The Best Solar Companies in Georgia of 2023

For homeowners who need a company to install a solar power system in the Peach State, check out one of the best solar companies in Georgia.

By Glenda Taylor and Mark Wolfe | Updated Jan 10, 2023 4:33 PM

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he Best Solar Companies in Georgia Options

Photo: istockphoto.com

Georgia is one of the sunniest states in America and a great place to collect solar electricity. As components become more efficient and pricing decreases, more and more Georgians are moving to solar power to reduce monthly power bills, establish an emergency power supply, and avoid environmental setbacks. There are many advantages to solar energy, and changing to solar is a move toward a more sustainable future—but the process can be expensive and involved.

When it’s time to switch to clean solar energy, partnering with the right solar energy company is the key to a smooth process. The best Georgia solar energy companies guide their clients seamlessly through system design, installation, accessing incentive programs, and system maintenance. We vetted dozens of businesses to find the leading solar companies in Georgia. Keep reading to learn about our selection criteria and why we consider these businesses the best solar companies in Georgia.

  1. BEST OVERALL: SunPower
  2. RUNNER-UP: ADT Solar
  3. BEST CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: Momentum Solar
  4. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Blue Raven Solar
  5. ALSO CONSIDER: Alternative Energy Southeast
The Best Solar Companies in Georgia Options

Photo: istockphoto.com

What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Solar Companies in Georgia

When homeowners are considering installing a solar panel system, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Before reaching out to a solar panel installer, here are some important factors to know about the process.

Service Area

National solar panel companies typically list their service areas by the different states they operate in. However, just because a company says that it’s available in Georgia doesn’t mean that it can perform installations throughout the whole state. When considering a solar panel installer, it’s important to first verify whether that installer does work in the homeowner’s area.

Home Location and Roof Type

When a homeowner is putting in solar panels, location is vital. In areas of the northern U.S., short days in the winter may not deliver enough sunlight to recompense the cost of having a solar array installed.

Location isn’t limited to the general area; it also concerns whether buildings or tall trees will obscure the sun’s rays for a significant part of the day. Additionally, roof type is a factor to consider. A roof with a south-facing slope is optimal for installing solar panels, but some homes’ roof structures may not be structurally supportive enough for a solar array. The installer may need to adjust the roof or install the panels on an independent ground unit instead of on the roof.

Type of Panels

Solar panels all create electricity, but they do it in different ways. The two primary types of solar panels are photovoltaic and thermal, and within those categories are a few additional varieties.

  • Photovoltaic: The most common solar panel installed today, photovoltaic panels incorporate solar cells that convert sunlight to electrical power. Those looking to power a large percentage of their home’s energy needs will typically have photovoltaic panels installed.
  • Monocrystalline: Produced from a single (mono) silicon crystal, these panels are dark black in color. They’re long lasting and compact, but they’re among the most expensive. They come with efficiency ratings of 20 to 25 percent (see “Efficiency and Performance” below). These panels are considered to be among the best solar panels for home use.
  • Polycrystalline: These solar panels are less expensive because they’re made from silicon fragments rather than a large silicon crystal. They’re more affordable than monocrystalline but not as efficient, ranging in efficiency from about 15 to 17 percent.
  • PERC: The acronym stands for Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell, and it’s a new technology that improves the efficiency of monocrystalline panels. The highest efficiency of all, PERC panels can be up to 5 percent more efficient than traditional monocrystalline panels.
  • Thermal: Not as common but still useful, solar thermal panels incorporate mirrors that reflect and concentrate the sun’s rays to create electricity. Thermal solar technology is more likely to be used for small energy purposes, such as powering a solar floodlight.
  • Thin-film: Not quite as efficient as other types of panels, thin-film panels do not contain pricey crystalline silicon, which makes them more affordable. Depending on the quality of the individual panel, it will typically range from 6 to 15 percent efficiency.

On-Grid vs. Off-Grid

Homeowners can install an independent, off-grid solar system or an on-grid (or grid-tie) array. Both come with advantages and drawbacks.

