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7 best solar companies in Knoxville, Tennessee
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 7 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Knoxville. 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 Knoxville, Tennessee, requires you to hire a solar company that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To help your search for the right installer, we've put together a list of the leading solar companies in Knoxville.
Prior to picking an installer, get referrals, evaluate potential installers and get multiple quotes to find the ideal company for you. You can choose a local Knoxville solar company or select a reputable national brand.
Although solar panels need a big initial investment, you can lower your energy bills in the long run by making the switch. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), switching to solar energy enables Knoxville homeowners to save a yearly average of around $550.
Various solar companies offer different products. Be sure to compare each company and get quotes from all before arranging your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Knoxville
Look for Knoxville solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and other review platforms. The company should also have a respectable rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Read through reviews to understand other homeowners’ experiences with a company, and be on the lookout for consistent bad reviews.
Lloyd's Electric Service, Inc. - Knoxville
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Alliance, LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Sundance Power Systems Inc
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Carolina Mountain Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Rhino Renewables Solar & Electric
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Smart Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
R A Thomas Electric
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Knoxville?
Even areas with variable sun amounts, including rainier and overcast places such as Knoxville, can still benefit from solar panels. Major reasons to consider solar include these:
- Save on energy bills: You can reduce your energy bills by adopting solar energy. Power from solar panels takes the place of the electricity bought from utility companies.
- Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can charge electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the surest method to ensure your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar reduces your carbon footprint by decreasing the use of fossil fuels that would be needed to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that electricity production is one of the biggest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about Knoxville
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 Knoxville?
Per a survey we did in October 2023, the typical cost of putting in solar panels across the country is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels depends on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The cost increases if you choose any extras like batteries, animal guards or solar trackers.
Based on numbers from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), solar panel installation in Knoxville has a typical cost of $19,730.
How much can you save by going solar in Knoxville?
While solar panel installation can be a sizable initial cost, you are positioned to see substantial savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Knoxville from going solar
After transitioning fully to solar power, Knoxville homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recouping the initial investment requires time, and elements like rain and tree shade impact the timeline for realizing returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the time it takes for a solar energy system to recoup its initial cost. The payback period in Knoxville is around 36 years, according to our calculations, which are based on data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA.
- Annual solar savings in Knoxville: Based on calculations that leverage data from NASA, the Department of Energy and the EIA, Knoxville homeowners save around $548 annually with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Over 25 years, you can anticipate saving $1 after switching fully to solar, according to our calculations based on data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration and NASA.
Energy savings in Knoxville from going solar
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also lowers your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the projected CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 15 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 375 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Knoxville?
Homeowners in Knoxville can enjoy several solar incentives. Certain are available statewide for all Tennessee residents, and others depend on your city, municipality and utility company.
The following solar incentives are available for Tennessee residents, according to DSIRE:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Green Energy Property Tax Assessment | Depends upon sector |
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 Knoxville solar installer?
Before choosing a professional solar panel installation company, evaluate these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio determine the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive residences tend to use more power and will potentially need larger solar installations. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to fully power your 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 arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get equal amounts of sunlight. Area tree cover, rainfall levels and harsh weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get adequate sun, it may require extra panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Numerous solar panel systems provide a battery. Solar batteries store extra power, which is incredibly helpful when you want to avoid power loss during inclement weather. Installing battery storage might affect the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You can select from several types of solar panels, each varying in efficiency, design and life expectancy. These factors not only affect the price, but also how quickly you’ll need to replace panels and the amount of space the panels take up on your roof.
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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