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The Best Solar Companies (May 2024 Guide): Expert Reviewed

Our top-rated solar companies are Palmetto, Sunrun, and Blue Raven.

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84 Solar Technology Companies Researched
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1,000 Homeowners Surveyed
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50+ Solar Panel and Battery Specs Compared

Default Author Icon Written by Tamara Jude + 1 other Reviewer Icon Reviewed by Roger Horowitz Updated 04/24/2024

Going solar includes understanding a lot of technical jargon that might confuse you. New companies and technologies emerge daily, so you may find it difficult to choose the best installer. Solar can help you save on monthly enery costs and provide a clean energy solution, but it is a big investment, so you also don’t want to make the wrong choice.

Weโ€™ve researched over 84 leading solar panel companies nationwide, interviewed industry experts, surveyed 1,000 solar customers, and spent more than 770 hours analyzing product specifications and warranties to find the best in the business. We selected Palmetto, Sunrun, and Blue Raven Solar as our top three choices for solar installation companies. Compare these companies and other top-rated providers in our review.

Key Takeaways

After comparing 50+ solar panel and solar battery specifications across 84 solar companies, we recommend Sunrun, Blue Raven Solar, and Palmetto as the best solar installation companies.
A solar energy system on average costs $17,430 to $23,870, but can vary based on several factors.

Compare the Best Solar Companies

Based on our methodology, we chose SunPower and Sunrun as our top two providers due to their solar panel selections, additional service options, and positive online reputations across review sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB)* and Google Reviews. These companies also offer some of the most comprehensive warranties and service selections available.

Company Star Rating Warranties Payment Options Link
4.5
10โ€“25 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.4
10โ€“25 years Full purchase, loan GET QUOTE
4.4
10โ€“25 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.4
25 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.4
25 years Full purchase, loan GET QUOTE
4.4
25โ€“30 years Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA GET QUOTE
4.2
25 years Full purchase, loan, lease GET QUOTE
No results were found.

8 Best Solar Companies of 2024

Our team evaluated close to 100 U.S. solar companies based on reputation, solar services, payment options, state availability, and warranty coverage. Here are our picks for the best solar companies:


You should know about the best payment options to maximize your investment and which solar incentives you’re eligible for to avoid scammers or untrustworthy companies when going solar.

How much does a solar panel system cost?

The national average solar energy system costs between $17,430 and $23,870.

The cost of your solar panel system varies based on several factors, including the system size, whether it’s installed on or around your home, the installation complexity, and your selected solar panel type. Changes in a companyโ€™s technology will also affect the price, as will your region.

We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies to closely compare your options.

What are solar incentives?

Solar incentives, credits, and rebates allow you to save money when installing solar equipment. The federal government provides a 30% federal tax credit. Some solar companies assist you with finding and applying for solar incentives.

We also suggest you visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency to view your areaโ€™s state and local incentives.

We surveyed 1,000 solar customers about their experiences getting quotes and installing solar panels. Most respondents (78.4%) used solar incentives to reduce their overall costs. A little over 75% of those respondents said the incentives they used were easy to access.

What solar energy terms should I know?

There are a lot of solar energy terms you should know, such as active monitoring and inverter. Here’s a quick breakdown of key terms and their meanings.

  • Active monitoring: Active monitoring means tracking and analyzing various performance metrics for your solar energy system, such as electricity production, system health, and environmental conditions. This continuous monitoring helps you to detect issues promptly, optimize system efficiency, and get proactive maintenance to ensure reliable and optimal operation.
  • Inverter: This is a component that converts the direct current (DC) power your solar system gets from the sun into the alternating current (AC) power that runs your home. 
  • Solar panel efficiency rating: This indicates the percentage of sunlight that solar panels convert to usable electricity. The higher the efficiency rating, the better the energy production. Note that 100% efficiency isn’t scientifically possible. Most solar panels have efficiency ratings between 15% and 22%.
  • Solar battery backup: A solar battery backup system stores excess energy generated by solar panels, enabling you to use that stored energy when the sun isnโ€™t shining, such as at night or during power outages. This product allows for greater energy independence and resilience against grid failures.

How do I pay for solar panels?

