Top Solar Companies in Alaska

Because Alaska has some of the highest energy costs in the country, solar power is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Alaska may be known for its long winter nights, but with its longer summer days, homeowners may take advantage of solar power and drastically cut their power costs.

Need to know if solar power will work for your Alaskan home? Our SolarPowerSystems website has the information you need to help you make a decision. We have done additional research on solar companies in Alaska, as well as technology and market opportunities.

Our research goes beyond just identifying companies. We also compare small family companies with national chains.

Ready to explore? Our experts can give you a personalized solar quote. We will put you in touch with Alaska’s top installers and provide all the important to help you make a solar decision for your home and your budget. You can confidently navigate the solar landscape with the help of our experience.

Renewable Energy Systems of Alaska

The Sunny Side

• Extensive Experience in Alaska’s Unique Environment
• Operating in Alaska since 2006
• Three store locations: Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Mat-Su Valley
• Specializes in systems for extreme environments

In what ways does RES Alaska’s experience in the Alaskan market help its clients?

The longevity and expansion of RES Alaska are clear indicators of its success in the demanding Alaskan market. Demand for the company’s services and good business methods is seen in their rise from one location in 2006 to three store locations by 2020. In Alaska, where the weather can be unexpected, their experience working in tough settings is especially useful. They put in solar panels on more than 250 homes just in 2023, which shows that they have a big share of the market. Customers can expect solutions that are made to fit the unique climate challenges in Alaska because of this knowledge.

• Comprehensive Services and Product Range
• Offers solar, wind, and hybrid energy systems
• Provides complete solutions from assessment to installation and ongoing support

What benefits do homeowners get from the wide variety of products and services offered by RES Alaska?

With such a wide selection of products, RES Alaska can meet a wide spectrum of client demands. Customers are made the process easier by the company’s ability to provide turnkey solutions, which include everything from site evaluation to continuous support. Their expertise extends to RV, marine, and off-grid solutions, showing versatility in application. This comprehensive approach means that homeowners can get all of their green energy needs met by a single company. This could make the installation and servicing process go more smoothly.

• Strong Certifications and Partnerships
• NABCEP-certified designers and installers
• Enphase Gold certified
• Partnerships with premier suppliers for Alaska’s environment
• Exclusive distributor for Surrette Rolls Batteries in Alaska

In what ways do RES Alaska’s partnerships and certifications guarantee homeowners get high-quality installations?

RES Alaska stands out in terms of experience since they are the only company in the state with both designers and installers accredited by NABCEP. Companies that have earned the Enphase Gold certification know a lot about Enphase goods, which are known for being reliable in solar setups. They also demonstrate a focus on selecting appropriate technology for Alaska’s climate via their connections with providers like Canadian Solar, who are renowned for their cold-weather performance. These certifications and partnerships imply that homeowners may anticipate high-quality installations made using equipment specially selected for Alaska’s particular climate.

• Impressive Warranty Coverage
• 50-year warranty for equipment
• 30-year warranty for power output

What does this entail for homeowners, and how does RES Alaska’s warranty coverage stack up against industry norms?

In comparison to industry norms, these warranty durations are quite extensive. The 30-year power output warranty is especially remarkable because as it provides long-term assurance of system performance in Alaska’s challenging climate. The wide range of coverage indicates a high level of trust in their installations and equipment. Because the guarantee may cover replacements or repairs for decades after installation, homeowners may have more peace of mind and maybe cheaper long-term expenditures as a result.

• Commitment to Education and Community
• Offers educational classes
• Conducted 10+ free public educational classes in 2023
• Assists with grant writing

How does RES Alaska’s commitment to education and community involvement benefit potential customers?

