Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Melbourne, Kentucky. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As Kentucky's largest locally-owned and operated solar installer, SES has a strong reputation for expertise in both residential and commercial systems. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and design to installation and maintenance, and have deep knowledge of Kentucky-specific incentives and net metering policies.
A strong regional player with a direct presence in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky market. As an authorized dealer of Icon Power, they leverage national buying power for equipment but provide local installation crews. They are noted for their aggressive marketing and various financing options.
A well-regarded, customer-focused installer based in Cincinnati. They emphasize custom system design and high-quality craftsmanship. Their team is certified and they offer robust warranties on both labor and equipment. They actively serve the Northern Kentucky suburbs.
** The home solar market in Melbourne, Kentucky, is best characterized as a **serviced market** from the larger Cincinnati and Lexington metro areas. The level of direct, local competition is low, but the availability of services from high-quality regional installers is **moderate to high**. Residents benefit from the expertise and resources of established companies in the broader region. **Average Quality & Competition:** The companies serving this area are generally reputable, with strong certifications (often NABCEP-certified staff), manufacturer partnerships (e.g., with SunPower, Panasonic, Tesla), and lengthy warranties. While there may be a few smaller local contractors, the market is dominated by established regional players like the ones listed above. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with national averages. As of 2024, the average cost for a residential solar system in Kentucky before incentives is between **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**. This means a typical 6 kW system would have a gross cost between $15,000 and $21,000. The net cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and Kentucky's sales tax exemption on solar installations. All top providers will provide detailed quotes and explain these financial incentives thoroughly. **Disclaimer:** The information provided is based on comprehensive research of publicly available data as of the latest update. It is always recommended that you contact any service provider directly to verify their current service area, licensing, insurance, and to obtain a personalized quote.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Melbourne regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Melbourne, Kentucky.
For a typical 6kW to 8kW system in the Melbourne area, homeowners can expect an average gross cost between $18,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can apply the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) to significantly reduce this cost. While Kentucky does not have a state-wide solar tax credit, you should check with your local utility, like Duke Energy Kentucky, for any potential rebates or net metering programs specific to your service area.
Melbourne experiences all four seasons, with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Solar panels are very effective here, as they operate efficiently in cooler temperatures and still produce significant energy on bright, cold winter days. While winter months have shorter daylight hours, Kentucky's average of 189 sunny days per year provides a strong solar resource, with peak production occurring from spring through fall.
Installing solar in Melbourne requires compliance with Campbell County building and electrical codes. You will need to obtain a building permit from the county's Building Inspection Department. Additionally, your installer must coordinate an interconnection agreement with your utility provider (e.g., Duke Energy) to connect your system to the grid under Kentucky's net metering rules, which credit you for excess power sent back.
Look for providers with strong local experience, proper Kentucky electrical and contractor licensing, and positive reviews from nearby customers. A reputable local installer will understand specific factors like optimal roof angles for our latitude, local permitting timelines, and utility interconnection procedures. Always get multiple detailed quotes and verify the company is insured and offers strong warranties on both equipment and workmanship.
No, Kentucky offers a 100% property tax exemption for the added value of a residential solar energy system, so your property taxes will not increase. For net metering, Kentucky law requires investor-owned utilities like Duke Energy to offer it, crediting you at the retail rate for surplus energy sent to the grid, which can offset your usage at night or on cloudy days.