Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Story, Arkansas. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in Central Arkansas, known for comprehensive service from initial consultation to post-installation maintenance. They have a strong focus on educating homeowners and are well-versed in both grid-tied and off-grid applications, making them a good fit for the more rural Story area.
A locally-owned SunPower premium dealer. This partnership gives them access to some of the highest-efficiency solar panels on the market and strong manufacturer warranties. They excel in system design and offer robust financing options.
A dedicated solar contractor that emphasizes personalized service and local expertise. They are particularly strong on the maintenance and repair side, offering long-term service plans, which is crucial for system longevity in a rural setting.
The home solar market for residents of Story, Arkansas is entirely served by contractors based in nearby population centers like Hot Springs. The market is **moderately competitive** with a handful of established, quality providers vying for business in the region. The average quality of service is high, as these companies have built their reputations on serving a mix of suburban and rural properties. Typical pricing for a residential solar 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 $12,500 to $17,500 for a 5kW system. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can reduce this cost by 30%. Companies are generally very knowledgeable about state-specific incentives, such as the Arkansas net metering rules and the property tax exemption for renewable energy systems. Given Story's rural nature, there is a notable demand for battery backup solutions and expertise in off-grid or hybrid systems, which the leading local providers are equipped to handle.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Story regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Story, Arkansas.
For a typical home in Story, a solar installation can range from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Crucially, Arkansas homeowners benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit, and you pay no state sales tax on your solar equipment purchase. 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.
Spring and fall are ideal for installation in the Arkansas River Valley, as the milder weather avoids the peak summer heat and potential winter delays. Our region receives ample sunshine year-round (about 217 sunny days annually), so panels will produce energy immediately once installed. Scheduling your installation in these seasons can also help ensure your system is fully operational before high summer air conditioning usage or winter heating demands.
Yes, you will need to obtain a building permit from the Montgomery County or local Story jurisdiction. Your chosen installer should handle this process. The most critical regulation involves interconnection with Entergy Arkansas's grid; your system must be approved by them to ensure safety and compliance with their net metering program. Working with a licensed Arkansas solar contractor guarantees they navigate these local and utility requirements correctly.
Prioritize providers with proven experience serving rural and mountainous areas like Montgomery County. Verify they are licensed by the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board and insured. Ask for local references and examples of past installations in the area to see how they handle challenges like varied roof pitches and tree coverage. It's also wise to choose a company that offers in-house maintenance and support, as timely service is crucial in a rural setting.
Modern solar panels are rigorously tested to withstand severe weather, including hail up to one inch in diameter and high winds. For the Story area, it's essential your installer conducts a proper structural assessment of your roof and uses mounting hardware rated for Arkansas's wind loads. Additionally, investing in a system with microinverters or power optimizers can minimize production loss if part of the array is shaded by clouds or debris after a storm.