Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Memphis, Tennessee. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
LightWave Solar is one of the most established and highly regarded regional solar installers in Tennessee. Founded in 2006, they are a employee-owned company known for their expert design and high-quality installations. They handle the entire process in-house, from consultation and system design to installation and maintenance, and have extensive experience with both residential and commercial projects.
SmartSolar is a local Memphis company focused exclusively on residential and small commercial solar projects. They emphasize customer education and custom system design to maximize energy savings. Their local focus allows them to provide personalized service and deep knowledge of Memphis-specific incentives and utility policies (MLGW).
Aptive Energy is a larger, nationwide provider with a strong local branch in Memphis. They offer streamlined processes and significant buying power, which can sometimes translate to competitive pricing. They provide a full suite of services from installation to maintenance and have multiple financing options. Their review profile is robust, though slightly more mixed than the top two, reflecting the scale of their operations.
** The home solar market in Memphis is moderately competitive and growing, driven by abundant sunlight and rising electricity costs. The market features a mix of established local/regional specialists and larger national companies. The quality of providers is generally high, with several companies boasting top-tier certifications (like NABCEP) and long track records. **Competition Level:** Moderate. There are a handful of dominant, highly-rated local players and several national companies actively marketing in the area. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Memphis typically ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before incentives, depending on system size (usually 6kW to 10kW for an average home). The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the system cost from their federal taxes, significantly reducing the net price. **Key Local Consideration:** Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) is the local utility. They offer **net metering**, which credits solar homeowners for excess energy sent back to the grid, making solar a financially viable option. However, the interconnection process and specific rates can be a critical factor, which is why working with a local installer experienced with MLGW is a significant advantage.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Memphis regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Memphis, Tennessee.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Memphis, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Importantly, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and Tennessee has a sales tax exemption for solar equipment. Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) does not currently offer a cash rebate, but they provide net metering, which credits you for excess power sent back to the grid, significantly improving your long-term savings.
Memphis has a humid subtropical climate with ample sunshine (about 218 sunny days per year), which is excellent for solar production. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the long daylight hours lead to high overall output. Panels also produce energy on cloudy days and are rated to withstand local hail and high winds, making them a reliable investment for the region.
Choose a licensed, insured, and locally established installer familiar with MLGW's specific interconnection and permitting requirements. Look for companies with strong references from local projects and certifications from manufacturers like SunPower or Tesla. A reputable local installer will expertly navigate the process, ensuring your system meets all City of Memphis building and electrical codes.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months in Memphis. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Memphis, MLGW's interconnection agreement, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final inspection and approval from MLGW to "go live." Seasonal factors like high demand in spring can sometimes extend this timeline.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, unless paired with a battery backup like a Tesla Powerwall. For storm resilience, panels are installed to meet strict local wind codes. A key benefit in Memphis is that solar can provide power during MLGW outages if you have a battery, offering crucial backup during the area's frequent severe thunderstorms.