Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Alcoa, Tennessee. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
LightWave Solar is one of Tennessee's largest and most established locally-owned solar companies. They are known for high-quality, custom-designed systems and exceptional customer service from consultation through installation and maintenance. They have extensive experience with the local utility, TVA, and its specific programs.
A highly-rated, veteran-owned local contractor specializing in both grid-tied and off-grid systems. They are praised for their technical expertise, personalized service, and knowledge of battery backup solutions. They handle everything from design to maintenance.
As a SunPower Master Dealer, this company offers some of the highest-efficiency solar panels on the market, backed by a strong manufacturer's warranty. They provide comprehensive services including financing options and energy efficiency assessments, leveraging the national SunPower brand with local installation expertise.
** The home solar market in Alcoa, Tennessee, is robust and served primarily by reputable, established companies from the broader Knoxville metropolitan area. The market quality is high, with several providers boasting over a decade of experience and excellent customer reviews. Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on service quality. The region operates under the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) utility, which has specific programs and buy-back rates for solar, a factor that all top local installers are well-versed in. Typical pricing for a residential system in this region is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a typical gross cost of $15,000 to $25,000 for a 6-8 kW system. The presence of the TVA's EnergyRight program also provides additional incentives and support for homeowners considering solar.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Alcoa regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Alcoa, Tennessee.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Alcoa, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim a 30% federal tax credit, significantly reducing the net cost. Tennessee also has a sales tax exemption for solar equipment, and while TVA's former incentive program has ended, their net metering program provides bill credits for excess energy sent to the grid.
Alcoa's climate is favorable for solar, with ample sunny days, especially in summer and fall. While winter months have shorter days and some cloud cover, solar panels are efficient in cooler temperatures and will still generate power. Importantly, panels do not require direct, hot sunlight to operate effectively, and they perform well in our region's diverse weather.
Installing solar in Alcoa requires a building and electrical permit from the City of Alcoa's Building & Codes Department. Your installer will typically manage this process. The most critical regulation is interconnection approval from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), as they are the local power provider; your chosen installer must be TVA-approved to connect your system to the grid.
Prioritize installers who are TVA-approved, licensed, insured, and have strong local references. Look for companies with several years of experience specifically in East Tennessee, as they will understand local codes, roof types common to the area, and TVA's specific interconnection requirements. Always get multiple detailed quotes and compare equipment warranties and service agreements.
Standard grid-tied systems will shut off during a TVA outage for safety, unless you install a dedicated solar battery backup. Regarding net metering, TVA's program provides a bill credit for any excess kilowatt-hours your system sends to the grid, which you can then draw from at night or on cloudy days, effectively rolling over your energy credits month-to-month.