Transitioning to solar power reduces your carbon footprint, improves your energy efficiency, and lowers your energy bills. If you’re considering a move to clean energy, you may be unsure about how to find the right company for your home. Converting to solar power requires a significant investment, so you’ll want to dedicate time to researching solar companies and their services.

The This Old House Reviews Team spent hundreds of hours to researching solar installers and gaining a better understanding of the solar industry as a whole.

We reviewed and scored 100 nationwide and regional solar companies to find the leading providers. The top 10 options make up our list. 

We evaluated each company based on the following criteria:

  • Payment options: We awarded higher scores for solar companies with multiple solar system financing options. We included providers that offer financing solutions that qualify homeowners for solar incentives, credits, and rebates. 
  • Reputation: We checked installers for their long-term business histories and industry experience. We conducted extensive brand reputation checks to evaluate Better Business Bureau (BBB) scores, pending lawsuits, and any outstanding negative behaviors. Our research included any accolades received by respected trade publications, government agencies, regional business organizations, and workplace recognitions.   
  • State availability: We looked for companies with larger service areas and resources to adequately serve their customers. We also included smaller solar installers that specialize in regional installations. We want to ensure our readers have a diverse selection of solar providers for most areas. 
  • Solar services: Our research included finding companies that offer a diverse catalog of solar products such as panels, inverters, solar storage, and electric vehicle options. We also scored companies higher if they provide additional services such as energy efficiency audits, performance-tracking apps, and panel maintenance services. 
  • Warranty options: Our scoring included evaluations for warranty length and coverage options. These options included workmanship protections, manufacturer coverage, and panel performance guarantees. Solar providers with better warranty protections received higher scores. 

Along with our comprehensive review, we offer advice on how to evaluate each company to find the right provider for your home.

Compare Solar Companies

Star Rating Superlative Location Presence BBB Rating Link
SunPower
Most Energy-Efficient 50 States A+
ADT Solar
Best Protection 23 States A+
Momentum
Most User-Friendly 11 States A+
Blue Raven
Most Reputable 22 States A+
Green Home Systems
Best Solar Roofing Options 10 States A+
Elevation
Best for Whole-Home Integration 5 States A+
Trinity
Most Experienced 9 States A+
Sunrun
Best Financing Options 20 States A-
Tesla Solar
Best Availability 50 States A+
Palmetto
Best Customer Service 24 States A+
SunPower
Logo SunPower
Star Rating
Superlative Most Energy-Efficient
Location Presence 50 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
ADT Solar
Logo ADT Solar
Star Rating
Superlative Best Protection
Location Presence 23 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
Momentum
Logo Momentum
Star Rating
Superlative Most User-Friendly
Location Presence 11 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
Blue Raven
Logo Blue Raven
Star Rating
Superlative Most Reputable
Location Presence 22 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
Green Home Systems
Logo Green Home Systems
Star Rating
Superlative Best Solar Roofing Options
Location Presence 10 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
Elevation
Logo Elevation
Star Rating
Superlative Best for Whole-Home Integration
Location Presence 5 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
Trinity
Logo Trinity
Star Rating
Superlative Most Experienced
Location Presence 9 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
Sunrun
Logo Sunrun
Star Rating
Superlative Best Financing Options
Location Presence 20 States
BBB Rating A-
Get Quote
Tesla Solar
Logo Tesla Solar
Star Rating
Superlative Best Availability
Location Presence 50 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote
Palmetto
Logo Palmetto
Star Rating
Superlative Best Customer Service
Location Presence 24 States
BBB Rating A+
Get Quote

 


 

Best Solar Companies of March 2023

Our team has spent over 200 hours reviewing and rating the most reputable solar companies in the industry. Here are our top picks for the best solar companies of March 2023:

 


 

How Do Solar Panels Work?

Solar panels work by absorbing sunlight and releasing electrons. The free electrons generate electricity, which flows to the solar panel’s microinverter, converting it into power that your home can use. Any excess electricity your solar panels produce is stored in your solar battery or sent back to the electrical grid.

