Best 3 Solar Companies in Jacksonville, NC

With Jacksonville's clear skies and little rainfall, it's a perfect area for homeowners and businesses hoping to harness the additional sunlight by purchasing panels from one of the best solar installers. While going solar comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $960 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional installation team can help you select the best panels to maximize your savings. Discover Jacksonville's top-rated solar companies and learn essential decision-making tips on this page.

Ranking Methodology

Our team focuses on the following criteria to determine the best Jacksonville solar companies.

• Customer feedback and reviews: Most Jacksonville solar installers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio reflects a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Educational approach and support: Solar technicians must be excellent teachers. They should use their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and improve its performance.
• Certifications and credentials: Each company on our list complies with state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Jacksonville community for over 15 years.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar companies should stand behind their products and services with warranties. We evaluated how each installer responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer happiness.
• Panel brands and quality: The top solar companies stay up-to-date with new technology, offering equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy offers multiple perks. Here are some highlights.

• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with energy storage systems operate through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to depend on the power grid for your safety and comfort.
• Reduced energy costs: Sourcing some or all of your own energy will save you money on your electric bills long-term. Plus, some states offer net metering programs that make it possible for you to sell your extra energy back to the grid, generating additional credits toward your energy bill.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Adopting solar is a surefire way to reduce your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Jacksonville Homeowners?

North Carolina's public agencies and power companies offer a number of solar incentives to help cut your solar system costs. Here is a breakdown of eligible solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Jacksonville

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

Licensing and Training

A licensed electrical contractor in North Carolina may supervise home solar photovoltaic installations in North Carolina if they have the pertinent classification from the North Carolina State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. Solar installers can also earn certificates 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 Jacksonville

The type of solar panels you choose determines how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

You can also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors provide these optional components, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's a priority for you.

You can plan to spend about $17,550 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Jacksonville. Check the table in this section to get an idea of the amount Jacksonville solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Jacksonville

Solar contractors use multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar loans and cash payments. We advise making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the highest 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 pay more in total due to accruing interest. 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, as with an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each installer you're vetting about the payment options it offers. A staff 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 Jacksonville.

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to recently-purchased solar equipment purchased through 2032. Additional incentives may be available through local governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy