Lumina

Best Solar Company In Maryland

I spent roughly a year researching solar companies in the greater Annapolis, MD area, and after numerous sales pitches and meetings, I came across Lumina Solar. Although they are a relatively small solar company compared to the Big-Box brand, they are anything but small on service, price, and dependability. From my first meeting with Zac Hare, I was impressed. It felt like I was having a conversation with a friend, not a salesman. His knowledge of solar energy, as well as his business model and capabilities, was more impressive than any of the other companies I interviewed. Not long after, I chose Lumina to install solar in my home. Along the way I had questions, and Zac always responded quicker than I expected. At one point I even had to ask him not to reply to me on a Sunday evening because I felt bad I was taking time away from his family. But this is the level of dedication this company has for its customers. From start to finish they are a top-notch company. I could not rate them higher or give more praise to this team.

Professional, knowledgeable, courteous and cost competitive.

Lumina Solar recently completed installation of their solar system on my home in Perry Hall. I had quotes from several other installers when I met Ryan Farrell of Lumina. From the start, Ryan was a different kind of salesman. He took the time to educate us about the benefits of solar without any pressure. He explained the differences between the different types of inverters and why he was proposing a Solar Edge system with optimizers for my location. When he showed our house, complete with surrounding trees, on his PC program simulating daily and annual power generation I was duly impressed. He then showed us an Excel spreadsheet showing the expected annual power generation based on our locale, our electricity needs and our expected savings over the lifetime of the system. We then negotiated a price which was in line with one of the best quotes I had received. In addition, Ryan provided us a very favorable financing option. As my roof was over 20 years old, I asked Ryan for a recommended roof installer, and he recommended Fichtner Services. Fichtner's quote was in line with my two other quotes. They did an excellent, on-time job, and their personnel were helpful and professional. Throughout the process Lumina Solar kept me informed of the status of the approval process with BGE and Baltimore County inspection. Shortly after BGE approved the interconnection Lumina contacted me to schedule the installation. The Lumina crew arrived on the promised day and completed the installation in short order. Ryan of Fusion Solar and his crew did a great job. I was especially impressed with the neat routing and installation of the electrical system. There was minimal disruption to my house power as they connected the system to my electrical panel. After the installation, Lumina Solar contacted Baltimore County to perform the final inspection and BGE to approve the installation and install the Net Meter. Just two weeks after the installation my solar system is online, and I am generating power. The SolarEdge app enables me to see power generation throughout the day. This entire process could not have gone any better. Lumina Solar took care of everything. Everyone with whom I had the pleasure of dealing with was completely professional and on time. In short, I highly recommend Lumina Solar to anyone who is considering solar panels.

Excellent Experience Throughout

have already, and would again, recommend Lumina to anyone. My experience with Lumina was excellent throughout the project, including the initial Q&A as I educated myself on my solar opportunity. I am very busy and Colin was very helpful to communicate via whichever form was best for me, including email which some others were not willing to do. After considering a few offers, the combination of price, product, and finance options made Lumina a no-brainer for me. After the site survey, Lumina and Colin worked with me to further maximize my roof space and improve my expected production. I greatly appreciate this because it required the team to work outside of their standard processes to ensure my installation was optimized for my roof and preferences. During the installation, I could not have been more impressed with the install team. Steve, Santos and their support team were outstanding from the moment they arrived early to the smooth wrap up and system overview. Their expertise was never more evident than when we identified a small hiccup in that the updated panel layout had not been sent with them that morning. Their willingness to dig into the situation and adapt to resolve the discrepency was fantastic - even with the very short delay to update things, the install completed earlier than expected. Post-installation, the Lumina team continues to stay in touch as we monitor that the system is performing as expected. Once again, I recommend Lumina to anyone!

Had a Great Experience

I had a great experience getting solar panels installed with Lumina Solar. The process was easy, the employees were friendly, and the installation went great. If you're considering solar I would highly recommend going with Lumina Solar.