 


 

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 system’s overall efficiency and output. Nevertheless, the benefits of using solar energy, such as its sustainability and long-term cost savings, make it a valuable option for many homeowners.

 


 

How Does the Solar Tax Credit Work?

The federal solar tax credit allows homeowners to receive 30% of their solar panel installation costs back, helping reduce their overall investments. This credit is applied during tax time to reduce or eliminate your federal tax liability. Any remaining credits can roll over to the tax period. The solar tax credit is limited to new customers who own their solar systems. This credit decreases to 26% in 2033 and lowers to 22% in 2034.

 


 

How Does Solar Financing Work?

Solar financing includes various payment options to help make the transition to clean energy more affordable. Many companies offer two or more financing choices to meet their customers’ budgets. Typical financing options include cash payments, solar loans, solar leases, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). Compare the different plan options offered by most solar companies below.

OptionPurchaseLoanLeasePPA
OwnershipHomeownerHomeownerSolar companySolar company
Purchase optionPurchase in fullPurchase and financePay set monthly payments for installed solar panelsPay monthly payments based on energy generated by the system
Up-front paymentFull system costAs low as $0 downAs low as $0None

 


 

How To Choose a Solar Company

Most solar installers have similar installation processes, but their reputation and services vary. Below are the steps you should take to ensure you receive quality service and installation.

  1. Prepare and research for your project: Before reaching out to solar installers, ensure you’re prepared for the quote process. Ask yourself vital questions, such as: Will the solar panel be on or off the grid? Where will the solar panels be installed? How much power do I need? Should I buy solar shingles? 
  2. Vet the solar company: Solar licenses vary by state, so check your area’s state solar certification and licensing requirements. In addition, hire an installer certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Following these steps will ensure you receive installation from a professional with quality credentials and insurance to protect you from liability. 
  3. Get a contract and create a payment plan: Obtain a contract with everything written out in fine detail. Check the contract for a set down payment, an agreed-upon payment schedule, clearly written terms and conditions, and the company’s license number and contact information.
  4. Keep all records: Save any project records in case an issue arises. Hold onto any receipts for materials and labor hours worked. Keep progress photos and detailed daily progress records.
  5. Know your rights: If your project is abandoned or not completed according to the contract terms, you have the right to withhold final payment. If a solar company harasses you for payment in this situation, report them to your local consumer affairs office.

 


 

Find A Solar Installation Company in Your State

What To Look for in a Solar Company

An investment in solar panels yields many benefits, including long-term energy savings and a reduction in your carbon footprint. Those energy savings could translate to a boost in your home’s value. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), each $1 saved on monthly energy bills increases home value by $20. For example, a home that saves $500 per year with solar energy increases its property value by $10,000. 

To maximize your savings potential, it’s important to invest in a reputable solar company. Homeowners should compare companies based on their reputation, experience, warranty coverage, and other essential factors. Below is an overview of the key factors to review when comparing potential solar companies.

Consultations and Estimates

Comparison shopping is the best way to find the right solar installer for your home. Many solar providers offer free consultations that include a review of your energy use, potential solar savings, solar system plans, and upgrade options. Some companies also assist you in applying for solar incentives that help offset your installation costs. 

We suggest requesting free quotes from at least three companies to evaluate their services, financing, and warranties. Solar companies should provide you with full quote details including final system costs, accessories, and permitting fees. Make sure your selected companies provide full disclosure on all pricing information before signing a contract. 

Reputation and Experience

As with other industries, reputation and experience play a vital role in a company’s trustworthiness and success. When reviewing a potential solar company, we recommend considering companies with 10 or more years in the business. Although many new solar companies are started every year, the industry has a high turnover rate for new businesses, leaving customers stranded without support. 

Along with experience, you should also consider the company’s reputation. Companies with a history of poor customer service, delayed installations, and unreliable warranties should be avoided. The most reputable companies are held in high regard by customers, trade organizations, and the employees themselves. 

State Availability

You must find a solar panel installer that services your ZIP code. Many large-scale providers offer nationwide coverage, but the coverage area actually varies by ZIP code. When researching solar companies, ensure that your selection options cover your home and have local service technicians available.

