Compare the prices and reputations of solar installers, solar panel manufacturers and other solar energy companies servicing Houston.
4.82 163 Reviews
Happy Customer, 1 week ago
I've personally had a great experience working on a solar solution with Freedom Solar in Austin, TX. James Govea made the process smooth, clear, and informative. Any and all questions I had were sufficiently answered and I'm now a happy owner of a fantastic solar system for our single family home. Couldn't recommend more! Also, I've read some comments about the solar production of their systems, and while I can only speak for our experience, we had their panels produce immediately (yes, same day), and while we still have overcast days which results in low production, the overall solar production of their panels is stellar.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,000 (3.40 per watt)
Happy Customer, 1 week ago
I've personally had a great experience working on a solar solution with Freedom Solar in Austin, TX. James Govea made the process smooth, clear, and informative. Any and all questions I had were sufficiently answered and I'm now a happy owner of a fantastic solar system for our single family home. Couldn't recommend more! Also, I've read some comments about the solar production of their systems, and while I can only speak for our experience, we had their panels produce immediately (yes, same day), and while we still have overcast days which results in low production, the overall solar production of their panels is stellar.
4.64 32 Reviews
, over 1 month
We turned on our solar system on October 30, 2018. Satisfied with Sheldon Wilkinson and Sara with all of their help from the get go. Sheldon answer all of our questions. He has taken the time to stop by to check on us. I'm very satisfied with our system. It is a positive investment. 100% Satisfied with Alba Energy.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,450 (3.49 per watt)
, over 1 month
We turned on our solar system on October 30, 2018. Satisfied with Sheldon Wilkinson and Sara with all of their help from the get go. Sheldon answer all of our questions. He has taken the time to stop by to check on us. I'm very satisfied with our system. It is a positive investment. 100% Satisfied with Alba Energy.
4.57 65 Reviews
Juan Venegas, over 1 month
I purchased 13 solar panels which were installed late July of last year (2019). The system functioned well, but several items were not taken care of as promised. One of the two main issues were having them trim some trees that caused shade over the panels. One gentlemen by the last name Thomas came to my house to evaluate the trimming and said he had "some guys" that would come out to take care of it. Well, it's been over a year and they never came. Needless to say, I went ahead and paid out of pocket to have those trees trimmed. The second (and main) issue I am having now, or should I say, have been having for over six months, is that two of my panels are not registering power production. I have reached out repeatedly over the phone all summer, and conveniently, their phone lines are never answered and/or their voicemail is full and unable to take messages. I finally got in touch with one employee (Melissa) in late July who was very empathetic to my situation and she supposedly spoke with someone on the team but no one has ever bothered to return my call to send out a technician to evaluate the faulty panels. The most frustrating thing about this experience with Texas Solar Outfitters is the lack of accountability and customer service. I am a citizen trying to do my part to help my environment only to be meet with what seems to be a scrupulous company veiled as a righteous environmental advocate. Beware of this last business practice of theirs. BEFORE they even turn on your system, you have to sign a document that states that ALL work was completed to your satisfaction. The quandary is how do you know all work is fully functional? I should have seen this coming. And yes, I have filed the pertinent complaint with the BBB. I will update as necessary.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$18,900 (3.78 per watt)
Juan Venegas, over 1 month
I purchased 13 solar panels which were installed late July of last year (2019). The system functioned well, but several items were not taken care of as promised. One of the two main issues were having them trim some trees that caused shade over the panels. One gentlemen by the last name Thomas came to my house to evaluate the trimming and said he had "some guys" that would come out to take care of it. Well, it's been over a year and they never came. Needless to say, I went ahead and paid out of pocket to have those trees trimmed. The second (and main) issue I am having now, or should I say, have been having for over six months, is that two of my panels are not registering power production. I have reached out repeatedly over the phone all summer, and conveniently, their phone lines are never answered and/or their voicemail is full and unable to take messages. I finally got in touch with one employee (Melissa) in late July who was very empathetic to my situation and she supposedly spoke with someone on the team but no one has ever bothered to return my call to send out a technician to evaluate the faulty panels. The most frustrating thing about this experience with Texas Solar Outfitters is the lack of accountability and customer service. I am a citizen trying to do my part to help my environment only to be meet with what seems to be a scrupulous company veiled as a righteous environmental advocate. Beware of this last business practice of theirs. BEFORE they even turn on your system, you have to sign a document that states that ALL work was completed to your satisfaction. The quandary is how do you know all work is fully functional? I should have seen this coming. And yes, I have filed the pertinent complaint with the BBB. I will update as necessary.
4.57 21 Reviews
Francisco Perez, over 1 month
Scott and the technical support team was there for us from the beginning to the end of the installation minimizing issues. Keep up the great support even through this difficult COVID pandemic. Thanks again for everything.
Read more
Francisco Perez, over 1 month
Scott and the technical support team was there for us from the beginning to the end of the installation minimizing issues. Keep up the great support even through this difficult COVID pandemic. Thanks again for everything.
4.56 27 Reviews
Dave in Texas, over 1 month
IES did a great job! Sales process was a positive experience. Dan showed me how to save money and still get a great product. What really pleased me about IES is that their installation is better than most. Look around at solar installations in your neighborhood. Is there a bunch of conduit running all over the roof and down the side of the houses? Not with IES. All of that is up in your attic. Looks way better.
Read more
Dave in Texas, over 1 month
IES did a great job! Sales process was a positive experience. Dan showed me how to save money and still get a great product. What really pleased me about IES is that their installation is better than most. Look around at solar installations in your neighborhood. Is there a bunch of conduit running all over the roof and down the side of the houses? Not with IES. All of that is up in your attic. Looks way better.
4.53 74 Reviews
Jose Luis Cintron, over 1 month
Jared Hutton with Circle L Solar is very friendly and explains how the system works in a very easy way to understand. He also makes himself available at anytime if I have any issues or questions. That is why I chose Circle L Solar.
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Jose Luis Cintron, over 1 month
Jared Hutton with Circle L Solar is very friendly and explains how the system works in a very easy way to understand. He also makes himself available at anytime if I have any issues or questions. That is why I chose Circle L Solar.
4.53 14 Reviews
Uncloudy Day, over 1 month
Verisolar was the most interested in the project, spent extra time measuring and validating the projected output, and offered the best value for the money.
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Uncloudy Day, over 1 month
Verisolar was the most interested in the project, spent extra time measuring and validating the projected output, and offered the best value for the money.
4.39 156 Reviews
Anne., 2 weeks ago
Sunpro, and in particular Hector, made going solar, simple and painless. Hector thoroughly explained the whole process, and also ensured that he was present when it came time for the panel installation. He has made himself available at all hours of the day and night for any questions that I have had, and ensures that all my questions are answered. Hector is a kind man, and has excellent customer service skills. I truly appreciate Sunpro and Hector for such a wonderful experience.
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Anne., 2 weeks ago
Sunpro, and in particular Hector, made going solar, simple and painless. Hector thoroughly explained the whole process, and also ensured that he was present when it came time for the panel installation. He has made himself available at all hours of the day and night for any questions that I have had, and ensures that all my questions are answered. Hector is a kind man, and has excellent customer service skills. I truly appreciate Sunpro and Hector for such a wonderful experience.
Mel Doolan , over 1 month
Most helpful and informative
4.25 5 Reviews
Jim S., over 1 month
Fastrac offers great customer service and makes the installation process easy. From the customized design, to Fastrac handling all the details and scheduling of the installation, the process was easy and seamless.
Read more
Jim S., over 1 month
Fastrac offers great customer service and makes the installation process easy. From the customized design, to Fastrac handling all the details and scheduling of the installation, the process was easy and seamless.
Companies reviewed
Avg rating of Houston solar installers
Avg size of residential system
Avg price 8.92kW 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.
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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.
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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
4.82 163 Reviews
Happy Customer, 1 week ago
I've personally had a great experience working on a solar solution with Freedom Solar in Austin, TX. James Govea made the process smooth, clear, and informative. Any and all questions I had were sufficiently answered and I'm now a happy owner of a fantastic solar system for our single family home. Couldn't recommend more! Also, I've read some comments about the solar production of their systems, and while I can only speak for our experience, we had their panels produce immediately (yes, same day), and while we still have overcast days which results in low production, the overall solar production of their panels is stellar.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,000 ($3.40 per watt)
Happy Customer, 1 week ago
I've personally had a great experience working on a solar solution with Freedom Solar in Austin, TX. James Govea made the process smooth, clear, and informative. Any and all questions I had were sufficiently answered and I'm now a happy owner of a fantastic solar system for our single family home. Couldn't recommend more! Also, I've read some comments about the solar production of their systems, and while I can only speak for our experience, we had their panels produce immediately (yes, same day), and while we still have overcast days which results in low production, the overall solar production of their panels is stellar.
4.64 32 Reviews
Anonymous, over 1 month
We turned on our solar system on October 30, 2018. Satisfied with Sheldon Wilkinson and Sara with all of their help from the get go. Sheldon answer all of our questions. He has taken the time to stop by to check on us. I'm very satisfied with our system. It is a positive investment. 100% Satisfied with Alba Energy.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$17,450 ($3.49 per watt)
Anonymous, over 1 month
We turned on our solar system on October 30, 2018. Satisfied with Sheldon Wilkinson and Sara with all of their help from the get go. Sheldon answer all of our questions. He has taken the time to stop by to check on us. I'm very satisfied with our system. It is a positive investment. 100% Satisfied with Alba Energy.
