Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Ardmore, Tennessee. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional installer based in Huntsville, AL, with extensive experience serving southern Tennessee. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from custom design and installation to maintenance, and are recognized for their expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup systems.
As Tennessee's largest commercial and residential solar installer, LightWave Solar brings significant expertise and resources. They are a certified B Corporation, highlighting their commitment to social and environmental performance. They offer robust financing options and have deep knowledge of state-specific incentives.
A highly-rated, customer-focused local installer known for personalized service and high-quality craftsmanship. They specialize in residential projects and pride themselves on guiding homeowners through the entire process, including financing and incentive navigation.
** The home solar market in Ardmore, TN, is characteristic of a rural-to-suburban area within the Tennessee Valley. The market is not saturated with local "mom-and-pop" installers but is robustly served by established, high-quality regional companies from Huntsville and Nashville. These providers are accustomed to serving a wider geographic area and are well-versed in the specific needs of properties that may have more land and potential for both grid-tied and off-grid solutions. **Competition Level:** Moderate, with a few dominant, highly reputable regional players. This competition benefits consumers through strong service quality and comprehensive offerings rather than a price war. **Average Quality:** High. The companies serving this region tend to have excellent certifications (NABCEP), strong manufacturer partnerships (e.g., with Panasonic, Qcells, Enphase), and offer robust warranties. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with national averages. As of the latest data, a typical residential system before incentives can range from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**, making an average 10 kW system cost between **$25,000 and $35,000** before the 30% federal tax credit and any other local incentives. The final cost is highly dependent on system complexity, roof type, and the inclusion of battery storage. All top providers offer various financing, loan, and lease options to improve affordability.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ardmore regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Ardmore, Tennessee.
For a typical 6kW to 8kW system in Ardmore, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and Tennessee has a sales tax exemption for solar equipment, significantly lowering the net cost. While TVA does not offer direct rebates, their net metering program provides bill credits for excess energy sent back to the grid.
Ardmore's climate is favorable for solar, with ample sunshine, especially in summer. While winter months have shorter days and some overcast periods, solar panels are efficient in cooler temperatures and will still generate power. Importantly, panels are rated for local weather, including occasional severe storms, and proper installation ensures they can handle hail and high winds common in the region.
First, ensure the provider is intimately familiar with TVA's specific interconnection and net metering requirements, as TVA is your local power distributor. Second, choose a licensed, insured, and locally-established installer who understands Ardmore's building codes, permitting process, and typical roof structures. They should provide clear examples of past installations in Giles or Lincoln counties.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Ardmore or Giles County, TVA's approval process, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final inspection and interconnection approval from TVA. Seasonal weather can sometimes cause minor delays during installation.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a battery backup. Regarding TVA's net metering, you receive a bill credit for excess kilowatt-hours sent to the grid at a predetermined rate, which offsets your usage when your panels aren't producing (like at night). These credits roll over month-to-month, with an annual "true-up" period.