Warranty Offerings

Warranty plans can differ based on each company’s products. If the company works with several manufacturers for each component, you could have separate warranties for the panels, inverters, and energy storage devices. Alternatively, a solar provider could offer all-inclusive warranty coverage for its in-house products. A high-quality solar system can last 25 years or more, so you should keep your investment protected through its lifetime.

When searching for a solar company, pay attention to the types of warranties offered. They usually fall into these categories:

  • Manufacturer’s warranty: Protects the individual components of the solar system in case of defects.
  • Workmanship warranty: Covers installation in case of poor workmanship or faulty installation materials.
  • Performance guarantee: Certifies the solar system’s output as outlined in your contract.

The top companies offer 25-year warranties in each of these cases, though some limit their workmanship warranty to 10 years. We recommend finding a company that provides 25-year warranties that can cover the lifetime of your solar investment.

User Reviews and Ratings

When considering a solar company, remember to check online reviews and ratings. Trusted review sites, such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Trustpilot, and Best Company, offer a glimpse into current and past customer experiences. Read both positive and negative reviews to get a better sense of how the company treats its customers and meets their needs. Check for mentions of solar equipment, warranty claims, service technicians, and customer support. Homeowners should also check for mention of the installation process including any issues with permitting, activations, and complaints about project delays.

 


 

Our Recommendation for Solar Companies

Below are our picks for the best solar companies.

SunPower: Most Energy-Efficient

SunPower creates some of the most energy-efficient systems in the country. It manufactures all system components in-house, ensuring each element works together in one streamlined solar energy system.

States available: All 50 states, but varies by ZIP code

Why We Chose SunPower

SunPower offers high-quality solar systems custom-designed to provide homeowners with the highest efficiency possible.

SunPower combines highly efficient solar panels with in-house components to create a streamlined solar system. Its product catalog includes four panel options and various electric vehicle (EV) chargers to customize your system. SunPower offers its exclusive SunVault energy storage system that stores your excess energy for use overnight or during power outages. The mySunPower monitoring app allows customers to monitor their system performance, track energy consumption, and control stored energy usage.

SunPower backs its solar products with an all-inclusive 25-year warranty. This covers all solar system elements, additional storage or charging add-ons, and required maintenance. Though SunPower’s solar panels cost more than other companies, they’re some of the most efficient available.

Pros and Cons of SunPower

Pros Nationwide availability Solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicle chargers produced in-house 25-year all-inclusive warranty covering full system and components
Cons Only sells SunPower products More expensive than other companies

SunPower Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year all-inclusive warranty covers entire system and workmanship

Financing options: Full purchase, loan, lease

Reputation and Awards

Since 1985, SunPower has committed itself to developing innovative solar technology, including its high-efficiency monocrystalline solar panels. In 2020, the company moved the panel manufacturing division into a separate company called Maxeon Solar Technologies. 

SunPower continued to develop its own solar products, including mounts, microinverters, batteries, and software. The company received PV Magazine’s 2019 Sustainability Award for “outstanding sustainability leadership in the solar industry.” In 2022, SunPower received the Good Housekeeping’s 2022 Home Renovation Award in the Biggest Energy Savers category. The company was recognized for its innovative SunVault energy storage system.

SunPower currently holds an A+ rating and is accredited with the BBB.

Learn more: SunPower Solar review


 

ADT Solar: Best Protection

ADT Solar (formerly Sunpro Solar) provides the best protection of any provider on this list. It offers extended warranty coverage on labor, panels, and inverters plus a 25-year power production guarantee.

States available: Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia

Why We Chose ADT Solar

ADT Solar offers leading comprehensive warranty coverage plus additional guarantees for long-term power production.

ADT Solar offers ample coverage to protect your solar investment. Its power production guarantee—a rarity in the solar industry—states your system will produce a projected amount of energy over 25 years. The company will pay you $.10 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) if your production level falls short.

ADT Solar also includes system monitoring through the Enphase MyEnlighten mobile app, allowing customers to measure their system’s energy production remotely.

