Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Roanoke, Virginia. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Renu is a highly regarded, regional leader in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic solar industry. They are known for their turnkey approach, handling everything from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and maintenance. Their strong reputation is built on quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
A rapidly growing national provider with a strong local team in Virginia. Blue Raven Solar is recognized for its streamlined process, competitive pricing, and innovative financing options, including their proprietary "BluePower Plus" program. They focus on making solar accessible and hassle-free for homeowners.
As one of Virginia's oldest and most experienced solar companies, Sigora Solar has a proven track record of installing high-quality residential and commercial systems across the state. They are a certified B Corporation, reflecting their commitment to social and environmental performance. Their expertise is particularly strong in custom system design for complex roofs.
** The home solar market in Roanoke, Virginia, is **moderately competitive and of high quality**. The city's location in a region with good solar irradiance (about 5% above the national average) and relatively high electricity costs from Appalachian Power creates a favorable economic case for solar. The market is served by a mix of dedicated local/regional installers and larger national companies. **Competition Level:** Moderate. Homeowners have a solid selection of 5-10 reputable companies actively vying for business, which helps keep pricing competitive and service levels high. **Average Quality:** High. The leading providers in the area are well-established, properly licensed (Virginia Class A or B electrical contractors), and often hold premium certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). They are well-versed in navigating local permit requirements and utility interconnection agreements with Appalachian Power. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Roanoke before incentives ranges from **$2.80 to $3.40 per watt**. This means a typical 6 kW system would have a gross cost between $16,800 and $20,400. The net cost after applying the 30% federal solar tax credit typically brings this down to a range of **$11,760 to $14,280**. Financing options (loans and leases) are widely available from all top 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 Roanoke regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Roanoke, Virginia.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Roanoke, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Virginia also offers a state sales and use tax exemption for solar equipment, and while net metering is available through Appalachian Power, there is no additional state-level cash rebate. Local installers can provide precise quotes based on your home's specific energy needs and roof characteristics.
Roanoke's four distinct seasons create a predictable production cycle. Solar panels perform very well in the region's ample sunshine, especially during the long, clear summer days. While winter production decreases due to shorter days and potential snow cover, panels still generate power on sunny cold days, and Appalachian Power's net metering program allows you to bank summer credits to offset winter usage, ensuring year-round benefit.
Prioritize local, licensed Virginia contractors (Class A, B, or C) with specific experience in the Roanoke area. They will be most familiar with local building codes, Appalachian Power's interconnection process, and optimal system designs for our climate and roof types. Always check for certifications like NABCEP, read local reviews, and ask for references from recent installations in neighborhoods like Cave Spring or South Roanoke to gauge their reputation and work quality.
Yes, a permit is required. The process is handled by either the City of Roanoke or Roanoke County's Building Safety & Permits department, depending on your jurisdiction. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process for you, ensuring the system design meets all Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC) standards, electrical codes, and any local aesthetic or structural requirements.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during an outage for safety, preventing backfeed to utility workers. To have power during an outage, you must install a solar battery backup system (like a Tesla Powerwall). Under normal conditions, your system connects seamlessly to Appalachian Power's grid through net metering; your excess daytime power is sent to the grid in exchange for credits, which you draw from at night or on cloudy days.