Going solar can help offset the cost of your power bills with clean energy, but choosing the right installer is important for long-term success. While Elevation is the This Old House team’s top recommendation, our research showed that Sunrun, Blue Raven, Palmetto Solar, and Venture Solar also deliver some of the best overall value and customer satisfaction.
After thoroughly researching 68 solar installers nationwide, interviewing industry experts, and analyzing feedback from 2,000 solar customers, we can help you choose the best solar company for your needs. We’ve spent over 770 hours analyzing everything from product specifications to installation quality and warranty terms to help you make an informed decision. This guide compares our picks for the best solar companies and explains why each one has earned its reputation in the industry.
Our Top Solar Company Picks
Here are our recommendations for the best solar installers in the U.S. Each provider offers solar panel and battery backup installation with a combination of other energy solutions backed by robust warranties and quality customer service.
- Elevation Solar: Best Energy-Efficient Upgrades
- Sunrun: Best Solar Panel Leasing
- Blue Raven Solar: Most Reputable
- Palmetto Solar: Best Customer Support
- Venture Solar: Best Northeast Regional Installer
Comparing the Best Solar Companies
Before you read the details on each provider, the table below provides an overview of our scoring, Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, and warranty options.
| Provider | Logo | Our Score (Out of 5) | BBB Rating | Warranty Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Elevation SolarGet Quote |  | A+ | 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship | |
SunrunGet Quote |  | A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | |
Blue Raven SolarGet Quote |  | A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | |
Palmetto SolarGet Quote |  | A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | |
Venture SolarRead Our Review |  | A+ | 25 years |
*The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of January 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Sunrun is our choice for the best solar company nationwide because of its robust solar equipment, services, and financing offerings.
- The average price of a standard solar panel system is about $14 per panel. The total cost is around $16,129. Several factors, such as the system’s size, the type of panels used, and the geographical location, influence this price.*
- Solar incentives, tax credits, net metering programs, and local rebates can help reduce the cost of installing solar panels.
*Cost data based on our 2025 survey of 1,000 residential solar customers.
Our Reviews of the Best Solar Companies
All reputable installers tend to offer similar base-level equipment, so while we research product specifics for each brand, we also focus on each company’s approach to system customization, pricing, and ongoing support. We explored how each of our top-rated companies handle these elements to help you find an installer that matches your needs.
Average Cost: $12,334
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 25–30 year workmanship
Performance Guarantee: Varies by solar panel manufacturer
Company Overview
- Focuses on home energy efficiency beyond just solar installation, such as insulation and HVAC upgrades
- Offers a highly transparent pricing model with itemized quotes
- Uses a comprehensive home approach, including energy audits and additional efficiency improvements
Keep in Mind
- Only operates in five states*
- May have a longer installation timeline due to a thorough assessment process, per customer reviews
Our Review
If you’re looking for more than just solar panels, Powered by Elevation takes a different approach to home energy solutions. Unlike traditional installers such as Sunrun or Blue Raven, which focus primarily on solar installation, Elevation starts with a comprehensive home energy audit to understand your complete energy profile. Its proprietary Curb energy monitoring system provides some of the most detailed energy usage tracking we’ve seen in the industry, helping you understand exactly where your power is going and how to optimize it.
What really sets Elevation apart is its commitment to total home energy efficiency. While most solar companies simply size a system based on your current usage, Elevation’s team identifies efficiency improvements that could reduce your energy needs before installing solar. This might mean suggesting upgrades to your home’s insulation, HVAC system, or other improvements alongside your solar installation. This selection is why it scores higher on our rating scale, but we placed it lower because our other top recommendations feature better service around only solar panel installation.
However, according to customer reviews we analyzed, Elevation’s thorough assessment process could mean longer installation timelines than companies such as Sunrun. While its pricing is transparent, with detailed itemized quotes, this approach comes at a premium. If you’re within their service area and interested in a whole-home energy solution rather than just solar panels, Elevation’s attention to detail makes it a compelling choice.
