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5 best solar companies in Carmel, Indiana
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 5 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Carmel. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
High-quality solar panel installation in Carmel, Indiana, requires choosing a solar installer that is certified, skilled and experienced. To help you find the perfect team, we’ve compiled a list of the best solar installers in Carmel.
Prior to choosing an installer, request referrals from others, assess potential companies and request multiple quotes to determine the ideal company for your requirements. You can find a local solar company in Carmel or pick a well-known national brand.
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
Even though solar panels require a major upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long term. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), switching to solar energy allows Carmel homeowners to save $1,500 on average each year.
Not every solar company has the same offerings. Before scheduling your solar panel installation, compare different companies' offerings and get multiple quotes.
Find the top solar company for you in Carmel
When evaluating Carmel solar companies, search for those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a positive reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should read through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Take note of repeated negative feedback as a potential red flag.
Blue Raven Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Bone Dry Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Energy Solutions
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Green Alternatives Inc.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Atomic Electric and Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Carmel?
Places with differing amounts of sun, including those with increased rain or cloud coverage like Carmel, can still utilize solar energy. Here are the biggest reasons for considering solar energy:
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can charge electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the best way to guarantee your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Transitioning to solar decreases your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to power your house. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that generating electricity is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: You can cut your energy bills by adopting solar energy. Power from solar panels takes the place of the electricity bought from utility companies.
Facts about Carmel
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Carmel?
Per a survey we carried out in October 2023, the median cost of installing solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The cost of solar panel installation varies based on several factors, such as where you live, availability of sunlight, roof orientation, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay more if you opt for add-ons like animal guards, batteries or solar trackers.
In Carmel, solar panel installation costs an average of $25,487, according to data from NASA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the EIA.
How much can you save by going solar in Carmel?
Solar panel installation is a major initial investment, but you can expect to see big savings reflected in your energy bills after some time.
Money savings in Carmel from going solar
After moving completely to solar power, Carmel homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for realizing returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to recoup its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, the average payback period for solar installations in Carmel is 16 years.
- Annual solar savings in Carmel: On average, Carmel homeowners can save $1,530 per year utilizing solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save around $21,585 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Carmel from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, switching to solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the approximated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Carmel?
Multiple solar incentives are offered to Carmel homeowners. Some programs are available to all Indiana residents, though others differ by city, utility company and municipality.
Per the DSIRE, these are the solar incentives offered to Indiana residents:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption | Solar energy systems used for heating or cooling: out-of-pocket expenditures by the owner for the components and labor Wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, solar thermal, solar PV, and other solar energy systems: the assessed value of the system |
Rebate Program NineStar Connect - Residential Energy Efficient Equipment Rebate Program | Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $500 Pool Pumps: $250/unit Heat Pump Water Heaters: $400/unit Air-Source Heat Pumps: $250 - $1,500/unit Geothermal Heat Pumps: $1,500/unit |
Rebate Program Noble REMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Incentives | Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $500 Variable Speed Pool Pump: $250 Air-Source Heat Pump: $250-$750 Ground Source Heat Pump: $1500 Heat Pump Water Heater: $400 |
Rebate Program Wabash Valley Power Association (28 Member Cooperatives) - Residential Energy Efficiency Program | Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $500 Variable Speed Pool Pump: $250 Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $750 Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500 Heat Pump Water Heater: $400/unit HVAC: Varies depending on ZIP code. See program website |
Feed-in Tariff NIPSCO - Feed-In Tariff | Wind 3 - 10 kW: $0.23 - $0.25/kWh Wind 10 kW-200 kW: $0.15 - $0.138/kWh Solar 5 kW - 10 kW: $0.17 - $0.1564/kWh Solar 10 - 200 kW: $0.15/kWh - $0.138/kWh Biomass 100kW - 1 MW: $0.0918/kWh |
Rebate Program Duke Energy - Residential and Builder Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | HVAC Install (Heat Pumps, Geothermal Heat Pumps, Central Air Conditioners): $300 - $400/unit with additional $125 if installed along with a smart thermostat Heat Pump Water Heater: $350 Attic Insulation and Air Sealing: $250/unit Duct Sealing: $100/unit Variable Speed Pool Pump: $300 |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Carmel solar installer?
Take time to evaluate these questions prior to hiring a professional solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio influence the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive houses tend to use more power and will potentially need larger solar installations. An undersized system risks inadequate energy generation to fully power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project could be subject to applicable codes and permits by your state. You'll need to obtain the required permits from your local building department, as well as schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Trees, rain and severe weather conditions in your area can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may require extra panels with more wattage capacity.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems come with a solar battery. Solar batteries store extra energy, which can be crucial for ensuring continuous power in bad weather. Opting for battery storage could raise the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have options among solar panel types, as they differ in life expectancy, efficiency and design. These elements influence cost, when you'll need to swap panels and the amount of roof area you'll need.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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