Pros and Cons of ADT Solar

Pros Offers self-monitoring through Enphase MyEnlighten Protects installation with 25-year power production, panel, inverter, and labor warranty Provides three financing options
Cons Available in only 23 states Doesn’t provide up-front pricing information online

ADT Solar Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year comprehensive warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan

Reputation and Awards

Though ADT Solar is new to the solar industry, it’s been an established home security company since 1874. After its acquisition of Sunpro Solar in 2021, it soon became one of the largest solar providers in the United States. The former company, which began in 2008, was ranked No. 8 for Solar Power World’s 2019 Top Solar Rooftop Contractors and brought years of industry experience to ADT.

ADT Solar is accredited by the BBB and holds an A+ rating.

Learn more: ADT Solar review


 

Momentum Solar: Most User-Friendly

Momentum Solar handles every aspect of the process in-house, from pricing and financing to design and installation. The company provides a frequently updated blog that informs and educates homeowners about their solar energy systems.

States available: Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas

Why We Chose Momentum Solar

Momentum Solar simplifies the move to clean energy by sending their customers project updates and educational resources throughout the installation process.

Momentum Solar offers more panel options than any other provider on our list and gives customers more design and pricing options. The company provides information about and helps with enrollment in government rebate programs and other incentives. Its interactive mobile tracking app provides timely updates on your installation progress. The app also allows customers to track their energy usage by month, day, or hour and verify their system’s overall health and performance.

Momentum protects its systems with  25-year warranties for product and workmanship coverage. 

Pros and Cons of Momentum Solar

Pros Has a mobile app that helps customers monitor their system installation and status Offers seven solar panel brands for better customization Offers customer rewards through the Momentum Family Referral Program
Cons Doesn’t provide online quotes or pricing information Not available nationwide

Momentum Solar Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year product warranty, 25-year workmanship warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA

Reputation and Awards

Since it began in 2009, Momentum Solar has become the largest privately held solar company in the United States. And since 2016, it has earned a spot on the Inc. 500 and Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies. Momentum has also annually ranked on the top 50 Rooftop Solar installers list for Solar Power Magazine since 2018.

Momentum Solar holds an A+ rating and is accredited by the BBB.

Learn more: Momentum Solar review


 

Blue Raven Solar: Most Reputable

Blue Raven Solar stands out as one of the most reputable companies, with an average score of 4.47 on top review sites, including the Better Business Bureau and Google Reviews.

States available: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington

Why We Chose Blue Raven Solar

Blue Raven Solar stands out for its reputation among its customers and solar industry peers.

Blue Raven Solar offers reliable systems with a 25-year warranty, 10-year workmanship warranty, and two-year production guarantee. The company will upgrade your system for free if it doesn’t meet its energy production estimates.

Customers can pay for their system in full or select the BluePower Plus+ loan, which provides 18 months of free solar energy with no up-front costs. The first five years of the loan payments are locked into a fixed rate through the SmartStart program.

Pros and Cons of Blue Raven Solar

Pros 18 months of free solar energy No up-front installation cost Two-year production guarantee on system output
Cons Doesn’t offer solar lease or PPA options Available in only 22 states

Blue Raven Solar Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year manufacturer warranty, 10-year workmanship warranty, two-year production guarantee

Financing options: Full purchase, loan

Reputation and Awards

The Orem, Utah-based company was founded in 2014. Seven years later it received two awards at the 19th annual American Business Awards. The company earned a Gold Stevie Award for Energy Industry Innovation of the Year and Company of the Year in the large energy categories. In 2022, the Utah Business Magazine’s annual Fast 50 Awards recognized Blue Raven Solar as one of the state’s fastest-growing companies for the fourth year in a row. Blue Raven also appeared on the Inc. 5000 list in 2021 for the third consecutive year.

Blue Raven Solar strives to achieve rewarding experiences for its customers and employees. The solar company won awards in back-to-back years at the Comparably’s Brand Awards, a site known for its comprehensive company culture and reputation reviews. Comparably recognized Blue Raven for Best Operations Team 2022, Best Sales Team 2022, Best Product & Design Team 2022, Best Places to Work in Salt Lake City 2022, and Best Company Outlook 2022. The 2021 wins include Best Company for Diversity 2021, Best CEO 2021, Best Company Work-Life Balance, and Best Career Growth 2021. Blue Raven Solar ranked No. 20 on Glassdoor’s Best Place to Work in the USA in 2021

Blue Raven Solar partners with Give Power, a non-profit organization committed to providing clean water to water-scarce regions.

