Best 3 Solar Companies in Cookeville, TN

Cookeville homeowners are intentional about preserving its natural resources and living greener lifestyles. That's why many homeowners are purchasing panels from the best solar installers for their homes. Local homeowners might consider solar to break free of high power costs from sources like nuclear. A knowledgeable team can help you set up and tune a system that meets your energy needs without breaking the bank. Discover Cookeville's top-rated solar companies and learn key decision-making advice on this page.

Ranking Methodology

Our team has screened dozens of solar companies near Cookeville, keeping in mind the following criteria:

• Educational approach: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should use their years of experience answer your questions on how to look after your system and optimize its performance.
• Certifications and credentials: Each contractor on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and stays up to date with industry best practices. Many of them have served the Cookeville community for over 15 years.
• Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Cookeville solar providers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio demonstrates a company's trustworthiness and responsiveness to issues.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar providers should stand behind their systems and services with warranties. We evaluated how each company responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer happiness.
• Panel brands and quality: The top solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy provides numerous advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Lowered energy bills: Solar panels let you generate your own energy to power your home, decreasing your regular electricity costs. You can eliminate your bills completely if you go off-grid. Plus, a significant amount of states offer net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
• Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can reduce or eliminate your home's dependence on fossil fuels.
• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems can keep your home powered through blackouts and emergencies. You can use your solar energy anytime with an optional battery backup system.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Cookeville Homeowners?

Governments and utility companies often reward homeowners for embracing solar. Here are some of the rebates, tax credits or other programs you could qualify for.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Cookeville

The more thorough your company investigation is, the better your solar system will ultimately operate. Make your choice based on the following vital factors.

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 the job requires. Even if a project doesn't cross the $25,000 value threshold, you'll need a master electrician or electrical journeyman to pull permits. Solar installers can also obtain certifications 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 Cookeville

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.

You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can maximize your solar system's performance. Not every solar provider includes these additional features, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's a priority for you.

Most Cookeville homeowners choose solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $17,900 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Cookeville

Solar contractors use multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar loans, solar leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs) and cash payments. We recommend 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 have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another good 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 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 advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. Ask each installer you're evaluating about the financing options it offers. A representative can help you determine the best option for your financial situation.

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

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

Sources

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