All products and services featured are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Solar energy is one of the most innovative industries paving the future. Not only does it help you reduce your environmental impact, but it also saves you money on your electric bills and boosts your home value. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reports that solar has experienced an average annual growth rate of 22% each year for the past decade, which it largely contributes to solar’s 40% drop in pricing in recent years.
With hundreds of solar companies to choose from, and you may not be sure where to start. We carefully researched more than 20 of the best solar companies to see how they compared on product selection and performance, price, customer service, availability, financing options, and warranties. We also read more than 100 customer reviews for each provider to see what real customers had to say about doing business with the company. Here are the seven solar providers that came out on top.
The Benefits of Residential Solar Panels
The benefit of solar panels comes down to a win-win: reduced electricity bills for you and reduced carbon emissions for the environment. This means the solar industry isn’t slowing down. The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects solar electric generation to be the leading source of growth in the U.S. electric power sector, forecasting the solar share of total generation to 7% in 2025, up from 4% in 2023.
The top benefits of residential solar panels include:
✔ Saving money on your energy bills: Solar panels help lower your energy costs. A solar system may even eliminate your utility bills, depending on your energy usage.
✔ Earning tax credits: Another major incentive to solar panels is tax credits and rebates. Rebates vary according to your state, so we encourage you to use the State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency Database to see what specific rebates and state tax credits are in your ZIP code. You may also take advantage of the 30% federal solar tax credit, the solar investment tax credit (ITC). If your on-grid system generates excess energy, you may earn solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs), which allow you to earn money by giving energy back to the power grid and your community.
✔ Increasing your home’s value: Based on the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) findings, every dollar saved on energy through a solar system increases home value by $20. Your home receives a 20-to-1 return on its value from solar panels. Therefore, a solar energy system isn’t just an investment for your energy bills but your property value, too.
✔ Protecting the environment: It’s no secret that solar energy leads the charge for energy-efficient renewable energy. Not only do you reduce your carbon footprint and help your community move away from fossil fuels, but you also improve public health. Coal and natural gas plants produce air and water pollution harmful to human health, and solar produces clean energy.
Top Solar Companies of 2024
We thoroughly researched 23 of the solar industry’s leading companies, comparing them in key categories such as energy performance, warranty coverage, financing options, customer reviews, and more. Our top picks, in order, are:
Compare Solar Installation Companies
See how our choices compare at a glance. Use the link provided to quickly get a quote from each company.
Our Top Solar Installation Company Picks
What to Expect From Your Solar Installation Inspection
Each solar installation requires a home inspection, which helps the solar installer know what rigging system is required and what kind of panels, inverters, energy storage systems, and other vital components you will need. Overall, the purpose of the solar inspection is to ensure all the details are right for your home’s solar panels to work for the next 25 to 30 years.
An extra step you can take to streamline the solar inspection process is reaching out to your local government to vet an installer before having them come to your home.
“Your county government can tell you if a solar installer is licensed and is in good standing with the local government. Many local utility companies will provide homeowners with a list of questions to ask a solar installer. Any good solar installer will be able to answer those questions and can use those as a guide for what to expect as you convert your home to using solar energy.”
– Tyler Adams, Director of Marketing for Astrawatt Solar
Solar installation inspections tend to follow these steps:
- Roof inspection: The company takes roof measurements to check the fit and dimension of the solar power system. It identifies any existing roof obstructions and discusses modifications to the proposed layout based on these findings. In addition, roof damage, including broken tiles and worn shingles, are photographed.
- Attic inspection: A solar installer checks your attic for accessibility, as well as the truss layout.
- Electrical inspection: The solar company evaluates your home’s current electrical system. Using these findings, the company creates a utility interconnection plan. It also notes the locations of electrical conduits and disconnecting means.
- Internet inspection: An installer may ask about your internet access to determine if performance monitoring hardware should be installed.
Major Cost Factors of Solar Installation
Solar costs have rapidly declined over the last 10 years and are expected to continue reducing as more people adopt solar energy. Various factors influence solar costs, such as the brand, system size, panel type, and your location. The average price to install a 10-kilowatt system today is $29,410. Our research shows that a 10 kW system is the average size needed to power a 2,000-square-foot home. Note that this pricing is before applying solar incentives, such as the federal solar tax credit, which can lower the price by thousands. For this figure, the federal tax credit would reduce your expense by roughly $9,000.
