Compare the prices and reputations of solar installers, solar panel manufacturers and other solar energy companies servicing Boston.
4.83 267 Reviews
Happy Customer, over 1 month
We used Boston Solar as part of the Solarize Needham program. They were very professional throughout the process and thoroughly explained everything along the way. We are delighted with our new solar panels.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$19,100 (3.82 per watt)
Happy Customer, over 1 month
We used Boston Solar as part of the Solarize Needham program. They were very professional throughout the process and thoroughly explained everything along the way. We are delighted with our new solar panels.
4.83 39 Reviews
Tina & Mike Winters, 3 days ago
Our rep, Dexter Hofhines, walked us through every step of the way and answered all of our questions promptly. The installers treated our house as if it were their own. They also took all safety precautions that are so important at this time. I would highly recommend RTP and, particularly Dexter, to anyone considering solar energy.
Read more
Tina & Mike Winters, 3 days ago
Our rep, Dexter Hofhines, walked us through every step of the way and answered all of our questions promptly. The installers treated our house as if it were their own. They also took all safety precautions that are so important at this time. I would highly recommend RTP and, particularly Dexter, to anyone considering solar energy.
4.76 62 Reviews
Dan, 1 week ago
I chose RevoluSun after speaking with some of their existing clients, seeing jobs they had performed, and hearing their no pressure pitch as to why they were the best option out there. They consulted with me to understand what I wanted and provided me with multiple options. They were transparent in terms of price, timeline, benefits, etc. They truly wanted to partner with me to make sure I was happy not just with the installation but also with the ongoing support they are able to provide should any issues arise. RevoluSun employees are friendly, respectful, polite and patient. The end product was of extremely high quality (it looks amazing!) and they took the time to answer all my questions, perform a virtual walk-through (due to COVID restrictions), etc. The only negative part of the experience was due to the delays by Eversource in getting the solar meter installed (they took about 2 months to do a job that literally took 5 minutes). To be clear, though, RevoluSun has no control over Eversource's scheduling of meter swaps. My experience was and has continued to be extremely positive with RevoluSun. I confidently and whole-heartedly recommend RevoluSun if you are looking for the best solar installer out there.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$18,600 (3.72 per watt)
Dan, 1 week ago
I chose RevoluSun after speaking with some of their existing clients, seeing jobs they had performed, and hearing their no pressure pitch as to why they were the best option out there. They consulted with me to understand what I wanted and provided me with multiple options. They were transparent in terms of price, timeline, benefits, etc. They truly wanted to partner with me to make sure I was happy not just with the installation but also with the ongoing support they are able to provide should any issues arise. RevoluSun employees are friendly, respectful, polite and patient. The end product was of extremely high quality (it looks amazing!) and they took the time to answer all my questions, perform a virtual walk-through (due to COVID restrictions), etc. The only negative part of the experience was due to the delays by Eversource in getting the solar meter installed (they took about 2 months to do a job that literally took 5 minutes). To be clear, though, RevoluSun has no control over Eversource's scheduling of meter swaps. My experience was and has continued to be extremely positive with RevoluSun. I confidently and whole-heartedly recommend RevoluSun if you are looking for the best solar installer out there.
4.71 35 Reviews
Thomas, over 1 month
I was looking for a local company that had a well established customer base for reliable support of the 25 year, SunPower warranty. That company was SavKat Solar, following an internet conference with their representative, Ben.
Read more
Thomas, over 1 month
I was looking for a local company that had a well established customer base for reliable support of the 25 year, SunPower warranty. That company was SavKat Solar, following an internet conference with their representative, Ben.
4.69 23 Reviews
Cheryl Schnitzer, 3 days ago
The whole NEC Solar process was wonderful, and we couldn't be happier with the finished product! From the start, they worked with us patiently to meet our unique needs, explain and simplify the process, and minimize expenses. The whole team, from Liz to the project manager and electricians communicated well and worked neatly and efficiently. Gratefully, NEC Solar coordinated with the utility company, town, and the state to take care of turning on the system, tax credits, rebates, etc. Now we have a gorgeous system turning photons into usable electricity!
Read more
Cheryl Schnitzer, 3 days ago
The whole NEC Solar process was wonderful, and we couldn't be happier with the finished product! From the start, they worked with us patiently to meet our unique needs, explain and simplify the process, and minimize expenses. The whole team, from Liz to the project manager and electricians communicated well and worked neatly and efficiently. Gratefully, NEC Solar coordinated with the utility company, town, and the state to take care of turning on the system, tax credits, rebates, etc. Now we have a gorgeous system turning photons into usable electricity!
