Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hilliard, Florida. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading, locally-owned and operated solar installer serving Northeast Florida, including Nassau County. They are known for comprehensive in-house services from design and installation to maintenance and repair. They are praised for their customer service and deep knowledge of local incentives and grid-tie requirements.
A veteran-owned company with a strong reputation for quality installations and robust financing options. They offer a full suite of services, including energy efficiency assessments to maximize the benefits of a solar system. They have significant experience with both residential and commercial projects throughout the region.
While based slightly further away, Apex is a well-regarded provider known for integrating solar with roofing expertise, which is a significant advantage for homeowners concerned about roof integrity. They provide strong manufacturer warranties and partnerships with top-tier equipment brands.
** The home solar market in Hilliard, FL, is characteristic of a small, rural city. There are no major solar installation companies physically headquartered within the city limits. Consequently, the market is served by reputable regional providers from larger neighboring areas like Jacksonville, Fernandina Beach, and beyond. This creates a moderately competitive environment where homeowners benefit from the expertise and resources of established companies vying for their business. The average quality of service is high, as these regional providers must maintain strong reputations and proper state-level certifications to compete effectively. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending heavily on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. Homeowners in Hilliard have access to the same federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) and net metering programs (through their local utility, typically Florida Public Utilities or JEA) as the rest of the state, and reputable installers are well-versed in these incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hilliard regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hilliard, Florida.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Hilliard, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit, which significantly reduces the net cost. Florida also has no state sales tax on solar installations, and you benefit from net metering with your local utility (often Florida Power & Light or a local co-op), which credits you for excess power sent to the grid.
The abundant sunshine in North Florida is excellent for solar production, though high summer temperatures can slightly reduce panel efficiency. High-quality panels are rated to withstand hail and high winds; for Hilliard, it's critical to ensure your system is installed to meet Florida Building Code for high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ) where applicable. Regular cleaning to remove pollen and occasional dust is recommended to maintain peak performance.
The process typically takes 2 to 4 months from contract to activation. After design and permitting with Nassau County, the physical installation takes 1-3 days. The longest phase is often waiting for your utility (like FPL or West Florida Electric Cooperative) to approve interconnection and install a net meter. It's wise to schedule installations for the drier spring months to avoid summer afternoon rain delays.
Prioritize installers licensed in Florida (a CVC or EC license is required) and with strong local experience, as they understand Nassau County permitting and local utility requirements. Check for certifications like NABCEP, read local reviews, and verify they provide a robust workmanship warranty. Be cautious of out-of-state companies that may not be available for swift service after a major storm.
With a standard grid-tied system, they will automatically shut off during an outage for safety reasons. To have power during an outage, you must pair your solar panels with a battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall) or a specific solar inverter with islanding capability. This is a particularly valuable consideration for Hilliard homeowners given the frequency of storm-related outages in our region.