Solar Installer Review Digest: Delving into Solar Company Reviews

In this article, we will go through customer feedback on the most sought-after solar companies to help you make an informed choice. We will analyze factors like installation, performance, customer service, and overall satisfaction to provide you with clear insights into which providers deliver on their promises. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of solar companies that are reliable and trustworthy.

Embarking on the solar energy journey demands reliable insights, and in 2024, staying informed is paramount. Dive into the latest solar company reviews, your compass in navigating the diverse landscape of solar power options. Uncover authentic experiences as we explore insightful Sunrun solar reviews and other leading players in the industry. From solar energy reviews to in-depth examinations of top-tier providers, this guide is your gateway to making informed decisions for a sustainable future. We'd like you to join us as we shed light on the most current and relevant perspectives in the world of solar power.

Don't skip solar company reviews - here's why

If you're considering investing in solar energy for your home or business, it's essential to do your homework and read reviews on solar companies. Installing a solar energy system involves a substantial investment, and working with a trustworthy and reliable installer is crucial. By checking out feedback from previous customers, you can gain valuable insight into the quality of work, level of customer service, and overall satisfaction with the company.

One of the key reasons to peruse solar installer reviews is to assess the standard of work they offer. Customers who have already had installations done by the company can provide valuable feedback on the craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in their solar energy system. Stellar reviews can give you peace of mind that the firm you're considering has a proven track record of delivering top-notch systems.

Another reason to check out solar company reviews is to get an understanding of their customer service. Setting up a photovoltaic system is a long-term commitment, so it's crucial to work with a provider that offers exceptional customer service throughout the installation process and beyond. By researching feedback, you can gain insight into how responsive and helpful the company is when addressing any questions or concerns that arise.

Lastly, reading the reviews can give you a general sense of the reputation of the company and the level of customer satisfaction. Installers with high levels of customer satisfaction typically have a proven track record of delivering excellent setups, outstanding customer service, and fair pricing. By perusing reviews, you can gain an understanding of which companies are the most reputable in the industry and have a solid reputation for fulfilling their commitments.

What to look for when browsing through feedback

If you're on the hunt for a solar company, checking out online reviews can be a smart way to gain insight into the quality of the offerings and customer service. However, not all reviews are created equal, so it's important to know what to look for when perusing them. One key factor to consider is the relevance of the review to your own needs. For instance, if you're looking into residential setups, testimonials from commercial clients may not be as helpful.

Another crucial aspect is to keep an eye out for specific details in the reviews. General comments like "great service" or "poor quality" don't give you much to work with. Instead, a trustworthy solar installer review has to mention particular products, services, or staff members, as well as specific experiences or issues. Additionally, be cautious of feedback that seems overly positive or negative, as it could be fake or biased.

How to determine reliable reviews? Factors to consider

The credibility of the review source

First and foremost, it's essential to evaluate the source’s credibility. In the digital age, anyone can post a solar installer review online, whether they've had experience with the company or not. Therefore, it's crucial to check ratings and comments on reputable sites such as Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. These sites typically have robust review policies and verification processes to ensure that the feedback comes from legitimate customers.

Patterns in the company reviews

It's also important to pay attention to recurring patterns. If multiple feedbacks mention the same issue or problem, it may be an indication that the company has a recurring issue that needs to be addressed. On the flip side, if many reviews praise a specific aspect of the installation process, that's a good sign that the company is excelling in that area.

Additionally, it's essential to examine the overall rating distribution. A company with a high rating but only a handful of comments might not reflect their actual level of service. Conversely, a firm with a lower rating but plenty of reviews can give you a more accurate idea of their performance.

The best PV panel installers and what their customers are saying

Looking for the perfect solar installer can be quite overwhelming. With numerous residential solar power companies vying for the top spot, it's vital to have reliable data that can guide your choice. That's where customer feedback comes in handy. By examining what previous customers have to say about their interactions with solar contractors, we can acquire valuable intel about the level of service these firms offer. In this segment, we'll explore some of the best companies and what their customers have to say about them.

1. Sunpower

What do they offer?

