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Best Solar Companies in Tennessee

ShopSolar, Greene Tech Renewable Energy and Project Solar are our top picks

    • ShopSolar
    • Greene Tech Renewable Energy
    • Project Solar
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Tennessee

    For folks living in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville or beyond, finding the right solar company in Tennessee is key to lowering your energy bills and making the most of state incentives. The state is home to local installers and national providers offering equipment sales, professional installation and off-grid solutions.

    ShopSolar is our top solar company in Tennessee for equipment variety, Greene Tech Renewable Energy is best for professional installation and Project Solar is our choice for affordable off-grid projects.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,919,150 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.

    Our top 3 solar company picks for Tennessee

    1. Our pick for equipment selection: ShopSolar
    2. Our pick for professional installation: Greene Tech Renewable Energy
    3. Our pick for off-grid projects: Project Solar

    The ConsumerAffairs 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.

    Our pick for equipment selection

    ShopSolar

    ShopSolar
    4.6
    219 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Workmanship warranty
    Varies
    BBB rating
    A+
    Read Reviews

    ShopSolar is a great option if you need to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. The online store has brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow.

    “The installation went very well. The kit came with sufficient instructions and I didn't have any problem at all. I used the helpline a couple of times for questions I had and they were very quick to answer and very thorough. The system is lovely and I save a little money with it. The convenience of having backup power is sort of self-fulfilling. I would highly recommend ShopSolarKits. They're very good at what they do.”
    Clyde Sparta, TN
    “They delivered what I purchased and they have good follow-up. Everything worked and has performed as advertised. They had very good videos online that I utilized. … The system is very expensive but in comparison to competitors, theirs is really well-priced. Working with them was a good experience. If I need anything in addition to what I already have, I would start with them.”
    Dave Brentwood, TN

    Some reviewers have told us about problems with damaged or faulty equipment, but reps generally resolve these issues with refunds or replacements.

    One local customer, Peter in Seymour, said ordering his solar kit and backup battery was simple, but installing it himself has "been a chore."

    » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

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

    ShopSolar products

    • New and used solar panels
    • Solar generator bundles
    • Custom solar kits
    • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
    • Additional hardware and accessories

    ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturer warranty. If you run into a warranty issue, the company’s representatives 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
    • No professional installation services
    • Occasional shipping delays
    1x Award Winner
    ShopSolar won one 2026 Buyer's Choice Award from ConsumerAffairs for Best Value for Price.
    Our pick for professional installation

    Greene Tech Renewable Energy

    Greene Tech Renewable Energy
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Workmanship warranty
    5 years
    BBB rating
    A
    Write a Review

    Greene Tech Renewable Energy is a locally owned company with over 15 years of experience in the solar industry. Installers have plenty of experience installing solar panels in Tennessee, which makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

    We also appreciate the company’s professionalism: The founder is certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

    GTRE could be a little more transparent about its financing and warranty terms. We suggest comparing proposals alongside a few others to see which has the best deal in your area.

    GTRE offers a range of services, including solar energy, HVAC systems, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, wind turbines and hydropower for homes and businesses in northeast Tennessee. Installers use top-rated equipment from brands like APsystems, Enphase Energy, Generac, LG Chem, Schneider Electric and SolarEdge.

    Greene Tech Renewable Energy services

    • Full-service installation
    • Solar battery storage
    • EV charging solutions
    • Solar air conditioning
    • Panel cleaning and maintenance

    Greene Tech Renewable Energy systems come with a standard 25-year manufacturer's warranty on panels.

    You can pay in full upfront or pay with a solar loan, lease, power purchase agreement or a Rural Energy for America Program grant.

    Pros
    • Local customer support
    • Years of experience
    • NABCEP-certified
    Cons
    • Somewhat limited availability
    • Limited warranty information
    Our pick for off-grid projects

    Project Solar

    Project Solar
    4.0
    88 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    20.9%
    Workmanship warranty
    10 years
    BBB rating
    A-
    Read Reviews

    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 either install the equipment yourself or hire a local contractor.

    “I bought the solar panel and the 2,000-watt generator from Project Solar. The generator is not very big and it's easy to maneuver. The biggest thing we like about it is you can use it indoors because I have a bigger gas generator that I use outside. But the critical thing to that was in the snow, you can use it indoors. The quality seems really good. The price point was a little cheaper than 4Patriots.”
    Greg Blaine, TN

    The important thing to keep in mind is that Project Solar doesn’t currently offer professional installation services in Tennessee. 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 their project through a third-party lender, such as LightStream.

    Pros
    • Transparent pricing
    • Streamlined process
    • Great for cost savings
    Cons
    • No professional installation in Tennessee
    • No in-house financing

    Tennessee solar companies by region

    Choosing a local Tennessee solar company provides expert knowledge of area permits, rules and incentives. Below is a list of solar companies in Tennessee, organized by the specific cities and regions they serve.