State Availability
- Arizona
- California
- Florida
- Nevada
- Texas
Customer Experiences
Elevation has an A+ rating and accreditation from the BBB with a 4.05 out of 5-star customer review rating. While some customers mentioned Elevation’s professional and helpful customer service staff and high-quality solar equipment, others noted ongoing problems with getting assistance from the company for system maintenance.
“For those who are looking to buy solar panels, you should consider Elevation—or at least give them a call and to answer your questions. Everyone has different experiences with solar companies, some good and some bad, but for me Elevation is the best. They were my first and only solar company and I have been with them for well over five years. …. I was very surprised to get a call back the same day. I was even more surprised that I have received several calls over the years just checking to see how my system was working and if everything was fine.” —Bil G. via the BBB in August 2024
“I have had multiple technical issues with the solar system [which was] installed in summer of 2022, requiring technicians to come to my home to perform repairs every few months. Given the young age of the system, it is frustrating to deal with this many quality issues. The parts are under warranty, but I have just been informed that Elevation has a ‘policy change’ and now each visit which was originally offered free of charge is now subject to a $200 fee for labor.” —Amber A. via the BBB in October 2024
Average Cost: $14,812
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship, 10-year roof penetration
Performance Guarantee: 90% of estimated energy production
Company Overview
- Includes high-quality battery storage solutions such as the Tesla Powerwall and its own unique Brightbox system
- Partners with major retailers such as Costco to offer member discounts
- Provides comprehensive system monitoring through its user-friendly mySunrun app
Keep in Mind
- Has mixed customer reviews, with some complaints about aggressive sales tactics
- Some lease contracts and power purchase agreements (PPAs) have long terms of 20–25 years
Our Review
Sunrun is one of the biggest names in the U.S. solar industry. With over 15 years of experience and operations in more than 20 states, Sunrun has established itself as a major player in residential solar.* Its partnerships with retailers such as Costco can offer attractive member discounts, and its comprehensive monitoring system through the mySunrun app helps you track your system’s performance. Plus, it provides solid battery storage options, including Tesla Powerwall and its own Brightbox system.
Brightbox is Sunrun’s branded version of the LG Chem battery system. It provides backup power during outages and maximizes solar energy usage. The system stores excess solar power generated during the day, allowing you to use that energy at night or during power outages. Depending on your energy usage, the system typically provides 20–30 hours of backup power to essential home appliances.
However, our research reveals that bigger isn’t always better in solar. While Sunrun’s size gives it significant resources, the company typically charges more than smaller local installers for similar installations. Unlike companies such as Blue Raven Solar, which consistently receives high marks for customer service, Sunrun’s performance varies significantly by location. This is partly because it often uses third-party contractors rather than in-house installation teams. Despite these issues, Sunrun is a stable, established choice with strong warranties and reliable technology.
State Availability
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Vermont
- Washington, D.C.
- Puerto Rico
Customer Experiences
Sunrun holds an A+ rating and is accredited by the BBB. Many customers have shared positive experiences regarding their initial installation and activation, noting that their solar system is producing energy efficiently. However, the majority of negative feedback is related to challenges with ongoing support and communication difficulties.
“I just completed my second year as a Sunrun customer and I have been very pleased with my solar panels and solar production. [My] Sunrun consultant has been very helpful, especially in how to understand my ComEd bills and how my solar panels save me money. He is very through in his explanations and patient with me. I highly recommend Sunrun for the quality of service and excellent products.” —Kathleen R. via the BBB in January 2024
“I was grandfathered into an existing contract on a home I purchased. … In the documents I was provided the total cost of the installation was approximately $11,000, but over the course of a 25 year contract, I’m expected to pay $26,000 and they still own the system and get the tax incentives. I’m at the five year mark where I am allowed to buy out my system, but so far from everything I read online, [a] so-called third-party independent appraiser is going to give me a ridiculous amount that is higher than the initial cost spent and call that ‘fair market value.’ They will and give no explanation of how that figure was determined.” —Jeff S. via the BBB in December 2024
Average Cost: $17,307
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year manufacturer, 10-year workmanship
Performance Guarantee: Two years based on the quoted amount
Company Overview
- Offers an innovative BluePower Plus+ financing program with 18 months of free solar
- Uses in-house installation teams rather than contractors
- Customer reviews describe quality customer service with dedicated project coordinators
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t offer leases or PPAs
- Has a more limited service area than some other companies*
Our Review
If you’re looking for top-tier customer service and transparent pricing, Blue Raven Solar stands out. What impressed us most during our research was the company’s consistent track record of clear communication and dedicated project management. These things are something that larger providers such as Sunrun often struggle with. Blue Raven uses in-house installation teams rather than contracted workers, which helps it deliver consistent quality.