If you're looking into a solar setup for your home, you may have heard of SunPower as a potential provider. With over 30 years of experience, SunPower is a trailblazer in the solar industry, offering cutting-edge residential solutions that deliver exceptional performance and efficiency.

One of SunPower's major strengths is their focus on top-of-the-line solar technology. They've developed some of the most efficient solar panels available, boasting up to 23.7% conversion efficiency. This means these panels can generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight, maximizing your solar system's energy output.

In addition to their superior technology, SunPower has the most extensive service area of any national installer, operating in all 50 states. No matter where you live in the US, they can create and install a solar and storage solution that meets your specific needs. This level of coverage is particularly appealing to homeowners who want to make sure that their solar investment is backed by a reputable and established company.

Another benefit of choosing SunPower is their all-inclusive 25-year warranty. Unlike other firms, SunPower's warranty covers every component of your solar and storage system, including the panels, inverters, battery, and EV chargers. This comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind that your investment is protected against any defects or performance issues that may arise.

However, it's important to note that high-efficiency panels by SunPower come at a premium price. The initial cost for a SunPower system is significantly higher compared to other firms, ranging between $3 and $4.50 per watt, which may be a hurdle for some homeowners. Additionally, their technology is proprietary, meaning that you can't mix and match components with other brands. If you choose SunPower, you'll be committed to using only their products for the lifespan of your system.

SunPower offers various financing options, such as cash payments, loans, leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs), giving homeowners flexibility based on their financial situation and preferences.

A glimpse into customer opinions

Most of the SunPower customer feedback is positive, with customers generally satisfied with their solar installations and the services. Many customers have appreciated the ease of the onboarding process, with some noting that the sales representatives were knowledgeable and helpful in determining the right system for their homes. The installation has been described as generally efficient, with Technicians being careful about the placement of modules and ensuring that the roof solar and supporting structures were in good condition.

Customers have noted that they are happy with the amount of money saved on their energy bills since going solar. Many have appreciated being able to track their energy production and usage through the SunPower app, which has been described as user-friendly.

There have been some negative experiences reported, with some customers encountering issues during the installation process or with communication between the installer and the company. Some customers have had difficulty passing inspections, and others have had problems with the equipment. However, in many cases, these issues have been resolved promptly by SunPower customer service or by the installer.

Overall, SunPower seems to have positive feedback from customers who have enjoyed a smooth and efficient process, appreciated the quality of their equipment, and are satisfied with their savings on energy bills.

2. Momentum Solar

What do they offer?

Momentum Solar may not have the same nationwide presence as some of its competitors, but its emphasis on quality and service sets it apart in the industry. They currently operate in only 11 states, focusing on areas with established net-metering programs and solar incentives. This approach allows Momentum to prioritize their customers' enrollment in the most advantageous government solar programs in the country.

In terms of solar services, Momentum's offerings are more limited compared to some other providers, with a focus on solar panel and battery setups, repairs, and maintenance. However, the company compensates for this by exclusively using high-quality monocrystalline panels from top-tier manufacturers. Momentum Solar also offers a comprehensive 25-year workmanship and product warranty, covering any defective components or faulty installation issues that may arise.

Customers can choose from a range of financing options, including direct purchases, loans, leases, and PPAs, to suit their budgetary needs while enjoying the benefits of going solar. Momentum's virtual consultation via Zoom adds convenience to the process, and by reviewing a copy of your electricity bill, they can optimize your savings.

Customer reviews at a glance

Based on the customer feedback, Momentum's performance has been inconsistent. Some customers have expressed satisfaction with the services, while others have reported negative experiences.

Positive feedback highlights Momentum's ability to help customers save on energy bills and generate excess power, which can be sold back to the grid. Customers have appreciated the easy monitoring of their power production via the app. Some have also commended the company for their ability to place solar modules without causing any damage to their roof, even in cases where the roof was old and weak.

However, negative feedback highlights issues related to customer service and communication. Clients have reported feeling bothered and annoyed by the sales representatives, with one customer alleging that a salesperson refused to leave until threatened with the police. There have also been complaints about delays in receiving promised rebates and inadequate support for resolving issues related to high electricity bills.