4.42 8 Reviews
Scott Frye, over 1 month
Change quoted price frequently. Bad at execution: they have been installing my system for over 6 months and missed the end of year target thus costing me tax incentives. Terrible at scheduling and communication. Work seems adequate but they failed the first electrical inspection
Read more
Scott Frye, over 1 month
Change quoted price frequently. Bad at execution: they have been installing my system for over 6 months and missed the end of year target thus costing me tax incentives. Terrible at scheduling and communication. Work seems adequate but they failed the first electrical inspection
4.38 12 Reviews
Solar panel heaven, over 1 month
Dan Maloney sold us on having solar electricity in our home. We got solicited by another solar company and after reading the Google reviews we decided not to hire that solar company.
Read more
Solar panel heaven, over 1 month
Dan Maloney sold us on having solar electricity in our home. We got solicited by another solar company and after reading the Google reviews we decided not to hire that solar company.
4.38 14 Reviews
, over 1 month
It was a pleasure getting the Solar panel installation done on my property through Future Energy Solar LLC. Energy Sage provided me all the information needed to make a wise decision in picking the right company to install the solar panels.<br /><br />AJ Reis from Future Energy has been at top of every step of planning, collaboration with Town/Utility officials and installation of the panels at the property. All my questions were immediately answered either over email or as a text message and I was made aware of any official hurdles that we may need to overcome and any possible delays that could occur (luckily none of them happened).<br /><br />I got the best value for the equipment to be installed, and I suggest that anyone who is more interested in the panel output and degradation rate should talk to AJ from Future Energy Solar for their Solar project.<br /><br />I'm in the final stages of the project and will very soon have a running system that should exceed my expectations. So I will follow-up with another review in a month or so. So far, I am extremely happy about the Solar project with Future Energy Solar LLC.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$19,150 (3.83 per watt)
, over 1 month
It was a pleasure getting the Solar panel installation done on my property through Future Energy Solar LLC. Energy Sage provided me all the information needed to make a wise decision in picking the right company to install the solar panels.<br /><br />AJ Reis from Future Energy has been at top of every step of planning, collaboration with Town/Utility officials and installation of the panels at the property. All my questions were immediately answered either over email or as a text message and I was made aware of any official hurdles that we may need to overcome and any possible delays that could occur (luckily none of them happened).<br /><br />I got the best value for the equipment to be installed, and I suggest that anyone who is more interested in the panel output and degradation rate should talk to AJ from Future Energy Solar for their Solar project.<br /><br />I'm in the final stages of the project and will very soon have a running system that should exceed my expectations. So I will follow-up with another review in a month or so. So far, I am extremely happy about the Solar project with Future Energy Solar LLC.
4.36 39 Reviews
KristenH50220, 21 hours ago
Moxie seemed great from reviews so I gave them a call. Smooth process, very informative. Solar panels have been up for almost 3 months now and no issues!
Read more
KristenH50220, 21 hours ago
Moxie seemed great from reviews so I gave them a call. Smooth process, very informative. Solar panels have been up for almost 3 months now and no issues!
4.32 6 Reviews
, over 1 month
If you choose to work with Asidaco, you will find a band of professional industry leaders who will make you their top priority. They stay informed and educated with regard to new and updated products and always have an eye on cost-effectiveness for your residence and/or your business.
Read more
, over 1 month
If you choose to work with Asidaco, you will find a band of professional industry leaders who will make you their top priority. They stay informed and educated with regard to new and updated products and always have an eye on cost-effectiveness for your residence and/or your business.
Companies reviewed
Avg rating of Boston solar installers
Avg size of residential system
Avg price 5.97kW installed system
2.63 611 Reviews
Silva, 2 weeks ago
We just had our Tesla solar panels installed and I want to give a big shout out to the Apollo crew! They were very professional and highly attentive to details. They even painted our conduit to match our house! Both Luc and Minh took time to educate us on our equipment as well as how best to maximum our energy with every day usage. Again a great big thank you to this team!! I am ready to start reaping the reward of solar energy!!
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$10,000 ($2.00 per watt)
Silva, 2 weeks ago
We just had our Tesla solar panels installed and I want to give a big shout out to the Apollo crew! They were very professional and highly attentive to details. They even painted our conduit to match our house! Both Luc and Minh took time to educate us on our equipment as well as how best to maximum our energy with every day usage. Again a great big thank you to this team!! I am ready to start reaping the reward of solar energy!!