Highly Recommend

TL;DR Version: From start to finish, excellent company to work with, great quality, and very competitive pricing. We would select Lumina again should the opportunity arise. System Specs: 6.71 kW residential installation. 22 panels (305 W each). Full Review: We considered 5 different solar companies in our search for getting a solar panel array installed on our home. We received quotes from 3 and contracts from 2. Lumina was prompt to respond when we reached out for an estimate. In fact, I received a call from 2 different Lumina representatives to make sure they contacted me back. Ryan F. was our sales representative. He also helped us throughout the entire process from start to finish. My wife and I are very particular, and so we had a lot of questions. Ryan was always reachable and very communicative whenever we needed questions answered. His response time was always less than 1 day (including weekends) and often within a few hours. We were initially hesitant to go with a smaller company, but the outstanding customer service that Ryan and Lumina provided assuaged our concerns. Ryan came to our home and discussed our needs and wants for the system. The appointment was supposed to last 1 hour, but we pestered him for over 4 hours with questions ranging in scope from overall system size to low-level details about solar panel manufacturing techniques. Ryan was very knowledgeable and was able to answer almost any question we threw at him. If he didn’t know an answer, he was honest and said so rather than making something up to make a sale. During the consultation, Ryan was also equipped with great visualization and modeling software to give us a realistic view of what the solar panels would look like on our house. In addition to the visualization, he also had pricing and budgeting tools that explicitly broke down all aspects of the system costs. After he left, we knew we would be going with Lumina. After we signed the initial contract, we decided to add more panels, which changed the design. This change was not a problem at all, and Lumina was very flexible and prompt in re-designing the system. Installation took less than 1 day, and the county inspection took place the next day. Justin led the installation and mounting of the panels, Joe was the electrician to connect them to my inverter (and ultimately my home’s power), and Aaron handled the county inspection. Throughout the installation day, I was taking pictures of the process and asking them questions about how everything fits together for my own edification. I’m sure my interference annoyed them, but they didn’t let me know it. They were very professional, and they politely answered all my questions. Overall, we are completely satisfied with Lumina in providing our home with a solar panel array. We highly recommend them if you are considering “going solar”.

Install Solar Panels For Electric System

Lumina Solar provided a one stop shop for us to go solar. They surveyed our property, designed the solution, dealt with the permit applications, installed the system, coordinated the inspections. We were introduced to Lumina Solar (https://www.luminasolar.com) by Retrofit Baltimore (http://retrofitbaltimore.civicworks.com). We had a large solar system installed on the house and garage. The team installed the equipment very well. They were on time, courteous, and left the house clean and tidy once they had finished. The project was on budget.

Great experience all the way through

They did a great job describing the process and options, installing the system and shepherding us through all of the permits and authorizations. Great experience across the board. Even did a nice job cleaning up after the install.

Solar + New Roof = Awesome!

We had a wonderful experience with Lumina! It started back In the fall of 2018 when we first looked into solar for the house. Colin came over and was able to explain everything very clearly for us, and was not high-pressure sales, which I appreciated. We had to table to project because I had other home projects going on and we needed a new roof. Fast forward to spring of 2019, and Lumina actually helped us get a new roof through their partner, and helped cover some of the cost as well! We were able to do solar and a new roof with nothing out of pocket, and will be saving money with the solar. Overall their team was quick, efficient, professional and met every expectation I had. My wife and I would recommend them to anyone interested in solar, especially if they need a new roof as well.

Above and Beyond!

I have to let everyone know that for the DMV area Lumina Solar is the best choice of Solar companies in the area. They have great business ehtics, they are friendly, and treat you and your home with respect. Their Lumina Solar does not have a no-can-do delivery and does not attempt to bleed you of exrta money because they have the certified staff employed to get the job done. Their delivery is "we can handdle that issue". Their teamwork and willingness to go the extra mile for us made it possible for our household to go solar. They get right down to business. Lumina is just awesome and get a 6 star rating... 5 does not exist in their superior service delivery. I want to say a word of thanks to Colin Gload who orchestrated my project. You are truly the best in outstanding customer service. Thank you so very much!!!!

A Good Process Start to Finish

I have to say that though there were some bumps along the way, but I am very happy so far with the system installed by Lumina Solar. I met with Colin Gload of Lumina around the Middle of February 2019. I had met with a few companies before Lumina, but I was impressed with Colin’s ability to explain different panel options, and to get me the most competitively priced system. They were also able to include a SolarEdge EV Charger and consumption monitoring for me. While most companies told us the install would take 90 + Days, Lumina had us turned on and running at around the 60 day mark from signing with them. We had a couple of hiccups along the way, but they were attentive to my concerns. We originally planned to have all of the conduit running through the attic space, but at installation time, it was discovered that not all could be run inside. Lumina did send someone out right away, and were able to remedy the problem by limiting the stretch of exposed conduit to the minimum. They came back out later to paint the exposed conduit to match my roof. They also helped remove a shelf that was in the way in my garage where the inverters would go, and put it back up afterward. Communications with the installers, individually was always good, but they didn't always communicate well among themselves. My rep Colin was always available by phone when I called. I think most ot the difficulties were due to new components that the electricians were not yet familiar with. But they eventually sorted it all out. The monitoring they set up allows me to see the production from my system in real time, and it is comforting to see the power that is generated and used every day. I would recommend Lumina to family and friends to be included among the companies they are considering. Steve Sapirie