The company is accredited with the BBB and currently holds an A rating.

Learn more: Blue Raven Solar review


 

Green Home Systems: Best Solar Roofing Options

 

Green Home Systems offers a selection of high-quality traditional home solar systems in addition to advanced solar roof shingles and tiles.

States available: California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wyoming

Why We Chose Green Home Systems

Green Home Systems combines advanced, high-performing solar roofing technology with the protection of traditional roofing solutions.

Green Home Systems provides high-tech solar roof shingles and tiles. Solar roofs function as solar panels but blend in with your roof’s design. Green Home’s shingle and tile options are durable, watertight, and wind-resistant. They’re installed directly on your existing roof.

The company also offers traditional, high-efficiency solar panels with a 25-year product warranty. Its solar tiles have a 10-year output warranty, while solar shingles are covered for 25 years. Both roofing options include a 10-year warranty for the inverter and a 10-year wind warranty that guarantees durability in windy conditions up to 110 mph.

Customers can pay for their solar systems in full or finance with a solar loan.

Pros and Cons of Green Home Systems

Pros Solar battery and backup generator Solar panel systems and solar roofing installations 25-year performance and product warranty
Cons Available in only 10 states No PPAs or solar leases

Green Home Systems Warranty and Financing

Warranty options for solar panels: 25-year product warranty for solar panels, 25-year performance guarantee for solar panels

Warranty options for solar tiles: 25-year solar tile power output warranty, 10-year component warranty for solar tiles, 10-year 110 mph wind warranty

Warranty options for solar shingles: 25-year solar shingle power output warranty, 25-year component warranty for solar shingles, 10-year 110 mph wind warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan

Reputation and Awards

With just five years in the solar industry, Green Home Systems is one of the youngest companies in this review. It prides itself on offering American-made solar products and accessories. Green Home Systems holds multiple certifications with SolarEdge and Enphase. The company also maintains a partnership with LG Solar as Platinum installers.

Green Home Systems holds an A+ rating and is accredited with the BBB.


 

Elevation: Best for Whole-Home Integration

 

In addition to solar panels, Elevation will evaluate your home’s energy efficiency and offer solutions to reduce your utility bills.

States available: Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, and Texas

Why We Chose Elevation

Elevation aims to improve your entire home’s energy efficiency with solar solutions, efficiency audits, and home improvement upgrades.

Elevation provides whole-home energy efficiency solutions with its “Elevated Home” solution. The company assists customers with lowering their home’s energy consumption with efficiency audits, smart home technology, and solar solutions. Installation add-ons include a solar battery or electric vehicle (EV) charger.

Its Curb Energy monitoring system offers real-time energy usage data and identifies any unusual consumption activity. Elevation offers an Energy Efficiency package to find and repair air leaks, poor insulation, or other energy-draining issues. Elevation backs its solar systems with 25-year warranties for product and workmanship coverage.

Pros and Cons of Elevation

Pros Solar panels systems backed by a 25-year warranty Full-home assessment for energy efficiency improvements Active energy monitoring for the entire home
Cons Available in only five states No pricing information online

Elevation Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year product warranty and workmanship warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan

Reputation and Awards

Since 2015, Elevation has focused on providing a complete energy-efficiency experience for homeowners. The company received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Home Performance with Energy Star: Partner of the Year award in 2019, 2020, and 2021. 

Elevation was named the 2019 Innovator of the Year by the Phoenix Business Journal’s Arizona Corporate Excellence (ACE) Awards. In 2020, the company received a Silver Stevie Award in the Customer Satisfaction Strategy category at the 14th annual Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service.

Elevation holds accreditation with the BBB and maintains an A+ rating. 


 

Trinity Solar: Most Experienced

 

Trinity Solar is one of the most experienced companies on our list with almost three decades in the home services industry. It’s also the largest privately held solar company in the nation.

