We selected Blue Raven Solar as our top pick for affordable solar panels due to its budget-friendly in-house financing program and 18-month free solar offer. Blue Raven helps you qualify for additional solar incentives by providing both upfront and solar loan payment options, further reducing overall costs.
After researching dozens of top national solar companies, we chose the best affordable solar panel providers. Keep reading to explore other cost-effective options and find the best solar panels for your budget.
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Our Top Picks for Inexpensive Solar Panels
Check out our list of high-quality, affordable solar panels below to determine which brand is right for your home:
- Blue Raven Solar: Most Reputable
- Venture Solar: Best Northeast Regional Installer
- Solar Energy World: Best East Coast Installer
- Sunrun: Best Solar Panel Leasing
Blue Raven Solar
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, solar monitoring services, and energy audits. However, it doesn’t offer solar roofs, EV chargers, or additional roofing services.
- 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.
- 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 doesn’t ensure they’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 on this list, but it limits this financing to solar loans. You may want to consider a different provider, such as Sunrun, if you’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.
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
✔ Full purchase
✔ 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 Glassdoor’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 consumer reviews and found that some of these issues stem from the company’s financing department and third-party installers.
Venture Solar
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 solar financing options paired with an in-house financing department. It also provides plenty of solar services to match most customers’ wants and needs, though it lost points for lacking roofing services, energy audits, and EV charger installations.
- 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 doesn’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.
- 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.
- 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
- Doesn’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.
Financing Options
✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ 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.
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
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 manufacturer’s warranty. Its service area is limited, and it doesn’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 companies’ warranties. SEW offers a 30-year manufacturer’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 doesn’t install EV chargers or perform energy audits.
- Warranty and Performance Guarantees (19 out of 25 points): SEW’s manufacturer and labor warranties are standout features, but the company doesn’t include any production guarantees with its work.
- Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (15 out of 15 points): The company’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 doesn’t provide an in-house financing department.
- 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
- Doesn’t offer a power production guarantee
Warranty and Financing
Warranty
SEW offers a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty on all purchased solar panels and inverters. However, coverage varies by brand, and the company doesn’t guarantee them with every panel option.
Financing Options
✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ Lease
✔ 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 World’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.
Sunrun
We like Sunrun for its four financing options, including its unique leasing options if you don’t want to own your system. This stands out to us because the other companies on this list don’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 its 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 doesn’t provide roofing services or energy audits but does offer quality active monitoring assistance.
- Warranty and Performance Guarantees (19 out of 25 points): Sunrun offers quality warranties, such as its 25-year manufacturer and labor warranty, but doesn’t include a performance guarantee.
- Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications (13 out of 15 points): Sunrun has one of the higher customer BBB ratings we’ve encountered, and the company maintains an overall positive customer reputation online.
- Financing Options (13.5 out of 15 points): The company doesn’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
✔ Full purchase
✔ Loan
✔ Lease
✔ 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 DroneDeploy’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 Sunrun’s leasing and PPA options, though they also mention Sunrun is willing to discuss and clarify these plans.
Ways To Save Money on Solar Panels
Even if premium solar panels seem out of reach, several strategies can help reduce installation costs:
- Federal and state tax credits: The federal solar tax credit allows homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs. Many states also offer additional tax credits that further lower the cost of going solar.
- Local solar incentives and rebates: Some utilities and state governments offer cash rebates for installing solar panels, reducing upfront expenses. These incentives vary by location, so check with your utility provider for available programs. You can also check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for incentives in your area.
- Net metering: Many utility companies offer net metering, which lets you earn energy credits for excess solar power sent back to the grid. These credits help lower future electricity bills, maximizing long-term savings.
- Solar financing options: If paying upfront isn’t an option, solar loans let you spread payments over time while still benefiting from incentives. However, interest rates and loan terms affect your solar payback period, potentially extending it compared to a cash purchase. Leasing and PPAs offer low upfront costs but typically result in longer payback periods and lower lifetime savings.
How To Choose the Best Cheap Solar Panels
In your search for the best cheap solar panels, there are several factors you should keep in mind:
Solar Panel Types
The three most common types of solar panels are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.
Monocrystalline solar panels are the most popular. They’re made from a single silicon crystal and generate the highest efficiency rates. Homeowners also prefer this type of solar panel because of its sleek, black color. Keep in mind that these panels cost more than the other options.
