Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hixson, Tennessee. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
LightWave Solar is one of Tennessee's largest and most established commercial and residential solar installers. They are known for high-quality, custom-designed systems and deep expertise in navigating local incentives, particularly the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) programs. They handle the entire process from design to permitting and installation.
SmartSpark Energy is a regional installer focused on the Southeast, with a strong presence in East Tennessee. They are praised for their customer service and comprehensive approach, offering energy assessments, financing options, and robust maintenance services post-installation.
A more localized provider based in the Chattanooga area, Solsbury Solar offers personalized service for residential clients. They specialize in both grid-tied and off-grid systems and are known for their hands-on consultation and design process.
The home solar market in Hixson, Tennessee, is active and supported by the unique partnership between local installers and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The TVA's Solar Solutions Initiative provides a simplified process and a bill credit for generated power, which drives the local market. Competition is moderate, with a mix of large statewide installers and smaller, local companies. The quality of service is generally high, as installers must be TVA-approved. Typical pricing for a residential system before the 30% federal tax credit ranges from $18,000 to $35,000, heavily dependent on system size and energy needs. 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 Hixson regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hixson, Tennessee.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Hixson, 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 net metering, their current programs provide bill credits that impact the long-term savings calculation, which a local installer can detail for you.
The full process typically takes 2 to 4 months. After design, the installer must pull permits from Hamilton County and coordinate with EPB (the primary local utility) for interconnection approval. Installation itself takes 1-3 days, but the final inspection and "Permission to Operate" from EPB can add several weeks. Seasonal weather is less of a factor than these administrative steps.
Hixson's climate is excellent for solar, with ample sunshine and moderate temperatures that prevent the efficiency loss panels experience in extreme heat. Our seasonal variation means higher production in spring/summer and lower in winter. High-quality panels are rated to withstand Tennessee's severe weather, including hail and high winds, which is why proper permitting and installation to local building codes is critical.
Prioritize installers licensed in Tennessee with specific experience navigating EPB and Hamilton County requirements. Ask for local references and physical addresses, and verify they are an approved contractor under the TVA's current program. Review multiple quotes to compare equipment (panel/output warranties) and the proposed production estimates for your specific roof orientation.
You are correct; TVA replaced net metering with the Distributed Energy Solutions program. You will receive a bill credit for excess energy sent to the grid at a rate lower than the retail price you pay. To maximize savings, the goal is to size your system to offset a large portion of your usage, not over-produce significantly. Your installer will design the system based on your EPB usage history to optimize this balance.