4.57 65 Reviews
Juan Venegas, over 1 month
I purchased 13 solar panels which were installed late July of last year (2019). The system functioned well, but several items were not taken care of as promised. One of the two main issues were having them trim some trees that caused shade over the panels. One gentlemen by the last name Thomas came to my house to evaluate the trimming and said he had "some guys" that would come out to take care of it. Well, it's been over a year and they never came. Needless to say, I went ahead and paid out of pocket to have those trees trimmed. The second (and main) issue I am having now, or should I say, have been having for over six months, is that two of my panels are not registering power production. I have reached out repeatedly over the phone all summer, and conveniently, their phone lines are never answered and/or their voicemail is full and unable to take messages. I finally got in touch with one employee (Melissa) in late July who was very empathetic to my situation and she supposedly spoke with someone on the team but no one has ever bothered to return my call to send out a technician to evaluate the faulty panels. The most frustrating thing about this experience with Texas Solar Outfitters is the lack of accountability and customer service. I am a citizen trying to do my part to help my environment only to be meet with what seems to be a scrupulous company veiled as a righteous environmental advocate. Beware of this last business practice of theirs. BEFORE they even turn on your system, you have to sign a document that states that ALL work was completed to your satisfaction. The quandary is how do you know all work is fully functional? I should have seen this coming. And yes, I have filed the pertinent complaint with the BBB. I will update as necessary.
Read more
Average cost (5kW system)
$18,900 ($3.78 per watt)
Juan Venegas, over 1 month
I purchased 13 solar panels which were installed late July of last year (2019). The system functioned well, but several items were not taken care of as promised. One of the two main issues were having them trim some trees that caused shade over the panels. One gentlemen by the last name Thomas came to my house to evaluate the trimming and said he had "some guys" that would come out to take care of it. Well, it's been over a year and they never came. Needless to say, I went ahead and paid out of pocket to have those trees trimmed. The second (and main) issue I am having now, or should I say, have been having for over six months, is that two of my panels are not registering power production. I have reached out repeatedly over the phone all summer, and conveniently, their phone lines are never answered and/or their voicemail is full and unable to take messages. I finally got in touch with one employee (Melissa) in late July who was very empathetic to my situation and she supposedly spoke with someone on the team but no one has ever bothered to return my call to send out a technician to evaluate the faulty panels. The most frustrating thing about this experience with Texas Solar Outfitters is the lack of accountability and customer service. I am a citizen trying to do my part to help my environment only to be meet with what seems to be a scrupulous company veiled as a righteous environmental advocate. Beware of this last business practice of theirs. BEFORE they even turn on your system, you have to sign a document that states that ALL work was completed to your satisfaction. The quandary is how do you know all work is fully functional? I should have seen this coming. And yes, I have filed the pertinent complaint with the BBB. I will update as necessary.
4.57 21 Reviews
Francisco Perez, over 1 month
Scott and the technical support team was there for us from the beginning to the end of the installation minimizing issues. Keep up the great support even through this difficult COVID pandemic. Thanks again for everything.
Read more
Francisco Perez, over 1 month
Scott and the technical support team was there for us from the beginning to the end of the installation minimizing issues. Keep up the great support even through this difficult COVID pandemic. Thanks again for everything.
4.56 27 Reviews
Dave in Texas, over 1 month
IES did a great job! Sales process was a positive experience. Dan showed me how to save money and still get a great product. What really pleased me about IES is that their installation is better than most. Look around at solar installations in your neighborhood. Is there a bunch of conduit running all over the roof and down the side of the houses? Not with IES. All of that is up in your attic. Looks way better.
Read more
Dave in Texas, over 1 month
IES did a great job! Sales process was a positive experience. Dan showed me how to save money and still get a great product. What really pleased me about IES is that their installation is better than most. Look around at solar installations in your neighborhood. Is there a bunch of conduit running all over the roof and down the side of the houses? Not with IES. All of that is up in your attic. Looks way better.
System size* | Avg cost per watt |
Avg cost
(After tax credit) show before tax |
---|---|---|
4kW | $2.66 | $7,871 |
5kW | $2.59 | $9,566 |
6kW | $2.49 | $11,037 |
7kW | $2.47 | $12,787 |
8kW | $2.50 | $14,801 |
9kW | $2.42 | $16,148 |
10kW | $2.40 | $17,779 |
12kW | $2.41 | $21,360 |
15kW | $2.38 | $26,403 |
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
$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
$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
$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
16¢ /kWh
Savings over 25 years
Eligibility: Federal incentive
Type: Personal Tax Credit
|
Eligibility: Utility incentive
Type: Net Metering
|
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.
Catherine Lane
February 18, 2021
In light of recent events, we explore how Texans can protect themselves from future widespread power shut offs by installing solar panels and solar batteries.
Ben Zientara
January 26, 2021
This annual report ranks the states for friendliness to home solar based on their net metering programs.
Ana Almerini
February 24, 2021
Fossil fuel jobs will be lost as we transition to a clean economy, but there are jobs to be gained by workers with transferable skills.
Ana Almerini
February 24, 2021
Panasonic has released EverVolt solar panel modules that will work in conjunction with the EverVolt battery. Pair them together for energy independence.
Dan Hahn
February 20, 2021
Learn about some of the more interesting publicly-traded companies in the solar energy and energy storage industries in 2021 and beyond.