Community involvement and consumer agency are at the heart of RES Alaska’s educational programs. Their commitment to enhancing local air quality is shown by their participation in initiatives such as the Fairbanks North Star Borough Wood Stove Change-Out Program. In 2023, they helped customers save more than $365,554 on fuel costs and cut oil use by more than 60,621 gallons, which had a significant environmental and economic impact. Because of this dedication, prospective clients will have more information with which to weigh their energy alternatives, and they may be able to take advantage of other services and financing possibilities.

Source: Renewable Energy Systems

A Few Clouds on the Horizon

• Limited Geographic Coverage
• Only operates in Alaska

What are some problems that might come up because RES Alaska only serves the Alaskan market?

Their focus on Alaska has led them to create specialized offerings like the Super Tracker system, which is made to make the most of Alaska’s long summer days and low winter sun angles for energy output. However, their focus on one area may make it harder for them to grow or change in the future. For customers, this means very specialized service because they might not have as many choices or if broader industry innovations occur outside of Alaska.

How to get the most out of a system from Renewable Energy Systems of Alaska:

• Use their free classes to learn more about different renewable energy options.
• Consider their custom-designed systems for your specific needs and location.
• To become more energy independent, investigate their battery backup choices.
• Look into their assistance with the Fairbanks North Star Borough Wood Stove Change-Out Program if applicable.
• Ask about their grant writing support to help defray expenses.

Our Homeowner Recommendation: Renewable Energy Systems of Alaska stands out as a top choice for Alaskan residents seeking robust, customized renewable energy solutions. Their extensive service offers and 18 years of experience working in Alaska’s tough environment are all big pluses. In order to discover the best renewable energy solution for their unique requirements, homeowners should thoroughly investigate their alternatives and make use of the educational resources provided by RES Alaska.

Alaska Solar

Founded in 2016, Alaska Solar has quickly established itself as a significant player in Alaska’s renewable energy sector. We will analyze their main characteristics:

• Market Position: Despite being relatively young, Alaska Solar claims to be the largest installer of grid-tied solar in Alaska. Strong demand in the industry and efficient operations are likely driving this fast expansion. They have a wide geographical reach inside the state, with projects spanning from Homer to Fairbanks.
• Service Model: This includes services for planning, getting permits, installing, keeping an eye on the system, and giving warranties. Their turnkey approach likely appeals to customers seeking a hassle-free solar installation experience. The offer of free site assessments provides prospective clients with an investigation of solar energy in Alaska.
• Technical Expertise: The business has earned reputable industry certifications from SEIA and NABCEP. This shows a dedication to maintaining high standards in the field and staying up-to-date with solar technology.
• Equipment: When it comes to solar panels, Alaska Solar works with Qcells as an equipment partner. Although Qcells is a reputable manufacturer, use with only one brand can make it restrict for consumers to get what they’re looking for.
• Guarantee: For solar panels and micro inverters, the business provides a 25-year manufacturer’s guarantee. Customers’ investments are safeguarded in the long run by this, which is standard practice in the sector.
• Customer Engagement: Alaska Solar has made a mobile app for controlling systems, which improves the user experience and makes it easy for customers to keep an eye on how their systems are working. Including this functionality shows that on ongoing customer engagement beyond the initial installation.
• Referral Program: They offer a very generous referral program that gives $300 for every system installed that comes from a recommendation. The customers who are referred also get extra perks. This tactic probably helps attract new clients and has the potential to hasten Alaska’s adoption of solar power.

Source: Alaska Solar

Areas for Improvement:

• Financing Transparency: One major omission is the absence of clear information about funding possibilities. Clear financing options may increase the technology’s accessibility to a wider variety of homes since solar installations are sometimes a significant financial commitment.
• Company Warranty: Alaska Solar states that its solar panels and microinverters come with a 25-year manufacturer’s guarantee, but they don’t say anything about the warranty they provide for their own services, such as installation. Potential clients should be aware of this important omission, which is the absence of information about the company’s own warranty coverage.

Alaska Solar seems like a good choice that homeowners should look into. Their comprehensive service model, strong local presence, and industry certifications suggest they have the expertise to handle your solar needs effectively.