4.77 912 Reviews
Charles, over 1 month
I used this company to have a basis for my solar panels on my new house. They did a great assessment of my usage, roof, and environment. They came to the house after numerous meetings online (COVID) to finalize the project and check if 100% everything was fine. Everything financially was reviewed. Before starting, they took over all the communication with the HOA. Once approved by the HOA, the project was started. I now have 28 beautiful Solar Panels which cover 100% of my yearly usage. Would I recommend Cape Fear Solar Systems: YES.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$19,950 ($3.99 per watt)
Charles, over 1 month
I used this company to have a basis for my solar panels on my new house. They did a great assessment of my usage, roof, and environment. They came to the house after numerous meetings online (COVID) to finalize the project and check if 100% everything was fine. Everything financially was reviewed. Before starting, they took over all the communication with the HOA. Once approved by the HOA, the project was started. I now have 28 beautiful Solar Panels which cover 100% of my yearly usage. Would I recommend Cape Fear Solar Systems: YES.
4.84 319 Reviews
William Hurley, over 1 month
The Panasonic panels we had installed had better power generation than what the competition wanted to steer us towards, and a much longer warranty.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$21,700 ($4.34 per watt)
William Hurley, over 1 month
The Panasonic panels we had installed had better power generation than what the competition wanted to steer us towards, and a much longer warranty.
4.54 895 Reviews
Roger, over 1 month
We have had Sunpower Solar now for a little over a year now and are more then just pleased. We produce much more then we use. In fact we have a nice credit built up with the electric company. So far we haven't had any problems with the system and would recommend Sunpower to anyone.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$24,550 ($4.91 per watt)
Roger, over 1 month
We have had Sunpower Solar now for a little over a year now and are more then just pleased. We produce much more then we use. In fact we have a nice credit built up with the electric company. So far we haven't had any problems with the system and would recommend Sunpower to anyone.
4.68 165 Reviews
Mark and Karen, over 1 month
These panels were recommended by our installer as the best compromise between price, capacity, efficiency and life span
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$23,700 ($4.74 per watt)
Mark and Karen, over 1 month
These panels were recommended by our installer as the best compromise between price, capacity, efficiency and life span
4.83 267 Reviews
Happy Customer, over 1 month
We used Boston Solar as part of the Solarize Needham program. They were very professional throughout the process and thoroughly explained everything along the way. We are delighted with our new solar panels.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$19,100 ($3.82 per watt)
Happy Customer, over 1 month
We used Boston Solar as part of the Solarize Needham program. They were very professional throughout the process and thoroughly explained everything along the way. We are delighted with our new solar panels.
4.83 39 Reviews
Tina & Mike Winters, 3 days ago
Our rep, Dexter Hofhines, walked us through every step of the way and answered all of our questions promptly. The installers treated our house as if it were their own. They also took all safety precautions that are so important at this time. I would highly recommend RTP and, particularly Dexter, to anyone considering solar energy.
Read more
Tina & Mike Winters, 3 days ago
Our rep, Dexter Hofhines, walked us through every step of the way and answered all of our questions promptly. The installers treated our house as if it were their own. They also took all safety precautions that are so important at this time. I would highly recommend RTP and, particularly Dexter, to anyone considering solar energy.
4.76 62 Reviews
Dan, 1 week ago
I chose RevoluSun after speaking with some of their existing clients, seeing jobs they had performed, and hearing their no pressure pitch as to why they were the best option out there. They consulted with me to understand what I wanted and provided me with multiple options. They were transparent in terms of price, timeline, benefits, etc. They truly wanted to partner with me to make sure I was happy not just with the installation but also with the ongoing support they are able to provide should any issues arise. RevoluSun employees are friendly, respectful, polite and patient. The end product was of extremely high quality (it looks amazing!) and they took the time to answer all my questions, perform a virtual walk-through (due to COVID restrictions), etc. The only negative part of the experience was due to the delays by Eversource in getting the solar meter installed (they took about 2 months to do a job that literally took 5 minutes). To be clear, though, RevoluSun has no control over Eversource's scheduling of meter swaps. My experience was and has continued to be extremely positive with RevoluSun. I confidently and whole-heartedly recommend RevoluSun if you are looking for the best solar installer out there.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$18,600 ($3.72 per watt)
Dan, 1 week ago
I chose RevoluSun after speaking with some of their existing clients, seeing jobs they had performed, and hearing their no pressure pitch as to why they were the best option out there. They consulted with me to understand what I wanted and provided me with multiple options. They were transparent in terms of price, timeline, benefits, etc. They truly wanted to partner with me to make sure I was happy not just with the installation but also with the ongoing support they are able to provide should any issues arise. RevoluSun employees are friendly, respectful, polite and patient. The end product was of extremely high quality (it looks amazing!) and they took the time to answer all my questions, perform a virtual walk-through (due to COVID restrictions), etc. The only negative part of the experience was due to the delays by Eversource in getting the solar meter installed (they took about 2 months to do a job that literally took 5 minutes). To be clear, though, RevoluSun has no control over Eversource's scheduling of meter swaps. My experience was and has continued to be extremely positive with RevoluSun. I confidently and whole-heartedly recommend RevoluSun if you are looking for the best solar installer out there.
