Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Franklin, Tennessee. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
LightWave Solar is a highly reputable, Tennessee-based company and is one of the state's largest dedicated solar installers. They are known for their expert design, high-quality equipment (often partnering with brands like Qcells and Enphase), and deep understanding of local incentives, including the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) solar program.
Pure Energy Solar is another established local contractor with a strong presence in Middle Tennessee. They receive consistent praise for their customer service, professional installation teams, and comprehensive consultations. They offer a full suite of services from initial assessment to post-installation monitoring and maintenance.
Green Solar Designs is a well-regarded local installer that focuses on custom-designed solar solutions for homeowners. They are praised for their attention to detail and personalized approach. They work closely with clients to maximize energy production and ROI, and are experts in navigating the TVA and local utility requirements.
** The home solar market in Franklin, Tennessee, is robust and growing, characterized by high-quality, regional installers rather than fleeting national operations. The market quality is generally high, as companies must be certified TVA Green Power Providers to participate in the local incentive program, which ensures a baseline of professionalism and technical competence. Competition is strong among a handful of established local leaders, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Franklin falls within the national average of **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 to $28,000**. The unique aspect of the local market is the TVA's Generation Payment program, which provides a credit on your utility bill for the solar energy you produce, rather than a traditional net metering setup. Reputable local installers are experts in this system and help homeowners maximize their benefits under this specific framework.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Franklin regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Franklin, Tennessee.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Franklin, 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 favorable sales tax exemption for solar equipment, and while the state's net metering policy has changed, local utilities like Middle Tennessee Electric (MTE) and Nashville Electric Service (NES) offer interconnection programs that provide bill credits for excess energy.
Franklin's climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine averaging over 200 days per year. Production peaks in the long, sunny spring and summer months, while shorter winter days and occasional cloud cover reduce output. Importantly, solar panels operate efficiently in cooler temperatures, and even on overcast days, they still generate a portion of their rated power, making them a reliable year-round investment in our region.
Installation requires a building and electrical permit from the City of Franklin's Building and Neighborhood Services Department. If your home is in a historic district or has a homeowners association (HOA), you must also obtain design approval, though Tennessee state law (the "Solar Rights Act") prohibits HOAs from outright banning solar installations. Your chosen installer will typically manage this entire permitting and interconnection process with the local utility.
Prioritize local, established companies with extensive experience navigating Williamson County's specific permits and utility requirements (MTE or NES). Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by organizations like NABCEP. Always request multiple quotes, check reviews on local platforms, and ask for references from recent installations in your specific neighborhood to see their work firsthand.
No, a key benefit in Tennessee is that a residential solar installation is exempt from both property tax assessments and sales tax, due to the Green Energy Property Tax Assessment and Sales Tax Exemption. Regarding insurance, you should inform your provider, but most standard policies cover the system; a minor premium increase is possible, but it's often offset by the added property value and energy savings.