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3 best solar companies in Oak Ridge, 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 3 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Oak Ridge. 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 Oak Ridge, Tennessee, requires choosing a solar installer that is certified, skilled and experienced. To help you find the ideal team, we’ve assembled a list of the leading solar companies in Oak Ridge.
Prior to picking an installer, ask others for recommendations, review potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the ideal company for you. You can pick a local Oak Ridge solar company or use an established national brand.
Although solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long term. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy allows Oak Ridge homeowners to save around $1,000 per year.
Not every solar company has the same offerings. Ahead of arranging your solar panel installation, weigh different companies' offerings and get multiple quotes.
Find the top solar company for you in Oak Ridge
When researching Oak Ridge solar companies, find those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Looking at previous customer testimonials can give insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth noting as a possible warning sign.
Lloyd's Electric Service, Inc. - Knoxville
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Alliance, LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Carolina Mountain Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Oak Ridge?
Regions with inconsistent sunshine, including those with extra rain or clouds like Oak Ridge, can still make use of solar energy. A few key motivations to go solar include these:
- Save on energy bills: You can cut your energy bills by using solar energy. Power from solar panels takes the place of the electricity bought from utility companies.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You have the ability to power electric vehicles at home using solar panels. This provides the greatest certainty that your electric car is fueled by clean, renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Going with solar panels shrinks your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be consumed to operate your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation is one of the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about Oak Ridge
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 Oak Ridge?
According to our survey conducted in October 2023, the average national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of solar panel installation varies based on several factors, such as where you live, availability of sunlight, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Expect to pay more if you opt for add-ons like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
As per numbers from NASA, the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), solar panel installation in Oak Ridge has an average cost of $19,807.
How much can you save by going solar in Oak Ridge?
While solar panel installation may be a sizable initial cost, you are positioned to see major savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Oak Ridge from going solar
In Oak Ridge, you can plan to save money after going completely to solar. However, it takes time to recover 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 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 Oak Ridge is 19 years.
- Annual solar savings in Oak Ridge: Homeowners in Oak Ridge typically save an average of $1,022 per year by utilizing solar energy, based on our findings using data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: According to data we've compiled from the EIA and NASA, by moving completely to solar, you can expect to see a total savings of around $11,766 after 25 years.
Energy savings in Oak Ridge from going solar
Switching to solar not only saves money but also decreases your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the estimated CO2 emission reductions achievable 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 Oak Ridge?
Oak Ridge homeowners can benefit from various solar incentives. Particular programs are offered statewide to all Tennessee residents, while others vary based on utility company, city and municipality.
Here are solar incentives accessible for Tennessee residents, as listed by 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 Oak Ridge solar installer?
When selecting a solar installation expert, first review these important questions.
What size system do you need?
Your solar panel system's size is influenced by your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Larger homes use more electricity and may require more substantial solar installations. An undersized system could struggle to fully energize your house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar plans may be impacted by specific permits and state or local laws. You must acquire proper permits through your local building department and arrange for an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get the same levels of sunlight. Local tree coverage, rainfall levels and severe weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
To conserve excess power, many panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature is invaluable when sunlight is scarce and helps to prevent power loss. However, using battery storage can result in higher installation costs.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These aspects affect not just the cost, but also panel replacement frequency and roof space requirements.
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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