4.71 35 Reviews
Thomas, over 1 month
I was looking for a local company that had a well established customer base for reliable support of the 25 year, SunPower warranty. That company was SavKat Solar, following an internet conference with their representative, Ben.
Read more
Thomas, over 1 month
I was looking for a local company that had a well established customer base for reliable support of the 25 year, SunPower warranty. That company was SavKat Solar, following an internet conference with their representative, Ben.
4.69 23 Reviews
Cheryl Schnitzer, 3 days ago
The whole NEC Solar process was wonderful, and we couldn't be happier with the finished product! From the start, they worked with us patiently to meet our unique needs, explain and simplify the process, and minimize expenses. The whole team, from Liz to the project manager and electricians communicated well and worked neatly and efficiently. Gratefully, NEC Solar coordinated with the utility company, town, and the state to take care of turning on the system, tax credits, rebates, etc. Now we have a gorgeous system turning photons into usable electricity!
Read more
Cheryl Schnitzer, 3 days ago
The whole NEC Solar process was wonderful, and we couldn't be happier with the finished product! From the start, they worked with us patiently to meet our unique needs, explain and simplify the process, and minimize expenses. The whole team, from Liz to the project manager and electricians communicated well and worked neatly and efficiently. Gratefully, NEC Solar coordinated with the utility company, town, and the state to take care of turning on the system, tax credits, rebates, etc. Now we have a gorgeous system turning photons into usable electricity!
System size* | Avg cost per watt |
Avg cost
(After tax credit) show before tax |
---|---|---|
4kW | $3.13 | $9,251 |
5kW | $2.99 | $11,067 |
6kW | $2.86 | $12,685 |
7kW | $2.83 | $14,660 |
8kW | $2.88 | $17,072 |
9kW | $2.77 | $18,431 |
10kW | $2.74 | $20,280 |
12kW | $2.75 | $24,460 |
15kW | $2.59 | $28,731 |
Best unit price
$430.00 ($1.15 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$12,718.32
($2.61 p/w)
LG375Q1C-V5 overview
Rated power
375 watts
Efficiency
21.7
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$320.00 ($0.96 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,523.93
($2.49 p/w)
LG335N1K-V5 overview
Rated power
335 watts
Efficiency
19.6
Number of Cells
60
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
KR
Best unit price
$291.18 ($0.88 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,008.02
($2.43 p/w)
VBH330RA03K overview
Rated power
330 watts
Efficiency
19.7
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Mono-crystalline Silicon
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$340.00 ($1.00 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$14,280.00
($2.80 p/w)
VBHN340SA17 HIT+ overview
Rated power
340 watts
Efficiency
20.3
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline/N-type
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$800.00 ($2.22 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$12,335.47
($2.45 p/w)
SPR-X22-360 overview
Rated power
360 watts
Efficiency
22.2
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$600.00 ($1.83 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,968.01
($2.44 p/w)
SPR-E20-327-COM overview
Rated power
327 watts
Efficiency
20.4
Number of Cells
96
Cell type
Monocrystalline
Manufactured
US
Best unit price
$205.00 ($0.58 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.0kW system
$11,951.44
($2.40 p/w)
CS3U-355PB-AG overview
Rated power
355 watts
Efficiency
17.7
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
polycrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$240.01 ($0.60 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.8kW system
$12,341.39
($2.57 p/w)
CS3W-400PB-AG overview
Rated power
400 watts
Efficiency
17.9
Number of Cells
144
Cell type
polycrystalline
Manufactured
CA
Best unit price
$196.11 ($0.65 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 5.1kW system
$12,310.27
($2.41 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-300M overview
Rated power
300 watts
Efficiency
18.1
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
Best unit price
$172.00 ($0.56 per watt)
Best system price
Installed 4.9kW system
$11,840.67
($2.43 p/w)
LR6-60-HPB-305M overview
Rated power
305 watts
Efficiency
18.4
Number of Cells
120
Cell type
Mono PERC
Manufactured
CN
300 Lakeside Drive, 24th Floor,
Oakland, CA, 94612
(855) 746-7849
https://www.joinmosaic.com/
Mosaic offers choices for solar financing. One loan is structured so that the monthly payment is lower than their existing electricity bill. The average Mosaic customer saves $30,550* over the life of the solar energy system, sometimes starting right from the time the system is energized. And when the homeowner owns their system, they claim all the savings, from the federal tax credit to any state or local incentives.
