Best 5 Solar Companies in Hot Springs, AR

With Hot Springs' clear skies and little rainfall, it's an excellent area for families and businesses aiming to harness the added sunlight by buying panels from one of the best solar installers. If you reside in one of the area's many old homes, you might not think your electrical system would accommodate solar panels. However, new technology and knowledgeable installers can help these homeowners access eco-friendly, clean power. On this page, we'll showcase Hot Springs' top solar providers and offer expert advice for your solar journey.

Ranking Methodology

We evaluated a multitude of Hot Springs solar installers, using the following criteria to choose the top-notch:

• Panel brands and quality: The leading solar companies remain current on new technology, offering equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
• Educational approach: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should tap into their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and maximize its performance.
• Professional licenses and credentials: Each installer on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Hot Springs community for over 15 years.
• Reviews and feedback from customers: Most Hot Springs solar contractors have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio shows a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar providers should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each contractor responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer happiness.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced energy costs: Sourcing some or all of your own power will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that allow you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
• Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery storage system lets you have dependable energy during storms and grid outages.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Utilizing solar is a surefire way to decrease your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Hot Springs Homeowners?

The state of Arkansas offers a variety of solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of relevant solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Hot Springs

The cost and efficiency of solar panels often rely on the provider that mounted them. Consider each of these criteria in your contractor search.

Licensing and Training

Solar installers in Arkansas must be licensed plumbers to install water heating systems or licensed electricians to install PV systems. Depending on their specific licensure, your contractor will have at least 4-5 years of experience and verify their educational credentials with the state Contractors Licensing Board. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private accreditations. Two of the most recognized are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, backed by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Hot Springs

Your photovoltaic panels' style will impact how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

Additional components, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies include these extras, so look for a provider that sells them if it's a priority for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $17,450 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Hot Springs. This table displays more specific pricing information for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Hot Springs

Solar providers use multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are cash payments, solar leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and solar loans. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to an auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the panels and cannot use solar incentives. Look for companies that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your financial needs.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Hot Springs.

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new home solar systems purchased through 2032. Additional incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy