SunPower Review (2024 Guide)
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We recommend SunPower to homeowners who want high-performing panels and maximum energy efficiency. Read our review to decide if it’s the right fit for your solar project.
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SunPower earned the highest score out of the 68 solar companies we’ve reviewed. The brand’s high-performing solar panels, mobile monitoring, and overwhelmingly positive customer reviews make it a standout in the solar industry. Our in-depth SunPower review explores the company’s solar products, warranty coverage, cost, and reputation to see how it compares to the industry’s other top solar companies.
How We Rated SunPower
We used a detailed methodology to score SunPower’s solar products and services in key categories. The company earned 4.8 out of 5 stars overall. Here’s how we rated it in each category:
- Equipment and services: SunPower lost points for lacking some solar products and services competitors often provide.
- Warranty: SunPower scored high in this category but lost points for not offering roof-leak coverage.
- Reputation and certifications: The company received full points for its strong reputation and multiple energy and industry certifications.
- Financing options: SunPower gives customers three in-house financing options.
- Experience: The provider’s nearly 40 years of experience make it a leader in the solar industry.
- Availability: SunPower has locations in all 50 states.
What Do We Think of SunPower?
We surveyed 1,000 homeowners who bought solar panels in the last three years and learned that SunPower is the second-most popular provider, out-chosen only by ADT Solar. Roughly 16% of respondents are SunPower customers, and 97% said they would recommend the brand.
SunPower may have a higher price tag than many industry competitors, but it also has a higher return on investment (ROI), given its panel efficiency. According to the Center for Sustainable Systems, most commercial solar panels have an efficiency rating between 17% and 20%. SunPower’s panels average 20.3%–23%, so while you may pay more for your solar panel system upfront, you can yield greater energy savings and a faster payback period.
Our research didn’t reveal substantial downsides to SunPower aside from cost, though we did note that the company outsources installation to third parties rather than sending an in-house crew. However, it outsources to a network of approved dealers, so your installer should be specially trained on SunPower panel installation.
Pros
- Makes highly energy-efficient solar panels, batteries, and EV chargers
- Has a 0% down financing option
- Provides comprehensive warranty coverage
Cons
- Doesn’t offer in-house solar installation
- Is known for costing more than many solar brands
- Limits its solar accessories to SunPower products only
What We Think Sets SunPower Apart
SunPower’s high-efficiency monocrystalline Maxeon panels set it apart from competitors. It also has a high Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and mostly positive customer reviews on the site.
What Are the Downsides of SunPower?
SunPower may not be the right company for you if you’re on a tight budget, especially if you don’t want to finance your system. While the company has a 0% down financing option, you’ll need a hefty sum for this costly system if you want to pay in cash upfront. This also isn’t a match if you want a solar roof design or panels made by manufacturers other than Maxeon, at least for the time being.
What Type of Solar Panels Does SunPower Install?
SunPower installs high-efficiency monocrystalline solar panels made by Maxeon, its former manufacturing division that split into its own company in 2020. Its exclusive supply agreement is reportedly ending in 2024. The panels produce more energy than many on the market thanks to their smooth surface and anti-reflective coating. SunPower systems have one of the highest efficiency ratings among today’s best solar companies at 20.3%–23%. The provider claims its panels produce 60% more energy than conventional solar panels. Panels’ copper backing and heat-responsive connectors also make them more durable.
SunPower has streamlined its custom solar systems for peak performance by eliminating third-party components. The SunPower Equinox System uses fewer panels than standard solar systems, creating a minimalist design for your home. This system works well for homeowners with limited space on their roofs or customers hoping to keep the number of solar panels they use to a minimum.
What Other Solar Products Does SunPower Sell?
SunPower also sells its own solar battery, the SunVault Storage System, with each installation. Customers can also add the optional Wallbox electric vehicle (EV) charger to their system.
The mySunPower app allows customers to monitor their system and solar batteries from their phones. The app details your current energy usage, the solar battery’s level, and past usage history.
The app includes weather updates that help you stay ahead of low sunlight conditions. Customers can also see the charge remaining in their battery, ensuring they can prepare for low-energy time frames or an unexpected power outage.
How Much Do SunPower’s Solar Panels Cost?
Data from the EnergySage Marketplace shows that SunPower solar panels cost between $3.15 and $3.97 per watt on average. This is substantially higher than the national average solar panel cost of $0.30–$1.50 per watt. This pricing puts a 10-kilowatt (kW) SunPower system at around $25,960–$36,960 before applying solar incentives such as the federal solar tax credit, which can reduce your total cost by thousands of dollars if you qualify.
What Are Customers Saying About SunPower?
SunPower holds an A+ rating on BBB and a 3.4 out of 5 stars from customers on the site. The provider’s accredited BBB profile shows no alerts and nearly 600 customer reviews. Though feedback is mostly positive, we did notice some negative themes.