433 California St, Suite 300,
San Francisco, CA, 94123
(844) 805-7100
https://www.dividendsolar.com
Dividend is a leading national provider of renewable energy and energy-efficient financing solutions to property owners. We give our customers the opportunity to obtain clean energy financing through a comprehensive suite of financing options. Our flagship product, the EmpowerLoan™, continues to expand its product offerings into the storage and home-energy space. Dividend also offers commercial PACE, which is a public-private financing mechanism for energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation and seismic upgrades on privately-owned property.
6220 Enfield Avenue,
Encino, CA, 91316
(844) 810-7713
https://www.greensky.com/
GreenSky® was founded on the idea that payment, credit and commerce could be enhanced using technology and elegant user experiences. We believed payment and credit could be an asset that empowers and enables commerce, not a distraction or impediment. Today, GreenSky delivers a service that helps business grow and delight their customers.
2100 South McDowell Boulevard,
Petaluma, CA, 94954
(866) 634-1358
https://ygrene.com/
A national leader in residential and commercial clean energy financing via PACE , Ygrene Energy Fund is revolutionizing the home improvement industry.
(800) 764-3601
https://www.greenbizfinancial.com/
The mission of GreenBiz Financial is to offer solar and other energy-efficient home improvement loans with attractive rates to our customers.
LightSteam is a national online consumer lending division of SunTrust Bank, the flagship subsidiary of SunTrust Banks Inc., one of the nation’s leading financial services companies.
2 Altieri Way,
Warwick, RI, 02886
(401) 773-9948
https://www.homeloanbank.com
Fast loan processing, competitive fixed rates with no pre-payment penalties and attentive customer service Home Loan Investment Bank, FSB is a full-service financial institution offering commercial lending, home improvement lending, small business lending, personal and business banking, automobile financing and mortgage services. We are a federally regulated, FDIC-insured savings bank with branches in Providence and Warwick, Rhode Island and are dedicated to helping our customers with their financial needs through our team of experienced and friendly bank representatives. We will give you personalized one-on-one attention and professional guidance to ensure that your transaction is completed in an accurate and timely manner. We are also a member of the Allpoint Network, providing access to over 40,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. Whether you are looking to open a CD, refinance your home or start a business, we offer competitive rates. Call us today and see how we can help with your financial needs.
1245 E. Brickyard Road Suite 600,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84106
84106-2562
https://enerbank.com
FDIC insured EnerBank USA® is a highly specialized, national consumer lender that helps strategic business partners and independent home improvement contractors increase sales. Strategic business partners include manufacturers, distributors, franchisors, member or trade associations, and major retailers of home improvement, remodeling, and energy-saving products and services. They all rely on the bank to be here today and tomorrow to fund customer loans and help them achieve their business goals and objectives. We are America's home improvement lender of choice. We are reliable, professional, and we produce results.
22232 17th Ave SE,
Bothell, WA, 98021
888.833.8570
https://www.medallionbank.com
We offer similar programs and pricing as the big Banks, but with the kind of personal attention that you won't get with a black box lender. Our team provides a level of interaction and dedication to problem-solving that is unique in our industry. We also have a consumer-friendly process with no prepayment penalties or other hidden costs.
268 South State Street,
Salt Lake City, UT, 84111
800.509.6191
https://www.celticbank.com/
Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Celtic Bank is a privately owned industrial bank chartered by the State of Utah. Celtic Bank specializes in small business finance, helping business owners with working capital, expansion, acquisition, construction, equipment financing, renewable energy finance, real estate purchases and refinances, and more. Celtic Bank has ranked as one of the top ten SBA lenders nationally since 2013. Celtic Bank has a proven track record in a range of industries, including renewable energy finance, healthcare, gas station / C-store, car wash, hotel and others. Every business loan application is approached with a creative and problem-solving mindset, and we aim to structure tailored financing solutions that help our clients meet their growth objectives.