You can choose from various solar financing options to fit your budget. Many companies offer two or more payment choices. A full purchase or loan is typically the most cost-effective option. โ€œWhen you lease solar panels, you miss out on the substantial federal tax credit because it instead goes to the leasing company,โ€ explains Matt Johnson, co-owner of Namaste Solar. โ€œIf you own your own solar panels, you will be the one to reap the financial benefits of the tax credit.โ€

Johnson adds that leasing your panels could also make selling your home cumbersome and expensive because you have to ensure the new owner wants to take over the lease or buy out the rest of your contractโ€”potentially costing thousands of dollars.

Here is a list of the most common payment options:

  • Full purchase: A full cash purchase gives you full system ownership, qualifying you for all tax incentives and rebates. 
  • Solar loan: This option requires smaller monthly payments for a set time frame and grants you full ownership.
  • Solar lease: Homeowners lease the system from the solar provider and make monthly payments for its use. Check out our guide to solar leasing to determine if this option is worth it.
  • Power purchase agreement (PPA): The solar company retains system ownership and only charges you for the solar energy you use each month.

What warranties come with solar panels?

Warranties can differ based on each companyโ€™s products. You could have multiple warranties for one system if the company works with several manufacturers. Alternatively, a solar provider could offer all-inclusive warranty coverage for its in-house products, making the claims process much easier. 

The top companies offer 25-year warranties in most cases, but some limit their workmanship warranty to 10 years. We recommend finding a company that provides 25-year warranties for coverage throughout your systemโ€™s lifetime.

Here are the three most common warranties and what they cover:

  • Manufacturerโ€™s warranty (or product warranty): Protects the individual solar system components in case of defects.
  • Workmanship warranty: Covers installation in case of poor workmanship or faulty installation materials.
  • Performance (or power production) guarantee: Certifies the solar systemโ€™s output as outlined in your contract.

What Should You Look for in a Solar Company?

First, ensure the installer youโ€™re interested in provides high-quality, monocrystalline solar panels to maximize your solar investment. Also, check that it offers at least a 25-year product warranty and holds the proper certifications to operate in your area.
Here are the key qualities to look out for as you search for a solar company:
Certification: Solar installers may have certifications from specific solar panel and inverter manufacturers. Verify these certifications by checking the official websites of the respective manufacturers. You should also check that the installer is certified by the NABCEP.
Cost and financing: Every solar company in our review offers full purchase and loan financing options. Some also provide leases and PPAs. A full purchase or loan qualifies you for the federal solar tax credit and other cost-saving incentives. A lease or PPA reduces how much you pay up-front, but the solar company still owns the panels, so you canโ€™t qualify for incentives. We recommend you pursue only full purchases and solar loans because of this limitation.
Installation process and services: Some companies offer a completely streamlined installation process, including in-house design, installation, and whole-home energy audits. Other companies use third-party installers, which can make communication and warranty issues more complicated. You should prioritize companies with in-house installers before considering providers that use third-party contractors.
Solar panel quality: Customers can usually choose between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient, so you should consider companies that specialize in these panels.
Warranty options: Each company on our list offers 25-year manufacturer warranties, but some companiesโ€™ workmanship warranties are only 10 years. The coverage specifics vary by the installer. A good general rule is to seek out companies offering baseline 25-year product warranties.

Our Top Solar Company Picks

Sunrun

4.5

We like Sunrun for its four financing options, including its unique leasing options if you donโ€™t want to own your system. This stands out to us because the other companies on this list donโ€™t offer as many options.

Prepaid and leased systems also include a 25-year warranty with system service and maintenance, ongoing monitoring, and theft insurance. The company even offers financing plans for quality monocrystalline solar panels and products from trusted brands such as LG.

How We Scored Sunrun

Sunrun earned 4.4 out of 5 stars based on our methodology. The company gained many points for its positive reputation, comprehensive leasing options, and well-rounded warranty coverage. It lost some points for is limited service selection.

