Best Solar Companies of 2025

We compared 88 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunlux
      4.0(580)
    • Value
      Project Solar
      4.7(78)
    • Customer service
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.4(303)

    Best Solar Companies of 2025

    +2 more
    Author picture
    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Our 5 picks for the best solar companies

    1. Best overall: Sunlux
    2. Best for value: Project Solar
    3. Best for customer service: Freedom Solar Power
    4. Best for financing options: Blue Raven Solar
    5. Best for DIY and off-grid systems: ShopSolar

    We compared popular solar companies on customer satisfaction ratings, warranties, payment options and other factors. Sunlux has great reviews but somewhat limited availability. Project SolarFreedom Solar Power and Blue Raven Solar are worth considering for professional installation — compare quotes to find the best deal in your area. Start with ShopSolar if you already know what you need for a DIY or off-grid project.

    Companies may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or influence evaluations. Our publishing policy ensures that the journalistic content and user reviews on ConsumerAffairs remain independent of commercial influences.

    » READ MORE: Full methodology

    Learn more about solar energy
    Best overall
    Sunlux
    Max. panel efficiency
    19.7%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan and lease
    Year founded
    2012

    Sunlux stands out for its competitive pricing, good customer service and quality solar panels. Its 24/7 monitoring app lets you easily track your system’s performance, and tech support is on standby if anything goes wrong. We also like that Sunlux can take care of any necessary roof repairs or replacements before installing your system (for an additional charge).

    We’ve heard from over 570 verified customers since 2017. Overall, they are satisfied with the quality of the solar panels and the savings they are experiencing on their energy bills.

    I'm pleased with knowing that Sunlux not only gave me a good deal, but also good equipment.”
    — Adolfo, a Sunlux customer in California

    Pros

    • Great equipment options
    • 24/7 monitoring app
    • Helpful sales reps
    • Lifetime customer support
    • Flexible financing options

    Cons

    • Limited availability
    • Occasional installation delays
    • No in-house financing

    Including materials and labor, John in California paid $20,000 for his system. How much your system costs depends on how much energy your house uses, the condition of your roof and other factors.

    Many customers finance, like Christian in California. “Instead of paying $100 or $200 for the electric bill, if I use the same amount of energy or less, I will end up paying just the financing, which is $150,” Christian told us. “But only for six years, and then after that, the panels will be mine and I don't have to pay anymore.”

    Since going solar with Sunlux, Ana in California and Michael in California both only pay their utilities about $20 per month, mostly minimum service fees.

    If direct, in-person communication is important to you, consider working with a small local operation. Keone in California, who still recommends Sunlux overall, told us, “The only thing is I'm old school so I don't always like email stuff but everybody goes through email. I would rather they call me. But for the most part, I'm fine with it.”

    Another thing to consider is availability: Sunlux operates only in Southern California and Central Texas.

    Sunlux specializes in solar panel installations with storage batteries. Roofing, EV charging and smart home solutions are also available.

    • Energy equipment: Sunlux installs Panasonic and Qcells solar panels. Tesla Powerwall, Enphase AC Battery and LG Chem RESU batteries are available. Systems incorporate SolarEdge inverters and Enphase microinverters.
    • Payment options: Sunlux offers unsecured loans through third-party solar loan partners. You can also lease a system with no upfront costs. Lease agreements last 25 years.
    • Warranties and guarantees: Sunlux has two tiers of warranty options. The standard warranty covers installation, parts and maintenance for 25 years. With Platinum Protection, Sunlux also covers labor for repairs and guarantees how much energy your system generates for 25 years. It also covers equipment degradation plus parts and labor costs for maintaining your system during this time.
    Best value
    Project Solar
    Max. panel efficiency
    20.9%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2016

    Project Solar takes a no-sales-gimmicks approach that appeals to budget-conscious solar clients. Reps don’t work on commission. Instead, they focus on a simple, streamlined customer experience.

