Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Chestnut Mound, Tennessee. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
LightWave Solar is one of Tennessee's largest and most established solar installation companies. They are known for high-quality, custom-designed residential and commercial systems. As a local Tennessee company, they have deep expertise with TVA's solar programs and incentives. They handle the entire process from design and financing to installation and maintenance.
Aries Energy is a well-regarded local installer based in Cookeville, making them one of the closest providers to Chestnut Mound. They specialize in residential solar and energy efficiency upgrades, offering personalized consultations. They are known for their customer service and strong understanding of the local climate and energy needs.
Pure Energy Solar is a reputable regional installer that serves the Middle Tennessee area, including Smith County. They offer comprehensive services from initial assessment and system design to installation and ongoing monitoring. They work with high-quality equipment manufacturers and provide robust warranty options.
** The home solar market in Chestnut Mound, TN, and the surrounding Upper Cumberland region is served by a handful of dedicated regional and statewide companies rather than a high number of local competitors. Due to the rural nature of the area, companies based in Cookeville, Lebanon, and Nashville are the primary service providers. The market quality is high, with established, licensed, and insured contractors who are well-versed in the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) energy right solar program, which is the primary incentive for homeowners in the area. This program offers a combination of a bill credit and an upfront capacity-based incentive. Competition is moderate but professional, driving a focus on customer service and quality installations. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Tennessee is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC). For an average-sized system (around 8 kW), this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$20,000 to $28,000**. Financing options, including loans and leases, are widely available through these providers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Chestnut Mound regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Chestnut Mound, Tennessee.
For a typical home in Chestnut Mound, a solar panel system can range from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and energy needs. Tennessee offers a significant incentive through the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Solar Solutions program, which provides a bill credit for the power you generate, and you can also claim the 30% federal solar tax credit. Additionally, Tennessee has a sales tax exemption for solar equipment, which helps reduce the upfront cost.
Chestnut Mound's climate is favorable for solar, with ample sunny days, though seasonal variations exist. Summer provides peak production with long, sunny days, while shorter winter days and occasional overcast weather will reduce output. Importantly, solar panels are more efficient in cooler temperatures, so Tennessee's spring and fall seasons often yield excellent performance, and panels will still produce energy on cloudy days, just at a reduced rate.
You will need to obtain a building permit from the Smith County Building Codes Department. Your installer will typically handle this process. Crucially, because Chestnut Mound is served by the Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation (UCEMC), you must comply with their specific interconnection agreement to safely connect your system to the grid. All installations must also meet the National Electrical Code and any local amendments.
Look for providers with strong local experience in Smith County and the surrounding area, as they will be familiar with UCEMC's requirements and local building officials. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Always ask for local references in Chestnut Mound or nearby towns like Gordonsville or Carthage and compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment specifications, warranty terms, and projected production estimates.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a grid outage for safety reasons, to protect utility workers. To have power during an outage in Chestnut Mound, you need a system with battery storage (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar). This creates a home energy reserve. Given the rural nature of the area and potential for weather-related outages, pairing solar with a battery is a popular consideration for local homeowners seeking energy independence and backup power.