Blue Raven’s financing approach is where it really shines. Its BluePower Plus+ loan program offers 18 months of free solar, making the transition to solar power more accessible for many homeowners. While it doesn’t offer leases or PPAs like Sunrun, Blue Raven’s financing options can work out better financially in the long run. Unlike leases, you own your system and can claim incentives with loan financing.
However, Blue Raven operates in only 17 states, primarily in the Midwest and Southeast, so it’s not an option for everyone. It also has a more limited selection of equipment compared to some providers, as it primarily works with Trina and Canadian Solar panels. And if you’re specifically looking for advanced battery storage solutions, you might want to consider other companies with more extensive battery offerings. That said, if you’re within its service area and looking for a straightforward solar installation with quality customer support, we recommend getting a quote from Blue Raven.
State Availability
- Colorado
- Florida
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Nevada
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oregon
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
Customer Experiences
Blue Raven Solar has earned an A+ rating and accreditation from the BBB. The company currently holds a customer rating of 4.25 out of 5 stars. Many customers commended Blue Raven for its professionalism and the quality of its installation services. However, some customers reported confusion about promotional offers, unwanted spam calls, and instances where systems did not meet promised energy goals.
“I had an incredible experience with Blue Raven Solar from start to finish. The entire team was professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to making the process seamless. … The installation was done efficiently and on schedule. Their customer service was excellent—any questions I had were promptly answered [with] no long hold times and they kept me informed at every step. I’m excited to see significant savings on my electric bills, and it’s nice to know that I am contributing to a greener planet.” —Kevin B. via the BBB in December 2024
“We took some time to consider putting solar panels on our house, and ultimately said yes. The panels were installed on our roof at the end of August. Inspection failed on October 9 due to [a] lack of critter guard installation. This is required by the city, and a competent project manager would know this. … We have emailed and called numerous people within the company, with very little return communication. … During this waiting process, we have been contacted by the loan company to start paying back the loan. Luckily, they will defer payments until they are operational, however, interest will still accrue. So there[‘]s no problem with Blue Raven getting their money without supplying the customer with the product and service.” —Scott I. via the BBB in December 2024
Average Cost: $21,812
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship
Performance Guarantee: 95% of estimated energy production
Company Overview
- Customers report satisfactory service and a quick installation processes
- Offers comprehensive monitoring and maintenance service through its Palmetto Protect plans
- Provides virtual consultations and online quotes
Keep in Mind
- Uses third-party contractors in some locations rather than in-house teams
- May charge higher prices for solar installation than competitors
Our Review
If you’re tech-savvy, Palmetto Solar offers something unique. The company’s standout feature is the Palmetto Protect plan, which provides some of the most comprehensive solar monitoring and maintenance in the industry. Unlike basic monitoring systems from companies such as Sunrun or Blue Raven, Palmetto provides detailed performance tracking, proactive maintenance alerts, and easy access to customer support through its user-friendly mobile app.
Operating in 19 states, Palmetto offers high-quality equipment and long-term customer support. Its equipment selection includes top-tier manufacturers, and its 25-year panel warranty matches industry standards. However, the company may charge higher prices compared to some competitors. Palmetto’s installations typically come at a premium, especially when you factor in the additional cost of its Palmetto Protect service.
The main trade-offs with Palmetto include its installation model and pricing structure. Unlike Blue Raven Solar, which uses in-house teams, Palmetto often works with third-party contractors, leading to some inconsistency in installation quality and timing across locations. While Palmetto’s technology platform is impressive, you’ll need to weigh whether the higher costs justify the additional features.
