Best 5 Solar Companies in South Bend, IN

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in South Bend

The more informed your provider search is, the better your solar panels will ultimately work. Here are some crucial criteria to bear in mind while shopping for a solar specialist.

Licensing and Training

Indiana does not issue electrical or solar contracting licenses at the state level, but cities and counties might adopt their own licensing programs. Solar installers can also earn accreditations from standards organizations and trade groups. The most prestigious 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 South Bend

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels offer the best energy production but cost more than other options 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.

If you want to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar provider includes these optional components, so look for a provider that sells them if it's essential for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $20,500 for a five-kilowatt solar array in South Bend. This table shows more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in South Bend

Choosing the right financing plan will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements, 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 reduce 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 monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in particular circumstances. Ask each company you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A staff member can help you determine the optimal option for your financial situation.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.