In summary, Momentum Solar appears to offer quality installation services and value for money. However, the company may need to improve their customer service and communication to address concerns related to sales practices and resolving customer issues.

3. Blue Raven

What do they offer?

Blue Raven Solar is one of the nation's fastest-growing residential solar panel companies, and it stands out from its competitors with its unique and innovative payment plans. Their exclusive BluePower Plus+ plan offers flexible, zero-money-down options that mimic the structure of a lease while still giving the benefits of owning your system. With this plan, eligible homeowners can enjoy 18 months of solar energy before having to pay their first bill, making it accessible to budget-conscious homeowners.

Blue Raven Solar is committed to quality and offers some of the top brands of solar panels and equipment, including Trina Solar, Canadian Solar, SolarEdge, Silfab, and SunPower. It operates in 17 states, and depending on your location, your warranty may differ based on the manufacturer that Blue Raven uses in your zip code. However, most customers can expect a 25-year warranty on solar modules, as the company relies on manufacturer warranties.

While Blue Raven has many benefits, it also does not yet offer widespread energy storage products, which limits its services.

Customer feedback in a nutshell

Blue Raven Solar receives a mix of positive and negative customer feedback. Customers who had a good experience with the company mentioned that the communication was excellent, and the sales representatives were informative, helpful, and supportive throughout the installation process. The installation teams were thorough, pleasant to work with, and left the premises clean. Clients appreciated the team's quick response to their inquiries, and the mounting of solar panels was done in a short period. The Blue Raven design team worked with customers to perfect the layout of the panels on the roof, and they offered multiple financing options.

On the other hand, some customers reported poor experiences with Blue Raven Solar. They criticized the company for not delivering on its promises, providing poor customer service, and not honoring commitments. Some customers experienced delays in the installation process, and the timeline provided by the company was not accurate. There were also instances where the contractor failed to respond to inquiries or did not take responsibility for their lack of communication, causing frustration and anger among customers.

4. Palmetto Solar

What do they offer?

Palmetto Solar, based in Charleston, S.C., has been outfitting residential properties with systems since 2010. What sets Palmetto apart from its competitors is their exclusive Peace of Mind Protection Plan, available for just $12 per month. The plan includes active monitoring of panels and discounts on various services, such as panel cleaning and battery services.

Palmetto Solar collaborates with Q Cells to supply top-notch monocrystalline solar panels, known for their high efficiency and the longest lifespan of 25-45 years. Palmetto's Q Cells black anodized aluminum panels feature efficiency rates of up to 19.5%, ensuring maximum performance and savings for customers.

In addition to solar panels, Palmetto also offers their smart-home battery that stores energy generated by the panels during low-light periods and power outages. Customers can program the battery to avoid peak rates, resulting in significant savings during times of high energy prices.

Palmetto's extensive warranty protection package encompasses a 25-year panel warranty, a 12-year inverter warranty, a 10-year workmanship warranty, and a five-year roof penetration warranty.

What customers think

There are differing opinions on Palmetto Solar, according to reviews. Several customers expressed satisfaction with customer service and the installation process. They found the sales representatives and technicians professional, knowledgeable, and helpful. The company was prompt in notifying customers about the progress of the installation and answered their questions. Customers also appreciated Palmetto's competitive pricing and financing options.

However, some customers had negative experiences with Palmetto Solar. One customer complained about the lack of transparency, false promises, and poor communication, resulting in a delay in the installation process. Another customer was frustrated with the delay in scheduling a final inspection and said that Palmetto Solar had been unresponsive to their calls and emails.

Overall, Palmetto Solar seems to have a good reputation for customer service and competitive pricing, but some customers have experienced issues with communication and delays.

5. Freedom Solar

What do they offer?

Freedom Solar Power is a solar installer that operates in five states: Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. One of the standout features of Freedom Solar is their certification as a SunPower dealer. With SunPower modules, customers can expect up to 90% energy production by year 25, making them an excellent investment for those seeking long-term energy savings.