State Availability
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- Nevada
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Virginia
Customer Experiences
Palmetto Solar holds an A+ rating from the BBB, but is not accredited. The company has a customer review score of 3.25 out of 5 stars. Positive feedback highlights the responsiveness and assistance provided by Palmetto employees, including customer service agents and installers. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out challenges related to ongoing support and difficulty in reaching customer service after the initial installation.
“Working with Palmetto staff has been easy from our first conversations to switching on our panels. The[y] provided answers to our questions—researching answers they weren’t 100% on. Husband was very skeptical about solar, but the [rep] did her best to address each issue. She managed to leave him without further concerns! Rather than financing, we received a significant discount for paying cash…. Install was easy and without issues. We became operational a few weeks after installation was complete. We’ve been operational almost six months and are happy with performance and monthly electric bill savings.” —Cheryl L. via the BBB in November 2024
“We have … panels owned by Palmetto on our house and are attempting to refinance so we need a temporary release/subordination….The customer service has been terrible. They are not responding to our lender’s email requests. My husband tried to call three times and was promised an automated call back which never happened, and they haven’t responded to our emails. Beware using this company, their customer services is terrible!” —Amanda L. via the BBB in October 2024
Average Cost: $13,636
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year manufacturer and labor warranty
Performance Guarantee: Varies by solar panel manufacturer
Company Overview
- Uses in-house installation teams for more consistent quality
- Has a strong presence in the Northeast with local expertise
- Creates custom system designs based on a detailed roof analysis
Keep in Mind
- Has limited battery storage options compared to larger providers
- Only operates in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York
Our Review
If you’re looking for top-tier installation quality in the Northeast, Venture Solar has built an impressive reputation. Venture keeps everything in-house with its own installation teams, which shows in its attention to detail. Venture is particularly skilled at handling the unique challenges of Northeast homes, such as working around snow and ice and historic properties with complex roof designs. Venture’s workmanship warranty is one of the longest we’ve seen, covering your installation for 30 years compared to the typical 10-year coverage from most competitors.
While some companies such as Blue Raven focus on rapid installations, Venture takes extra time to analyze your roof structure and shading patterns in detail. This can mean longer wait times during peak seasons, but the resulting systems can offer more efficiency and better integration with your home’s architecture. Also, Venture’s project managers provide consistent communication throughout the process, which is a change from the sometimes spotty communication you might experience with larger national providers.
However, Venture is currently limited to New York, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas, and the company doesn’t offer lease or PPA options as with some larger providers. If you’re in Venture Solar’s service area and value quality over cost, the company’s combination of technical expertise and attention to detail makes it a standout choice.
State Availability
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- New York
Customer Experiences
Venture Solar holds BBB accreditation with an A+ rating and boasts a customer rating of 4.73 out of 5 stars. Customers often praise the professionalism and efficiency of the company’s scheduling and installation teams. However, some negative reviews express dissatisfaction with the length of time required for inspections and activation.
“Last Thursday I had the pleasure of having 36 solar panels installed on my home by Venture Solar. I am thrilled to share that my experience was nothing short of exceptional! The entire process took just one day, and the team worked efficiently and professionally. The installers exhibited a high level of expertise, ensuring everything was done to the best standards. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, the customer service was outstanding, with clear communication every step of the way. Whether it was the sales team, project manager, or support staff, everyone went above and beyond to provide a seamless experience.” —Timothy F. via the BBB in January 2025
“After initial installation of [my] solar system, they started to charge my account, though it never produced a watt of electricity for me. On top of that, my electricity bill went up 100% percent. I informed the company that there is an issue and they admitted it, but nothing happened since then. They [are] charging my account monthly, [but] I am not receiving any power, instead I am having 100% higher bills.” —Dimitry P. via the BBB in August 2024
Solar Insights, Regulations, and Incentives
The solar industry is experiencing remarkable growth, with residential solar installations increasing by 40% year over year as of late 2023. Rising electricity costs, improved solar technology efficiency, and federal incentives largely drive this surge. The federal solar tax credit remains at 30% through 2032. The federal solar tax credit enables you to claim 30% of the total cost of your solar panel system as a credit against your federal taxes. For example, if the installation of your solar panel system costs $10,000, you will receive a tax credit of $3,000.
