Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Kake, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly respected, locally-owned provider specializing in robust, climate-appropriate solar solutions for remote Alaskan communities. They are known for their expertise in off-grid and battery-backed systems, crucial for areas with an unstable grid like Kake. Their team handles everything from design to maintenance.
While not an installer itself, REAP is the foremost expert and clearinghouse for solar energy in Alaska. They provide vetted contractor lists, expert consultation on system design, and unparalleled knowledge of Alaska-specific incentives, financing, and technical challenges. Contacting them is a essential first step for any Kake resident.
A reliable provider based in Sitka with extensive experience serving the islands and remote towns of Southeast Alaska. They offer comprehensive services from initial consultation to grid-tied and off-grid system installation and long-term maintenance, understanding the logistics of working in Kake.
The home solar market in Kake, Alaska, is characterized by high necessity but low local competition. Due to Kake's remote location and occasional grid instability from the Kake-based intertie, solar-plus-battery storage systems are not just an alternative but a critical reliability solution. The average quality of providers serving the area is high, as only specialists with expertise in harsh marine environments, complex logistics, and off-grid technology successfully operate here. Competition is regional rather than local, with a handful of established Southeast Alaska firms vying for projects. This keeps the market professional but can lead to longer project timelines. Typical pricing is significantly higher than the national average due to extreme shipping costs for equipment, the "bush tax" on goods, and the high travel and labor costs for installers who must fly or ferry to the site. However, this is offset by some of the most generous federal and state incentives in the country, including the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants, which can cover up to 50% of project costs for eligible Alaskans.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Kake regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Kake, Alaska.
Solar panels are surprisingly effective in Alaska, including Kake, due to long summer daylight hours which can produce significant energy. While winter production is low, modern systems are designed to capture diffuse light on cloudy days and the cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. A properly sized system with battery storage is crucial to bank summer energy for use during the darker winter months, making solar a viable year-round investment here.
The primary challenges in Kake include the remote location, which can increase shipping costs for equipment, and ensuring structural integrity for high wind and heavy snow loads on your roof. You will need to coordinate with the local electric utility, possibly Alaska Power & Telephone (APT), for interconnection, and permits must comply with the City and Borough of Sitka building codes. Working with an installer experienced in Southeast Alaska's unique conditions is essential for navigating these local logistics.
Installed costs in remote Southeast Alaska communities like Kake are typically higher than the national average, often ranging from $3.50 to $5.00 per watt before incentives, due to logistics. Crucially, Alaska offers a significant state-specific incentive: a $10,000 rebate or 50% of the system cost (whichever is less) through the Alaska Renewable Energy Grant Fund. This is in addition to the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), dramatically improving affordability.
The ideal installation window is during the late spring, summer, or early fall (May through September). This avoids the harshest winter weather, which can delay shipping and make outdoor work difficult and unsafe. Scheduling an installation during this period ensures the system can be commissioned and start generating power during the peak sunlight season, allowing you to immediately begin building energy reserves in your batteries for the coming winter.
Prioritize providers with proven experience installing systems in Southeast Alaska's coastal climate. They should understand local weatherization, snow management, and interconnection with small, remote utilities. Ask for references from nearby island or coastal communities and verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Alaska. A reputable provider will conduct a detailed site assessment specific to Kake's solar exposure and clearly explain your system's expected seasonal performance and battery needs.