    • Nashville (Central Tennessee): A wide selection of installers have experience navigating urban permits and city-specific incentives.
      • LightWave Solar: Local installer experienced in rooftop systems across Nashville and beyond
      • Astrawatt Solar: Full-service solar company serving residential customers in Nashville
      • Green Wave Solar: Provides residential and commercial solar systems in Middle Tennessee
      • ReNew Solar Solutions: Local installer offering design, permitting and installation
      • MCH Nashville: Handles solar system design, permitting and installation
      • Moss Electric: NABCEP-certified solar and electrical contractor
    • Memphis (West Tennessee): Providers here tailor systems to West Tennessee’s climate and grid, offering options for both homes and businesses.
      • Phoenix Exteriors Roofing & Solar: Local installer specializing in solar and roofing services
      • Memphis Solar Pros: Residential and commercial solar company with full-service installation
      • Sun Solar Memphis: Provides solar installations and monitoring services for homes and businesses
      • Bluff City Solar Co: Local installer focused on residential solar
      • Cool Roofs – Memphis: Offers solar alongside roofing solutions
      • Robinson Solar Solutions: Provides solar system design, installation and storage solutions
      • Mid South Solar Tech: Local company specializing in installation and panel maintenance
    • Knoxville (East Tennessee): Local companies are familiar with East Tennessee’s terrain and rebate programs. Many offer free site assessments in Knox County and surrounding areas.
      • Alternate Energy Group: Regional solar installer serving Knoxville homeowners
      • Appalachian Renewable Resources: Focuses on solar and renewable solutions in East Tennessee
      • Eco Roof Concepts: Offers solar panel installation alongside roofing services
      • GES Solar: Knoxville-based solar provider with residential and commercial services
      • Akino Solar: Specializes in off-grid systems, repair services and NABCEP-certified technicians
      • Solar 1 USA: Handles installations and offers warranties with strong local support
    • Chattanooga (Southeast Tennessee): Several installers specialize in battery storage, commercial projects and smart home integration.
      • American Helios Constructors: Provides engineering and construction for solar projects
      • Big Frog Mountain Co: Installs solar systems with long-term warranties
      • Foster Electric: Full-service electrical contractor with NABCEP-certified technicians
      • GreenForm: Installs solar PV systems and offers roofing and restoration services
      • Gridcom Solar: Provides rooftop and carport solar systems plus EV charging
      • Scenic City Solar: Local Chattanooga installer offering solar and storage solutions
      • Southern Energy, Water and Air: Regional provider offering solar installations and energy systems
    • Tri-Cities (Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol): Installers often focus on rural and suburban projects and help connect homeowners with regional incentives.
      • ReNew Solar Solutions: Provides solar installations and design services in Northeast Tennessee
      • Green Wave Solar: Offers residential and commercial solar systems in Tri-Cities
      • Bulldog Electrical Contractors: Provides solar installation and electrical services
      • Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric: Highly rated local installer in Johnson City
      • Ecological Energy Systems: Serves the Tri-Cities region with residential solar systems
      • Catch The Sun Solar: Local solar company in the Bristol area
    Best solar companies by city

    Solar Companies in Tennessee Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    ShopSolar logo
    Greene Tech Renewable Energy logo
    Project Solar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      A typical solar panel installation in Tennessee costs between $10,767 and $30,462, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money.

      Choosing a Tennessee-based solar company with a strong local track record and solid customer reviews ensures they understand the permitting process and incentive programs in your community. Let’s make sure that your installation is reliable, efficient and suitable for Tennessee’s climate.

      Key insights

      Most Tennessee solar installers set the price according to the system's wattage, typically between $2.50 and $5 per watt. The average cost per watt in Tennessee is $3.05.

      Jump to insight

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

      Jump to insight

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

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a solar company in Tennessee

      To choose the right solar company in Tennessee, look for a licensed and certified installer with a proven local track record and transparent quotes. Here's how to find a reliable solar installer you can trust.

      1. Verify credentials and licensing

      Before anything else, ensure the company is legally qualified to operate in Tennessee.

      • NABCEP certification: Look for installers certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This is the gold standard for the solar industry.
      • Tennessee Electrical contractor license: Confirm that the company holds a valid license from the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance. This is mandatory and ensures it meets state safety and quality standards.

      2. Compare at least three quotes

      Never settle for the first offer. Request detailed proposals from at least three different solar companies to compare services and pricing.

      • Watch for red flags: Be cautious of solar quotes that are significantly lower than others, as this can indicate subpar equipment or inexperienced labor.
      • Ensure quotes are itemized: A professional quote should clearly list the brands and models of solar panels and inverters, total system size (in kW), and the full cost breakdown.

