Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Allen, Kentucky. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As Kentucky's largest and most established solar installer, SES specializes in comprehensive residential and commercial systems. They are known for their in-house expertise, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They have a strong track record of navigating Kentucky's specific incentives and utility interconnection processes.
Located in West Virginia but serving the tri-state Appalachian region, including Eastern Kentucky, Mountain View Solar has a strong reputation for handling complex installations in rural and mountainous terrain. They are experts in both grid-tied and off-grid systems, making them an excellent choice for properties in more remote areas around Allen.
A reputable regional installer based in the broader area, Sunlight Solar Systems focuses on personalized service for homeowners. They offer a full suite of services from energy assessments to post-installation maintenance and cleaning, emphasizing customer education and long-term system performance.
** The home solar market in and around Allen, Kentucky, is characterized by a limited number of local installers, necessitating reliance on established regional companies. The competition is moderate but of high quality, with a few key players dominating the service area for Eastern Kentucky. These providers are well-versed in the specific challenges of the region, such as varied roof pitches and tree coverage, and are knowledgeable about state-specific incentives like the Kentucky Net Metering program. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC). This translates to a typical gross cost of **$15,000 to $25,000** for a 6-8 kW system. The market is mature enough to offer robust financing, loan, and leasing options, making solar accessible despite the higher upfront investment.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Allen regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Allen, Kentucky.
For a typical 6kW system in Allen, homeowners can expect an average gross cost between $18,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and Kentucky has a strong state incentive: a 30% state income tax credit (capped at $500/year, can be carried forward). Combined, these can reduce your net cost by over $6,000. Additionally, Kentucky has a 100% property tax exemption for the added home value from solar.
Allen's climate offers a good balance for solar. While winter months see shorter days and potential snow cover, which requires occasional clearing, our four distinct seasons provide ample sunny days. Importantly, solar panels operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures, so spring and fall often yield excellent production. The system is designed based on Allen's specific historical sun-hour data to ensure it meets your annual energy needs.
Prioritize installers with strong local experience in Eastern Kentucky. They will understand specific factors like optimal roof angles for our latitude, common roof types in the area, and navigating interconnection with Allen's local utility, Kentucky Power (an AEP company). Check for Kentucky-licensed electricians, strong warranties, and ask for references from recent installations in Floyd or nearby counties to assess their local reputation and work quality.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After design, the key steps are securing permits from local Allen/Floyd County officials and approval from Kentucky Power for grid interconnection. These local steps can vary in timing. Physical installation usually takes 1-3 days, followed by a final inspection and the utility's installation of a net meter before you can generate power.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a battery backup. For Allen's occasional severe thunderstorms and ice storms, a battery (like a Tesla Powerwall) can provide critical backup power. Regarding durability, panels are rated to withstand Kentucky's hail, high winds, and heavy snow loads. Your installer will ensure proper mounting and may recommend specific, robust products suited for our regional weather patterns.