An off-grid solar array is the prime option for homeowners who want complete energy independence. It allows the homeowner to generate all their electricity, and if a storm causes a local power outage, an off-grid system will still operate. Extra power is typically stored in large batteries to provide electricity when there is cloud cover. But if the off-grid system isn’t generating power due to cloudy cover and battery stores are diminished, there is no alternative electricity source.

Many homeowners choose an on-grid or grid-tie system because they can often sell the extra energy produced back to the utility company (known as net metering). If it’s cloudy, the house can draw power from the grid. However, if the utility company has a power outage, a grid-tied system shuts down immediately. This is for safety reasons: It would be dangerous for a lineman to work on a downed power line if a home solar system is sending electricity into the line. Those with grid-tie systems can reduce power outages by installing battery storage.

Efficiency and Performance

Solar panels have become more energy efficient as manufacturers develop more advanced technology—but how can customers determine whether one panel is better than another? It all comes down to percentages. Most solar panels have efficiency ratings of 15 to 20 percent. When sunlight hits the panel, the panel will convert 15 to 20 percent of that power into electricity.

Some high-efficiency solar panels are up to 25 percent efficient, but on the whole, the best efficiency available today is about 22.5 percent. Scientists are working on ways to increase the efficiency of solar panels, and research shows panels available in the future could be up to 40 percent efficient.

Manufacturers vs. Installers

Many solar panel companies are able to install multiple panel brands, while others both manufacture and install solar panels. The distinction may not be important to some customers, especially those looking to get a good price on panel installation. However, this difference often factors into the installation company’s guarantee. Joint manufacturers and installers are usually more likely to back their products, benefiting consumers with stronger guarantees. Conversely, a company that installs panels but doesn’t manufacture them may require the customer to directly contact the manufacturer for work under the warranty.

Consultation Process

Many solar energy companies offer a free consultation. This consultation includes (but is not limited to) evaluating and analyzing the home’s location and determining how much direct sunlight it receives. The company will also often recommend a specific solar panel array. The company representative should be able to provide the homeowner with an estimate of how much they could save on their current utility bill.

Pricing and Financing

The cost to have solar panels installed generally ranges from around $17,000 to $31,000 or more, depending on the number of panels required and their efficiency ratings. Most homeowners in the U.S. will pay an average of $24,000.

Financing may be available through the solar company or private lenders. Homeowners might want to consider that a private lender often wants the homeowner to take out a second mortgage on their home to secure the loan.

Some homeowners consider leasing solar panels to be a solid option. Solar leases allow the homeowner to reduce their energy consumption while the leasing company owns the panels. Leases can last anywhere from 5 to 25 years. However, depending on the lease payments, the homeowner may not experience much savings on their utility bill. Additionally, homeowners typically aren’t on the line for any repairs the solar panels may need—the leasing company will often take care of any maintenance.

Permits

In many municipalities, a permit is required to install solar panels. The cost of a permit varies, but the installer will usually include it in the installation price. Additionally, the installer will take the steps necessary to acquire the permit.

By obtaining a permit, the homeowner informs the local building authority that they intend to install solar panels. The building authority will often send out an inspector to examine the panels, batteries, and wiring installation before the system is turned on.

Installation

The consultation and permit acquisition are the first steps in the solar panel installation process. The installer can then order the panels and any other required equipment.

Installation is an exciting process, and the installer will make any required modifications to the roof to support the array. The wiring system will be installed, and the panels will be mounted and connected to the system.

The final process of switching on the new system may have to wait until after an inspection. The installer typically notifies the inspector ahead of time, so there’s little wait between installation and turning on the system.

Guarantees

A limited 25-year guarantee is standard in the solar panel industry. This guarantee includes panel repair or component replacements that stem from factory defects and installation errors. But not all warranties are equally generous. Some warranties cover only the cost of replacement parts, so the homeowner is responsible for paying the repair technicians. Others guarantee specific aspects of the system for shorter periods. For example, a company may provide a 25-year warranty on panel performance but only guarantee the inverter for 12.5 years.

Rebates and Tax Incentives

A tax credit allows homeowners to deduct a certain percentage of their solar panel expenses from their income tax liability. Systems installed through 2032 are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit. For example, if the solar panels cost $10,000 and the tax credit was 30 percent, the homeowner could reduce their income tax liability by $3,000.