In addition to SunPower panels, Freedom Solar also has other high-quality solar products, such as the Tesla Powerwall battery. Additionally, homeowners can opt for off-grid solar systems for complete energy independence. Moreover, Freedom Solar offers unique services that other companies do not, including home generators and system deinstallation and reinstallation for roof repairs.

While Freedom Solar pricing may be higher than some competitors, they assist homeowners in obtaining solar loans to minimize upfront expenses. However, the company does not deal with solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs), which may be preferable for some customers.

Another significant benefit of selecting Freedom Solar is their 25-year comprehensive warranty covering workmanship, product, and performance. This warranty is one of the best in the industry, giving customers peace of mind that their solar system is protected for the long haul.

A minor drawback of Freedom Solar is their lack of EV charger installation. However, they can assist customers in connecting their EV chargers to their panels, which is a valuable service for maximizing solar energy use.

Customer feedback roundup

Freedom Solar has received mixed customer feedback, with both positive and negative experiences being reported. According to many customers, the installation process was efficient and smooth, with a team of workers completing the installation quickly. The system was praised for its reliability and the ability to monitor production via email or an app. Many clients were satisfied with the savings on their electric bills and the system’s overall performance.

However, some concerns were raised by customers about the underestimation of energy needs and not receiving enough panels to meet their household's needs. Some customers also experienced technical issues and reported slow response times from customer service representatives. Additionally, a few customers had problems with leaks or damage to their homes caused by pigeons nesting under the solar panels.

Some clients also encountered problems during the sales process, such as not receiving the necessary paperwork or getting incorrect information about tax credits. Others reported issues with missed deadlines and changes to reimbursement policies.

6. Green Home Systems

What do they offer?

Green Home Systems is a company that specializes in green home solutions and energy efficiency upgrades, founded in 2017. Their main focus is on solar energy and battery backup systems, which include a variety of solar panels, solar roofing options, and other renewable energy products.

What makes GHS stand out is their wide selection of solar panels from reputable manufacturers such as Panasonic, LG, and LONGi. These panels are monocrystalline, making them the most energy-efficient type of solar panel available. Their low-profile design also makes them visually appealing, blending in with your roof and giving your home a modern look.

GHS also offers solar roofing options that combine the durability of traditional roofing shingles with the cost savings of solar panels in the long term.

All of GHS's solar systems come with a 25-year equipment warranty covering both the panel and inverter protection. Customers also receive a 25-year workmanship warranty that protects against any issues caused by faulty installation. Additionally, GHS offers a 25-year performance guarantee that ensures your system’s output throughout the coverage period.

The lowdown on customer reviews

The majority of the customer reviews for Green Home Systems are positive. The company is commended for its informative and patient sales representatives, who are knowledgeable about the industry. Customers appreciate the excellent communication throughout the process and the efficient handling of their installation. Many customers express satisfaction with the quality of service and the attention to detail exhibited by the company, which leads to the resolution of any questions or concerns they may have. Additionally, several customers recommend the company for its competitive pricing and the quality of its solar panels.

However, a few negative reviews cited issues with third-party contractors, unprofessional behavior, and poor customer service. One customer reported a safety hazard during the installation process and had to involve lawyers to resolve the issue. Another customer had difficulty obtaining an itemized quote and felt that the company had aggressive sales tactics.

7. Elevation Solar

What do they offer?

Elevation Solar is a company renowned for its exceptional blend of services, which includes grid-tied and off-grid solar systems, energy efficiency upgrades, energy monitoring, and energy management services.

One of the most attractive features of Elevation Solar is its affordability. Despite offering valuable and distinctive services, their costs are significantly lower than the industry average. In fact, after improving a home's energy efficiency, customers may find they need a smaller solar system than initially anticipated, further reducing costs.

Another perk of Elevation is its referral program, where customers can earn money by referring new customers to the company. For each referral that schedules a consultation, customers receive a $100 bonus, and if the referral leads to a system installation, an additional $400 is rewarded.

While Elevation Solar offers loans to help customers finance their systems, leasing, and PPA options are not available.