Factor 1: System Size
Here’s a look at average solar panel system pricing by system size.
| System Size | Average Cost Per Watt* | Cost Before Federal Tax Credit | Cost After Federal Tax Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 kW | $3.66 | $10,970 | $7,679 |
| 4 kW | $3.47 | $13,881 | $9,717 |
| 5 kW | $3.20 | $16,002 | $11,201 |
| 6 kW | $3.13 | $18,795 | $13,157 |
| 7 kW | $3.06 | $21,437 | $15,006 |
| 8 kW | $3.04 | $24,335 | $17,034 |
| 9 kW | $2.98 | $26,830 | $18,781 |
| 10 kW | $2.94 | $29,410 | $20,587 |
| 11 kW | $2.90 | $31,899 | $22,329 |
| 12 kW | $2.86 | $34,353 | $24,047 |
| 13 kW | $2.77 | $36,055 | $25,239 |
Factor 2: Type of Solar Panel
The type of solar panel you order is another factor that influences your total price. Monocrystalline solar panels offer the highest efficiency and are the most expensive.
| Type of Panel | Cost Per Watt | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Monocrystalline | $1—$1.50 | $6,000–$9,000 |
| Polycrystalline | $0.90–$1 | $5,400–$6,000 |
| Thin-film | $1–$1.50 | $6,000–$9,000 |
Factor 3: Equipment Costs
Panels alone aren’t the only thing required to run off of solar power. You’ll likely need to purchase at least one solar battery to store your backup energy and an inverter to convert your photovoltaic (PV) solar panels’ variable direct current (DC) output into alternating current (AC). You’ll also need some sort of mounting hardware to fix your panels to your roof.
Most solar companies include an inverter in your solar system’s design. Requesting additional components or a specific brand of solar battery and inverter, such as a Tesla Powerwall solar battery, costs more.
Plan for solar batteries to cost an average of $10,000 per battery, though you may be able to get one for as low as $8,000. Solar inverters, if not included with your system, will add around $2,000. Mounting hardware typically isn’t more than a few hundred dollars.
Factor 4: Labor Costs
The parts needed to build your solar energy system aren’t the only expense you’ll have upfront. Unless you’re installing your solar panels yourself, you’ll need to pay a professional installer. Expect labor fees to be around 25% of the system cost. For example, if you purchase a monocrystalline solar system for $20,000, your labor costs will be around $5,000.
How to Reduce Solar Installation Costs
Financing Options
The type of payment option you choose when purchasing your solar system also influences your total investment over time. Purchasing the system upfront is the most cost-effective route, but isn’t always financially feasible. Solar companies offer some or all of the following payment options:
- Full cash payment: If your budget allows, paying in full upfront means you own your system from day one, can apply for solar incentives to make money back, and don’t have to encounter any interest rates.
- Solar loan: A loan is the second-best option. You’ll be able to own your system and qualify for solar incentives, but you’ll have to carefully consider whether the associated interest rate and other loan terms make sense for you.
- Solar lease: With a lease, you can benefit from solar power and energy savings by making monthly payments to a solar company. You won’t own the system with this route, however, so you won’t qualify for any solar incentives.
- Power purchase agreement (PPA): A PPA is a type of leasing agreement in which a third-party developer or solar provider will own, install, and maintain solar panels on your property. The owner will sell you the generated power for a rate that’s typically less than what you’d pay a utility company. Again, the big downside here is lack of system ownership, which means no eligibility for solar incentives.
Incentives and Rebates
There are solar incentives at the local, state, and federal levels that reward homeowners for switching to renewable energy. These incentives most commonly come in the form of tax credits, utility rebates, and tax exemptions. Your solar provider should advise you on which programs you qualify for, and we encourage you to apply. The federal solar tax credit alone can put several thousands of dollars back in your pocket depending on the cost of your system. This credit helps offset the initial cost of a solar system by allowing you to claim 30% of the total cost of your solar installation on your federal taxes.
Here’s a look at the most common types of solar incentives.
| Incentive | Where It Comes From | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Federal solar tax credit | Federal government | 30% of the system cost claimed on taxes |
| Net-metering | Local utility companies | Money back for your excess electricity |
| State and local rebates | State or local government agencies | Energy credits |
| Property tax exemption | State government | No property tax on your system |
| Sales tax exemption | State government | No sales tax on your system |
We recommend searching the DSIRE database to learn which incentives are available to you.
How to Choose the Best Solar Installer for Your Home
The solar installer you hire can make or break the success of your system. While most professional installers are knowledgeable and trustworthy, you should carefully vet that the one you invest in is going to provide a high level of expertise and service. We recommend prioritizing the following.
Evaluate Experience, Quality, and Service
Your investment in your solar project is too high to trust to just anyone. Look for an installer that’s properly licensed, insured, and credentialed for the job. You can vet licensure on your state’s contractor licensing board website. You should also read customer reviews across sites such as BBB, Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google. While all companies will have some disgruntled customers, avoid any whose reviews are largely negative. Look for repeat themes of project delays, poor communication, and fraud.
Here are some questions to ask an installer before hiring:
- Can I see your license and proof of company insurance?
- What training and certifications do you and your crew have?
- How many solar installations have you completed?
- Do you have photos of your work?
- Do you have customer testimonials?
- Are you trained in installing the brand and type of panels I’m interested in?
- Do you provide a labor warranty? What are the terms?