States and local communities may offer their own tax incentives. Solar companies and manufacturers may also offer rebates. The solar installer is usually the best source for up-to-date rebates and tax information.

Customer Support

Buying a solar array is an expensive prospect, and if something goes wrong, it’s good to know the solar company is there to handle the problem. Almost all solar companies have a call-in customer service number, and many have an emergency number for after-hours calls. Others have online customer service via chat or email, and some provide interactive troubleshooting to help the homeowner identify problems and schedule repairs (if needed). Generally, the more customer support options a company offers, the higher the customer satisfaction.

Our Top Picks

We’ve researched notable solar installation businesses to find the best solar companies in Georgia. Keep reading to find out more about our picks and what makes them the best solar power companies in Georgia.

Best Overall

The Best Solar Companies in Georgia Option: SunPower
Photo: sunpower.com

Why It Made the Cut: Since the mid-1980s, SunPower has been instrumental in developing the solar industry in the United States, leading the way with top-tier customer service.

SunPower delivers some of the industry’s highest-quality products, such as Maxeon monocrystalline solar panels, with an outstanding 22.8 percent efficiency rate. And the sleek panels have a low profile with built-in microinverters so that homeowners won’t sacrifice their home’s curb appeal. The website’s interactive design feature lets potential customers see exactly how these panels would look on their homes before investing.

SunPower’s entire design process can be done online with its web-based interactive design studio. Adding to the company’s eco-friendly credentials, SunPower’s equipment is certified by Cradle to Cradle, which indicates that the company maintains a low environmental impact through sustainable, circular production. Current or prospective SunPower customers can contact a live support representative via a phone call.

Specs

  • Type of panels: Maxeon monocrystalline
  • Payment options: Buy, finance, lease
  • Guarantee: 25-year complete-system warranty
  • Customer support: Phone

Pros

  • High 22.8 percent efficiency rate
  • Cradle to Cradle–certified equipment
  • Interactive online design studio feature
  • Sleek design with built-in microinverters

Cons

  • Customer service only available by phone

Runner-Up

The Best Solar Companies in Georgia Option: ADT Solar
Photo: goadtsolar.com

Why It Made the Cut: A premier lineup of solar equipment and an industry-leading 25-year warranty make ADT Solar a top choice.

In 2021, ADT acquired Sunpro Solar and renamed it ADT Solar. The company provides design, installation, and maintenance services for clients in 21 states, including Georgia. ADT Solar’s warranty stands out among the top businesses in this industry. It ensures that ADT-installed systems will produce energy at the guaranteed level for 25 years after purchase. However, the brand and types of solar panels ADT Solar installs are not specified, which could reasonably affect the system’s power production. Fortunately, customer support is available by phone or email to resolve any questions.

ADT Solar clients will also enjoy professional 24/7 solar monitoring that guarantees a home’s panels are always functioning. The company’s technicians can also repair roofing before or during a solar panel installation. This can smooth the process, meaning a homeowner doesn’t need to hire an additional contractor.

Specs

  • Type of panels: Not specified
  • Payment options: Buy, finance, lease
  • Guarantee: 25-year power-production guarantee
  • Customer support: Phone, email

Pros

  • Generous 25-year power-production guarantee
  • 24/7 solar monitoring
  • Additional roofing repair services available

Cons

  • Solar panel information not readily available

Best Customer Experience

The Best Solar Companies in Georgia Option: Momentum Solar
Photo: momentumsolar.com

Why It Made the Cut: Momentum Solar creates a customized customer experience by providing a single point of contact for its clients from sales and design through project completion.

Momentum Solar has continued to increase its market share in the solar industry since its 2009 inception. Its personalized customer service model guarantees the same point of contact for every client from initial contact through project completion. This approach also helps Momentum’s customers access all available regional and local incentive programs and minimize the cost of system installation.

Additionally, Momentum handles all project paperwork and permits, eliminating even more of the client’s stress and burden. Momentum’s website does not offer much information, but customers can connect with a representative via phone or email with any pressing questions. Customers in Georgia also cannot currently have solar batteries installed through Momentum, but this is likely to change soon as Momentum further grows its business.