 

  • Solar Equipment and Services (15 out of 25 points): Sunrun provides solar panel and battery installation but uses third-party installers. Though this is becoming an industry standard, in-house installers typically yield better communication and quality. The company also doesnโ€™t provide roofing services or energy audits but does offer quality active monitoring assistance.ย 
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (19 out of 25 points): Sunrun offers quality warranties, such as its 25-year manufacturer and labor warranty, but doesnโ€™t include a performance guarantee.ย 
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): Sunrun has one of the higher customer BBB ratings weโ€™ve encountered, and the company maintains an overall positive customer reputation online.
  • Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): The company doesnโ€™t offer any in-house financing but provides more warranty coverage for customers interested in solar leasing than other providers, such as Palmetto.
  • Industry Experience (9 out of 10 points): Sunrun holds 17 years of experience in the solar industry, making it a veteran compared to a newer company such as Blue Raven Solar.
  • State Availability (8 out of 10 points): The company only serves 18 states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides system monitoring that signals issues with your system Offers diverse financing options to suit various budgets Provides EV and solar battery solutions Cons Limited online information on solar incentive disqualification with leases Requires added costs for the same coverage plans as leased and prepaid customers Varies solar battery availability by state

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Sunrun backs its systems with a 10-year comprehensive warranty which includes product, roof penetration, and workmanship coverage.

Financing Options

โœ” Full purchase
โœ” Loan
โœ” Lease
โœ” PPA

State Availability

Available in: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont, plus Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico.

Reputation and Reviews

The company earned DroneDeployโ€™s 2022 Guardian of Safety Award for incorporating drone technology in its site assessments. In 2021 and 2022, Sunrun was recognized by Comparably with 14 awards. Its accolades include Best CEOs for Diversity 2022, Best Company Culture 2021, and Best Company for Women two years in a row.

Sunrun currently holds an A+ rating from the BBB and is accredited. Former customers praised the comprehensive coverage for leased systems but complained about delayed installations, poor customer service, and poor communication with project managers. Additionally, some customers note being confused by Sunrunโ€™s leasing and PPA options, though they also mention Sunrun is willing to discuss and clarify these plans.

Blue Raven

4.4

Blue Raven Solar has one of the best reputations for reliability and trustworthiness. It has won awards for its team and CEO, and customer reviews report great customer service and prompt installations. The company also stands out for its in-house financing, which includes 18 months of free solar energy.

How We Scored Blue Raven Solar

Blue Raven received 4.4 out of 5 stars according to our rating system. The company scored the most points for its customer service reputation and warranty coverage. It also earned points for providing all standard solar panel services but lost some due to its limited financing options and lack of roof leak coverage.

  • Solar Equipment and Services (18 out of 25 points): Blue Raven offers solar panel and battery installation, active monitoring services, and energy audits. However, it doesnโ€™t offer solar roofs, EV chargers, or additional roofing services.ย 
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (22 out of 25 points): The company offers top-of-the-line warranties, including a 25-year workmanship warranty. The company earned points fo providing a performance guarantee, but its guarantee is shorter than many other providers. However, it doesn’t provide any roof leak coverage.ย 
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): Blue Raven has high customer review ratings on its BBB profile and other popular review sites. The company uses in-house installers but doesnโ€™t ensure theyโ€™re NABCEP-certified, which made it lose some points in this category.
  • Financing Options (12 out of 15 points): Blue Raven offers some of the best in-house financing of the companies this list, but it limits this financing to solar loans. You may want to consider a different provider, such as Sunrun, if youโ€™re looking for a lease or PPA.
  • Industry Experience (7 out of 10 points): Blue Raven has less experience than other providers, with only 10 years in the industry.
  • State Availability (7 out of 10 points): The company limits its service area to 19 states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers SunPowerโ€™s high-efficiency panels and storage options Provides a unique in-house financing option which includes 18 months of free solar energy Recognized as one of the industryโ€™s most reputable solar companies Cons Offers one of the shortest production guarantees among our reviewed companies Some customer reviews mention poor communication Workmanship warranty falls slightly below the industry standard

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

A Blue Raven system has a 25-year product warranty, a 10-year workmanship warranty, and a two-year production guarantee.

Financing Options

โœ” Full purchase
โœ” Loan

State Availability

Available in: Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington

Reputation and Reviews

Blue Raven has won numerous awards from Comparably, a site known for its company culture and reputation reviews. It also ranked No. 20 on Glassdoorโ€™s Best Place to Work in the USA in 2021.

Blue Raven is accredited by the BBB and currently holds an A+ rating. We noted that customers praised the knowledgeable staff and prompt installation but cited poor communication after completing projects. We analyzed several Reddit threads and found that some of these issues stem from the companyโ€™s financing department and third-party installers.