However, before making a decision, we recommend:

• Find out About Your Financing Choices: To fully understand how much your installation will cost, ask Alaska Solar for specific information about the different finance plans they offer.
• Request Warranty Information: Although manufacturer warranties are stated, be sure to enquire about Alaska Solar’s own guarantee for installation labor as well as additional services.
• Get Several Quotes: If you want to make sure you’re getting the best value and service for your needs, compare Alaska Solar’s services to those of other area companies.
• Discuss System Customization: Since they work with a single panel maker, find out how flexible the system design is and if it can be changed to fit your needs.

Tesla

Tesla is known for being innovative in the electric car business, and the company has made significant strides in the solar energy sector as well. Tesla offers a comprehensive solar solution for homeowners looking to harness the power of the sun.

Products and Services:

• Solar panels with efficiency ratings of 19.3% to 20.9%
• Tesla Powerwall battery for energy storage
• Tesla solar inverter (97.5% or 98% efficiency)
• Solar panel installation
• Solar Roof (unique Tesla product)

Source: Teslarati

Pros:

• Competitive Pricing: Tesla claims to match rivals’ rates and often offers lower-than-average costs. The estimates they give online are between $2.10 and $4.29 per watt, which is less than the national average. Additionally, they also offer a price match guarantee within 14 days of receiving a quote.
• Sleek Design: Panels with a low profile that complement your roof harmoniously. Tesla’s installations are “indeed less obtrusive than others,” which may be a major consideration for homeowners who value aesthetics.
• High-Quality Equipment: Optimal energy production is achieved by means of high-quality equipment, namely panels and inverters. When compared to other leading manufacturers, Tesla’s panel efficiency ranges from 19.3% to 20.9%, and its inverter efficiency is at the top at 97.5% or 98%.
• Integrated Ecosystem: Tesla’s app makes it easy to keep an eye on and manage your solar system. Users can keep an eye on how much energy is being made and used with the app, and they can also change how the Powerwall works by setting charge levels and changing how much energy is drawn at different times of the day.
• Nationwide Availability: Tesla is one of the most extensively accessible solar suppliers in the US because its services are offered in all 50 states.

Cons:

• Customer Service Concerns: Customer service issues include instances of poor post-purchase assistance. According to customer reviews, Tesla could be “skimping on customer service after purchase,” with complaints seeming “louder and more numerous” compared to other installers.
• Limited Product Selection: Mainly offers equipment with the Tesla brand. While Tesla’s rivals may have a variety of battery and panel brands, the company’s exclusive offerings may leave some customers unsatisfied.
• Installation Inconsistencies: Growing dependence on subcontractors might have an impact on quality assurance. Tesla has “increased the use of subcontractors and pulled back on its own installation teams,” which might cause differences in the quality of the installations.

Source: tasmanian

Warranty:

• 25-year performance warranty (85% capacity guarantee)
• 10-year workmanship and weatherization warranty

Financing Options:

• Cash purchase
• Tesla financing (10% down payment required)

With its integration of solar panels, battery storage, and intelligent controls, Tesla distinguishes out for its innovative approach to solar energy. Their low-profile designs and price-match promise make them a great choice for homeowners who are concerned about both cost and aesthetics.

Areas for Improvement:

• Improving Customer Support and Communication: Resolving the concerns raised about after-sale service.
• Expanding the Range of Products Offered: supplying a wider range of product options to meet the preferences and demands of a broader spectrum of customers.
• Extending Their Workmanship Warranty: The existing 10-year warranty is characterized as average for the industry but lags behind the leaders, indicating that there is potential for improvement in this area.
• Ensuring Uniform Quality of Installation: Since subcontractors are being used more, tighter quality control methods could help maintain consistent installation standards.

