Solar Energy World Reviews (2024)
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Solar Energy World (SEW) is an independently owned solar company founded in 2009 that primarily serves the East Coast. The company works with solar manufacturers from around the world. It makes it easy to install solar panels and other solar products from various brands, such as Silfab Solar, LONGi Solar, and Q Cells.
We took an in-depth look at Solar Energy World’s products, warranties, policies, and customer reviews. We also compared it to the leading solar companies nationwide to see what makes it one of the fastest-growing solar companies in the United States. Read on to decide if it’s the right choice for your home or business.
What Do We Think of Solar Energy World?
Though Solar Energy World has impressive features, its service area is limited, and it doesn’t provide energy auditing services. The company scores highly on its warranty, which is longer than that of most solar companies. Solar Energy World offers a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty on all of its solar panels and inverters, whereas many providers only offer 25-year warranties. It provides multiple financing options and rates well with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Compare Solar Energy World to Other Solar Providers
See how Solar Energy World compares to other solar companies.
| Company | Star Rating | Warranties | Payment Options | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25–30 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 10–25 years | Full purchase, loan | GET QUOTE | ||
| 25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 10–25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE | ||
| 10–25 years | Full purchase, loan, lease, PPA | GET QUOTE |
What Are the Solar Panel Options?
Solar Energy World installs three solar panel brands. Learn more about the brands and their solar panels below.
Silfab Solar
Silfab Solar is the leading North American manufacturer in the design and development of ultra-high-efficiency, premium-quality, 60- and 70-cell monocrystalline PV modules. Silfab has more than 35 years of solar experience. It offers three solar panel series:
- Silfab Commercial: Half-cell technology, wind-resistant frame, STC 500/NOCT 369 module power, 1500 maximum system voltage, STC 20.9/NOCT 19.3 module efficiency
- Silfab Elite: Advanced back-contact technology, reduced cell gap, STC 410/NOCT 305 module power, 1000 maximum system voltage, STC 21.4/NOCT 19.9 module efficiency
- Silfab Prime: 9-busbar technology, half-cell design, STC 400/NOCT 298 module power, 1000 maximum system voltage, STC 20.2/NOCT 18.8 module efficiency
LONGi Solar
LONGi Solar is a world-leading manufacturer of high-efficiency mono-crystalline solar cells and modules. It has four primary module types:
- Hi-MO 4: Half-cell and gallium-doped technology, multi-busbar design, low degradation, bifacial energy yield, 455 W module power, 20.9 module efficiency
- Hi-MO 4m: Half-cell and gallium-doped technology, multi-busbar design, 460 W module power, 21.2 module efficiency
- Hi-MO 5: Gallium-doped technology, smart soldering, bifacial energy yield, 550 W module power, 21.3 module efficiency
- Hi-MO 5m: Gallium-doped technology, smart soldering, 415 W module power, 21.3 module efficiency
Q Cells
Hanwha Q Cells provides world-class solar technologies. The company has multiple solar panel options, including the following:
- Q.PEAK DUO BLK ML-G10+: Zero-gap and all-weather technology, half-cell technology, 385–410 Wp nominal power, 4000/5400 Pa wind/snow load
- Q.PEAK DUO XL-G10/BFG: Half-cell and all-weather technology, cutting-edge cell interconnection, bifacial energy yield, low LCOE, 470–490 Wp nominal power, 2400/5400 Pa wind/snow load
- Q.PEAK DUO XL-G11/BFG: Half-cell and all-weather technology, cutting-edge cell interconnection, bifacial energy yield, low LCOE, 570–585 Wp nominal power, 3000/5400 Pa wind/snow load
Other Solar Products
Solar Energy World offers solar batteries from Tesla Powerwall, Enphase, and SolarEdge. SEW also offers inverters from Enphase, SolarEdge, and Fronius.
What Does the Warranty Include?