Momentum

Best Installation Process
4.4

Momentum Solar creates a smooth and timely installation process for homeowners. The company provides progress updates through its app to keep you informed about your installation timeline. We like that Momentum tailors each system to customersโ€™ energy needs and offers additional battery upgrades in some locations.

How We Scored Momentum Solar

Momentum received 4.4 out of 5 stars. Here’s how it did in each category:

  • Solar Equipment and Services (20 out of 25 points): Momentum offers plenty of solar services, including panel and battery installation. However, it doesnโ€™t provide energy audits. We do like the companyโ€™s dedicated customer web portal.ย 
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (16 out of 25 points): The company provides robust warranties, including 25-year warranties for products and labor. However, it doesnโ€™t include any production warranty like many other top providers.ย 
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): The company has a positive reputation on popular review sites such as the BBB.
  • Financing Options (15 out of 15 points): Momentum features an in-house financing department, making it a go-to for a solar loan. It also scored all points in this category because it offers every payment option.
  • Industry Experience (8 out of 10 points): Momentum has been in business since 2009, so it’s one of the newer companies out there.
  • State Availability (7 out of 10 points): Momentum limits its service areas for more personalized customer service, and your available service options might change according to your ZIP code in Massachusetts.

Pros and Cons

Pros Helps customers apply for solar incentives Offers in-house installation only Provides multiple solar panel options for better customization Cons Doesnโ€™t offer a power production guarantee Includes only five years of roof penetration coverage Sells solar batteries only in select areas

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Momentum includes a 25-year manufacturer and workmanship warranty for its systems.ย 

Financing Options

โœ” Full purchase
โœ” Loan
โœ” Lease
โœ” PPA

Reputation and Reviews

Momentum has an accreditation and A+ rating with the BBB. Analyzing homeowner reviews informed us that customers appreciated the companyโ€™s helpful customer service team and system performance. However, some homeowners faced frequent scheduling delays during the installation process.

Palmetto

4.4

Palmetto Solar offers a wide range of quality solar products and excellent customer service, including phone, email, and online chat options, an online service request portal, and a library of troubleshooting resources. Overall, Palmetto offers more customer support than other providers we reviewed, most notably through its tiered system protection plans and mobile app.

How We Scored Palmetto Solar

Palmetto earned 4.4 out of 5 stars according to our methodology. The company scored more points for its comprehensive service selection and long-term protection plans. It lost some because of its standard warranty options and lack of production guarantee.ย 

  • Solar Equipment and Services (20 out of 25 points): Palmetto offers an excellent selection of solar services, including solar battery and electric vehicle (EV) charger installation, energy audits, and active monitoring.
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (16 out of 25 points): The companyโ€™s warranty options donโ€™t stand out as much as Sunrunโ€™s. It offers industry-standard coverage for 25 years on products and 10 years on labor.
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (14 out of 15 points): Palmetto has a highly positive online reputation on popular review sites such as the BBB. The company also screens its installers to ensure theyโ€™re certified with the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
  • Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): Palmetto doesnโ€™t provide in-house financing but offers all possible payment methods.
  • Industry Experience (8 out of 10 points): Palmetto holds a decent amount of experience, with 15 years in the industry.
  • State Availability (8 out of 10 points): The company serves 17 states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Gives access to customer support via email, chat, phone, and app Offers a tiered system protection plan Provides an online solar savings calculator to estimate potential savings Cons Limits its active monitoring services to three years Shorter roof leak and workmanship coverage than other installers Some online reviews mentioned permitting and installation delays

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Palmettoโ€™s warranty protection includes a 25-year panel warranty, 12-year inverter warranty, 10-year workmanship warranty, and five-year roof penetration warranty.

Financing Options

โœ” Full purchase
โœ” Lease
โœ” Loan
โœ” PPA

State Availability

Available in: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia

Reputation and Reviews

Palmetto Solar received Solar Power World’s Most Forward-Thinking Contractor award in 2022. Inc. magazine recognized the company the same year with a Power Partner Award. Palmetto also aims to provide solar energy to underserved communities with its Get Solar, Give Solar program.