Specs

  • Type of panels: Monocrystalline (various manufacturers)
  • Payment options: Buy, finance, lease
  • Guarantee: 25-year equipment and labor warranty
  • Customer support: Phone, email

Pros

  • Streamlined “concierge” service offered
  • All paperwork and permits handled on behalf of the customer

Cons

  • Somewhat limited information available online
  • No solar batteries available

Best Bang for the Buck

The Best Solar Companies in Georgia Option: Blue Raven Solar
Photo: blueravensolar.com

Why It Made the Cut: Blue Raven Solar creates a superior value by installing top-tier solar equipment with the satisfaction of system ownership free for 18 months before the first payment is due.

Georgia residents shopping for solar companies in the Atlanta area will want to look up Blue Raven Solar. The company prioritizes maximizing the homeowner’s access to low-cost and highly efficient renewable energy. Although solar leases and PPAs (power purchase agreements) are not available, Blue Raven does offer its BluePower Plus+ financing program, which allows homeowners to get 18 months of solar energy with no money down.

Blue Raven Solar prides itself on delivering affordable, reliable solar panel and inverter systems. It only installs highly efficient monocrystalline panels. Battery backup systems are currently unavailable from Blue Raven, but they may be soon. The Blue Raven Smart Start program allows customers to pay a reduced monthly price. Also, clients can receive a free energy-saving kit with a smart thermostat and an LED light package to help them save even more money.

Specs

  • Type of panels: Monocrystalline (various manufacturers)
  • Payment options: Buy, finance
  • Guarantee: 25-year manufacturer warranty, 10-year labor warranty
  • Customer support: Phone, email

Pros

  • Flexible and relatively affordable BluePower Plus+ financing option
  • Money-saving Smart Start program available
  • Complimentary energy-saving kit

Cons

  • Service area restricted to Atlanta metro area
  • No solar lease option
  • No solar batteries available

Also Consider

The Best Solar Companies in Georgia Option: Alternative Energy Southeast
Photo: altenergyse.com

Why It Made the Cut: Alternative Energy Southeast, headquartered in Athens, Georgia, installs durable and efficient Tesla Solar Roof systems at a guaranteed production rate.

Customers committed to shopping locally will appreciate working with Alternative Energy Southeast (AES), a highly rated Georgia-based solar company. AES was founded in 2007 to decentralize the power grid by providing access to clean solar energy. It specializes in solar design and installation, backing its installations with a 25-year labor warranty and a 25-year performance-based power guarantee.

AES designs and installs various solar equipment, including photovoltaic systems, battery storage, and advanced monitoring systems. It is committed to using American-made equipment when available. A certified Tesla Installer, it ranks number one in the Southeast for Tesla Powerwall installations and also installs Tesla Solar Roof systems. All project proposals include a detailed financial analysis, and AES guarantees that its systems will perform as contracted or the company will pay the customer the difference. Additionally, AES donates 10 percent of all profits to charity.

Specs

  • Type of panels: Tesla Solar Roof
  • Financing available: Not specified
  • Guarantee: 25-year production and labor warranty
  • Customer support: Phone, email

Pros

  • Generous guaranteed power-production rate
  • Sleek Tesla Solar Roof products installed

Cons

  • Financing information not readily available

Our Verdict

Georgia solar clients want dependable service and the satisfaction of getting the most for their money. The best solar companies offer expert design and construction, high-quality equipment, and proactive customer service. SunPower, our top recommendation, earns consistently strong client loyalty by installing and servicing reliable, cost-effective equipment. For an elevated service experience and top-of-the-line guarantees, ADT Solar’s industry-leading warranty program backs up a service-oriented system and top-tier components.

How We Chose the Best Solar Companies in Georgia

Making the move to renewable solar power can be complicated and costly without the help of an experienced pro. Dozens of solar installers operate in Georgia. Our goal in creating this guide was to simplify finding the best options for Georgia solar customers.

We researched and vetted Georgia’s highest-rated solar companies to find installers our readers can trust. Our criteria prioritized businesses with a strong reputation for operational flexibility and transparency. In addition to web-based customer reviews, we referenced ratings by the Better Business Bureau and awards presented by trade organizations to help determine the top qualifying companies in client relationships and overall service. We also confirmed that the companies we recommend have processes to support excellent customer service as business growth continues.

