Best 5 Solar Companies in Smyrna, GA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Smyrna

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and valuable solar system. Here are some essential aspects to bear in mind while shopping for a solar company.

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 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 Smyrna

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. 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 electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will increase your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar providers provide these additional features, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's essential for you.

A majority of Smyrna homeowners select solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $18,700 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Smyrna

There are a plethora of ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will help you decrease overhead. A few of the most common options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. We advise making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to cut your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to rent your panels for a set monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay just for the energy you use, akin to an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each provider you're vetting about the payment plans it offers. A team member can help you determine the best option for your pocketbook.

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

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