Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Eek, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly respected, locally-owned company based in Fairbanks that specializes in complex off-grid and battery-backed solar systems. They are renowned for their expertise in designing robust systems capable of withstanding extreme Arctic conditions and long periods of low solar insolation, making them an ideal choice for a remote village like Eek.
Based in Anchorage, Arctic Solar Ventures has a strong focus on both grid-tied and advanced off-grid applications across the state. They are known for their professional project management, partnerships with high-quality equipment manufacturers, and deep knowledge of Alaska-specific incentives and financing challenges.
While not a traditional installation company, REAP is a crucial player in Alaska's solar landscape. They act as a central hub, providing vetted contractor referrals, expert consultation, and critical education on solar technology and financing. They have extensive experience working with and connecting rural Alaskans to reputable installers and funding sources.
The home solar market for a community like Eek, Alaska, is highly specialized and distinct from the lower 48. There is no local competition within the city. The "market" consists of a few statewide experts willing to undertake the significant logistical challenges and costs of working in remote Western Alaska. * **Average Quality:** Extremely high. Systems must be designed for harsh climates (extreme cold, high winds) and be exceptionally reliable due to the high cost and difficulty of sending technicians for repairs. * **Competition Level:** Very low in terms of local presence, but high in terms of the expertise required. Only the most capable and experienced Alaska-based companies operate in this sphere. * **Typical Pricing:** Significantly higher than the national average. Costs are driven up by extreme shipping fees for equipment, mobilizing crews via small aircraft, and the "bush premium" on labor. However, with the high cost of diesel for power generation in rural Alaska, the return on investment for a solar/battery system can be very compelling for homeowners. Financing and state/federal incentives are critical to making projects feasible. **Conclusion:** For a resident of Eek, the process would begin with a consultation, likely remote, with a provider like REAP to understand options and funding, followed by engaging a specialized installer like Alaska Solar or Arctic Solar Ventures for the design and installation. These companies represent the most realistic and reputable pathway to acquiring home solar services in this remote location.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Eek regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Eek, Alaska.
Yes, modern solar systems are surprisingly effective in Alaska. While winter production is low during the darkest months, Eek experiences long summer days with up to 19 hours of sunlight, allowing panels to generate significant excess energy. This seasonal surplus can be stored in batteries or credited through net metering with AVEC (Alaska Village Electric Cooperative) to offset winter usage, making a well-sized system viable year-round.
The primary challenges are Eek's remote location, accessible only by air or river, which can increase shipping costs for equipment, and the need for structural assessments to ensure roofs can handle heavy snow loads. The optimal installation window is late spring through early fall (May-September) to avoid frozen ground, extreme cold for installers, and to capitalize on the immediate summer sun for system commissioning and payoff.
Yes, you must coordinate closely with AVEC, the local electric cooperative serving Eek. They have specific interconnection requirements for distributed generation (like solar) to ensure grid safety and stability. You will also need to comply with the Alaska Electrical Code and likely obtain a permit from the local city or tribal government. A reputable Alaska-based installer will manage this entire process for you.
Prioritize providers with proven experience in rural Alaska, not just Anchorage or Fairbanks. Ask for references from other village installations and verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Alaska. A reliable provider will have a clear plan for remote logistics, local hiring or coordination, and post-installation support, which is critical given Eek's isolation.
Installed costs in remote Alaska are higher, often ranging from $4 to $6 per watt due to logistics, but systems are still a strong investment. Key incentives include the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and the **Alaska Energy Authority's Renewable Energy Fund (REF)**, which often grants significant funding for village renewable energy projects. Additionally, AVEC may offer specific net metering or buy-back rates.