The Best Home Solar in Branch, AR

Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Branch, Arkansas. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Shine Solar

4.7
(180 reviews)
Verified

A prominent regional solar installer known for comprehensive service from consultation to post-installation support. They emphasize making solar accessible through various financing options and have a strong local marketing presence in the River Valley and Northwest Arkansas.

7301 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72903 (This is their primary office; they serve a wide region including Branch.)

Specialties & Features

Solar financing and leasing options
Residential solar panel installation
Battery storage system installation

Business Information

Years in Business:8 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

AEV Energy

4.8
(50 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, locally-owned electrical and solar contractor based in Van Buren. They are recognized for their expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems and provide personalized energy efficiency assessments alongside their solar services.

2102 Chestnut St, Van Buren, AR 72956 (Serves the broader Fort Smith metro area, including Branch.)

Specialties & Features

Grid-tied and off-grid solar solutions
Energy efficiency assessments
Solar energy system design and consultation

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Today's Power, Inc. (TPI)

4.5
(90 reviews)
Verified

A subsidiary of the electric cooperative Today's Power, this company brings the reliability and trust of a co-op to the solar industry. They specialize in larger-scale installations but have a dedicated residential division and are a key player for solar and battery storage in Arkansas.

8000 Scott Hamilton Dr, Little Rock, AR 72209 (While based in Central AR, they conduct residential and commercial projects statewide, including the Branch area.)

Specialties & Features

Battery storage system installation
Solar panel maintenance and repair
Professional licensing and manufacturer partnerships

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Branch

The home solar market in and around Branch, Arkansas, is characterized by a small number of highly specialized regional providers rather than local, in-town companies. The competition is moderate, with a few key players from the Fort Smith area and larger state-wide companies vying for projects in the region. The average quality of service is high, as the companies that operate here are established, licensed, and insured contractors who must adhere to the standards of major electric utilities and cooperatives like OG&E and Arkansas Electric Cooperatives. Typical pricing for a residential system in this area is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$12,500 to $17,500 for a 5 kW system**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost for homeowners. Providers in this market are generally well-versed in state and federal incentives and typically offer a range of financing options, including loans and leases, to make solar more accessible.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Branch regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Branch

Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Branch, Arkansas.

1What is the average cost of a home solar system in Branch, AR, and are there any local incentives?

For a typical 6kW to 8kW system in Branch, homeowners can expect an average gross cost between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and Arkansas offers a state sales tax exemption on the purchase of solar equipment. While Entergy Arkansas is the local utility, they do not offer additional rebates, but their net metering policy allows you to earn bill credits for excess energy sent to the grid.

2How does the climate in Branch, with its hot summers and occasional severe weather, affect solar panel performance and durability?

Branch's climate is excellent for solar production, with ample sunshine, especially in the summer when energy needs for air conditioning are highest. Modern panels are highly efficient in heat, though peak output can slightly decrease on extremely hot days. Panels are rated to withstand hail and high winds common in Arkansas storms, but it's essential to ensure your installer uses robust, code-compliant racking and includes system monitoring.

3What should I look for when choosing a solar installer serving the Branch area?

Prioritize installers licensed in Arkansas with proven local experience, as they will be familiar with Franklin County building codes, Entergy's interconnection process, and regional weather considerations. Ask for references from nearby projects, verify they carry proper insurance, and compare detailed proposals that include equipment warranties, production estimates, and a clear timeline for permits and installation.

4How long does the entire process take from signing a contract to having my solar system turned on in Branch?

From contract to activation typically takes 2 to 4 months. The timeline includes system design, securing permits from local authorities, scheduling installation (which itself takes 1-3 days), and finally, the inspection and approval ("interconnection") from Entergy Arkansas. Seasonal weather can cause minor delays, so starting the process in spring or fall can help avoid summer storm or winter slowdowns.

5Will solar panels increase my property taxes in Arkansas, and how does net metering work with Entergy?

No, a key benefit in Arkansas is the state's 100% property tax exemption for the added value of a solar energy system. For net metering with Entergy Arkansas, you'll receive a bill credit at the retail rate for any surplus electricity your panels send to the grid, which can be carried forward to offset future usage, helping to balance production on less sunny days.