MD Solar Install with Lumina Solar

Short Version: My experience with Lumina Solar was a very positive. I was blown away by the team's experience within the Solar industry and willingness to communicate with me every step along the way. From my sales manager and main POC Ryan Farrell, who answered a large quantity of my questions on the spot unhinged too many times to list and provided routine check ins as we waited for permits and paperwork of that nature to get approved by the various government groups, to the site surveyer Mark (I can't remember his last name) who took the extra time to identify and capture pictures of a few shingle nail pops and shingle nail holes on my roof that I was able to get repaired through my builder prior to panel install, to the install team and extreme professionalism & attention to detail of lead electrician Joe (I can't remember his last name) who explained the physical install process with me during day of execution and even provided me with some welcomed insight into how Lumina was formed. Lumina was also more than willing to install a Solar Edge HD Wave EV Charger Inverter w/ the charging cable and holder since my electrical panel is located in my garage. So I got solar panels (wanted solar ever since I was a teenager), A Solar Edge inverter with Power Optimizers, and an up to 40A @ 240 VAC Level 2 EV Charger wrapped into one project. Icing on the cake: Lumina conducted the research to confirm my eligibility for MD's EV Charger Rebate (In addition to the State solar grant and county property tax credit) , making this entire project that much more financially sweet. It's February, my system's been running for a few days, and I got over 70% of my electricity provided by solar on the extremely sunny and clear skies Monday we had.Very much so looking forward to summertime production because this is greater than expected already. Deeper Dive: My journey for solar pv started on EnergySage. I followed EnergySage's advice and attempted to receive quotes from several companies: Maryland Solar Solutions Inc, Tesla, Lumina Solar, Celestial Solar, and Solar SME. While I had mostly good interactions with the sales personnel from all 5 companies, my conversations with Ryan from Lumina Solar and Jim from Celestial Solar were the most reassuring by far. So I scheduled site assessments with both. Unfortunately Jim from Celestial was unable to make our scheduled assessment due to having a tech that called out sick as he had to fill in for said tech for an inspection. I sent him a follow up email to inquire on if an alternate date a week away would work, but I never got a response. So I proceeded in kind with Ryan from Lumina. The assessment with Ryan went extremely well as he developed the system in real time with solar estimating software on his laptop. The software seemed to be significantly more user friendly and visually appealing than what I encountered at the Tesla store when looking for a quote from Tesla/Solar City. We worked together and designed a couple of options.I compared pricing and such with the other quotes received. With the exception of Tesla, which was priced considerably low, all other prices between the companies I received quotes from were fairly in line. I decided to make my decision off of reassured quality as opposed to rock bottom lowest price (Tesla in this case) and ended up proceeding forward with Lumina because I was more than reassured in their capabilities along with their professionalism. The efficient all black panels, the experienced team, the experienced installers, the experienced electrician, and their competitive price in comparison to the pack. As a bundle it was the right call. If you're planning to go solar definitely consider Lumina. Happy to recommend and write an overly long review for a local company that is putting quality first and foremost.

Staisfied Customer

Ryan Farrell approached us last year to discuss the possibility of a solar system. He was very professional and his presentation was very clear - we contracted Lumina to install a 12.6 kW system and Lumina took care of everything necessary to complete the process - including working with our power company who did not seem as enthusiastic as we were. The system went up in two days (we have a very challenging pitch as well as large roof) without a hitch. Once the power company approved the interconnection, we were off and running.

Very pleased with effortless process

We talked to four companies ranging from small/local (Lumina), a medium/local company and two very large/national firms. We ultimately chose Lumina because (1) they had local experience and were knowledgable of local reimbursements and energy grants, (2) provided a detailed assessment of needs/system design with quote, (3) did not require that we sit through a high-pressure timeshare-style sales pitch, and (4) we weren't expected to sign any contracts or start the process before we were given a quote and shown the proposed system design. Most importantly, they also had the best offer of the four. We signed the contract end of November 2018, the system was installed January 2019, and we received permission to operate February 2019. Even in the middle of winter, we're generating electricity and are very excited for the summer months! Lumina made the entire process effortless. The installation crew was very professional and polite. There was some damage to the drywall and molding around the electrical panel, which was somewhat expected, but they sent someone to restore it to original (or better) condition. Zac@Lumina was very responsive to our constant stream of questions, and made sure we had applied for all the clean energy grants/tax credits available to use. All the information we received from Lumina was consistent and realistic. We're very pleased with Lumina, and would wholeheartedly recommend to others in Maryland.