Palmetto Solar is accredited by the BBB and has an A+ rating from the site. While reading online reviews, we noticed that homeowners praised Palmetto for its dedicated installation managers and quality systems but mentioned very long waiting periods for permitting, plus installation delays.

Freedom Solar Power

4.4

Freedom Solar Polarย is a SunPower Master Dealer that provides high-efficiency solar systems. The company has 17 years of solar industry experience and partnerships with certified installers. Itโ€™s one of the few solar companies to offer grid-tied, ground-mount, carport, and off-grid solar solutions.ย 

How We Scored Freedom Solar Power

Freedom Solar scored 4.4 out of 5 stars according to our methodology. The company earned most of its points because of its comprehensive warranty coverage and reputable customer service. Its biggest drawback is its basic service selection.ย 

 

  • Solar Equipment and Services (16 out of 25 points): Freedom Solar has minimal service options compared to companies such as Elevation or ADT Solar. It offers solar panel and battery installation with active monitoring, but thatโ€™s it. We do like that it provides in-house installers to do the work.ย 
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (22 out of 25 points): Freedom Solar received many points for its 25-year warranty, which covers panels, workmanship, and performance.
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (14 out of 15 points): The company has a highly positive online reputation, including a strong BBB rating and accreditation, positive customer reviews, and no alerts or active lawsuits.ย 
  • Financing Options (10.5 out of 15 points): Freedom Solar only offers cash purchases and loan options with no in-house financing.ย 
  • Industry Experience (9 out of 10 points): The company holds 17 years of experience in the residential solar industry.
  • State Availability (6 out of 10 points): Freedom Solar limits its service area to five states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers rooftop, ground-mount, carport, and off-grid installations Provides preconstruction consultations with its home contractors Works with SunPower to install high-efficiency solar systems Cons Called out for underperforming solar systems in customer reviews Covers a limited service area Doesnโ€™t offer many system customizations

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Freedom Solar provides a comprehensive 25-year warranty covering product, workmanship, and panel performance.ย 

Financing Options

โœ” Full purchase
โœ” Loan

State Availability

Available in: Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.

Reputation and Reviews

Freedom Solar made Inc.โ€™s Regionals 2023: Southwest list for the fastest-growing private companies in America. Solar Power World chose the company as a Top Solar Contractorย nine times.

Freedom Solar is BBB accredited and holds an A rating from the organization. The company has many positive reviews on its BBB profile for its consistent installation updates and well-trained staff. However, negative reviews highlight issues reaching customer service.

Venture Solar

4.2

Venture Solar specializes in installing systems that are perfectly symmetrical and have no visible wiring or mounting devices. This design provides a simple, stylish look tailored to your roof’s appearance. Additionally, Venture offers comprehensive financing options similar to Sunrun, making solar energy more accessible to homeowners.

How We Scored Venture Solar

Venture earned 4.2 out of 5 stars. It gained most of its points due to its flexible financing options paired with an in-house financing department. It also provides plenty of solar services to match most customersโ€™ wants and needs, though it lost points for lacking roofing services, energy audits, and EV charger installations.ย 

  • Solar Equipment and Services (16 out of 25 points): Venture offers solar panel and battery installation with active monitoring. The company lost points in this category because it doesnโ€™t provide EV chargers, solar roof installation services, energy audits, and roof repairs.
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (25 out of 25 points): The company features excellent warranty perks with 25 years on labor, products, and performance. It also includes roof leak protection.ย 
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): Venture has a great reputation. It features high ratings on its BBB profile with an accreditation and no active issues like lawsuits.
  • Financing Options (14 out of 15 points): Venture provides financing options through an in-house financing team and works with every payment method except PPAs.ย 
  • Industry Experience (7 out of 10 points): The company holds only eight years of experience in the solar industry.
  • State Availability (7 out of 10 points): Venture has a limited service area of only three states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Provides transparent information about its financing options online Includes remote monitoring Includes a 25-year roof and system warranty with all panel systems Cons Requires your phone number to submit an online quote Reviews mention mixed experiences with customer support Doesnโ€™t work with power purchase agreement

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

Venture offers a 25-year bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers workmanship, products, and power output.ย 

Financing Options

โœ” Full purchase
โœ” Loan
โœ” Lease

State Availability

Available in: Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York.

