Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Lafayette, Louisiana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A regional leader in solar and battery storage solutions with a strong presence in Louisiana. They are known for comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and design to installation and maintenance. Their expertise in local incentives and high-quality installations makes them a top choice.
A well-established, full-service solar provider serving the Gulf South, including Lafayette. They are recognized for their knowledgeable approach to financing and leasing options, helping homeowners navigate tax credits and rebates. They offer both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
As a large national company with a significant local presence, Sunpro (now ADT Solar) offers streamlined processes and strong manufacturer partnerships. They provide robust warranties and a wide range of services, making them a competitive option for homeowners seeking a trusted brand.
** The home solar market in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a growing and moderately competitive field. The quality of providers is generally high, with several established regional companies dominating the landscape. These companies are well-versed in the unique climate considerations of South Louisiana, including high humidity and hurricane resilience. **Competition Level:** Moderate. The market is not oversaturated like in some states, but homeowners have a solid selection of 3-5 reputable regional and national providers to choose from. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Louisiana ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before incentives. The final price is highly dependent on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The strong federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost for eligible homeowners. Louisiana's net metering policies also provide long-term savings, though they are less robust than in some other states. **Key Market Notes:** Expertise in local incentives and battery backup solutions is a significant differentiator. Given Lafayette's susceptibility to power outages from hurricanes, many homeowners prioritize companies with strong experience in installing battery storage systems (like Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell) to provide energy independence and security.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Lafayette regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Lafayette, Louisiana.
For a typical 6kW to 8kW system in Lafayette, homeowners can expect an average gross cost between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, Louisiana offers a state tax credit of 50% of the first $25,000 of the system cost, which is a significant benefit when combined with the 30% federal tax credit. Additionally, Lafayette Utilities System (LUS) offers a net metering program, allowing you to earn credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
While heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, Lafayette's abundant sunshine provides excellent annual energy production. High-quality panels are rated to withstand hurricane-force winds, and local installers are experienced in securing systems to meet local building codes for high-wind zones. Regular rain helps clean the panels, but the humidity means you should ensure your chosen installer uses corrosion-resistant mounting hardware suitable for the Gulf Coast environment.
The timeline typically ranges from 2 to 4 months. After design and permitting, which includes approval from Lafayette city-parish government and your utility (LUS or Entergy), installation itself takes 1-3 days. The longest phase is often waiting for the utility to install a net meter and perform the final "Permission to Operate" inspection. Seasonal weather, especially the rainy summer and fall hurricane season, can sometimes cause minor delays.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have extensive local experience, as they will be familiar with Lafayette's permitting process, utility requirements, and climate-specific installation best practices. Ask for references from local customers and verify they are a certified installer for the major equipment brands. It's also wise to choose a company with a strong track record of handling the paperwork for Louisiana's valuable state tax credit.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, to protect utility workers. To have power during an outage, you must pair your solar panels with a battery storage system, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is a common and highly valuable upgrade in Lafayette, providing backup power for critical loads and enhancing energy security during our frequent severe weather events.