6 best solar companies in Franklin, Tennessee
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.
High-quality solar panel installation in Franklin, Tennessee, requires hiring a solar installer that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To help you find the perfect team, we’ve assembled a list of the top solar companies in Franklin.
Before hiring an installer, ask others for recommendations, evaluate potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your requirements. You can choose a local solar company in Franklin or go with an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
Although solar panels require a substantial initial investment, you can reduce your energy expenses in the long run by making the switch. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), switching to solar energy allows Franklin homeowners to save a yearly average of about $800.
The products from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Make sure to compare companies and get quotes before you schedule your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Franklin
When researching Franklin solar companies, look for those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a good reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should look through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Keep an eye out for frequent negative feedback as a potential red flag.
Dragon Scale Roofing & Solar
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LightWave Solar, LLC
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ReNew Solar Solutions
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Cashville Solar Solutions
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MCH Nashville, LLC
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Green Wave Solar
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What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Franklin?
Even areas with changing sun amounts, including rainier and overcast places such as Franklin, can still see the benefits of solar panels. Major reasons to adopt solar include these:
- Reduce environmental impact: Moving to solar reduces your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of fossil fuels that would be required to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicates that electricity production is one of the primary drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Going with solar energy lets you lower your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be purchased from utility providers.
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy enables you to charge electric cars at your house. Using your own power is the optimal way to make sure your electric vehicle uses renewable energy.
Facts about Franklin
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Franklin?
According to the results of our survey done in October 2023, the median cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels depends on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The price increases if you choose any add-ons like solar trackers, batteries or animal guards.
Per statistics from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the typical price to install solar panels in Franklin is $19,919.
How much can you save by going solar in Franklin?
Installing solar panels requires sizable spending upfront, but you can recoup those costs through major reductions in your energy bills down the road.
Money savings in Franklin from going solar
After transitioning fully to solar power, Franklin homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and elements like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for realizing returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to earn back its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, the average payback period for solar installations in Franklin is 24 years.
- Annual solar savings in Franklin: Based on calculations that leverage data from NASA, the EIA and the Department of Energy, Franklin homeowners save around $799 annually with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save around $6,112 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Franklin from going solar
Not only does adopting solar save you money, but it also lowers your carbon footprint and its impact on the environment. Below are projected CO2 emission reductions you can expect from going solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 16 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 400 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Franklin?
Franklin homeowners can benefit from various solar incentives. Particular programs are available statewide to all Tennessee residents, and others vary based on municipality, city and utility company.
Available solar incentives to Tennessee homeowners, as stated by DSIRE, include:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Green Energy Property Tax Assessment | Depends upon sector |
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. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Franklin solar installer?
Before choosing a solar panel installation expert, go over these important questions.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio determine the appropriate panel system size for you. Larger homes tend to use more power and will potentially need more extensive solar setups. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to completely power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Required permits and local or state regulations could affect your solar project. Be sure to obtain necessary permits through your local building department and arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Trees, precipitation and extreme weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get enough sunlight, then you may need additional panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Several solar panel systems feature a solar battery. Solar batteries save extra energy, which can be vital for preventing power loss during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could raise the total cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in efficiency, life expectancy and design. These aspects impact not just the cost, but also how often panels will need to be replaced and roof space requirements.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
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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