Best 5 Solar Companies in Kenner, LA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Kenner

The more comprehensive your provider search is, the better your solar panels will ultimately work. Make your choice based on the following vital factors.

Licensing and Training

In Louisiana, contractors can earn a solar energy endorsement, or "classification," on their commercial contracting license. To do this, they need to obtain electrical, mechanical, or building endorsements first, then pass a written exam or verify their certification with NABCEP. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most recognized are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer 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 Kenner

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 produce less power, but start at a more budget-friendly price point. 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'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar provider includes these add-ons, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's important for you.

If you're a resident of Kenner and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could expect to pay about $19,000 for materials and labor. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Kenner

There are numerous ways to pay for new solar panels, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), 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. Similar to a home or auto 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 usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. Look for installers that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your budget.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.