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4 Best Solar Companies in West Virginia (2024)

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Author Image Written by Tamara Jude Updated 12/09/2024

Despite having the nation’s second-largest coal production in 2021, West Virginia is slowly adopting more renewable energy. The state has incorporated more hydroelectric power and wind energy production but has room for solar energy growth. Solar power helps reduce your carbon footprint and has less environmental impact than coal. It also lowers energy costs, providing long-term savings for West Virginia homeowners. 

Our team spent 60 hours researching the best performing solar providers on the national, regional, and local levels to find the best options in the Mountain State. We’ve picked the best solar companies for West Virginia, plus offered guidance on shopping for the right company to fit your needs.

Here’s an overview of the key features of the top West Virginia solar providers.

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

West Virginia’s Top Solar Energy Companies

Most Reputable: Blue Raven Solar
Best Northeast Regional Installer: Venture Solar
Best East Coast Installer: Solar Energy World
Best Solar Panel Leasing: Sunrun

Blue Raven Solar

4.4

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

Out of all solar brands in the market, 6.5% of our survey respondents chose Blue Raven.

How We Scored Blue Raven Solar

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

  • Solar Equipment and Services (18 out of 25 points): Blue Raven offers solar panel and battery installation, active monitoring services, and energy audits. However, it 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 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.

Read our review of Blue Raven Solar for more information.

Venture Solar

4.2

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

How We Scored Venture Solar

Venture earned 4.2 out of 5 stars. It gained most of its points due to its flexible financing options paired with an in-house financing department. It also provides plenty of solar services to match most 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

4.4

Solar Energy World (SEW) is one of the most robust and well-regarded solar installation companies. It boasts several impressive features, such as its 30-year 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.

Roughly 11% of our surveyed solar users purchased their system from Solar Energy World.

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

Best Solar Panel Leasing
4.5
  • Payment options: Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA
  • State availability: 20 states covered plus Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C.

Sunrun offers four financing options, including unique leasing options tailored for homeowners who don’t want system ownership. Prepaid and leased systems get a 25-year warranty that includes 25 years of system service and maintenance plus ongoing monitoring and theft insurance.

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 Requires added costs for the same coverage plans as leased and prepaid customers Solar and battery availability varies by state

Warranty and Financing

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

Reputation and Awards

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 with BBB and is accredited. Customers praised the comprehensive coverage for leased systems but complained about delayed installations, poor customer service, and poor communication with project managers.

Areas of Coverage

  • 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
  • Wisconsin
  • Puerto Rico
  • Washington, D.C.

*All BBB ratings are current as of June 2023.

Note: In July 2024, SunPower notified dealers it would be halting all new shipments and project installations. The company also noted it would “no longer be supporting new Leases and PPA sales nor new project installations of these financing options.


What Solar Incentives Are Available in West Virginia?

West Virginia offers few state-level solar incentives, rebates, and credits. Instead, homeowners should use the federal solar tax credit to help lower their solar installation costs. With this credit, you receive up to 30% off their total cost, making your solar conversion more affordable. You can apply the federal tax credit to photovoltaic (PV) panel systems, such as rooftop, ground-mount, and solar shingles. The credit also applies to standalone energy storage purchases. 

West Virginia’s net metering program also provides added savings for solar panel system owners. Customers receive future bill credits for returning their excess energy to the grid. 

Although the West Virginia Public Service Commission (PSC) mandates that all utility companies in the state offer net metering, it doesn’t specify the credit payout rate. While some companies offer credits at the retail electricity rate, others opt for the much lower wholesale rate. Check with your local utility company for more details about programs and payout rates.


What Should You Look For in a Solar Company in West Virginia?

As you weigh the pros and cons of West Virginia solar companies, keep the following key factors in mind during your comparisons. 

Solar Services

We recommend choosing solar panel companies that use in-house installers for their projects. These teams work directly for the solar company, providing better communication and solar panel installation quality. Installation results, communication, and customer experience can vary with some third-party contractors. 