    We also appreciate the price transparency. As of publishing, full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt. Power purchase agreements range from 10 cents to 15 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

    The main reason I went with them was the price. They're not paying overhead or for salespeople.”
    — Somya, a Project Solar customer in California

    Pros

    • Transparent pricing
    • Streamlined installations
    • Great for cost savings
    • Roof-leak warranty
    • Easy to get started
    • DIY or pro install

    Cons

    • Less equipment options
    • Subcontracted installers
    • No in-house financing
    • Occasional communication issues

    Bill in Utah considered more than six solar companies. Each quoted him nearly $30,000, but Project Solar was less than half of that. “I jumped on it,” Bill told us. Now, he pays less than $15 monthly for power (his minimum utility subscription fee).

    Similarly, Joe in Florida spent $14,000 on his Project Solar installation, and Gary in Colorado only has to pay a $10 monthly fee to his utility since his project was complete.

    “I paid $20,000 more or less for everything,” Dion in Nevada told us. “That's including the cost of my own install and the electrician that came out that wasn't part of Project Solar. Then I got a six-plus-thousand-dollar refund from taxes. The entire system, over 10-kilowatt, is $14,000 which is great.”

    The focus on streamlining might mean fewer customization options or solutions for complex roof situations. For instance, John in Arizona said no one mentioned getting critter guards, which is fencing that keeps animals from nesting in solar panels. He had to have contractors come back and add them later.

    Another customer, Stan in California, mentioned installation delays and inconsistent communication. “But with everything else, the job was good,” Stan told us. The main reason he went with Project Solar was the price.

    Project Solar specializes in system design and equipment procurement for professional and DIY solar panel installations. It currently operates in multiple states across the U.S.

    • Energy equipment: Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase. As part of the full-service installation, it offers Enphase IQ 5P or Tesla Powerwall batteries. DIY projects only have the Enphase IQ 5P option.
    • Payment options: Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer two main financing options for professional solar installations:
      • Option A is cheaper overall: It has a higher interest rate, but any extra payments go directly towards reducing the principal amount. If you pay off the loan early, this can save you from paying excess interest.
      • Option B has a lower monthly payment: It has a consistent payment over a longer term. The interest rate is lower, but there may be prepayment penalties.
    • Warranties and guarantees: Project Solar provides two main warranties, a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. An 84% production level guarantee for 25 years provides reimbursements if production levels are unmet.
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Freedom Solar Power
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.8%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2007

    Freedom Solar Power has an in-house staff of NABCEP-certified installers and licensed electricians. It doesn’t subcontract work like some big national solar energy providers, so you can expect more personalized customer service throughout the process.

    Based on verified reviews, Freedom Solar Power people are overall satisfied with the company’s customer service, installation process and price. Customers also find the app helpful in tracking energy production post-installation.

    They did the installation really quick. It all went pretty well. Our electric bill has been about $3.”
    — Lynda, a Freedom Solar customer in Texas

    Pros

    • Excellent customer service
    • 24/7 performance monitoring
    • Transferable warranty
    • In-house, NABCEP-certified installation crews
    • Good monitoring app

    Cons

    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing
    • Occasional communication issues

    Freedom Solar is not the cheapest, according to Penny in Texas. Her quote was about $4,000 more than another company she considered. Joel in Texas said his system cost $32,000. On the high end, Russell in Texas spent over $120,000 on a system, including the Tesla battery.

    The return on your investment depends on where you live and how much energy you use. Anecdotally, John in Texas said his electric bill went from over $100 to about $5; Michelle in Florida said their monthly bill went from $150 to $35.95.

    “I'm saving anywhere from $150 to $300 a month, depending on the month,” Lynn in Texas told us.

    The installation process is generally smooth and efficient, though a few customers seemed annoyed by supply chain delays (a common theme in many solar company reviews).

    “They also didn't mention that twice a year, you have to pay to have the panels washed and it's a $600 to $800 expense,” Julie in Fort Worth said. “That was a total surprise to me and they didn't tell me that at all until I was closing up.”

    Besides solar panel installations, Freedom Solar Power offers deinstallation and reinstallation for roof repairs, energy monitoring, repairs, maintenance and upgrade services. It currently operates in Texas, Florida, Colorado, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina.