Net cost of system
Average payback time
Annual power production
Levelized cost of solar energy
If you don't get solar
40¢ /kWh
Savings over 25 years
Eligibility: Federal incentive
Type: Personal Tax Credit
|
Eligibility: State incentive
Type: Rebate Program
|
Note: Please keep in mind that the best source of up-to-date information on incentives are the solar installers who specialize in your area.
There are several different types of solar companies, and there are significant differences between them.
These are companies like Tesla, Sunrun and Vivint Solar with corporate ownership and wide geographical coverage. When residential solar took off back in 2012, they were the first to offer zero-down solar options and thus gaining massive market share. However, these companies grew too quickly and were unable to maintain the quality of their customer service; this is reflected in their poor review scores on SolarReviews and other sites. Furthermore, these large companies face stiff competition from local solar companies who now offer zero-down financing via specialist solar loan companies. Indeed, in a bid to stay competitive, in July 2020 Sunrun and Vivint, the largest companies by market share, announced they were merging.
These companies are typically one-stop shops that both sell and install solar systems. They are more likely to employ their own installation team rather than outsourcing the task. This is a good thing: our reviews indicate that customers are more satisfied with jobs performed by in-house crews.
These are companies that sell solar to homeowners over a large geographical area, but rely on outsourced installation labour to supply all the equipment, manage the permitting, and perform the installation. For example, they may sell you a solar system for $15,000, but then pay an EPC contractor $12,000 to supply and install the entire job. These companies also tend to have super-aggressive sales tactics, and we generally see low customer satisfaction for consumers who sign with them.
EPC contractors do all of the permitting, installation and inspections for solar jobs that other companies sell. They became common as large corporate solar companies like SolarCity sold zero-down systems across vast parts of the country where they had no installation teams of their own. Large corporate solar companies still tend to use outsourced installation labour to protect themselves from any liability in the case of accidents. Like all roof work, solar panel installation carries large safety risks for workers.
These are the companies that make the solar panels. Unfortunately, very few solar panel manufacturers still make solar panels in America. Even San Jose-based SunPower now makes all of its panels overseas. Ironically, probably the only major company making panels in the US right now is Jinko Solar, a large Tier 1 Chinese-owned manufacturer with a factory in Jacksonville, FL. The leading solar panel manufacturers are LG, Panasonic, QCells, SunPower, LONGi, Trina Solar, Canadian Solar, JA Solar, GCL, and Hyundai.
Inverters convert the DC power made by your panels to AC power that your home can use. Inverters cause far more warranty issues than the solar panels themselves. If there’s one piece of advice we have for those going solar, it’s to buy a good inverter brand. The rapid shutdown rule now in force in most jurisdictions means that micro inverters or power optimizers need to be used, rather than string inverters.
(This is unfortunate, as string inverters have far fewer warranty issues). We recommend the brand Enphase for micro inverters, and SolarEdge for power optimizers. If string inverters are allowed where you live, then we suggest either SMA or Fronius.
Consumers who want to buy solar panels (instead of lease them) can now access loans from many different companies. Buying solar is preferable to leasing as it allows you to keep the 26% federal solar tax credit; if you lease panels, the credit goes to the lessor instead. Solar loan applications are made through your solar installation company, who acts as the dealer for the financing company. Leading solar loan providers include Mosaic, Dividend and Greensky.
Ben Zientara
January 26, 2021
This annual report ranks the states for friendliness to home solar based on their net metering programs.
Ben Zientara
July 2, 2020
Across the US, several states have programs that provide free solar panels for low-income households.
Catherine Lane
August 21, 2019
Tesla’s rent solar program promises easy installation & minimal upfront costs. You’ll just have to forfeit your tax credits and rebates. We discuss whether or not it's worth it.
Chris Meehan
March 18, 2019
Find out how to save over $2,000 annually by taking part in Massachusetts' energy saving initiative, Mass Save.
Ben Zientara
January 21, 2019
A solar carve-out is a law that sets a specific goal for electricity generation from solar panels. Solar carve-outs in the United States often include incentives that reward solar owners for the energy their panels generate. The incentives can be worth th