Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
Top-quality solar panel installation in McDonough, Georgia, requires you to hire a solar installer that is properly certified, trained and experienced. To assist your search for the right installer, we've assembled a list of the leading solar companies in McDonough.
Before selecting an installer, request referrals, evaluate potential installers and request multiple quotes to find the best company for your needs. You can look for a local solar company in McDonough or use an established national brand.
While putting in solar panels requires a significant initial investment, it can reduce your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that switching to solar energy allows McDonough homeowners to save an average of $1,300 annually.
Not every solar company provides the same offerings. Ahead of arranging your solar panel installation, compare different companies' offerings and get quotes from each.
When looking into McDonough solar companies, find those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a decent reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reading through previous customer reviews will give you a sense of how other homeowners viewed the company, so take note if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
The McDonough region enjoys plenty of sunlight, which is ideal for homeowners to capitalize on solar energy. Here are some of the major reasons to go solar:
Per a survey we administered in October 2023, the median cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The price of solar panel installation depends on several factors, such as where you live, sunlight exposure, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. Expect to pay more if you opt for accessories like batteries, solar trackers or animal guards.
Based on data from NASA, the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), installing solar panels in McDonough generally runs about $17,462.
Putting in solar panels means sizable spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through significant reductions in your energy bills down the line.
After moving completely to solar power, McDonough homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recouping the initial investment requires time, and elements like rain and tree shade impact the timeline for achieving returns on your solar investment.
Not only does adopting solar save you money, but it also lowers your carbon footprint and its impact on the environment. Below are approximated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from going solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Experts Ready to Help
McDonough homeowners can take advantage of various solar incentives. Particular programs are offered statewide to all Georgia residents, while others depend on city, utility company and municipality.
Accessible solar incentives to Georgia homeowners, per DSIRE, include:
Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
---|---|
Sales Tax Incentive Biomass Sales and Use Tax Exemption | 100% exemption |
Rebate Program Georgia Power - Home Energy Efficiency Improvement Program | Single Family Central AC Replacement: $50 Air/Duct Sealing: $300 Attic Insulation: $250 Heat Recovery Water Heater with Heat Pump: $250 Heat Pump Water Heater: $250 Solar Water Heater: $250 Home Energy Assessment: $150 Smart Thermostat: $75 Heat Pump conversion: $250 Multifamily Central AC Replacement: $25 Air/Duct Sealing: $150 Attic Insulation: $125 Heat Recovery Water Heater with Heat Pump: $250 Heat Pump Water Heater: $250 Solar Water Heater: $250 Home Energy Assessment: $75 Smart Thermostat: $38 Heat Pump conversion: $125 |
Loan Program Central Georgia EMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Home Plus Loan Program | See Website |
Rebate Program Central Georgia EMC - Residential Energy Efficiency Rebate Program | Existing Home Rebates Heat Pumps: $250-$400 Water Heaters: $100-$150 New Home Rebates Reimbursement of contribution-in-aid of construction (CIAC) for the first 100 feet of service Heat Pump: $250 Water Heater: $250 |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
When selecting a professional solar panel installation company, first review these key considerations.
The size of your system is determined by your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households generally use more energy and may require a larger system. If the system isn’t large enough, it may lack enough energy to power your entire home.
Your solar plans may be impacted by certain regulatory requirements and state or local rules. You must secure proper permits through your local building department and arrange for an inspection.
Not all residences get the same amounts of sunlight. Area tree cover, rainfall levels and extreme weather can impact sunlight amounts. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require more panels with higher wattage.
A lot of solar panel systems provide a battery. Solar batteries hold extra power, which is incredibly helpful when you want to prevent power loss during inclement weather. Installing battery storage could raise the installation cost.
You have choices among solar panel types, as they vary in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These elements can change the cost, when you'll need to swap panels and the amount of roof area you'll need.
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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