The Best Solar Companies of June 2024 (2024)

SunPower

Our pick for most experience

SunPower earned4.8 out of 5 starsin our rating system and has over 30 years of experience in the solar industry, the most out of any provider on our list. SunPower utilizes over 850 dealers to provide installation services nationwide. The company also offers in-house solar loan financing.

Some customers report that, although expensive, SunPower offersbest-in-class service, warranties andsolar panel efficiency. SunPower typically charges between$3 and $4.50 per wattfor solar installations, according toSanahSadaruddin,the public relations manager at the company.

SunPower offers solar, backup battery and electric vehicle (EV) charger installations. Customers also have access to SunPower’s mobile app and system monitoring.

Customers can pay for their solar system using a cash purchase, loan, lease or power purchase agreement (PPA).

SunPower is available in all 50 states.

Positive reviews frequently mentioned SunPower’s fast installation, consistent communication and energy savings.

“Installation was done in two days and the crew was thorough throughout. [SunPower] would explain any questions I asked. Communication was continual during the process and everyone I spoke with was helpful. Looking forward to having our power supplied in a reliable manner.” —Ron C. via the BBB

“This was probably the smartest choice I have made in purchasing my home. Simple process — the only thing I did was secure my pets during installation and kick back and wait to save a ton of money. If you have concerns just reach out to your SunPower team and let them handle your concern. Bottom line, keep paying your utility company or generate your own power along with a big tax break.” —Fred B. via the BBB

Customers who left negative reviews reported delays when requesting repairs or getting in touch with customer service.

My system has not been fully working for a year now. Looking at the charts, an inverter stopped functioning last July. I reported the issue in January as that was the first time I looked at the monitoring. [SunPower has made] several trips here in the last several months and still tells me the replacement unit is waiting to arrive. The service so far has been absolutely horrible.” —Joshua Q. via the BBB

Palmetto Solar

Our pick for protection plans

Palmetto Solar earned a4.7 out of 5 starsunder our methodology because of its wide range of services, excellent customer reputation and below-average cost. Palmetto Solar also extends solid protection plans for its panels, offering anadvanced service monitoring programfor $8 per month that provides you with a monthly system review.

Palmetto Solar typically costs between $2.55 and $3.23 per watt with all costs included, according toCory O’Brien,digital marketing director at Palmetto. This price is lower than the industry standard of $3.50 per watt.

In addition to solar panel and battery installations, Palmetto offers EV charger installations, energy efficiency audits and system monitoring.

Palmetto offers a wide variety of financing options to meet the unique needs of its customers. These include cash purchases, loans, leases or PPAs.

Palmetto solar is available in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah and Virginia.

Positive reviews of Palmetto referred to the company’s personalized experience and quality customer service

“A Palmetto salesperson helped design my system to my specific needs and everything happened smoothly. I didn’t have to do anything as [Palmetto] handled all permits, the homeowners association and the energy company. There was a delay between installation and when the system actually got turned on, but it refunded any money I paid during that period. It also [set up] my solar panels in just a few hours.” —Bryan T. via the BBB

Negative reviews mention delays in activation or post-installation difficulties:

Palmetto installed my panels in Dec. 2022 and everything was fine —[Palmetto] just needed to have it inspected. However, [Palmetto] will not call the permit office to schedule a final inspection. I have sent multiple emails and called. More than one month has gone by and I’m still waiting. Now [Palmetto] is not responding at all. The permit office even left Palmetto a voicemail [with] no response, so I can’t use the system.”—Dennis M. via the BBB

Momentum Solar

Our pick for easy integration

Momentum Solar earned3.8 out of 5 starsbased on our methodology. It is our pick for solar system customization, offering products from seven different manufacturers. Momentum also helps its customers apply for government solar incentives and only operates in states with robust net-metering programs and solar rebates.

Momentum lost points because it does not offer a blanket warranty covering the production of the system.

Momentum caters to a variety of financial needs by offering cash purchases, loans, leases and PPAs. It installs both solar panels and backup batteries.

Momentum installs solar in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas.

