Tesla Solar Panels Review

Tesla makes top-tier solar panels for homes that are able to supplement homeowners’ energy needs with sustainable power. The company is also transparent about its solar panel offerings, informing online customers about the design, capabilities, and estimated cost of each system.

Tesla provides installation to most areas nationwide either directly or through its Certified Installer Program, which includes some of the nation’s highest quality local and regional installation companies.

Read our in-depth review of Tesla’s solar panels, warranties, related products, and sample customer reviews to find out if it’s the best solar provider for your home.

*Certified installers vary by region—we always recommend requesting multiple quotes.

We found Tesla to be the most available provider in our ratings, serving all 50 states. However, it’s important to understand that Tesla doesn’t install their own panels, so we recommend finding a Tesla-certified solar installer in your area to work on your home.

Tesla offers solar panels with a sleek design that blends into your existing roof. Tesla’s transparent pricing information and detailed website makes it a smart choice for customers who want to learn more about solar panels without the help of a sales representative.

Compare the advantages and disadvantages of Tesla solar panels below.

​​Get your solar quote today.

Tesla streamlines its design process by offering solar systems in standardized sizes: small (12 panels), medium (24 panels), large (36 panels), and extra-large (48 panels).

Tesla Solar Panel Specifications

• Wattage: 425 watts
• Weight: 47.4 pounds
• Dimensions: 82.4 inches x 40.9 inches x 1.57 inches (including frame)
• Frame type: Black anodized aluminum
• Operating temperature: -40 degrees Fahrenheit to 185 degrees Fahrenheit

Other Solar Products Offered by Tesla

Tesla offers solar roofs and solar batteries in addition to its solar panel offerings.

• Powerwall: Solar batteries store excess energy generated by your solar panels to use at night, on low-sunlight days, or during power outages. The Tesla Powerwall solar battery, is one of the most popular available. It comes in two models: The Powerwall 2 and the Powerwall+.
• Solar roof: The Tesla solar roof is an alternative to solar panels that replaces your current roof with solar shingles that act as mini solar panels. This is a good option if you’re already considering installing a new roof.

All Tesla solar panels come with a 25-year performance guarantee which promises at least 80% power capacity for the warranty’s duration.

This is somewhat vague language compared to other solar installation companies’ warranties that state your guarantee is good for 25 years with no power capacity conditions.

Tesla also includes a 10-year comprehensive warranty. This applies to all solar system components including solar batteries, inverters, and any roof leaks or roof-mounting problems.

1. Site assessment: Tesla surveys your roof using remote aerial technology to measure its area and slope.
2. Design: Tesla designs your system to fit your home’s structure and energy needs.
3. Permitting: Tesla ensures all necessary permits and inspections are completed before installation.
4. Installation: You can choose an installation date that works with your schedule. Tesla says that most installations are completed in one day, and you only need to be at the house during the first hour. If you ordered a Powerwall battery, it will be activated and configured to Self-Consumption Only mode. This means that the Powerwall will produce only enough energy required to power your home and charge itself.
5. Inspection: Tesla will work with your local building department to arrange an inspection after installation is completed.
6. Energization and activation: Tesla then works with your local utility company to receive Permission to Operate (PTO) for your Tesla system. The company states that depending on your location, this may take one to six weeks.

The Tesla app allows you to manage your Tesla solar system and other Tesla products 24/7. This allows you to integrate your solar panels, Powerwall, and Tesla electric vehicles into one user-friendly space.

The Tesla app displays a real-time power flow, showing how your Powerwall, grid connection, and solar system work together to provide energy to your home.

Here are some of the energy preferences you can customize your Tesla Powerwall with using the Tesla app:

• Self-powered: This setting lets you minimize your carbon footprint and become more energy independent.
• Time-based control: This setting helps lower your utility bill and maximize your economic benefit if your energy usage varies throughout the day.
• Storm Watch: This setting enables your Powerwall to react to inclement weather events that may cause a grid outage.
• Vehicle charging during power outage: This setting makes your Powerwall and Tesla electric vehicles balance charging and energy needs during any power grid outages.

Critical customer reviews mention difficulty scheduling maintenance or installation appointments. Other reviews praise Tesla’s friendly and helpful customer service representatives and the amount of savings.

Read what some Tesla Solar customers have said about their experiences below:

“The whole procedure was smooth and easy for me. Neal was an excellent advisor, clear, concise and knowledgeable. The installation company kept me up to date via email. It took very little effort on my part. My electricity bill has [been] $0.00 for the last three months!”—Randy W

“[Tesla Solar] had the statistics and details for me to ultimately negotiate the deal. Once I made my decision, the professional workmanship and wonderful customer service has been second to none. The install team really takes pride in their craft, and the communication has been first[-]rate.”—Al H.

“Recently bought a home that already had SolarCity / Tesla solar panels on the home. With the purchase of the home, there was an amendment to adjust the pricing per kWh for our new contract. We closed in June’21 and now in Oct’21 we still have been charged the original rate, and not the amended rate that was agreed upon on the transfer agreement. I have contacted Tesla many times, only to continue to be told I am right, it should be changed soon….”—Brandon S.

“I needed my solar panels removed because of needed roof repair. I informed Tesla of the issue and submitted the signed removal/installation documents on two occasions however I never received a scheduled date for the work. Due to the urgency of the needed work, I used a certified independent contractor to removed the solar panels and I informed Tesla beforehand of the removal and requested that Tesla reinstall the panels.”—Robert F.

*BBB information accurate as of November 2022.

*Prices do not include the cost of a Powerwall home battery. 

Rebates

We received a quote of $10,442 for a Tesla solar power system. This includes installation costs and discounts from the federal solar tax credit, which provides a tax reduction equal to 30% of your installation costs.

Only customers who own their solar panels can take advantage of the federal tax credit. Some states offer additional rebates to solar customers.

Compare Tesla to Other Solar Providers

• Company name: Tesla Inc.
• Company type: Public
• CEO: Elon Musk
• Years in business: 17
• Address: 3500 Deer Creek Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304
• Phone: 1-888-518-3752
• Website: https://www.tesla.com/

Other Solar Panel Resources

• Solar Panel Cost
• Do Solar Panels Increase Home Value?
• Are Solar Panels Worth It?
• Types of Solar Panels