Reputation and Reviews

Venture has an A+ rating and accreditation on its BBB profile. According to customer reviews, the company provides high-quality workmanship on its solar panel systems and good customer support. However, some customers have raised concerns about the pricing and quoting process. They found it confusing to determine the total cost of their system and experienced frequent back-and-forth over pricing.ย 

Some customers also noted that Venture focuses on premium products, leading to higher pricing even when unnecessary. We found several Reddit threads discussing Venture where other solar customers and installers mentioned similar experiences.

Solar Energy World

4.4

Solar Energy World (SEW) is one of the most robust and well-regarded solar installation companies. It boasts several impressive features, such as its 30-year manufacturerโ€™s warranty. Its service area is limited, and it doesnโ€™t offer energy auditing services. We like that SEW discloses what solar panels it primarily works with and that the panels are from trusted, quality brands such as Qcells and Silfab.

How We Scored Solar Energy World

SEW scored 4.4 out of 5 stars according to our methodology. The company received many points because of its warranty, which is longer than most other solar companiesโ€™ warranties. SEW offers a 30-year manufacturerโ€™s warranty on all its solar panels and inverters, whereas many providers only offer 25-year warranties.

  • Solar Equipment and Services (18 out of 25 points): The company is an ideal option for many basic solar products and services, such as solar panels and battery installation. It lost points because it doesnโ€™t install EV chargers or perform energy audits.
  • Warranty and Performance Guarantees (19 out of 25 points): SEWโ€™s manufacturer and labor warranties are standout features, but the company doesnโ€™t include any production guarantees with its work.ย 
  • Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (15 out of 15 points): The companyโ€™s reputation is one of the best, with high BBB and Google Reviews ratings. We also found no active alerts or lawsuits.
  • Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): SEW offers all possible solar payment options but doesnโ€™t provide an in-house financing department.ย 
  • Industry Experience (8 out of 10 points): The company has been in business since 2009, so it received most of the points in this category.
  • State Availability (6 out of 10 points): SEW limits its service area to eight East Coast states.

Pros and Cons

Pros Features an extensive solar product catalog with trusted brands Includes free active monitoring Hires NABCEP-certified installers and designers Cons Reviews mention communication issues with staff Warranty coverage varies by solar panel brand Doesnโ€™t offer a power production guarantee

Warranty and Financing

Warranty

SEW offers a 30-year manufacturerโ€™s warranty on all purchased solar panels and inverters. However, coverage varies by brand, and the company doesnโ€™t guarantee them with every panel option.ย 

Financing Options

โœ” Full purchase
โœ” Loan
โœ” Lease
โœ” PPA

State Availability

Available in: Washington, D.C, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Virginia

Reputation and Reviews

The company landed on Solar Power Worldโ€™s 2023 Top Solar Contractors List in the No. 10 spot.

The BBB accredits SEW, and the company holds an A+ rating. Former customers praise the company for its professionalism, assistance with applying for financial incentives, and smooth installation process. However, some reported discrepancies in finances and scheduling.


Other Companies We Reviewed

The following companies didnโ€™t make our list but are still worth considering.

  • LGCY Power: LGCY Power provides one of the best guided solar consultations and offers detailed online articles covering the solar installation process. The company also partners with Sunrun, one of our picks for top solar companies. 
  • Trinity Solar: Trinity Solar has served the Northeast for more than 28 years. The companyโ€™s in-house staff is certified by some of the solar industryโ€™s most prestigious programs.
  • Elevation: Elevation takes a holistic approach to solar energy by offering entire home energy upgrades. The company provides solar systems, batteries, and energy audits to help you save on energy costs. The company also sells Curb Energy Monitoring devices to track energy usage and control smart devices in your home.
  • Green Home Systems (GHS): GHS installs high-efficiency solar panels and solar shingles that blend in with your roof. We like the company’s solar roofing system because it’s a competitive option compared to Tesla’s solar roof.

Some companies didn’t make our list because we don’t recommend them to everyone. For example, Solar Is Freedom has limited services compared to other providers, and Vision Solar recently announced bankruptcy amid two lawsuits. We feel confident the providers suggested in our guide have solid bankability and top-tier service options. 


Are Solar Panels Worth It?