Momentum does not install solar backup batteries in Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Nevada or Pennsylvania.

Positive Momentum Solar reviews mentioned the company’s quick installation and energy savings.

“This year, I made an excellent choice when I decided to go with Momentum Solar for my panel installation. [The technicians] arrived on schedule and had everything set up in no time. Right away, it was evident [Momentum] would help me slash my energy costs significantly.” —Irene H. via the BBB

“Not so long ago, the installers showed up in the morning and finished the task in a few hours —it was amazing how quiet they were on my rooftop. I was thrilled when I saw that my electricity use went down instantly.” —Kathryn W. via the BBB

Some negative reviews mentioned being told conflicting information from customer service reps, causing delays and confusion.

“[Momentum] installed my system, [which] has been in an error state more times than it has been producing. Customer service needs to be improved. Internal communication seems to be an issue at this company as different teams are not updated with the most recent information. I do not recommend Momentum Solar.” —Akash M. via the BBB

Solar Energy World

Our pick for long-term warranty coverage

Solar Energy World earned4.2 out of 5 starsaccording to our review standards, and is our pick for sustainability initiatives. For every completed solar installation, Solar Energy World donates to theGivePower Foundation, a nonprofit that increases accessibility to clean, safe drinking water in water-scarce regions through solar-powered projects.

Solar Energy World offers solar and backup battery installations and system monitoring. It offers the following financing options: cash purchases, leases and PPAs.

Solar Energy World services seven states and territories: Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida and Washington, D.C.

Some Solar Energy World customers liked the company’s seamless installation, knowledgeable staff and quick response to issues.

“I’ve had Solar Energy World solar panels for almost a year now. [The panels] have performed beyond expectations. The installation process was seamless and easy. Everyone at Solar Energy, from the salesperson, electrician and panel installers, was knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend Solar Energy World.” —Michael H. via the BBB

“I just recently had my solar panels installed. The initial interaction with my sales representative was very positive —he was very informative and helpful. The installation went great as well. I had an issue with circuit breakers tripping after the installation. The installers came out immediately and identified the problem, which was due to the builder’s faulty electrical connections. I contacted the electrician as recommended and my system is running smoothly. I would highly recommend Solar Energy World.” —Yvette J. via the BBB

Unhappy reviewers criticized Solar Energy World’s slow installation times and lack of communication.

“This company took over six months to install my solar [system]. [Solar Energy World] 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. Worst of all, [Solar Energy World] took money from me to upgrade my electric panel, then refused to perform the service. [It] took nearly $1,000 from me and refused to refund it back after rejecting the service. The installation took so long that I am now paying for large energy bills on top of my loan.” —Kelly via the BBB

Blue Raven Solar

Our pick for financing

We rated Blue Raven4.4 out of 5 stars, and it is our pick forsolar financing. Blue Raven offers two unique financing programs,BluePower+andSmartStart. Both programs are designed to help you start saving money on your electric bills sooner, rather than having to wait until your panels are fully paid off. Customers can either choose one of Blue Raven’s loan options or pay for their system in cash.

BlueRaven’s customer ratings average over 4 stars onthe BBBandGoogle Reviews. However, some customers on these platforms noted that the company employs aggressive sales tactics.

Blue Raven offers solar and backup battery installations, plus solar equipment monitoring.

Blue Raven currently services 21 states: Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Washington.

Some Blue Raven Solar customers praised the company’s reasonable pricing and attentive customer service and installers.

“We looked at quite a few [solar installers]. While we wanted the best pricing, we also wanted a quality system. We settled on Blue Raven because of the quality of work, fine customer service and programs that help make going solar affordable. We also referred a family member and they chose Blue Raven as well!” —Arthur G. via the BBB

“There is no other service like Blue Raven Solar. We had a bit of a rocky start with a missed appointment from one of its technicians, but [the company] worked hard to make it right for the rest of the project. The process is a bit long, but well worth it for the savings. [Blue Raven] coordinated with our electrical company and city inspector to make sure everything was taken care of. We are very pleased with the look of the panels and can not wait to sit back and enjoy the savings and help change the environment for the future” —Michelle R. via the BBB

Negative reviews of Blue Raven Solar mentioned delays during the installation process.