Compare Quotes and Costs
Always get a quote before hiring a contractor. You can get a solar quote online or by phone. Most companies have a convenient Get a Quote form on their website that you can fill out with basic information, and a representative will contact you within a few days. You’ll likely need to have a general consultation before the representative can provide you with an accurate quote. This involves discussing your roof size and layout, the type and size of panels you want, and any other equipment or services you’ll need. It also usually includes a site survey in which a technician will come assess your property for its solar suitability.
We recommend getting quotes from several companies to compare pricing. Don’t hesitate to ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, and get the quote in writing before moving forward with the installer you choose. You can also ask for an estimate of the project timeline. A site such as EnergySage can help you quickly obtain multiple quotes.
Check Incentives, Warranties, and Guarantees
A good solar installer will knowledgably advise you on which solar incentives you qualify for to help you save money and get all the perks you’re owed. A reputable professional will also provider a labor warranty that assumes responsibility for and correction of any issues your system experiences due to faulty installation. We don’t recommend hiring any installer that does not provide a warranty with fair terms.
Be sure to get all contract terms and guarantees in writing.
How Do You Get a Solar Quote?
We went through the quote process with each provider on our list to see what the experience was at each company. All installers except for Blue Raven Solar, Palmetto Solar, and Tesla include a Get a Quote option in the top right corner of their webiste’s homepage. Clicking this link takes you to a form to fill out with information about your home. Most forms ask for basic contact information, location, and home size. Providers ask for your location and home size to gauge how suitable your home is for a solar system. Some providers ask for more detailed home information, such as how shaded your roof is. The online quote process takes just a few minutes.
The remaining companies have a clearly listed phone number at the top of the home page you can call to get a quote. Tesla also features the option to get a free virtual consultation in which you can discuss your project and get a quote. When we called Blue Raven Solar, we were asked for similar information, such as location and roof size and orientation in regard to the sun. We were given a quote in less than 10 minutes over the phone.
Is Solar Right for You?
Working toward energy independence is a long-term project that requires various products and services. It’s important to assess your specific needs and priorities to choose the best solar installer for your home.
We recommend SunPower as one of our top companies due to its experience and high-efficiency systems. We also like Momentum, which provides excellent services integrated with established net-metering programs, high-quality solar energy systems, and a comprehensive warranty. Finally, Blue Raven Solar has more locations than our other top choices and is the best option if you’re looking for a clear and established financing program.
We recommend getting quotes from at least three solar installers in your area to compare offerings. Use our tool below to get started.
Best Solar Companies FAQ
How long do solar panels last?
On average, solar panels tend to last between 25 and 30 years.
Which types of roofs are suitable for solar panels?
Solar panels can be installed on almost any type of roof. Panels are attached to your roof with a racking system. Your solar installer will recommend the racking system that is most appropriate for your property based on your roofing material and design.
Do backup batteries make money like a solar system does?
Because electricity rate structures incentivize giving energy back to the power grid and not battery storage in a home, backup batteries do not help you earn money like solar panels do.
Does going solar affect my insurance?
A report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) states that most solar systems should be covered as part of a standard homeowners insurance policy. However, we recommend that you contact your insurance provider before you install your solar energy system, so you can know how the change may influence your coverage.
What is the process to get my system permitted?
The process to get your system permitted varies based on location, as it’s handled by local municipalities. However, you shouldn’t need to file any local permits yourself unless you do a do-it-yourself (DIY) installation. If you hire a professional installation team, your solar energy company should handle all the permitting. “60 days is a pretty good average from the contract-signing to installation,” says Tyler Tucker, the chief development officer of Astrawatt Solar. He adds that this process may take longer if your solar installation requires HOA approval.
Will solar panels save me money?
Consumer reports show that the average 6 kW solar panel system will save you about $1,500 on your electricity bills annually. How much your solar panels save you depends on a few factors, including your area’s electricity rate, how much power your energy needs require, and the type of system you have.
How will solar impact my home value?
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), your home value increases by $20 for every $1 you save on energy bills. For example, if your solar energy system saves you $700 per year, the value of your home increases by $14,000.
Are there environmental benefits to solar energy?
Yes, using solar energy benefits the environment by not contributing to air pollution and greenhouse gas emission. Solar power is a natural, renewable resource that, when used over nonrenewable energy sources, reduces your carbon footprint.
Other Helpful Solar Guides
How We Chose the Top Solar Companies
We researched and analyzed dozens of solar panels and solar installation companies. We then formulated a rating system based on each solar installer or manufacturer’s services and products on several significant factors. Factors include the types of solar panels they offer and their quality, customer support network, warranty lengths and limitations, and additional benefits for homeowners, such as mobile apps for monitoring and customer service.
Speaking directly to a representative at each company, we determined how each solar company personalizes its solar panel installation for each home. We also analyzed each company’s warranty options to ensure their product and performance guarantees match or exceed industry standards.
We evaluated each provider based on their rating and history with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to determine reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.
Read more: Our Methodology
This post was originally published on 3rd party site mentioned in the title of this site