      3. Check reputation and Reviews

      A solar company’s track record speaks volumes.

      • Read recent reviews: Check Google, ConsumerAffairs and solar-specific sites for reviews from other Tennessee homeowners.
      • Look for patterns: A single bad review isn't a dealbreaker, but consistent complaints about communication, missed deadlines or equipment failures are major red flags.

      4. Ask key questions

      Once you have narrowed your choices, ask each finalist the same set of important questions.

      • Who will be performing the installation — your in-house team or subcontractors?
      • What does your workmanship warranty cover and for how many years?
      • What is the full timeline from signing the contract to the system being turned on?
      • Can you provide references from recent customers in my area?
      • What are my options for battery storage, EV chargers or pest guards?

      5. Review the contract in detail

      Read every word of the final contract before you sign. Pay close attention to:

      • The fine print: Understand the payment schedule, cancellation policy and what happens if there are delays.
      • Warranty information: Confirm that both the manufacturer's equipment warranty and the installer's workmanship warranty are clearly stated in the contract.
      • Total cost: Ensure the final price matches the quote and there are no hidden fees.

      » MORE: Best solar companies in Nashville

      How much does it cost to go solar in Tennessee?

      Average solar panel costs in Tennessee typically range between $11,371 and $32,489. This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels.

      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, John in Smithville said his system was $50,000, and Billy in Brush Creek paid $80,000 going solar.

      Average solar panel costs by system size in Tennessee

      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 Tennessee

      The ITC expired at the end of 2025.

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) was the most significant way to make installing panels more affordable. It was worth 30% of the total cost of installing your solar power system, including equipment, labor and permits.

      Residents can still take advantage of additional solar incentives in Tennessee. For instance, some Nashville residents will become newly eligible to get credit for excess electricity generated from rooftop solar systems.

      Are solar panels worth it in Tennessee?

      Yes, solar panels are worth it in Tennessee for many homeowners because rising electricity rates and federal incentives can lead to long-term savings despite the state’s modest sunlight levels.

      Plenty of Tennessee residents are happy going solar, but it doesn’t work out for everyone. One solar customer we talked to, AJ in Knoxville, has some advice for other residents considering making the switch: “This is a major decision when purchasing these products. I would suggest studying the (financial) aspect and your budget to see if this is the right decision for you and your family.”

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

      Solar panels are not as popular in Tennessee as in some other states. But with electricity costs on the rise, more and more homeowners are finding solar power is financially worth it in the long run. On average, Tennesseans with solar panels can avoid $15,902 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      We suggest using 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.

      Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 15.78 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost). The return on investment of a solar panel installation also depends on your system's efficiency and size.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Solar installation process in Tennessee

      Going solar in Tennessee usually follows these steps:

      1. Consultation and quote: The installer reviews your energy use, inspects your property and discusses your goals.
      2. System design and contract: You get a custom system plan, review it and sign a contract.
      3. Permitting and approvals: The installer handles local permits. This step can take one to four weeks, depending on your city or county.
      4. Installation: Once permits are approved, crews install the system. Installation typically takes one to three days, depending on system size and weather.
      5. Inspection and utility connection: Inspectors confirm safety and code compliance. Then your utility grants permission to operate, which often takes one to three weeks.

      From start to finish, most Tennessee solar projects take six to 12 weeks. The installer manages nearly all of the paperwork and scheduling.

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in Tennessee?

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

      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.

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

      Lots of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Tennessee averages 3.5 to 4.5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, the panels might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      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.

      How does net metering work in Tennessee?

      Net metering lets homeowners earn credits or receive payments for any extra electricity their solar panels generate that is sent to the local power grid. Tennessee doesn't have a statewide net metering policy in place, but some electric companies might still offer net metering programs. For example, Appalachian Power operates its own net metering program.

      Should I choose a national solar installer or a local Tennessee company?

      Both local and national installers have advantages in Tennessee. Local companies know Tennessee’s permitting rules, utility requirements and incentive programs. They often provide more personalized service, faster support and experience with local climate conditions.

      National companies may offer more financing options and lower equipment prices thanks to bulk purchasing, but service can feel less personal and scheduling may take longer.

      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 energy 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee. 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 Tennesseans’ needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. ShopSolar: Our pick for equipment selection
      2. Greene Tech Renewable Energy: Our pick for professional installation
      3. Project Solar: Our pick for off-grid projects
      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, “Tennessee Programs.” Accessed Sept. 8, 2025. 
      2. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed Sept. 8, 2025.
      3. Nashville Public Radio, “Nashville is getting a new rooftop solar program. Here’s what we know so far.” Accessed Sept. 8, 2025.

      Not sure how to choose?

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