Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hazard, Kentucky. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established regional leader specializing in comprehensive solar and smart home energy solutions. They are known for high-quality installations, strong manufacturer partnerships (like Qcells and Enphase), and excellent customer service. They handle the entire process from consultation and design to installation and maintenance.
A reputable, Kentucky-owned company dedicated to bringing solar energy to homes and businesses across the state. They are highly rated for their personalized consultations, expertise in local incentives, and knowledge of both grid-tied and off-grid systems suitable for rural Kentucky properties.
As one of the largest and most experienced solar installers in the Midwest, SES has a significant presence in Kentucky. They offer turnkey solutions and have extensive experience with complex installations. Their long history provides customers with confidence in their workmanship and the company's stability.
** The home solar market in Hazard, Kentucky, is best described as **developing and service-driven by regional specialists**. As a city in Appalachia, the market is not as saturated as in major metropolitan areas, which means homeowners have fewer *local* choices but benefit from more personalized service from companies that choose to operate there. * **Average Quality & Competition:** The quality of available installers is high, as the companies serving this region are established, licensed, and insured professionals. They are not "fly-by-night" operations. The competition is not between dozens of local companies, but between a handful of dedicated regional players who have proven they can successfully navigate the terrain, weather, and specific energy needs of Eastern Kentucky. * **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is generally in line with the national average before incentives. As of 2024, the average cost for a residential system in Kentucky ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**, meaning a typical 10 kW system would have a gross cost between $25,000 and $35,000. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can reduce this cost by 30%. Kentucky does not have a state-wide solar rebate program, but some utilities may offer incentives, and all three providers listed are well-versed in these opportunities. * **Key Consideration:** Homeowners in Hazard should prioritize providers who understand the local geography, potential shading issues from surrounding hills, and the nuances of connecting to utilities like Kentucky Power. All three providers listed have a proven track record of working within this specific regional context.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hazard regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hazard, Kentucky.
For a typical 6kW to 8kW system in Hazard, homeowners can expect an average gross cost between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, Kentucky offers a state income tax credit of up to $500, and you remain eligible for the 30% federal tax credit. Additionally, Hazard's location in Perry County means you may benefit from net metering programs through Kentucky Power (AEP), which can further improve your long-term savings.
Hazard's four distinct seasons provide excellent solar potential, with sunny summers and clear, cold winter days that boost panel output. The primary local consideration is the mountainous terrain, which can cause shading from hills or trees. A professional installer will conduct a detailed site assessment to position panels on the south or west-facing roof slopes that receive the most unobstructed sunlight year-round, ensuring optimal energy production.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Eastern Kentucky, as they understand specific permitting processes with the City of Hazard and Perry County, as well as interconnection requirements with Kentucky Power. Look for licensed, insured, and Kentucky-certified electricians. It's also wise to choose a company that handles the entire process, including securing permits, inspections, and net metering agreements, to simplify the project for you.
The best time to start the process is in late winter or early spring. This schedule allows for installation before the peak summer sun, maximizing your first-year energy production. Starting early also accounts for potential weather-related delays common in our region and ensures the system is fully operational to capture the long, sunny days of summer and fall.
Yes, modern solar panels generate electricity even on cloudy days, though at a reduced output. Snow typically melts quickly off panels due to their dark, slick surface and angle, and a light dusting often slides right off. Kentucky Power's net metering program is key here, as it allows you to bank excess credits from sunny days to offset usage during less productive periods, ensuring reliable annual savings.