Elevation is known for their strong warranties, which are some of the best in the industry. They use high-quality equipment from reputable brands like Panasonic, Qcells, Tesla, and Enphase, with solar panels carrying a 25- to 30-year warranty, inverters with a 25-year warranty, and batteries with a 10-year warranty. Furthermore, their workmanship warranty covers their installations for an impressive 25 years.

Dive into the customer feedback

Elevation Solar has received mostly favorable feedback. Customers appreciated the in-depth explanations offered during the sales process and installation and the professionalism and courtesy of the sales team and installers. The pricing was considered reasonable and competitive, with payment plans spanning 25 years to make it even more affordable. Many customers also praised the effectiveness of solar panels in offsetting their electric costs and helping them save money.

However, some negative feedback centered around communication and organization issues. Some customers reported delayed responses from the sales team and service department and difficulties getting parts and repairs done on time. One customer experienced damage to their property during installation, and others reported issues with broken or inefficient equipment.  

8. Trinity Solar

What do they offer?

Trinity Solar, founded in 1994, has become the largest privately held residential solar panel installer in the United States. With headquarters in New Jersey, Trinity Solar operates in nine states along the East Coast, providing solar services to residents in Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island.

Trinity exclusively offers Q Cells panels, which are renowned for their high energy efficiency. These panels have an impressive efficiency rating of up to 21.4%, making them some of the most efficient. While Trinity Solar only offers one brand, customers can select inverters and batteries from top brands like SolarEdge, Tesla, and Generac, providing them with a range of options to customize their solar energy systems to suit their needs.
Solar panel requirements include adequate sunlight exposure, efficient angle positioning, durable mounting structures, and compatible inverters.

Trinity is also known for flexible financing options, such as a $0-down payment method, making solar energy accessible to more homeowners. Additionally, Trinity Solar offers a referral bonus program, incentivizing customers to refer the company to their loved ones.

However, their warranties may fall short compared to those other firms offer. Trinity Solar workmanship warranty is valid for only five years; the inverter warranty lasts for 12 years, but customers can extend it to 20 or 25 years at the time of purchase. The Q Cells modules themselves are protected by a 25-year manufacturer warranty. If customers opt for solar energy storage, the Tesla Powerwall and Generac batteries come with 10-year warranties.

Peeking into customer experiences

Trinity's customers seem to have varied experiences, with some feeling extremely satisfied while others express their frustration and disappointment with the company. Communication issues appear to be a common theme in negative feedback, with some customers complaining about not receiving updates or progress reports after signing a contract months ago. Others have expressed difficulty getting in touch with anyone at the company and a lack of response to inquiries or complaints, resulting in poor customer service.

In addition, some customers have criticized Trinity's poor monitoring of their purchased solar systems, with complaints about the absence of automated alerts for outages. Several clients have had to monitor their systems and detect outages themselves manually. There have also been grievances about the lack of follow-up or response to requests for automated monitoring, adding to customers' frustration.

Despite this, there are still positive reviews of Trinity Solar, with customers praising the professionalism and expertise of some employees, particularly sales representatives, and installers. Many customers are satisfied with their solar systems and have reported significant savings on their utility bills. Nevertheless, Trinity Solar appears to receive more negative than positive feedback, with complaints about communication issues, poor customer service, and inadequate solar system monitoring among the most common ones.

9. Sunrun

What do they offer?

Sunrun is a leading player in the residential solar industry with 15 years of experience. Its unique “solar as service” business model has enabled it to grow tremendously. About 80 to 90% of Sunrun's customers lease PV modules for a monthly fee, which distinguishes the company from other firms.

Apart from offering “solar as a service,” Sunrun also allows customers to purchase solar panels. If you choose to buy from Sunrun, you can expect top-quality equipment as the company uses multiple suppliers for tier-one solar equipment. These panels have high efficiency ratings and strong warranties, and are sourced from established manufacturers known for their quality. You can even choose a specific module if you have a preference.

Sunrun also offers battery storage solutions such as the Tesla Powerwall for whole-home backup and the LG Chem battery for backing up "just the essentials" or four circuits. These solutions are available to Sunrun's “solar as service” customers under the Brightbox program.