States available: Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island

Why We Chose Trinity Solar

With over three decades of business, Trinity Solar offers the most solar industry experience.

Trinity Solar has a decades-long history of serving customers, beginning as a heating and air company in 1994 and expanding to solar in 2004. Since moving to solar in 2004, Trinity Solar has completed nearly 80,000 solar installations. The company offers high-quality solar systems with panels from Q Cells, one of the top names in the industry. It also provides solar storage options from Generac or Tesla and handles all installations in-house.

Customers who purchase their solar system receive a five-year workmanship warranty. Those who select a lease get workmanship coverage through the end of their contract. All installations include a 25-year equipment warranty regardless of the selected financing option.

Pros and Cons of Trinity Solar

Pros Additional home services including roofing and electrical assistance Four payment options Privately held and family-owned
Cons Limited five-year workmanship warranty if you purchase your panels Serves only nine states

Trinity Solar Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year equipment warranty, 5-year workmanship warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA

Reputation and Awards

Trinity Solar is the largest privately-held residential solar installation company in the United States, with over 1,900 employees and 77,000 customers. Trinity Solar partners with non-profit organizations to help them raise money and provides no-cost installations to its members.

Trinity Solar holds an A+ rating and is accredited with the BBB. 


 

Sunrun: Best Financing Options

Sunrun offers four financing options and full-service protection with each plan.

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

Why We Chose Sunrun

Sunrun offers a diverse selection of payments options designed to make the transition to solar more affordable.

Sunrun offers four financing options, including a monthly lease, full-amount lease, monthly loan, and full-system purchase. Sunrun is unique in that it offers full service to all of its customers regardless of their selected financing option.

Leasing contracts have full-service coverage, including protection from damage, theft, and degradation. Sunrun will fix your system at no cost if its efficiency decreases. These services are included for loan and full purchase through an added Protection Plus subscription service.

Pros and Cons of Sunrun

Pros Provides theft and damage coverage for its leased and prepaid products Provides daily monitoring to ensure the health of its leased and prepaid products Offers customer service through online chat
Cons Solar and battery availability varies by state Doesn’t detail a variety of products and plans online

Sunrun Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 10-year comprehensive warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA

Reputation and Awards

Since 2007, Sunrun has served over 100,000 customers across the country. It has retail partnerships with national brands such as Best Buy, Comcast, and Costco. 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 NR rating with BBB. The company profile is being updated.

Learn more: Sunrun Solar review


 

Tesla: Best Availability

Not many solar companies offer nationwide service, but Tesla is the exception. It provides high-quality panels and installation services in all 50 states, with some limitations.

States available: All 50 states, but installation may be limited in some ZIP codes

Why We Chose Tesla

A noted name in the automobile industry, Tesla brings its innovative technology to solar panels and solar roofing with availability in all 50 states. 

Tesla manufactures and installs its own solar panels nationwide. Its low-profile panels have no visible solar cells and blend into your roof seamlessly. The company offers online solar panel estimates in under a minute based on your home address and average electric bill.

In addition to its traditional solar systems, Tesla offers a solar roof that replaces your current roof with tiles that generate solar energy. It also has the Tesla Powerwall solar battery.

Pros and Cons of Tesla

Pros Provides online quotes Provides 24/7 solar panel monitoring through the Tesla mobile app Protects solar panels with a 25-year performance guarantee
Cons Limits system size to four options Doesn’t provide installation in all ZIP codes

Tesla Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year performance warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan

Reputation and Awards

Tesla Energy began in 2003 as a subsidiary of Tesla, Inc., a leader in automotive manufacturing and electric vehicle technology. The company introduced the Tesla Powerwall, one of the most popular solar batteries on the market. Tesla Energy grew its solar technology to include solar panels, the Tesla Solar Roof, and the Tesla Inverter.

Tesla is rated as NR on the BBB while its company profile is being upgraded. The company does not hold accreditation with the organization.

Learn more: Tesla Solar Panel review


 

Palmetto Solar: Best Customer Service

Palmetto Solar is the best provider for customer service. It offers phone, email, and online support alongside its Palmetto Protect Essentials coverage plan that includes proactive monitoring and monthly system reviews.

