Best 5 Solar Companies in Dunwoody, GA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Dunwoody

The more informed your provider search is, the better your solar system will ultimately work. Consider all of these aspects in your contractor search.

Licensing and Training

Georgia doesn't have solar-specific contractors' licenses, but the law does require solar installers to be licensed electrical contractors. The Georgia Secretary of State manages business filings and licenses. Solar installers can also obtain accreditations from standards organizations and trade groups. The top ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Dunwoody

The style of solar panels you purchase dictates how much electricity you can generate. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.

Additional accessories, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will raise your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar providers include these additional features, so look for a provider that installs them if it's essential for you.

A majority of Dunwoody homeowners select solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $18,700 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Dunwoody

Choosing the best financing solution will impact your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, leases, cash payments, and loans. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand a large up-front sum, but they save you from 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. Like a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, much like an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and do not provide you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. We recommend working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Talk to each representative about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your spending limits.

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

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on your new solar panels, so long as you purchase it before 2032. City and state governments and utilities might also offer their own financing programs, incentives, and rebates that could save you more money.