“I had a new roof installed and prior to having the roof installed, my contractor contacted Blue Raven to remove and reinstall. Well, it’s been about 3 months of rescheduling so they finally came out to install it back but the problem now is that the system is still not working and I contacted them to have someone come out and look at the system and have been put off another 2 weeks. They had no problem collecting the money for the removal and reinstallation. Will not recommend this company.” –Donald via BBB

Freedom Solar

Our pick for off-grid systems

Freedom Solar Power earned4.2 out of 5 starsbased on our methodology. It is a certified SunPower dealer and installs other high-quality products likethe Tesla Powerwallbattery. Plus, Freedom Solar installs off-grid solar power systems to help you become fully energy independent without worrying about outages.

Freedom Solar also offers additional services that other solar companies don’t, including home generators and system de-installation and reinstallation for roof repairs. Although Freedom Solar does not install EV chargers, it will help you connect your station to your solar panels.

Freedom Solar offers two financing options for customers interested in going solar: cash payment and loan.

Freedom Solar currently services Colorado, Florida, Texas, Virginia and North Carolina.

Happy customers of Freedom Solar praised the company’s fast and friendly service and energy savings.

“I had a fantastic experience with Freedom Solar Power. [My system has] been up and running for about two years now and I have already avoided [energy] rate increases that other residents are facing. The installation crew was professional and left my house clean. Couldn’t be happier with my system and the savings!” —Nick W. via the BBB

“My wife and I just recently purchased solar panels from Freedom Solar. The experience was fast, easy and overall great. Our salesman took the time to explain everything under the sun about solar. He answered all of our questions — I would recommend him to anyone looking for solar panels.” —Ryan S. via the BBB

Some unhappy customers were frustrated when their panels underperformed.

“This business is selling a product that doesn’t produce what was guaranteed. [Freedom Solar] sold me solar panels that were supposed to save me money. Since I got [solar panels] installed, my average [energy] bill [is] 25% to 100% more. I feel like I was scammed, lied to and ripped off. [Freedom Solar] gave me the average that the panels are supposed to produce in my contract, but then tell me it means nothing.” —Jeffrey A. via the BBB

Sunrun Solar

Our pick for leasing options

Sunrun earned4.3 out of 5 starsbased on our methodology and is our pick for solar leases. Sunrun offers both aprepaidandmonthlysolar lease option, so you can either pay upfront and lock in 25 years of solar savings or pay month by month. You can finance your solar panels with the company’sBrightAdvantagesolar loan program, which requires no upfront costs.

We also like that Sunrun offers a wide range of solar services, including EV chargers and backup batteries. Customers also have access to system monitoring.

Sunrun offers three financing options: cash purchase, loan or lease.

Sunrun’s current service area covers 22 states and territories: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.

Sunrun does not install solar batteries in Wisconsin.

Sunrun customers who left positive reviews wrote about responsive customer service and friendly employees.

“My solar system was connected last week and I couldn’t be happier with the company and its employees. Everyone I dealt with was courteous, efficient and professional. The whole process was so easy. [Sunrun] handled the necessary paperwork, installation and scheduled all of the required inspections. I recommended Sunrun to friends, relatives and neighbors without hesitation. It’s nice to know there are companies that place a priority on customer care, [and] Sunrun is a wonderful example.” —Viola U. via the BBB

“I’m very happy with my rep that helped throughout the whole process and really liked being able to get answers quickly through a text. Also, I like how [Sunrun] broke down the entire program and helped us understand our arrangement plan.” —Dan Y. via the BBB

Unhappy Sunrun customers reported that customer service was slow to respond and resolve system issues.