At the state level, regulations and incentives vary dramatically. Some states, such as California, have mandated solar panels for new residential construction, while others offer additional tax incentives, rebates, or performance payments. Net metering policies, which allow you to sell excess power back to the grid for billing credits, remain a hot topic, with some states scaling these programs back and others strengthening them. For example, California’s updated NEM 3.0 policy has reduced the value of excess solar energy sold back to the grid, while states such as New York and Massachusetts maintain more generous compensation rates.
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 has also transformed the solar landscape by extending and expanding various clean energy incentives. In addition to the 30% federal tax credit, the act provides additional incentives for American-made equipment and battery storage systems. Utility companies are increasingly implementing time-of-use rates and demand charges, making battery storage more attractive for homeowners looking to maximize their solar investment by using stored energy during times of increased grid rates.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company
When choosing a solar installer, evaluate the company’s credentials and specific offerings for your home. The best solar companies typically have at least five years of experience, strong manufacturer partnerships, and proper certifications, including North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification for installers. Insurance coverage is important, too—look for companies that carry both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to protect you and your property during installation.
Here is a list of key factors to consider when comparing solar companies:
- Certifications and insurance: Check that the company has NABCEP certification for its installers and any state-specific licensing. Ask about its general liability insurance, which should include a minimum of $1,000,000 in coverage, as well as workers compensation insurance.
- Customer support: Gauge the company’s responsiveness during the sales process by asking about any project timeline commitments. Check the company’s post-installation support and customer reviews and ratings on platforms such as the BBB and Google Reviews. You can also check for any complaint resolution history on these sites.
- Experience: Check to see how many years the installer has been in business and whether it has an installation track record. Ask about its financial stability and manufacturer partnerships. Also, check to see if it uses in-house installation teams or subcontractors. Subcontractors are a common occurrence in the solar industry, but we recommend you seek companies with in-house teams for more consistent quality and easier communication. However, subcontractors do not automatically mean you’ll receive less quality service.
- Financial options: The more financing options a company offers, including cash purchases, solar loans, solar leases, and PPAs, the better. Ask about any interest rates, terms, and down payment requirements for a loan or lease.
- Products and services: Check into the reputable brands of panels and inverters offered by the installer. The same goes for the installer’s battery storage options and system monitoring capabilities. A company offering additional services, such as roof repair and other energy efficiency upgrades, is a good sign, as it can help you streamline your entire home energy upgrade process.
- Warranties: A reputable solar installer should offer a 25-year equipment warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. High-quality companies may also include a power production guarantee for your system output and a roof protection warranty.
How Much Does Installing Solar Cost?
Solar panel costs have become increasingly competitive in recent years, offering a more attractive investment for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint. As of 2025, solar costs about $14 per panel. Most home solar energy systems cost around $16,129, according to our 2025 survey of 1,000 residential solar customers. However, the total cost of a solar installation depends on various factors, including system size, panel type, location, and local labor costs.
When considering solar panel installation, it’s important to understand that the price isn’t just about the panels themselves. The total cost includes hardware such as racking, wiring, and inverters, as well as labor for installation. Your roof’s size, angle, and complexity can also impact the overall cost, as can local permitting fees and regulations. Additionally, the choice of solar panel brand, efficiency, and output rating can affect the price, with higher efficiency panels generally costing more but potentially requiring fewer panels overall.
To give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to pay, here’s a breakdown of typical solar costs across systems sized for residential use.
| System Size (kW) | Cost Per Watt | Total Installed Cost | Cost After 30% Federal Tax Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $2.56 | $12,800 | $8,960 |
| 6 kW | $2.56 | $15,360 | $10,752 |
| 7 kW | $2.56 | $17,920 | $12,544 |
| 8 kW | $2.56 | $20,480 | $14,336 |
| 9 kW | $2.56 | $23,040 | $16,128 |
| 10 kW | $2.56 | $25,600 | $17,920 |
Cost data in this table was sourced via EnergySage.
