilities Company (KU) and Louisville Gas and Electric Company (LGE) have slightly different policies. It’s best to check with your local utility for the most up-to-date export credit rates per kilowatt-hour.

      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?

      Are solar panels worth it in Kentucky?

      Despite few incentives to help homeowners go solar, more and more homeowners are finding solar power is financially worth it in Kentucky. On average, residents with solar panels avoid $54,204 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      “The high cost of electricity is what brought me to looking into solar energy,” Jessie in Lexington told us. Despite some challenges with a solar company early on, their electricity bill is “quite low” now. Going solar has also been a great value for Collin in Bowling Green.

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

      But it doesn’t work out for everybody. For instance, Jon in Vine Grove told us the “whole process has been a nightmare since day one.” He ran into all the typical problems people have with poorly rated solar companies: pushy sales tactics, limited price transparency, equipment malfunctions and lack of customer support.

      As long as you hire the right solar company, it’s at least worth considering. 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.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Going solar in Kentucky

      Solar panels are expensive, and upfront costs are the biggest deterrent for many. If you finance solar panels, it makes sense as long as the solar loan payment is lower than what you would be paying Louisville Gas and Electric Company, Kentucky Utilities Company or Kentucky Power anyway.

      » EXPLORE: Where solar savings go the furthest

      Methodology

      The Consumer Affairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. For this guide, we objectively 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 generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Kentucky customers were given preference.

      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.

      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.

      Financing and payment options: 10%

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

      Reputation and local experience: 10%

      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Kentucky. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Kentuckians’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      Not sure how to choose?

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        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, "Kentucky Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Kentucky." Accessed March 29, 20
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Kentucky Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Kentucky, 2024?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “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. Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, “Solar Energy in Kentucky.” Accessed Aug. 9, 2023.
        8. The Kentucky Solar Energy Society, “Incentives for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency.” Accessed Aug. 9, 2024.
        9. Kentucky Public Service Commission, “Interconnection and Net Metering Guidelines — Kentucky.” Accessed Sept. 9, 2024.

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