“Sunrun has a terrible response time with resolving issues. I am approaching one month with no solar service and have not received notification the problem will be resolved anytime soon. Meanwhile, my utility bill doubled and I still have to pay the monthly lease for a service I am not getting. I wish [Sunrun] would arrive and take [its] equipment so I could join a solar company that is more efficient. I have gone through customer service three times and I still have not heard back in three business days!” —Christoper C. via the BBB

Tesla Energy

Our pick for panel design

Tesla is an innovator in the renewable energy field, and its low-profile solar panels are designed for aesthetics. We rated the company 4.3 out of 5 stars based on our review standards. Tesla’s solar products are popular among consumers — it was the third most popular choice for solar installation among respondents to our solar survey.

We like that Tesla offers an instant online estimate tool on its website, a feature that no other solar company on our list has. However, we didn’t rank Tesla higher on our list due to long installation waitlists.

Tesla offers traditional solar panels, solar roofing shingles, EV charging stations and backup battery installations. You can also use the Tesla app to take advantage of system monitoring and 24/7 customer support.

Tesla offers the following financing options: cash purchases, loans, leases or PPAs.

Tesla installs solar panels in every state except Alaska.

Tesla Energy customers liked their sleek system design, friendly installation crew and energy bill savings.

“I met with over a dozen companies before deciding to go with Tesla Solar. Oh my goodness, did I make the right choice! To begin with, its presentation was unlike any other company I interviewed — it really impressed me. I’m overjoyed to have gorgeous black solar panels on my roof! The solar panel installation was painless, and the installation crew was extremely friendly and professional.” —Vance A. via the BBB

“A neighbor referred me to this firm as I had no idea where to start. Being retired, I was concerned about saving money. The system that was built for me was able to save me 50% of my monthly electricity costs. Every dollar counts at my age so I am more than happy to accept those savings.” —Amirat N. via the BBB

Some unhappy customers were dissatisfied with Tesla’s slow response when issues arose.

“Inverter failed less than one month after activation, after waiting about five months to activate the system. Now I have to wait one month [or more] for a technician to replace it. Meanwhile, I’m paying the full power bill and loan. Why did I choose Tesla Solar? The name, cost and it is less likely to go out of business. Would I do it in hindsight? Absolutely not at this moment.” —Darrin D. via the BBB

Cost and Financing

Look for a company that offers your preferred financing method and an "all-in" system cost of around $3.50 or less per watt.

Trustworthiness

Consider companies with many years of experience and good customer reviews on the BBB, Trustpilot, and Google.

Services

Check if the company offers extra services or equipment you might need, like energy audits, solar batteries or EV chargers.

We closely evaluate solar installation companies with a focus on the factors most important to homeowners like you. We based our solar company methodology on input from multiple homeowner surveys, discussions with industry experts and research into the renewable energy market. Our review process involves assessing each company on the following criteria, which we then use to calculate a rating out of 5 stars.

• Cost and payment options (20 points): Cost is one of the most important factors when installing a solar energy system. Solar providers that offer cash purchases and in-house loan financing earn full points in this category. Companies also receive bonus points for offering solar panel leasing or power purchase agreements (PPAs).
• Services (20 points): In addition to solar installations, companies offering backup battery and electric vehicle charger installations, energy efficiency audits and system monitoring earn the most points in this category. Companies can also receive points for completing installations in-house, as opposed to using third-party contractors.
• Reputation (20 points): To assess the reputation of each company, we consider Google star ratings, Better Business Bureau (BBB) scores and reviews, and NABCEP certification status. We also look at customer complaint rates on sites like the BBB and weigh how the company responds.
• Warranty (15 points): We verify that each company offers workmanship, product and performance warranties on all of its solar installs. A provider earns more points for extending warranties that meet or exceed industry standards, including 10 years for system workmanship and products and 25 years for panel performance.
• Customer Support (10 points): Solar companies that offer virtual consultations, a mobile app, 24/7 customer support and high customer satisfaction with backend support earn the most points in this category.
• Industry Experience (10 points): Providers with 10 or more years of experience in the solar installation industry earn a perfect score in this category.
• Sustainability (5 points):To measure sustainability, we assess each company based on whether it shares a detailed sustainability statement or ESG disclosures on its website. We also conduct research to see if companies offer end-of-life panel disposal programs or have eco-friendly community partnerships.