States available: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Virginia, plus Washington, D.C.

Why We Chose Palmetto Solar

Palmetto Solar offers concierge-style customer support through multiple contact channels, plus supplemental system protections for its customers.

Palmetto Solar offers full-service solar installation and post-installation services. It has an online tool that calculates your projected electric bill savings with solar energy. Palmetto Solar offers a variety of customer support options through phone, email, and online chat.

Its Palmetto Protect Essentials plan includes active monitoring, remote troubleshooting, and proactive communications if system issues arise. Customers receive this protection plan at no charge through the end of 2023. The company offers several warranty protections for your panels, workmanship, and roof.

Pros and Cons of Palmetto Solar

Pros Offers a comprehensive protection plan to its customers Provides an online solar savings calculator Protects solar panels with a 25-year panel warranty
Cons Doesn’t provide financing information online Isn’t available nationwide

Palmetto Solar Warranty and Financing

Warranty options: 25-year panel warranty, 12-year inverter warranty, 10-year workmanship warranty, 5-year roof penetration warranty

Financing options: Full purchase, loan

Reputation and Awards

Since its founding in 2010, Palmetto Solar has expanded its company to help homeowners and businesses convert to solar energy. The company received the Most Forward-Thinking Contractor award in the 2022 edition of Solar Power World. That same year, Inc. recognized the company with a Power Partner Award. Palmetto also aims to provide solar energy to underserved communities with its Get Solar, Give Solar program.

Palmetto Solar holds accreditation with the BBB and has an A+ rating.

Learn more: Palmetto Solar review


 

Find A Solar Installation Company in Your State

How Long Does a Solar Battery Last?

Solar batteries, which allow you to store excess energy for later use, typically last between five and 15 years. These storage options don’t last as long as solar panels, which have an average life span of 25 years. The typical battery warranty lasts about 10 years but may include additional coverage stipulations. For example, a company may add a clause that the coverage lasts for 10 years or when the battery completes a certain number of power cycles. If your battery reaches this threshold first, your warranty coverage will end.

What Is a Solar Inverter?

A solar inverter converts your solar panels’ generated energy into usable electricity for your home. There are two common types of inverters: string inverters and microinverters. A string inverter is mounted to the side of your home and collects all of your system’s generated electricity into one place. 

Microinverters are small components attached to the underside of each solar panel. They convert energy at the source, leading to higher efficiency. Microinverters are becoming increasingly popular for solar panel systems.

Our Conclusion

The best solar energy companies hold strong reputations and offer comprehensive installation and responsive customer service. Homeowners should consider solar system quality and warranty protections in their evaluations. Remember that financing options significantly affect your overall installation cost and solar incentive eligibility, so carefully weigh your options when making your decision. 

SunPower is our top choice due to its highly efficient systems, streamlined technology, and 25-year warranty coverage. However, as you search for the right solar company for your home, we recommend comparing at least three companies to find the best deals. Use the tool below to get quotes from local solar companies near you:

 


 

FAQs About Solar Energy Companies

Our Rating Methodology for Solar Companies

The This Old House Reviews Team is committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. This means earning your trust through transparent reviews and having the data to back up our ratings and recommendations. Our rating system for solar panel companies and installers is on a 100-point scale based on five factors:

  • Payment options (40 points): Options include purchase, loan, lease, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Companies receive points for each of those four options it provides.
  • Solar services (30 points): Does the company provide in-house installation of solar panels and battery backups? Can the company also monitor energy production and perform energy-efficiency audits to ensure system performance. The more options available, the higher the score.
  • Warranty options (10 points): The success of a residential solar system depends on the workmanship, performance guarantees, and length of product coverage. We score solar companies based on the number of warranty options available. The more warranties a solar company offers, the higher the score it receives.
  • State Availability (10 points): We award the most points to solar companies with the broadest service area and state availability.
  • Reputation (10 points): We factor in how the Business Better Bureau (BBB) scores each company. We deduct points for any alerts or pending lawsuits.

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