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5 best solar companies in Indianapolis, 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 Indianapolis. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Indianapolis, Indiana, requires you to hire a solar installer that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To assist your search for the best installer, we've compiled a list of the top solar companies in Indianapolis.
Before selecting an installer, ask others for suggestions, vet the installers you're considering and get quotes from multiple companies to find the one that meets your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Indianapolis or opt for an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
While solar panels need a substantial initial investment, you can cut your energy expenses in the long term by making the transition. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), adopting solar energy enables Indianapolis homeowners to save a yearly average of around $1,500.
Various solar companies provide different services. Take the time to review each company and get quotes from all before scheduling your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Indianapolis
Focus on Indianapolis solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars based on customer feedback on Google Reviews and comparable sites. Make sure the company has a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) when choosing a solar company.
Read through reviews to understand other homeowners’ experiences with a company, and be on the lookout for frequent bad reviews.
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
Atomic Electric and Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Green Alternatives Inc.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Indianapolis?
Places with varied sunshine levels, including rainy or cloudy areas like Indianapolis, can still benefit from solar power. The top reasons to switch to solar power are:
- Save on energy bills: You can cut your energy bills by using solar energy. Power from solar panels substitutes the electricity bought from utility companies.
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy lets you charge electric cars at your house. Leveraging your own power is the best way to make sure your electric vehicle uses renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of fossil fuels that would be needed to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that electricity production is one of the largest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about Indianapolis
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 Indianapolis?
Based on the results of our survey carried out in October 2023, the average cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels is influenced by factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The cost increases if you choose any extras like animal guards, batteries or solar trackers.
Per statistics from the EIA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and NASA the average expense to install solar panels in Indianapolis is $25,331.
How much can you save by going solar in Indianapolis?
Solar panel installation is a substantial initial investment, but you can expect to see major savings reflected in your energy bills over time.
Money savings in Indianapolis from going solar
In Indianapolis, you can plan to save money after switching fully to solar. However, it takes time to recoup the initial investment, and factors such as rain and tree coverage affect how long it takes to see a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to earn back 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 Indianapolis is 16 years.
- Annual solar savings in Indianapolis: Based on numbers that leverage data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA, Indianapolis homeowners save around $1,542 annually with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Over 25 years, you can potentially save $21,991 after switching fully to solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Energy savings in Indianapolis from going solar
Beyond cost savings, switching to solar power also shrinks your carbon footprint and lowers your environmental impact. Provided below are the approximated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 88 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 2200 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
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What solar incentives are available in Indianapolis?
Indianapolis homeowners can benefit from various solar incentives. Certain programs are provided statewide to all Indiana residents, and others vary based on city, municipality and utility company.
Per the DSIRE, here are the solar incentives available for 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 RushShelby Energy - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500 Mini-Split Heat Pump: $300-$1,500 Heat Pump/Hybrid Water Heater: $500 Single Speed Compressor: $800 Dual/Variable Speed Compressor: $750 - $1,500 HVAC Tune-Up: 50% of cost Lighting: Varies |
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 South Central Indiana REMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Heat Pump Water Heater: $500 Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500 Air-Source, Ductless Mini Split, or Dual Fuel Heat Pump with Dual/Variable Speed Compressor: $750 Air-Source, Ductless Mini Split, or Dual Fuel Heat Pump with Single Speed Compressor Replacing Electric Resistance Heat: $800 Air-Source, Ductless Mini Split, or Dual Fuel Heat Pump with Dual/Variable Speed Compressor Replacing Electric Resistance Heat: $1,500 |
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 Johnson County REMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Air Source Heat Pumps: $750/unit - $1,500/unit Geothermal Heat Pumps: $1,500/unit Heat Pump Water Heater: $500/unit Mini-Split ductless Heat Pump: $750/unit - $1500/unit Lighting: Instant rebates through online lighting store (small businesses, farms, or workshops) |
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 |
Green Building Incentive City of Indianapolis - Green Building Incentive Program | 30%-50% reduction in permit fees |
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 Indianapolis solar installer?
When selecting a professional solar panel installation company, first review these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
The right solar system size for you relies on how much energy your household needs, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Larger homes often need more extensive solar installations. If the system isn't expansive enough, it may fail to generate sufficient electricity to power your whole home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local requirements could affect your solar project. You’ll need to obtain the required permits through your local building department and book an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes have the same amount of sun. Local tree coverage, rain conditions and extreme weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get adequate sunlight, then you may need extra panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems include a solar battery. Solar batteries preserve extra energy, which can be vital for avoiding outages during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could raise the total cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Several solar panel varieties exist, each varying in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These factors impact pricing, the frequency of replacing panels and the amount of roof space 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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