Source: Yahoo

Recommendation for Homeowners:

• Do Your Research: Although Tesla provides appealing prices and equipment, it’s still a good idea to shop around for the best deal by comparing quotes from several suppliers to be sure you’re receiving the best possible value and service for your particular requirements.
• Get Ready for Possible Service Problems: Know about the customer service issues that have been reported. Consider your alternatives carefully, or be ready to take the initiative to manage your solar installation process.
• Think about What You Need: If you have unique requirements for specialized equipment or configurations that Tesla doesn’t provide, you may have to hunt elsewhere.
• Check Installation Details: Ask about who will perform your installation and what quality assurance measures are in place. This is important because Tesla is growing its use of subcontractors.
• Review Warranty Terms: While Tesla’s performance warranty is competitive, its workmanship warranty is average. If long-term protection is a priority, you might want to consider providers with more extensive coverage.
• Climate Considerations: It is noteworthy that while Tesla is present in all 50 states, including Alaska, their website does not provide any verified information on the particular applications of its goods or the possible risks associated with utilizing them in Alaska due to its distinct climate. Homeowners in areas with harsh climates, especially Alaska, should speak with Tesla directly to learn more about the performance and compatibility of its solar equipment in such conditions.

SunPower

Since its founding in 1985, SunPower has become a major player in the solar business, providing services in all 50 US states.

Products and Services:

• High-efficiency solar panels (SunPower Equinox system).
• Tesla Powerwall 3 for energy storage.
• Installation and financing services.

Source: Sunrise Solar Solutions

Pros:

• Top-Tier Solar Panels: SunPower’s Equinox system, which uses Maxeon panels, has up to a 22.8% efficiency rating, the highest in the residential market. This is particularly advantageous for houses with small roof spaces as it allows homeowners to produce more electricity with fewer panels.
• Robust Warranty: SunPower’s 25-year complete warranty ensures a production capacity of 92% after 25 years, which is far higher than the industry norm of about 85%. Customers may have confidence and, in the long run, perhaps even greater energy savings thanks to this.
• Diverse Financing Options: SunPower provides a range of financing options to accommodate different financial situations, including cash purchases, solar loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs).
• Quality Inverters: Enphase microinverters, which are well-known in the industry, are used to make sure that power conversion at the panel level works well.

Cons:

• Limited Battery Options: SunPower’s energy storage offerings are limited to the Tesla Powerwall 3 as of 2024. Even if it’s a high-quality alternative, this may not meet the wants or tastes of all customers.
• Potentially Higher Prices: Although exact pricing isn’t given, SunPower’s high-efficiency panels and premium guarantee indicate that their solutions may cost more than those of their rivals.
• Lack of Price Match Guarantee: SunPower doesn’t offer a price match guarantee like some of its competitors do, which could be a problem for people who want to save money.
• Subcontractor Utilization: SunPower employs both in-house and subcontractor installers, which may result in variations in installation quality or client satisfaction between regions.

Source: SolarQuotes

How is SunPower different from other solar companies?

When comparing panel efficiency and warranty coverage, SunPower stands out. With their top-tier panels, you can generate more electricity from less roof area thanks to their remarkable 22.8% efficiency rating. The 25-year warranty that SunPower offers ensures 92% production capacity even after 25 years, so it’s not only about short-term results. That would be like guaranteeing that your automobile would continue to operate at almost optimal levels after 300,000 miles!

Is SunPower’s premium pricing range affordable for all?

Despite having excellent technology, SunPower products are often quite expensive. This might be a challenge for households on a tight budget. But it seems like SunPower is addressing this by offering Qcells panels as a less expensive alternative. It seems like they are trying to please multiple price ranges with a premium sedan and a dependable little vehicle.

How accessible is SunPower to homeowners across the US?

Fortunately, SunPower is a nationwide power company that can help you finance your solar energy system in a number of ways, including purchases, leases, and power purchase agreements. Hence, SunPower has you covered whether you’re in sunny California or icy Maine and whether you’d rather purchase completely or choose a no-money-down alternative.