Though expensive to install, solar panels are worth the investment. They offer several benefits, including long-term cost savings and increased home value. Going solar also allows you to rely less on external electricity sources and gain protection from unforeseen disruptions in the power supply. Federal and state solar incentives help reduce initial installation costs, resulting in a better return on investment.

More than 3 million homes have reaped these benefits by converting to solar energy, with one million installations taking place in the last two years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Our survey of 1,000 customers showed that 94.6% of respondents felt installing solar panels was worth it. A majority of respondents said the transition reduced their energy bills.

How Do I Find The Best Solar Company in My State?

Some companies are available nationwide, while others have smaller service areas. Use our tool below to find which solar companies service your area.

Find a Solar Installation Company in Your State


What Should You Know About Solar Panel Equipment and Efficiency?

The solar equipment you choose plays a major role in your systemโ€™s performance and energy savings. Most homeowners choose rooftop installations to position their panels closer to the sun for optimal performance. You can add system upgrades, such as solar batteries, to extend your systemโ€™s functionality. Investing in high-efficiency solar panels will also help maximize your energy production. 

Solar Panel Equipment

Below is an overview of typical installation options and upgrades. 

  • Traditional solar panels: Monocrystalline solar panels are the most common among homeowners. These panels offer the best efficiency and power output but are the most expensive. Polycrystalline panels cost slightly less but are also less efficient, so you must buy more panels to power your home. 
  • Solar shingles and roofing: Solar shingles and roofing provide the same structural protection as traditional roofing while also powering your home with solar energy. They offer a sleek, integrated design at a much higher price than traditional panels. For example, the Tesla Solar roof costs more than its traditional solar panels coming in at roughly $38,400 for a standard-sized system
  • Solar batteries: Most homeowners add solar batteries to their systems to maximize energy production and store backup power. You can use this stored energy when the power grid is down to keep your home running. We recommend considering a solar battery if you experience frequent outages or have medical equipment that requires power.
  • EV chargers: Electric vehicle (EV) chargers offer a convenient at-home solution for EV owners. They use energy generated from solar panels to charge your vehicle at a lower rate than public charging stations.
QUICK Tip
Solar panelsโ€™ efficiency has improved significantly in recent years, with high-efficiency solar panels reaching rates of nearly 25%. We recommend focusing on solar panels with more than 20% efficiency to get the most out of your system.

How Do You Avoid Solar Scams?

Here are some tips for avoiding solar scams as you navigate the solar panel system buying process:

  • Avoid individuals offering “free” solar panels: If you encounter a salesperson who claims you can receive free solar panels, this is a misleading sales tactic that is most likely trying to get you to lease a system.
  • Don’t agree to pay up-front: Deposits are standard, but never pay in full until your system is installed, functioning properly, and has passed inspections.
  • Purchase your system if possible: Scammers may highlight low costs by leasing the system, but you need to own your system to benefit from most solar incentives such as the federal solar tax credit. Paying in full typically provides the most long-term savings and helps you avoid untrustworthy providers.
  • Read reviews: It’s important to conduct thorough research on each company you’re considering by checking third-party online reviews. Be cautious of any service provider with widespread negative reviews, complaints, or legal issues.
  • Watch for aggressive sales tactics: High-pressure sales tactics, unsolicited calls, and door-to-door pitches are all warning signs of pushy salespeople who aim to persuade you to make impulsive decisions.

Steps to EXPECT

Youโ€™ll typically meet with a representative to begin the installation process after you choose a solar provider. Here’s what to expect from this process based on our conversations with various installers.

A company representative will assess your propertyโ€™s solar potential and determine your energy needs. Many companies offer in-person or virtual consultations. Youโ€™ll need your most recent utility bill to help determine your average energy usage. We recommend analyzing bills from several months to get the most accurate estimate. 

The company representative will review your roofโ€™s structural integrity, available space, slope, and shading. This helps determine the best location for your solar panels. 

The rep will design a solar system to fit your needs with panels, components, and add-on accessory options. Youโ€™ll receive a finalized, detailed quote to approve. Most installers handle all necessary permitting and paperwork. The permitting process varies among areas but typically takes two to four weeks to complete. We recommend getting an estimated timeline for the entire installation process.

The solar company may use an in-house staff or third-party installers. To help avoid communication issues, we recommend asking for your projectโ€™s main point of contact. Most installations take one to two days, sometimes longer for complicated jobs.

