Business Details
20 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Solar Panel Installation Services in Nashville, TN
LightWave Solar has been a trusted provider of turnkey solar installations and operations & maintenance services since 2006. Founded by Steve Johnson, we pioneered Tennessee's first solar programs in collaboration with TVA and the state government. Our team of 70+ employees, including 9 NABCEP-certified professionals, delivers custom solar solutions for residential, commercial, and utility clients. With over 1,400 completed PV systems totaling 80MW, we specialize in complex projects like solar parking canopies and grid-independent systems.As a founding member of the Amicus Solar Cooperative, we combine technical expertise with a commitment to customer care, ensuring high-performance systems that exceed expectations. Our 17 years of experience and 11 consecutive Solar Power World Top Contractor awards underscore our industry leadership in the Southeast.
Services
Solar Panel Installation
Battery Storage
EV Charging Stations
Solar Parking Canopies
Grid Independence Systems
REAP Grant Assistance
Utility-Scale Solar
Operations & Maintenance
Custom Solar Solutions
Solar + Storage Systems
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Completed 80MW of solar installations across 1,400+ projects since 2006
- 9 NABCEP-certified professionals on staff - more than any regional competitor
- Specialize in complex solar parking canopies and utility-scale systems
- 11 consecutive Solar Power World Top U.S. Solar Contractors award winner
- Founding member of Amicus Solar Cooperative for enhanced buying power
Associations and certifications
- NABCEP
- Amicus Solar Cooperative
What people say
Professional team
Quality work
Responsive service
Energy savings
Reliable backup
Services
Residential Solar
Custom solar + storage systems for homeowners provide grid independence and energy savings. Systems include Tesla Powerwalls for backup during outages. Our installations reduce electricity bills while increasing property value through sustainable energy production.
Commercial Solar
Tailored solar solutions for businesses and municipalities reduce operating costs while demonstrating environmental commitment. We handle projects from site analysis through installation, including REAP grant assistance and utility interconnection coordination.
Utility Solar
Turnkey utility-scale solar projects up to 10MW deliver cost-effective renewable energy. Our expertise includes single-axis tracking systems and landfill-mounted installations that transform underutilized spaces into power generation sites.
Solar O&M
Comprehensive operations and maintenance services maximize system ROI through preventive care and performance optimization. Our NABCEP-certified technicians perform thermal imaging, equipment testing, and remote monitoring to ensure peak efficiency.
Solar Parking Canopies
Dual-purpose solar parking structures generate clean energy while providing vehicle shade. Custom-engineered solutions accommodate curved surfaces and multi-story garages, with options for translucent panel integration.
People
Chris Koczaja
President & CEO
Mechanical engineering graduate from Purdue University with 20+ years in energy sector. Led LightWave Solar since 2017, focusing on sustainable solutions across residential, commercial, and utility markets while serving as Tennessee Solar Energy Industries Association President.
Steve Johnson
Founder/Partner
NABCEP-certified electrical contractor with 40+ years experience. Founded LightWave Solar in 2006 and co-created Tennessee's first solar interconnection programs. Holds TN Electrical Contractors License and maintains 10kW solar-powered home system.
JP Plumlee
Senior Project Developer
Environmental Studies graduate from University of Tennessee with NABCEP PV Technical Sales certification. Specializes in commercial and municipal solar projects, bringing 15+ years of renewable energy experience to client solutions.
Matt Angell
Project Manager
Construction management professional with 25+ years experience including nuclear submarine service. Manages 39+ MW of photovoltaic systems, holding OSHA 30 certification and General Contractors Class B License in California.
Karl Jaeger
Design/Build Engineer
Master Electrician with NABCEP certification since 2007. Former Colorado solar installer with expertise in system design. Holds mechanical engineering degree from Michigan State University and has installed over 300 solar systems.
Questions
What solar system size do I need for my home?
System size depends on your energy usage, roof space, and budget. Most residential systems range from 8-15kW with battery storage.
How long does solar installation take?
Panel installation typically takes 3 days, followed by 10 days for final inspections and utility activation.
Do you offer financing options?
Yes, we provide financing assistance and help qualify for USDA REAP grants covering up to 50% of project costs.
What warranties do you provide?
We offer a 5-year workmanship warranty and honor manufacturer warranties including 10-year battery coverage.
Can I add batteries later?
Yes, our systems are designed to allow adding battery storage at any time after initial solar installation.
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