The Best Solar Companies in the Country

Installing solar panels on your home can be a great way to save money on electricity costs while also doing your part for the environment. With so many solar companies to choose from, it can be tricky to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the top solar companies operating in the US today and what makes them stand out.

What to Look for in a Solar Company

When researching solar companies, there are a few key factors to consider:

Experience and Track Record

You’ll want to choose an established company with plenty of experience designing and installing residential solar systems. Look for a company that has been in business for at least 5-10 years and has installed solar for thousands of customers across your state. They should have a proven track record of quality workmanship and satisfied customers.

Quality Products

Reputable solar companies will install top-tier solar panels and components from manufacturers like Panasonic, LG, and SunPower. Lower quality equipment often leads to underperformance and faster degradation. Opt for a company that stands behind their products with long warranties.

Full-Service Offerings

The best solar companies provide a streamlined, turnkey experience. That includes solar panel design and engineering, permitting, installation, monitoring, maintenance and repair. Be wary of companies that outsource major parts of the process.

Fair Pricing and Financing

Solar installation costs have dropped significantly but can still range widely. Compare quotes across 3-4 solar providers. The ideal company will offer competitive pricing paired with flexible financing options to suit your budget.

Stellar Customer Service

From your first quote request to project completion and beyond, you should feel confident you’ll receive outstanding customer service. Look for responsiveness, transparency and a commitment to education from sales reps.

Our Top 6 Solar Companies of 2023

Based on the criteria above, these are our top picks for full-service solar companies operating nationally:

1. SunPower

With over 35 years in the industry, SunPower is one of the most established and reputable solar companies. Key highlights include:

Efficiency – SunPower offers the highest efficiency panels available, maximizing energy production.
Products – Their premium panels come with industry-leading 25-year warranties.
Experience – 200,000+ installations nationwide.
Custom design – Proprietary software for specialized system design.
Monitoring – Advanced monitoring shows real-time system performance.
Warranties – Strong 25-year system warranty on parts and labor.
Financing – Flexible loan and PPA options.

SunPower is our top choice for their cutting-edge products, custom design expertise, and focus on delivering an amazing customer experience. While their premium panels come at a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings and performance are well worth it.

2. Tesla (formerly SolarCity)

As a division of Tesla, this company has quickly become a major player in solar. Notable features include:

Efficiency – Leverages Panasonic panel technology for increased output.
Products – Sleek, low-profile solar shingles with 25-year warranty.
Monitoring – Seamless integration with the user-friendly Tesla app.
Energy products – Complete energy ecosystem including Powerwall battery and EV charger.
Operations – Large national footprint with efficient installation capabilities.

Tesla Energy stands out for their integrated solar/battery offerings and innovative solar shingle product. Their national scale gives them competitive pricing and their focus is on making solar simple and seamless.

3. Sunrun

As the largest dedicated residential solar and storage provider in the U.S., Sunrun has installed over 500,000 systems:

Experience – Long track record across 23 states and counting.
Products – Partners with top equipment companies like LG, Panasonic and Enphase.
Monitoring – Strong solar monitoring via mobile app and online dashboard.
Offerings – Installation, financing, maintenance, insurance and warranty services.
Energy ecosystem – Now offers complimentary BrightBox solar battery systems.

For their immense experience, diverse solar and storage offerings, and strategic partnerships, Sunrun is consistently a top choice. Their focus is making solar affordable and hassle-free for homeowners nationwide.

4. Vivint Solar

Vivint Solar has carved out a niche as a leading provider of solar + storage solutions:

Experience – 170,000+ installs nationwide.
Products – Partners with high-end equipment manufacturers.
Monitoring – Installs provide real-time monitoring via mobile app.
Storage – Bundle solar with Vivint-branded storage battery.
Financing – Flexible purchase and zero-down lease options.
Services – End-to-end consultation, design, permitting, installation and maintenance.

Vivint makes solar and storage seamless through their customized packages. Their expertise with batteries and solar monitoring provides homeowners with maximum energy independence.

5. Freedom Forever

This fast-growing Arizona-based company specializes in affordable solar:

Experience – 12,000+ installs and expansion into new states.
Products – Leverages quality equipment from LG, Solaria and Enphase.
Monitoring – User-friendly mobile monitoring app.
Warranties – Strong 25-year workmanship warranty on installs.
Financing – $0 down options and guaranteed savings plans.

For their competitive pricing, flexibility and dedication to educating homeowners, Freedom Forever is gaining popularity nationwide. They make the transition to solar straightforward for any budget.

6. Momentum Solar

Momentum Solar brings simplicity to the solar process with Their offerings include:

Experience – 70,000+ residential installs over 12 years.
Products – Top equipment from REC, Enphase and SolarEdge.
Monitoring – Real-time system monitoring via mobile app.
Financing – $0 down lease and PPA options.
Services – Complete in-house design, engineering, permitting and installation.

This New Jersey-based company excels at simplifying solar for homeowners. Their focus is affordability and transparency paired with premium equipment and monitoring.

What To Look For From Local Installers

In addition to large national companies, local and regional solar installers can provide competitive options worth exploring. Here are key points to look for:

Track record – How long have they been in business? How many local installs have they completed?
Reputation – Ask for referrals and check online reviews. A good reputation is invaluable.
Qualifications – Are they licensed and insured? Do they have trained, experienced installers?
Equipment – Do they offer quality solar panels and components?
Services – Can they handle permits, rebates, net metering, maintenance?
Warranties – Is workmanship guaranteed for 10-25 years?
Pricing – Get quotes from 3-4 local providers for the best pricing.
Financing – What financing options do they offer? Are there ways to eliminate upfront costs?