Survey Insights from Solar Customers
In 2025, we surveyed 1,000 homeowners across the U.S. who had recently purchased and installed solar panel systems. Our goal was to understand their experiences, costs, and the factors that influenced their choice of a solar provider.
One key takeaway was that the majority of homeowners spent approximately $16,129 on their solar panel system, with an average of 14 panels installed per home. This investment translated into notable energy savings, with most homeowners reporting a monthly reduction of $196 on their power bills—equivalent to about $14 per panel in savings.
When it came to choosing a solar installer, our survey revealed that most respondents did not go with a well-known national brand. Instead, the majority selected local or regional solar companies, as indicated by the high number of respondents selecting “Other” when asked about their chosen provider. This trend suggests that homeowners may prefer the personalized service, competitive pricing, and local expertise offered by smaller, regionally focused solar companies over larger, national brands.
53% of homeowners cited reducing electricity bills as their main reason for installing solar panels. These findings highlight the financial benefits of solar energy while also emphasizing the importance of researching and selecting a solar company that aligns with both budget and service expectations.
FAQs About the Best Solar Companies
How long does it take to install a solar system?
The installation process typically takes 1–3 days. However, permitting, inspection, and utility approvals can extend the timeline to 1–3 months.
Do solar companies maintain the system after installation?
Many companies offer maintenance packages or warranties that cover repairs and upkeep after installation. However, solar systems typically require minimal maintenance, such as occasional cleaning and visual inspections. This differs if you purchase your system with a lease or PPA, however, in which case the installer maintains ownership and system upkeep as a result.
How do I know if my home is suitable for solar panels?
The suitability of solar panels on your roof depends on several key factors. South-facing roofs maximize sunlight, while east or west-facing roofs can still work but produce slightly less energy. Roof slopes between 15 and 40 degrees are ideal for performance. Make sure your roof is in good shape, with any necessary repairs completed before installation. Investigate local climate conditions using tools such as Google’s Project Sunroof or the Global Solar Atlas for insights.
What happens to solar panels during cloudy days or at night?
Solar panels still produce electricity during cloudy days but at a reduced rate. Depending on the thickness of the cloud cover, panels may generate 10%–50% of their typical output. Solar panels do not generate electricity at night because they require sunlight to activate the photovoltaic cells. Installing solar batteries lets you store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or on cloudy days.
How We Evaluated Solar Companies
We ranked the top solar installation companies based on equipment and service options, warranties and performance guarantees, certifications, and experience. We made sure every company offers at least high-quality monocrystalline solar panel installation and backup battery storage options.
Our Rating System
To determine the best of the best in residential solar energy, we’ve created a rigorous methodology that helps us analyze providers. We assessed each company in six key areas, from service options to the fine print of warranty coverage.
Here’s a breakdown of our solar panel installer methodology:
- Solar equipment and services: We read through each provider’s service catalog to learn what residential solar services they offer, including helpful additional services such as a dedicated app or web portal, energy audits, monitoring services, and roofing services. These services both help speed up and maintain solar panel installation. We also checked into whether or not a provider uses in-house installation crews or outsources to a third-party company.
- Warranty and performance guarantees: We went through each company’s warranty coverage and guarantees to make sure you receive adequate coverage and protection for factory malfunctions or improper installation issues. Companies that offer 25 years or more on workmanship and performance received the most points, with additional points offered for including a production guarantee or roof leak coverage.
- Brand reputation and professional certifications: We checked each provider on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and analyzed hundreds of its most recent customer reviews to get realistic insight into what it’s like to work with that company. Additionally, we checked for ongoing lawsuits or alerts, and that the company holds NABCEP certification.
- Financing options: We reviewed each company’s payment and financing options. The more payment methods offered, the more points a company received in our review. However, offering leases and PPAs resulted in fewer points, which we find less desirable for long-term cost-effectiveness. We also gave additional points if the company provides in-house financing rather than relying on a third-party lender.
- Industry experience: The longer a company has been in the residential solar industry, the more points it earned in our review.
- State availability: We checked each provider’s service area. The more states a company offers solar panel and battery installation, the more points it received in our review.
