Best 5 Solar Companies in Chattanooga, TN

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Chattanooga

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar array. Here are some crucial criteria to consider while shopping for a solar installer.

The kind of solar panels you purchase decides how much power you can generate. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power. 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.

You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These upgrades extend your system’s efficiency while adding more conveniences to your home. Not all solar installers provide these additional features, so look for a company that has them if it's essential for you.

Licensing and Training

Tennessee requires any solar energy project valued at $25,000 or higher to be overseen by a licensed "prime contractor." The prime contractor is responsible for hiring licensed subcontractors as required. Even if a project doesn't cross the $25,000 value threshold, you will still need an electrical journeyman or master electrician to handle permit work. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most respected are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, granted 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 influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar loans, solar leases and cash payments. 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 incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a auto or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $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, similar to an electric bill. We usually don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the system and cannot use solar incentives. We suggest working with an installer that offers multiple financing options. Ask each agent about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your spending limits.