The right local company can offer an outstanding customer experience, customized solutions and competitive pricing. Taking the time to research reviews and compare quotes pays dividends.

Solar Panel Costs and Financing Options

The average cost to install solar panels on a home is $15,000 – $25,000 before incentives, but prices can vary widely. Key factors impacting solar panel system costs include:

Regional labor and permit costs – Installation costs are higher in some parts of the country.
Roof type – More complex roofs drive up installation labor.
System size – Required number of panels and racks based on energy needs.
Equipment packages – Higher efficiency panels have higher hardware costs.
Additional electrical work – Upgrades needed to support new solar system.
Permitting fees – Some cities/counties charge additional permitting fees.

To help defray the upfront investment, there are a few solar incentives homeowners can leverage:

Federal Investment Tax Credit – 26% of system cost back as a tax credit through 2023.
State/local rebates & tax credits – Incentive amounts vary widely by location.
Net metering – Utility pays you for excess power you generate.
Low interest loans – Special federal and state solar loans available.
Zero down leases – Payments go toward solar electricity generated.
Solar PPAs – Agree to purchase power generated at a fixed rate.

The most popular current solar financing options are $0 down solar leases and solar PPAs through companies like Sunrun or Tesla. These allow homeowners to go solar for little to no upfront cost and take advantage of lower electric rates.

Solar loans and cash purchases make sense for homeowners who can leverage tax credits and want to own their system outright sooner.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Solar Company

Here are key questions to ask prospective solar installers during the quoting process:

How long have you been in business? Look for 5+ years of experience in your area.

Are you licensed and insured? Ask for license and policy numbers.

Can you provide references from recent installs? Call 2-3 references to check feedback.

What equipment do you use? Look for reputable brands like Panasonic, LG, Solaria.

Do you handle permitting & net metering? Experts navigate complex paperwork for you.

How are you monitoring system performance? Real-time mobile apps are convenient.

What are your maintenance and warranty services? System & workmanship warranty details.

Do you offer financing options? Look for $0 down leases or PPAs if needed.

Do you provide a detailed proposal? Document should cover all equipment, services, costs.

How does pricing compare? Get 3-4 quotes to find the best value.

Going solar is a big investment. Take the time to understand each company’s experience, services, equipment, warranties, monitoring capabilities, pricing, and financing options. Comparing multiple detailed quotes helps you determine the ideal solar provider for your needs and budget.

How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

With routine maintenance, you can expect most solar panels to operate efficiently for 25-30 years or more. Many manufacturers offer 25-year performance warranties as well. Key factors that impact solar panel longevity include:

Equipment quality – Invest in premium panels rated for long-term durability and efficiency.
Installation quality – Proper roof sealing and wiring preserves the system.
Regular inspections – Catch any potential issues early.
Minimal shading – Don’t let trees/structures block sun exposure.
Regular cleaning – Gently remove buildup of dirt, dust, snow, etc.
Inverter replacement – Plan to replace the inverter halfway through the system life.
Weather extremes – Avoid hail damage with insurance and protect wiring from vermin.
Manufacturer defects – Look for generous equipment and workmanship warranties.

With high-quality equipment, professional installation, routine maintenance, and minimal shading, your solar panels can provide free renewable energy for decades.

Signs It’s Time to Repair or Replace Solar Panels

While designed for longevity, solar panels won’t last forever. Here are key signs it may be time for solar panel replacement or repair:

Visible damage – Cracked panels, broken mounts, or frayed wiring.
Underperformance – System output drops well below specifications.
Equipment age – Central inverter over 10-15 years old.
Discontinued parts – Manufacturer no longer supplies replacements.
Inspection findings – Identifies flaws needing repair/replacement.
Shading issues – New structures cast shadows blocking solar exposure.
Roof replacement – Time to remove and re-install panels with new roof.
New innovations – Upgrades to higher wattage panels for increased output.

Work with your solar provider to evaluate issues and determine the most cost-effective solution. Replacements may be covered under equipment or workmanship warranties.

Is Solar Worth It? Key Benefits for Homeowners

Cost savings – Solar allows you to lock in lower energy rates and reduces dependence on utility price hikes.

Tax incentives – Federal and state solar tax credits can discount installation costs by 25% or more.

Environmental sustainability – Solar power your home with clean, renewable energy and minimize your carbon footprint.

Increased home value – Going solar can add $15,000 or more to your home value based on studies.

Energy independence – Take control of electricity costs by sourcing from the sun rather than the electrical grid.

Consistency – Solar panel performance remains relatively steady over decades of operation.

Low maintenance – Solar panels operate reliably with minimal required maintenance.

For homeowners who want to reduce environmental impact, hedge against rising energy costs, and improve property value, going solar delivers measurable benefits.

Final Key Takeaways

Research experience, quality, services, and financing when comparing solar companies.
National installers like SunPower, Tesla, and Sunrun offer robust product ecosystems.
But quality local and regional providers are also worth consideration.
Federal tax credits, net metering and financing can offset upfront solar panel costs.
With incentives, solar can provide a higher return than almost any major home upgrade.
Investing in solar panels adds value and locks in lower electric rates for decades to come.

The best solar company provides an optimized system design, high-quality equipment, professional installation, and helpful financing options. Take time to research providers in your area, compare detailed quotes, and evaluate financing options. The long-term benefits of solar power make it one of the wisest home investments you can make.