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Best Solar Companies in Tennessee

We compared 62 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • ShopSolar
      4.7(156)
    • Greene Tech Renewable Energy
    • Project Solar
      4.6(63)

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      Best Solar Companies in Tennessee

      If you've been thinking about going solar in Tennessee but aren’t sure where to start, 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 and other factors to select the top picks for this guide:

      Our top solar company picks

      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

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

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,531,752 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.

      Compare our top 3 solar companies

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      The best solar companies, reviewed

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      156 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 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 in Sparta
      • “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 in Brentwood

      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
      Our pick for professional installation

      Greene Tech Renewable Energy

      0 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      5 years
      Year founded
      2008

      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

      4.6
      63 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 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 in Blaine

      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 panel buyers guide

      A typical solar panel installation in Tennessee costs between $11,410 and $32,600, 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 Tennessee’s climate.

      Key insights

      Most 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 $3.26.

      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 reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      How much does it cost to go solar in Tennessee?

      Average solar panel costs in Tennessee typically range between $11,410 and $32,600. 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 installation cost 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

      Going solar in Tennessee

      A typical solar panel installation in Tennessee costs between $11,410 and $32,600, 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 Tennessee’s climate.

      What to look for in a solar company in Tennessee

      We’ve heard from over 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018, including dozens in Tennessee. Here are our best hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: We 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, an EV charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Tennessee.
      • 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 before signing a contract.

      Solar incentives in Tennessee

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

      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 credit is nonrefundable, so any unused amount rolls over into the next tax year.

      Residents may 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.

      » GREENEST STATES: Tennessee ranked 25th in 2024

      Are solar panels worth it in Tennessee?

      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 $51,774 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 12.5 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

      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.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      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.

      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

      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, "Tennessee Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Tennessee." Accessed March 29, 20
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Tennessee Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Tennessee, 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. Nashville Public Radio, “Nashville is getting a new rooftop solar program. Here’s what we know so far.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2024.

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