The company offers all customers a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty on all purchased solar panels and inverters. The terms of the warranty include the following:
- No charge for site visits or labor-related costs
- Full warranty transfer to subsequent homeowners
- First-year energy production guarantee (if your system doesn’t produce at least 90% of the estimated production within its first year, SEW will reimburse double the difference in production)
- Removal and reinstallation of solar panels if a new roof needs to be installed within a 10-year time period (insurance claims are not covered under this provision)
- Repair of all rodent-related damage if SEW installs critter guards at the time of installation
- Repair of all leaks related to damage from PV roof mount penetrations
- Full replacement of all components with comparable, appropriate parts if the panel manufacturer goes out of business
How Does the Installation Process Work?
Solar Energy World follows a six-step installation process:
- Solar panel cost/benefit analysis: Your installation team will provide a free solar analysis with information about solar energy, solar panel rebates and incentives, and payment options.
- Solar panel site assessment: A certified solar technician will visit your home to confirm measurements and energy savings. They will ensure they have the proper permits for the project.
- Solar panel installation: Installation typically takes two to three days, depending on system size.
- Solar panel system inspection: The installation company sets up the final inspection with the appropriate municipality and/or utility company, then ensures you’re connected to the grid.
- Solar rebates and incentives: The installation crew completes your solar tax credit and rebate paperwork to ensure you get all available financial support.
- Monitoring and support: Solar Energy World remotely monitors your solar system and will alert you and schedule service if there’s an issue.
What Are the Payment Options Available for Solar Energy World?
The provider offers two financing options: outright purchases and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
| Feature | Purchase | PPA/Lease |
|---|---|---|
| Initial investment | $0 to full purchase price | $0 |
| Monthly utility bill savings | 50–100% | 20–30% |
| System generates income | Yes | No |
| Tax incentives | Yes | Included |
| System ownership | Yes | Possible |
| System warranty | Yes | Yes |
| Energy monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Referral reward earnings | Yes | Yes |
What Are the Incentives and Rebates Available?
Solar Energy World will work with you to understand and apply for multiple solar incentives, including the following:
- Up to 30% federal tax credit on system costs
- State and local solar energy rebate programs
- 50% accelerated bonus depreciation (first year)
- Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) revenue
Solar Energy World Reviews
Solar Energy World is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and holds an A+* rating with the organization. Customers consistently highlight the company’s professionalism, help with applying for financial incentives, and smooth installation process. Some customers, however, reported financial and timeline discrepancies with the company.
Here’s a sample of Solar Energy World’s BBB customer reviews:
“Super easy process. They take care of everything including HomeOwners approval process. Installers were respectful, friendly, and communicative. I would highly recommend!” — Barry F.
“I’ve had solar installed for approximately 3 years. Overall I have been very satisfied with the installation and performance. However, I recently noticed my inverter was not communicating. Solar Energy World service manager, Natalie W*****, informed me that the issue is that my inverter uses a 3G modem. This modem is now obsolete and I would need a new one installed, to the tune of $599… and it can only be installed by them or my warranty is void.” — Gary S.
“We were very pleased with the professional, but friendly attitude everyone at this company had during our solar install project. From the salesman, to the office personnel, to the installation employees–each of them was polite, helpful, and competent. I highly recommend this company.” — Trina H.
“This company took over 6 months to install my solar. They lied to me the whole time about permitting and timelines, broke multiple electrical components of my brand new circuit breaker, and then charged me to fix it.” — Kelly
*BBB rating is current as of April 2024.
Our Conclusion
Based on our research, the majority of customer reviews, and the BBB’s rating, Solar Energy World has a reputation for being a high-quality solar company. Its comprehensive 30-year warranty, three solar panel brand offerings, and multiple financing options make it an attractive provider for customers. However, Solar Energy World is only available in eight states, thus serving a limited number of customers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Energy World
How long has Solar Energy World been in business?
Solar Energy World has been in business since 2009.
Who is the most reputable solar company?
The most reputable solar companies include SunPower, Blue Raven Solar, Palmetto Solar, Momentum Solar, Elevation, Trinity Solar, and Tesla.
Is it possible to rely entirely on solar energy in the United States?
Many energy experts say it’s technically and financially possible to rely entirely on solar power in suitable locations.
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.