All of Sunrun's solar panels come with a comprehensive 10-year warranty that covers equipment replacement and system repairs. Although this warranty is shorter compared to the industry standard of 20-25 years, it offers extensive coverage.

Overview of customer opinions

The majority of the feedback about Sunrun is positive, with customers praising their sales representatives for being knowledgeable, informative, and non-pushy. Customers appreciate that Sunrun takes the time to explain the process and provide detailed information about the panels, company reputation, and financing options. They also note that the installation process was smooth and that their electric bills have decreased significantly since switching to solar energy. Many clients have also been pleased with the tax credit and rebates offered by Sunrun, which have helped to offset the cost.

However, there are also some negative reviews, with a few customers reporting issues with customer service and problems with the equipment. Some customers claim that the customer service representatives were unhelpful, and one customer reported that they had been waiting for two years to have their system repaired. Additionally, there were complaints about delays, changes to financing options without proper notification, and issues with the technology used to monitor power output.

Overall, it appears that Sunrun is generally well-regarded by customers for their knowledgeable sales representatives, smooth installation process, and cost-saving benefits. However, there have been some issues with customer service and equipment, and some customers have reported delays and miscommunications during the enrollment process.

Delve into the newest video to discover valuable insights into the newest solar reviews across the United States in 2024.

Factors to consider when choosing a solar power company

When it comes to choosing a solar company, there are several important factors to consider. Below, we’ll take a look at each of these factors and explain why they’re crucial to making an informed decision.

Quality of panels and other solar power equipment offered

When selecting a company to purchase solar panels and other equipment, prioritize quality above all else. It's crucial to invest in equipment that is dependable and long-lasting. Seek out companies that use reputable brands and have a proven history of providing reliable products.

Certifications and accreditation

Make sure to choose a solar power contractor that holds relevant certifications and accreditations. This clearly indicates that they have met specific industry standards and have been independently verified. Go for companies certified by organizations like NABCEP and accredited by BBB to ensure quality service.

Customer service

Good customer service is essential when choosing a solar power company. You want to work with a company that is responsive, knowledgeable, and easy to reach. Consider reading customer reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the level of service provided by different solar companies.

Cost and financing options

As a homeowner, the expense of a solar system is a significant factor to bear in mind. Seek out companies that offer transparent and fair pricing, as well as competitive rates. A reputable company should also offer affordable prices and flexible financing options, such as leasing or financing programs.

Warranty and panel maintenance

Finally, it’s essential to consider the warranty and maintenance offered by a solar company. Opt for a contractor that provides extensive warranties on their equipment and installation and offers maintenance services to guarantee your system's smooth operation. This will allow you to feel secure, as you know you're covered in case of any issues with your system.

Planning to install solar panels on your property? Ensure you meet all the necessary requirements by exploring our guide on Requirements for Solar Panels. Whether you're considering residential solar power options or exploring the latest solar technologies like those offered by Samsung Solar, understanding the prerequisites is crucial.

Conclusion: embrace solar power with confidence by checking customer feedback

To wrap it up, it's crucial to check out customer feedback when selecting the ideal contractor for your project. By dedicating some time to read through reviews and ratings, you'll gain valuable insight into the firm's reputation and work quality. This feedback will help you make an informed decision and avoid costly mistakes. With the convenience of digital platforms, accessing customer reviews is now easier than ever and an indispensable tool for anyone hiring an installer. Therefore, be sure to do your research and check customer feedback to guarantee excellent service and results for your project.olar power has become a trendy and practical solution for homeowners and businesses who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs. However, with so many solar providers entering the market, choosing the right one that meets your specific needs can take time and effort. While all solar companies claim to have cutting-edge technology and top-notch customer service, it's crucial to do your own research before making a final decision.

Considering solar energy solutions in Silicon Valley? Explore our guide on Solar Companies in San Jose to discover reputable solar companies serving the tech hub of San Jose and its surrounding areas. Additionally, delve into residential solar power options with insights from our article on Residential Solar Power Companies.