Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in HS, Arkansas. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local installer backed by SunPower, a nationally recognized manufacturer of high-efficiency solar panels. They offer a comprehensive suite of services from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance, leveraging top-tier equipment.
A regional powerhouse based in nearby Rogers, AR, Shine Solar has a significant presence across Arkansas. They are known for their customer-friendly approach, robust financing options, and efficient installation process, making solar accessible to a wide range of homeowners.
A well-established local contractor specializing in both solar and electrical work. Their deep knowledge of local building codes and utility requirements in the Hot Springs area makes them a reliable choice for custom residential systems, including more complex off-grid solutions.
** The home solar market in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is moderately competitive and growing, characteristic of a mid-South market. The average quality of providers is good, with a mix of specialized local contractors and expanding regional companies. Homeowners have access to reputable installers, though the options are not as numerous as in major metropolitan areas. Competition helps maintain fair pricing, which typically ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$15,000 to $21,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the system cost from their federal taxes, is a significant driver of adoption. Given Hot Springs' climate with ample sunshine, solar is a viable and increasingly popular investment for residents seeking to reduce electricity bills and increase energy independence.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with HS regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in HS, Arkansas.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Hot Springs, the gross cost before incentives is usually between $18,000 and $28,000. Crucially, Arkansas homeowners benefit from the 30% federal tax credit, and you may also qualify for a state sales tax exemption on the purchase. Additionally, local utilities like Entergy Arkansas may offer specific rebates or net metering programs, which can significantly reduce your net investment.
Hot Springs has a favorable climate for solar, with ample sunshine averaging over 210 sunny days per year. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long daylight hours lead to high production. Winter months are generally mild with fewer daylight hours, but clear days still generate good output. Seasonal variations are normal, and a well-designed system will account for this to meet your annual energy needs.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong local experience in Garland County. They should understand specific utility interconnection rules (e.g., for Entergy Arkansas or Arkansas Electric Cooperative) and local building codes. Check for Arkansas-based certifications, read local reviews, and ask for references from recent installations in your neighborhood to ensure they handle our regional considerations like weatherproofing and permitting efficiently.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months in Hot Springs. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the city/county, scheduling installation (which itself takes 1-3 days), and finally, the required inspection and "Permission to Operate" from your utility company. Delays can occur during the utility interconnection approval, so working with an experienced local installer who knows the process is key.
Net metering is a crucial policy where your utility (like Entergy Arkansas) credits you for excess solar energy sent back to the grid. Arkansas state law mandates net metering for investor-owned utilities, typically at the retail rate. This means your meter effectively runs backwards when you produce more than you use, building credits to offset your consumption at night or on cloudy days, which is especially valuable during our humid summers when air conditioning use is high.