Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency | Solar Installation | Electrical | La Follette
Transform the Tennessee sunshine into long-term savings with HEP’s trusted solar installation services in La Follette. Our licensed electricians design custom photovoltaic systems that dovetail with your home’s existing electrical panel, maximizing output while safeguarding every circuit. From the first roof inspection to the final flip of the switch, we manage permits, utility coordination, and performance monitoring—so you can simply watch your meter spin backward and your energy bills shrink.
Choosing HEP means partnering with a local team that backs every array with industry-leading warranties and responsive, hometown support. Whether you’re motivated by lower costs, energy independence, or a lighter carbon footprint, we’ll guide you through financing options and available tax incentives, turning today’s sunlight into decades of dependable power. Let’s make your roof work harder—schedule a free assessment and see how effortless going solar can be.
FAQs
Why is La Follette a good place to install solar panels?
La Follette receives an average of 4.5–5 peak sun-hours per day, which is similar to other high-performing solar regions in the Southeast. Homes are served by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) through the La Follette Utilities Board (LUB), so electric rates are stable but steadily rising—making self-generation attractive. In addition, roofs in our area tend to have clear southern exposure and limited snow load, keeping mounting costs low. Combined, these factors give most homeowners a payback period of 8–12 years and a system life of 30+ years.
How much can I save on my electric bill with a solar installation?
Savings depend on system size, electricity consumption, and utility rates. A typical 7 kW residential array in La Follette can offset 9,000–10,000 kWh per year—about 80–90 % of an average household’s usage. At today’s LUB rate of roughly $0.12 /kWh, that equals $1,000–$1,200 in first-year savings. Because power costs historically rise about 2–3 % annually, lifetime savings over 25 years can exceed $35,000. Commercial customers usually see an even faster return because of higher daytime loads and federal depreciation incentives.
Do solar panels work on cloudy days or during the winter?
Yes. Modern photovoltaic (PV) modules generate electricity from diffused as well as direct sunlight. On overcast days they produce 10–40 % of their rated output. Winter production is actually helped by cooler module temperatures, which improve electrical efficiency, though shorter daylight hours reduce total energy. Over a full year in Campbell County, seasonal variations average out; properly sized systems reliably deliver the expected annual kWh that our design software projects.
What incentives or rebates are available for La Follette residents?
• Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC): 30 % of the total system cost can be claimed on your federal income tax. • TVA Green Connect & Dispersed Power Production programs: Pay you the avoided-cost rate (plus a small premium for Green Connect) for every kWh you export. • Sales-tax exemption: Tennessee exempts solar equipment from the 9.25 % state & local sales tax when installed by a licensed contractor. • Potential local financing: LUB and area banks offer low-interest Energy Efficiency loans that can be repaid on your monthly utility bill. We help you file all applications so you capture every available dollar.
What is the installation timeline and process?
1. Site assessment & quote (1 – 2 days): We inspect your roof, electrical service, and shading, then prepare a custom proposal. 2. Design & permitting (2 – 3 weeks): Our engineers create stamped plans, file TVA interconnection paperwork, and obtain Campbell County building permits. 3. Installation (1 – 3 days): A trained crew mounts racking, panels, inverter, and runs wiring to your main service panel with minimal disruption. 4. Inspection & utility approval (1 week): Local code officials and LUB/TVA verify compliance and swap your meter. 5. System activation & monitoring: We walk you through the monitoring app and provide a binder of warranties, manuals, and maintenance tips. From signed contract to “flip the switch,” most residential projects finish within 4–6 weeks.
How do I maintain and monitor my solar energy system?
Solar PV systems are largely maintenance-free. Panels have no moving parts and carry 25-year power-output warranties. The main tasks are: • Visual check twice a year for debris or damage. • Occasional cleaning if pollen, dust, or bird droppings reduce production (a hose rinse or soft-bristle brush usually suffices). • Inverter firmware updates, handled remotely in most cases. You’ll receive a free monitoring portal that lets you track real-time and historical energy production on your phone or computer. We also receive alerts, so if performance drops we’re notified and can schedule service. Expected annual maintenance cost is under $40, and most of our customers have never needed a paid service call in the first 10 years.