Is there anything SunPower could do better?

There is always opportunity for development, even if SunPower is excellent in a lot of areas. Some customers could be wary since they don’t provide a price match guarantee. The Tesla Powerwall 3 is also their only battery choice. It is similar to having a superb main course at a great restaurant but with a small dessert menu.

What about the process of installation?

SunPower uses both in-house installers and subcontractors. This approach lets them cover a wide area, but it’s also a bit of a gamble. A group of SunPower pros or a local subcontractor could be sent to you. It is comparable to ordering a box, which is sometimes delivered by a third-party courier and occasionally by a member of the store’s staff. Asking who will be conducting your particular installation is important since the quality may differ.

Source: SolarQuotes

Our Recommendation: If homeowners value long-term performance, extensive warranties, and high-efficiency solar panels, SunPower is a great option. Those who want to optimize their solar energy output or have limited roof space should consider it especially. Budget-conscious shoppers or those looking for a wider range of battery alternatives, however, may want to check out what other suppliers have to offer in comparison to SunPower’s. As always, before deciding, it’s best to get quotations from many suppliers and thoroughly go over all conditions.

Making the Right Choice: Local vs. National Solar Installers in Alaska

As an Alaska homeowner considering solar power, you’re faced with an important decision: should you choose a local, family-owned business or a large national installer?

Family Solar Company

Choose a local, family-owned solar installer for your Alaska home, and you’ll get:

• Expert knowledge of Alaska’s unique climate challenges
• A custom-designed system optimized for your specific home and local conditions
• Faster, more personalized service when you need support
• Installers who understand Alaska’s evolving energy policies and grid requirements
• Flexible scheduling that works around our harsh winters
• The satisfaction of supporting local businesses and your community

A system that is perfectly suited to Alaska’s climate might cost a little more upfront, but it could save you more energy in the long run. When you buy from a local business, you’re not just getting solar panels; you’re also investing in a relationship with people who know what it means to go solar in Alaska.

Source: BBC

National Solar Company

Opt for a national solar installer in Alaska, and you’ll benefit from:

• Lower upfront costs due to their bulk purchasing power
• A wide range of financing options to fit your budget
• Access to the latest solar technologies
• Resources to handle any size or complexity of the project
• The backing of a large, stable company for long-term support

National companies bring a lot of knowledge from a wide range of places; new ideas for your Alaskan house may emerge from this. Solar energy may become more affordable with its flexible financing options and competitive pricing, which can enable you to start reducing energy bills earlier. When you choose a national company, you get access to a network of solar experts and many resources.

Making an Informed Decision

Research and Gather Information

• Visit the SolarPowerSystems website for comprehensive guides on solar technology and Alaska-specific considerations.
• Learn about the unique challenges and opportunities for solar power in Alaska.

Get Multiple Quotes

• Use SolarPowerSystems to connect with top-rated solar companies in Alaska.
• Once you’ve narrowed down your options, use SolarPowerSystems to get a detailed, personalized solar quote.
• This quote will be tailored to your specific home and energy needs in Alaska.
• Aim to get at least 3–5 quotes from a mix of local and national installers.

Evaluate Installers

• Ask each company for Alaska-specific case studies and references.
• Inquire about their experience with Alaska’s unique climate challenges.
• Compare how different solar companies in Alaska address seasonal variations in their system designs.

Assess Financial Options

• Compare financing options offered by installers.
• Explore local credit union offerings for solar loans.
• Investigate available federal and local incentives.

Consider Alternatives

• Look into community solar projects if rooftop installation isn’t suitable.
• Explore options for ground-mounted systems if applicable.

Review and Compare Proposals

• Analyze each quote in detail, considering both price and system design.
• Pay attention to warranties and long-term service agreements.

Make Your Decision

• Choose the installer that best balances local expertise, system quality, and cost.
• Consider both the immediate installation and long-term performance.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the solar landscape in Alaska and find the best solution for your home.