Outstanding Service and Good Product

I have been interested in getting a solar system for some time now. I have never liked the idea of having to get electricity from a company that uses non-green sources of electricity. In addition, I feel the electricity rates are getting out of hand. With that said about one year ago I looked at a solar system from another company; however, it did not feel like the right move at the time. The following year based on a reference from my neighbor, I reached out to Lumina. Contrary to the previous company, I did not feel any pressure to buy or lease a system. I thought the Salesperson was very objective and just provided the facts. He provided me with a wealth of knowledge to let me make the decision of either buying, leasing, or not getting a system. He also addressed my many concerns like the condition of my roof and the age of my electrical system. After what seemed like an infinite number of questions, I knew the right thing to do was to buy a system from this company. Once the decision was made, the salesperson did everything to make the installation of the system go seamlessly. Their support staff was able to schedule me quickly to allow for my system to be installed before 2018 was over so I could claim it on my taxes, which I really appreciated. After the install, Lumina made sure my system was working properly and told me about their app so now I can look at my solar production everyday, which seems to be something I tend to do. Like all projects there were some hiccups during the process, but Lumina was more willing to accommodate us at no extra cost. I must also note that their service did not stop there, they also filled out my state paperwork to get my grant and helped me to file for the federal credit on this past income taxes. Collectively, after talking with a least three solar companies, Lumina by far treated me the best. I feel a got a good product that appears to be performing well and looks nice, too.

Technology and wisedom combined

Lumina utilized the best technology for the solar panels they installed, a comprehensive mobile app with daily, weekly, monthly, yearly and lifetime solar production, and design software for in person explanations. This company is at the forefront of innovation. I worked with Colin who was able to answer all my questions at any time of the day and was transparent with costs and numbers.

Excellent Install

Title: Excellent Install We highly recommend Lumina Solar. Colin, the sales rep, and was patient as we did our due diligence. We started our research for a solar system in the Spring of 2018. After talking with more than 8 installers we whittled it down to three. We visited recent installations for each of the 3 companies, talked with their installers etc. Based on interviews with their install crews, we went with Lumina Solar. Lumina also gave us the best $/KWH quote. We signed with Lumina Solar the first week of Oct 2018. Installation took place during the 2nd week of Dec 2018. Our roof was steep. The install crew managed it with ease. The net meter was activated the first week of Jan 2019. Net system production for 18 days in Jan 2019 was circa 500 kWH. We were impressed with the experienced Lumina Solar crew led by Steve and Santos. They were not only efficient and hard working but also listened to our feedback and accommodated our requests.

Great service, great quality, great communication

After so many difficult experiences with home improvement contractors over the years - I had low expectations for whomever installed solar on my house. From the very start - Lumina Solar, and their rep Zac Hare, exceeded in all ways. They were flexible with schedule, maintained great communication, worked closely with me and Pepco to get all the legal agreements worked out. When they came for the install and found out that part of my roof profile had changed (I had a new roof put on and several attic fans removed) - they were able to do a quick redesign that made the overall more visually pleasing AND produced more energy. In all ways I whole heartedly recommend Lumina Solar.

Helpful and Informative

My partners and I are looking into possibly building a solar farm. I reached out to Colin at Lumina Solar. Colin spent many minutes on the phone with me, walking me through the initial process of getting started. I've spoken with several other companies over the past two days. none of which provided me with the level of courtesy and amount of time and information as Colin did. Should we move forward with our project, I plan on calling Colin back for sure.

Great install experience!

Company was extremely professional throughout the process and I was impressed by the quality of the panels I received. I'm excited to see how much money I'll save over the next 30 years!

Great Solar Experience

Absolutely loved working with Erin and the rest of the team! Erin's knowledge of solar made me feel like I definitely made the right choice. I couldn't imagine the process going any smoother. I will be recommending Lumina Solar to everyone I can!

Excellent Experience, Professional All Around

I purchased my second solar system on a new home from Lumina Solar. The experience was professional, everything was on time and transparent and things are working perfectly. They had really east and affordable financing options. Would highly recommend them.

Go Solar, Go Lumina!

I worked with Mike on my project a few years ago and had an absolutely great experience! Mike was able to answer all of my questions, the majority of which before I had the chance to ask! Extremely knowledgeable, communicated regularly with project updates, and checked in after I was able to activate my system to see how it was going! The installation team was awesome and install went smoothly. Almost 2 years later my system is running great!

Working with Mike Kirby

I worked with Mike when he was part of Astrum Solar. He listened to me, and provided various options for my solar system. Also, when I decided to expand my solar system he made sure I got the latest-and-greatest that was available. Mike puts the interest of his customers ahead of his own.

Great team, Great Installation

I worked with Colin and the team on my solar project. The team did an excellent job and I love my LG panels with Enphase microinverters. I'd highly recommend working with them on your project.