Look for companies offering various support services that boost your solar energy system performance. Companies may provide system monitoring, maintenance, or repairs. They may also offer services that help boost home efficiency or provide assistance with other home improvement projects. Below is a sample list of additional solar and home services: 

  • Dedicated mobile app or web portal
  • Electrical services
  • Energy efficiency audits and upgrades
  • Home energy monitoring 
  • Panel removal and reinstallation services
  • Roofing repair or replacement
  • Smart home device installation 
  • Solar system monitoring

Warranties

Warranty coverage should align with the typical panel life span of 25 years. Providers usually offer two or more warranties to protect your system’s performance well into the future. Here’s an overview of the most common system warranties:

  • Manufacturer’s (or product) warranty: The coverage protects against any manufacturing defects. 
  • Workmanship (or labor) warranty: This warranty protects your solar energy solutions from issues caused by a faulty installation. 
  • Power performance guarantee: This plan outlines your panel’s long-term performance, accounts for any gradual production declines, and includes replacement or repair options if panels fall below these estimated levels.

Coverage varies between solar providers and may include one or all listed coverage options. We’ve noticed that the best performing home solar panels typically include long-term warranty options, while the top affordable solar manufacturers have shorter warranty plans in exchange for lower initial costs.

Payment Options

Most solar providers offer multiple solar financing options to help homeowners find the best option for their budget. Cash payments and solar loans make you the legal system owner, a qualification required for most solar incentives and rebates. Here’s an overview of the most common financing options:

  • Up-front (or cash) payments: Customers pay the full up-front costs for their solar system. 
  • Solar loans: Customers make a down payment, then continue monthly payments with interest for a set timeframe. 
  • Solar leases: Most homeowners put little to no money down, then make monthly payments to rent their system from the solar provider. 
  • Power purchase agreements (PPAs): This leasing option requires no money down. Customers will pay for their solar energy use while the company retains system ownership.

Solar leases and PPAs disqualify you from solar incentives, reducing their overall financial benefit. You should avoid these payment options unless system ownership is not a priority. We recommend using cash payments and solar loans for the best long-term financial benefits and return on investment.

Customer Support

When we read customer reviews, we discovered that customer service was one of the most mentioned aspects of a solar company. Check online reviews for each company and note any complaints concerning unanswered emails or calls, rude representatives, or no follow-ups. Check each website for offered customer service contact methods. Typical methods include online forms, email, phone, chats, and in-app messaging.


How Should You Request a Solar Quote in West Virginia?

To compare potential companies, you should request solar system quotes from several providers. These quotes detail system size, components, costs, and warranty coverage. We’ve provided a step-by-step guide outlining the typical solar quote process below. 

  1. Contact each solar installation company: Visit each company’s website to start the process. Most companies offer phone numbers, online forms, or emails to initiate quotes. 
  2. Schedule your solar consultation: Most providers offer a virtual or in-person consultation with a company rep. Set aside at least two hours for your appointment. 
  3. Have your energy bill handy: The rep will review your typical energy usage to determine your final system size and energy production needs. Some companies request multiple months of electric bills to analyze any fluctuations in energy use. 
  4. Analyze your roof space: Companies review your roof design in person or using satellite technology. Depending on your selected solar panel type, you may need more room to accommodate more solar panels. The rep will check for any nearby shading from trees and may recommend tree removal if too many shadows cover your roof. 
  5. Build your system: The company will design your final system. You can choose your preferred panel and component brands and add accessories such as solar batteries and EV chargers. 
  6. Review your final quote: You should receive an itemized quote listing all solar equipment, associated costs, labor charges, and warranty coverage. Your quote will include financing options and your estimated solar payback period.

Our Conclusion

We selected Paradise Energy Solutions as the top West Virginia solar provider. The company builds some of the best solar energy systems for high energy production. In addition, it offers customized service options, that can better match a household’s specific needs. 

We recommend getting at least three free quotes from potential companies to find the best installer for your home.


Other West Virginia Home Service Resources


FAQ About Solar Companies in WV

Is solar power worth it in WV?

Yes, solar power is a worthy investment for West Virginia residents. Although the state offers no additional solar credits or rebates, homeowners can still reduce installation costs with the federal tax credit. You can also earn electric bill credits through the state’s mandated net-metering program. 

What direction should solar panels face in West Virginia?

Solar panels should face true south in West Virginia since it’s the best direction for homes in the Northern Hemisphere.

Is WV a net metering state?

Yes, West Virginia mandates net metering for all utility companies throughout the state. However, payout rates are regulated and vary between electric companies. 

What is the solar policy in WV?

West Virginia’s solar policy protects homeowners’ rights to own solar panels. This solar access law states homeowners’ associations (HOAs) cannot ban solar panel installation. However, they have a say in your home’s solar array size and placement. 


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.