Best 4 Solar Companies in Macon, GA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Macon

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar energy system. Here are some important factors to keep in mind while searching for a solar company.

Your photovoltaic panels' model will impact how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

Additional accessories, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will increase your overall investment. By choosing the right ones, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar company includes these additional features, so look for a contractor that has them if it's crucial for you.

Licensing and Training

Georgia doesn't have contractors' licenses specific to solar energy, but the law does require solar installers to be licensed electrical contractors. The Georgia Secretary of State manages business filings and licenses. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most respected are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, awarded 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.

Financing Options

Choosing the best financing option will affect your overall solar system cost and possible savings. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, leases, and loans. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Much 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 just for the energy you use, similar to 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. Ask each provider you're considering about the payment options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.