Polycrystalline panels are recognizable for their blue color. These panels use multiple silicone fragments melded together. Since polycrystalline panels use older technology, their efficiency rates are lower than monocrystalline. However, they’re more affordable because they’re simpler to make.
Thin-film panels are made from one or more layers of photovoltaic material. They’re the easiest and fastest type of solar panel to manufacture, but their efficiency is much lower than the other kinds. To make up for their lower efficiency, you have to install more thin-film panels than you would other types, which will increase your installation costs. These panels are also more susceptible to wear and tear, leading to a shorter lifespan.
Efficiency
When shopping for solar panels, it’s important to consider each module’s efficiency. Efficiency is measured by the amount of sunlight that reaches a panel and is converted into energy. The higher the percentage, the greater the amount of electricity supplied to your home.
Ideally, you want to use the highest efficiency panels you can afford. most solar panels have efficiency ratings between 16% and 22%. The top-quality, high-efficiency panels cost the most.
If you need cheap solar panels, look for high-quality panels that fall within the 17% to 19% range. That should give you a good balance between affordability and efficiency.
Warranty
Solar panels usually have two warranties: one for the product and one for its performance. The product (or manufacturer’s) warranty covers any manufacturing defects, unexpected wear and tear, and environmental issues.
A standard product warranty lasts 10–12 years. However, some companies offer extended warranties as long as 25 or more years.
The performance warranty (or guarantee) covers the expected energy production for your panels. The terms will state a certain percentage of production you can expect after a set number of years.
Standard performance coverage guarantees 90% production for 10 years, dropping to 80% by 25 years. A few solar installers promise 90% or more for 25 years. Companies may also promise to upgrade or replace your equipment if it falls below these promised standards.
You may have additional warranties for the other solar products accompanying your panels, such as a solar battery, inverter, or an electric vehicle (EV) charger. Companies may include their coverage in a comprehensive warranty or as separate guarantees.
Price
The total cost of your panels is affected by all the factors above. For example, a premium set of monocrystalline panels with an efficiency rating of 22% will cost more than a value set of polycrystalline panels with a 16% rating. Pricing will also be determined by how you buy the panels. You may be able to get better deals through your selected solar panel installer than you would buying them yourself.
Here are some other contributing factors to consider when selecting solar panels:
- The wattage needed to run your home (estimated from your electric bill)
- The size of your roof and the number of panels that it can fit
- The tilt and direction of your roof
- Any shading or large objects that will interfere with your panels’ efficiency
Make sure that solar panel prices aren’t the controlling factor in your decision-making process. We recommend working with a professional solar panel installer to find your ideal panels. They can make the best recommendations for residential solar panels based on your energy needs while keeping you within your budget.
| Company | Star Rating | BBB Rating | Warranties |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | ||
A+ | 25 years | ||
A+ | 25–30 years | ||
A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship |
Our Conclusion
Blue Raven Solar is our top choice for budget-friendly solar panels, offering affordable financing options and 18 months of free solar to help homeowners reduce upfront costs.
When comparing options, consider warranty coverage, efficiency ratings, durability, and overall cost to find the best balance of affordability and performance. We recommend getting quotes from at least three solar providers to find the best deals.
FAQs About Cheap Solar Panels
Do rebates and tax credits help lower the cost of cheap solar panels?
Yes, solar rebates and tax credits can help lower the cost of your overall solar system rather than just the panels. Solar incentives are available from local city and state governments, though availability varies from state to state. Customers can also receive rebates from their local utility companies.
How do I pay for a solar panel system?
You can pay for a solar panel system upfront with cash or finance it through a solar loan, lease, or power purchase agreement (PPA). Loans let you own the system while spreading costs over time, while leases and PPAs offer lower upfront costs but reduce long-term savings. Incentives like the federal solar tax credit can also help lower the total cost.
How long do solar panels last?
Solar panel lifespan typically ranges from 25–30 years, though they can continue generating electricity at reduced efficiency beyond that. High-quality panels degrade more slowly than budget options, lasting longer with proper maintenance. In ideal conditions, some panels may reach a 40-year lifespan, though output gradually declines over time.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. After over a thousand hours of research on solar companies, interviews with experts, and common customer needs, we’ve created 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.