Your solar company will coordinate with local officials for final activation approval. All installations must meet local codes and match the approved project designs. This process could take two to four weeks and depends on all partiesโ€™ availability.

Your system will receive permission to operate (PTO) once all parties approve the installation. The longest part of the installation is activation because you have to wait for local utilities to come out and put in a new meter. According to Matt Johnson, co-owner of Namaste Solar, โ€œThatโ€™s something that can take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on how backed up the utility isโ€. Your installer will connect the system to the grid and get final approval from the utility company for activation.


Which Solar Panel Installation Company Should You Choose?

Palmetto is our top-rated solar company due to its customized, high-performance, high-quality panels. You should consider Sunrun if you want excellent solar savings without committing to system ownership. We also like Blue Raven Solar because it provides competitive rates on high-efficiency systems and has one of the best financing programs for solar.

Consider your energy needs, budget, and local climate to determine the best solar energy company for you. We recommend getting multiple free quotes to compare costs, services, and warranty options.


FAQ About Solar Energy Companies

What are the disadvantages of solar energy?

The two main disadvantages of solar energy are the high initial cost and the dependence on weather conditions. Though solar panels are more affordable than ever, installing a solar energy system is still expensive. Additionally, the amount of energy a solar system generates can be affected by weather conditions such as clouds or storms, reducing the systemโ€™s overall efficiency and output.

Which is better: Sunrun or SunPower?

When comparing Sunrun vs. SunPower, the better option will depend on your needs. SunPower uses high-quality Maxeon panels paired with custom components to create high-performing systems. Sunrun offers unique leasing financing options that provide solar energy savings without buying your own system. Choose SunPower if having superior solar technology is a priority. Sunrun might be the better option for your home if youโ€™re interested in energy savings without system ownership.

How much energy would solar panels produce?

Most residential solar panels produce between 250 and 400 watts of power. The higher the wattage, the more power your home receives. A solar installer will analyze your current electricity usage and determine the number of solar panels for your home. You can also use this calculator from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to determine your solar panel size based on your energy usage.

Does homeowners insurance cover solar panels?

Yes, solar panels are covered under most homeowners insurance policies. This protection extends to damage caused by fire, wind, lighting, or other physical damage. Check your policy for complete details on your full coverage.ย 

How easy is it to go off-grid for solar?

Going off-grid is considerably harder than investing in a traditional grid-tied system. The cost of an off-grid system is a much higher investment than a typical residential system, averaging between $45,000 and $65,000. They require more detailed planning for daily energy consumption to account for adequate energy storage needs. We recommend sticking with a grid-tied solar system unless your home is too far from traditional electric company power connections.

What Brand Has the Best Quality Solar Panels?

SunPower offers the most efficient and best performing solar panels, with efficiency rates reaching 22.8%, higher than the average of 15%-22%.


Why Trust Us? We conducted 770+ hours analyzing online customer feedback and researching solar companies.
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Companies considered
1000
Homeowners surveyed
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Customer reviews analyzed
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Solar specifications compared

Our Rating Methodology

We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. We have researched solar companies for hundreds of hours, including deep-diving into each providerโ€™s website. We obtain warranty information through the website or by calling and interviewing customer service representatives. We analyze this warranty and weigh its coverage with industry standards. We also analyze each providerโ€™s product selection specifications to determine if they can disclose any partnerships or information on their products.

We ensure each provider follows the steps most solar installation companies should provide, such as in-home estimates and permitting, to offer quality solar panel installation. We also check to see if the companies are certified with NABCEP or if they partner with local, third-party contractors. We analyze recent customer reviews through popular review sites like the BBB and Google Reviews to gain further insight into what it is realistically like to interact with each providerโ€™s customer support staff and installers. We then synthesize this information to add to your rating scale. 

We cross-check all of our findings through surveys with thousands of residential solar energy customers and interviews with experts in the industry. We then have another industry expert fact-check our articles. From all this information and research, we create  a detailed rating system for solar providers based on six factors:

  • Solar equipment, installation, and services (25%)
  • Warranty and performance guarantees (25%)
  • Brand reputation and certifications (15%)
  • Financing options (15%)
  • Experience (10%)
  • Availability (10%)

Total scores are divided by 20 for a final 5-point rating scale.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.