The most common complaint is about getting technicians to come install or repair panels in a timely manner. Customers noted that installation and repair visits could take months to resolve, and some reported that they began being charged for the panels before they were even turned on. This may not entirely be an issue with SunPower—it could be scheduling and workforce issues with the dealer appointed to installation.
Positive themes were around panel performance and knowledgeable salespeople. SunPower customers cited helpful and friendly employees, and one noted having SunPower panels for 10 years that have offset most of his electricity costs.
How Does SunPower Compare to Other Solar Companies?
We’ve reviewed and scored dozens of solar power companies against our methodology. See how SunPower compares to other brands in the solar industry.
| Company | Star Rating | Warranties | Payment Options | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25–30 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 10–25 years | Full purchase, loan | GET QUOTE | ||
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan | GET QUOTE | ||
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 10–25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| N/A | N/A | GET QUOTE | ||
| 10-25 years | Full purchase, loan | GET QUOTE |
What Does SunPower’s Warranty Cover?
SunPower offers a comprehensive Complete Confidence Warranty, including 25 years of coverage for defects, workmanship, and performance for your entire system. SunPower guarantees a 92% output throughout the warranty. Any issues that arise will be repaired for free. SunPower also provides a 10-year warranty for its SunVault battery storage system and its monitoring software. Both warranties are included in the comprehensive warranty.
What Are SunPower’s Payment Options?
Three financing options are available. Each option includes a 25-year warranty:
- Full purchase: Customers can pay the total solar system price and own it immediately.
- Solar loan: Take out a loan with SunPower to own your system but make smaller payments over time. The company offers $0 down and a set monthly payment during your contract.
- Solar lease: Homeowners looking to pay for solar energy but not own the system outright can choose to lease. You can start the lease agreement with a fixed monthly payment and no deposit. If you sell your home with an active lease, you can transfer your agreement to the new homeowner. (This option will disqualify you from most solar incentives.)
Our survey data shows that the majority of solar buyers (49%) pay in full upfront. The second most used payment option is a solar loan at 23%.
What’s SunPower’s Installation Process Like?
SunPower offers several convenient digital options to help streamline the installation process for potential customers.
- Online design preview: The SunPower Design Studio lets you preview what your home would look like with a solar power system. You will also receive details about how solar technologies can benefit your home. This step is optional.
- Free online estimate: Homeowners begin the official installation process by filling out the form on SunPower’s website for a free quote. After providing your home information and current energy needs, SunPower shares your estimated savings if you were to go solar with the company.
- Virtual consultation: SunPower offers the convenience of a virtual consultation with one of its solar experts. You will review the options available for your home and take part in designing your ideal solar panel installation.
- Contracts and permits: Once you agree to the proposal from your consultation, SunPower begins the paperwork for your installation. The company will ensure you have all the necessary permits and approvals before construction begins.
- Solar installation: The company works with Master Dealers that execute installations on its behalf throughout the country. These dealers have passed a selective, invite-only process to ensure they’re among the most qualified solar technicians. The installation takes a day to complete, though it could take longer for more complex solar systems.
- Final inspections and activation: The completed home solar system must pass inspections by your utility company and the city to verify that all aspects are up to code. Your system will be activated once it passes all inspections.
Is SunPower Right for Me?
SunPower provides an optimized solar power system designed for efficiency. With its 25-year comprehensive warranty and the addition of an EV charger, homeowners can invest in an all-inclusive solar project guaranteed to last for many years. Although SunPower is more expensive than other solar companies, investing in high-quality, efficient solar panels ensures your system will generate the maximum amount of solar energy for your home.
We recommend SunPower to homeowners who prioritize energy efficiency above all else and those with high energy usage who need high-performing panels to reduce their electric bills.
Quick Tip
- Before committing to a company, we suggest looking into at least a few solar installers to ensure you get the best products and services for the price. Look at efficiency ratings, warranty coverage, and customer reviews, and get a free quote online or by phone to compare company pricing.
FAQ About SunPower
Is SunPower worth the extra money?
SunPower’s above-average energy efficiency, 25-year warranty coverage, and mostly positive customer reviews make it worth the upfront investment for many homeowners.
Can I trust SunPower?
SunPower’s ratings and reviews lead us to believe it’s a trustworthy company. The provider has an A+ rating on BBB and 3.4 out of 5 stars with nearly 600 reviews on the site.
How long do SunPower solar panels last?
SunPower claims its panels have an expected lifespan of 40 years.
Does SunPower install solar batteries?
Yes, SunPower installs solar batteries. The company offers its own solar battery backup, SunVault Storage, for a fully integrated SunPower system.
What type of solar panels does SunPower install?
SunPower partners with its former sister company, Maxeon, for solar panels. Maxeon made our list of the best solar panel brands for homes during our research.
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.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