Considering the up-front costs of solar equipment, we also wanted to ensure that potential customers would have access to affordable financing options. Most of the companies we recommend offer in-house financing at competitive rates or partner with outside institutions. They also assist their clients in accessing any available rebates, tax breaks, and other incentive programs.

Before You Work With One of the Best Solar Companies in Georgia

Before signing up with a solar company, customers want to ensure that the provider can fulfill all project requirements. This includes learning where the company is based, where its suppliers are located, and where the install technicians are based. Suppose operations are not based within a realistic commute of the installation site. In that case, customers will want to ask detailed questions to learn how warranty, service, and maintenance issues will be resolved. If they’re participating in a solar buyback program, customers will also want to ensure they’re using the best electric company for solar panels in Georgia.

Homeowners will need to understand the installation plan before signing a contract. They’ll want to assess the itemized components to be installed, a diagram of the installation, and a workflow itinerary. Customers can ask to ensure that the contractor will coordinate the permitting process and required inspections after the installation is complete.

Customers may also ask about the nature of the company. Some solar companies are marketing and sales businesses that subcontract all installations. In contrast, others are vertically integrated organizations that manufacture and install their own equipment with their own employees. Customers can ask if the installers are employees of the company selling the system. If not, they can find out how subcontractors are vetted and whether they are independently licensed, insured, and trained to install the equipment in the contract.

Cost of Working With One of the Best Solar Companies in Georgia

The average cost of a solar installation in Georgia is $2.33 per watt, or between $14,000 and $19,000, before incentives, for a whole-home system. In addition to component prices, several elements decide the actual costs and savings.

Customers who purchase their system outright pay the full price and are on the hook for upkeep expenses (like contracting one of the best solar panel cleaning services to keep panels operating at peak performance). But paying off the system right away usually leads to the lowest cost of solar panels and the highest savings over the system’s life. Financing attracts many buyers as a way to gain the system’s benefits quickly without depleting savings. However, financing often adds interest and fees that partly offset benefits like reduced utility bills and access to other financial incentives.

Leasing is often the least costly way to access clean solar energy. Solar lease customers do not own the equipment installed by the solar company, so they do not qualify for many of the available incentive programs. However, they often pay a much lower monthly rate for electric service when compared to grid customers, and they avoid the responsibility of maintaining the solar system. Lease customers may also have the option to purchase the system outright when the lease term expires.

The Advantages of Working With One of the Best Solar Companies in Georgia

Installing home solar can reduce the monthly cost of electricity, improve access to reliable power in areas that experience frequent outages, and reduce fossil fuel emissions. For thousands of homeowners, going solar makes sense in Georgia. With so many solar companies to choose from, it pays to work with the best.

  • Expert design and installation can make the changeover to clean energy smooth and easy.
  • Superior customer service clarifies the process, minimizes mistakes, and maximizes access to clean-energy incentives.
  • The best solar companies install premium components at fair prices for efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

FAQs

Still have a few lingering concerns about going solar? Read on for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

Q. Does Georgia have a tax credit for solar panels?

Georgia does not offer a state tax credit. Georgia homeowners may qualify for the federal renewable energy tax credit.

Q. Does Georgia buy back solar power?

Georgia Power offers a net metering program that pays customers in the form of bill credits when the home solar system generates more than the customer uses.

Q. How do I choose a solar company?

You’ll want to choose a company with a strong reputation for technical expertise and customer service. The best companies to work with leverage their expertise by designing and installing the best system for your unique site, and they maintain open communication in order to answer questions and solve any issues that may arise.

Q. How long do solar panels last?

The average working lifespan for solar panels is about 25 years.

Q. Does solar increase home value?

In some real estate markets solar may increase the home’s value, but not always. Homes with solar bring in 4 percent higher prices than comparable non-solar homes. The system’s aesthetics, age, and operating efficiency, as well as the local climate and culture, influence the value and actual sales price of solar homes.

Sources: EnergySage, This Old House