    • Energy equipment: Freedom Solar Power installs American-designed solar panels built to last at least 25 years. The company specializes in rooftop solar panels and ground-mounted systems. Battery options include SunVault backup power systems and Tesla Powerwalls.
    • Payment options: Freedom Solar systems are available for cash purchase. There are also financing options with low interest rates, no money down and 12 months of same-as-cash, which end up costing around $1 per day. It does not currently offer a leasing plan.
    • Warranties: Freedom Solar Power has a 25-year lifetime warranty on equipment and installations. If problems arise, the company replaces equipment on behalf of the manufacturer and covers 100% of repair or replacement costs. System performance is guaranteed between 84% and 92% of original production for 25 years.
    2x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best for Installation
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Blue Raven Solar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2014

    Blue Raven Solar stands out for its affordable financing programs that minimize your upfront out-of-pocket costs. We also like that reps take a technology-focused approach tailored to different climates across the country. Plus, it has a good mobile app that lets you monitor your system’s energy production and usage from anywhere.

    They took the time to explain the options and requirements and worked with the finance company to get things rolling.”
    — Kevin, a Blue Raven customer in Minnesota

    Pros

    • Sleek, durable systems
    • Referral cash bonus
    • In-house financing
    • Zero-down loans
    • Good monitoring app

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some miscommunication
    • Some customer service complaints

    Jason in Washington put it this way: “The cost of having solar is expensive, however, paying a monthly electricity bill is also expensive. In the end, they cancel each other out, you pay for the installation of solar panels, but you pay less on your electricity bill.” On the high end, James in North Carolina told us their Blue Raven Solar system cost $100,000.

    “Even running the air conditioning my bill is $0,” Paul in Michigan told us, “so they delivered on everything they promised.”

    Not everyone is as satisfied, unfortunately. Lyubov in Washington spent $51,000 going solar with Blue Raven. Depending on the time of year, they save between $35 and $113 monthly. Lyubov estimates it will take 100 years or more to break even.

    We’ve heard some complaints related to delays in installation and repairs and lack of follow-up. “The person who comes to your home and answers all of your questions is amazing,” Angela in Virginia, “but anything after that is all downhill.”

    Blue Raven Solar solar advisors use proprietary software to design custom systems that maximize annual energy output. The company is currently available in 21 states.

    • Energy equipment: Installers employ low-profile panel mounting and sleek cabling for visual appeal. Panels are sourced from brands like SEG, QCells, REC, Jinko Solar and Silfab Solar. Enphase IQ batteries are available for energy storage.
    • Payment options: Eligible customers can pay $0 upfront, get 18 months of free solar power and make fixed monthly payments after that. You own the system and are responsible for maintenance. It also offers a fixed monthly payment option — no prepayment penalty, and the plan is transferable to a new homeowner if you ever sell your house.
    • Warranties: All systems have a 25-year panel and a two-year production guarantee. Storage battery warranties vary between 10 and 15 years. Workmanship is guaranteed for 10 years.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    ShopSolar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018

    ShopSolar is an awesome place to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. We like that the online retailer has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication. You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It also sells different monitoring systems that connect through Bluetooth or manufacturer apps.

    The installation was easy because the guy told us exactly what we needed, made sure we had all the parts, and told us how to do it.”
    — Dianna, a ShopSolar customer in West Virginia

    Pros

    • Wide selection for off-grid and DIY projects
    • Great for RVs and outbuildings
    • Price-match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Helpful sales reps
    • Lifetime customer support

    Cons

    • Shipping and delivery restrictions or delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

    Patrick in Missouri spent $6,000 on a kit in 2023. As of publishing, ShopSolar’s best-selling complete solar power system kit costs $2,889. On the high end, its 75.8kW Solar Power System costs $180,989. Individual solar panels cost anywhere from around $45 to almost $10,000.

    “I've had the kit installed for about eight months, and I don't have a bill,” Jordan in Oregon told us. “It was cheaper for me by about $20,000 to go with ShopSolar and I can expand the system as I need to.” Carlos in Florida told us he’s saving $200 each month with his kit.

    ShopSolar does not provide professional solar panel installation services. So, it’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work. You might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly otherwise.

    For instance, T. in Colorado said, “Installing the panels was initially not so easy ‘cause I didn't have experience, but having conversations with a couple of folks at ShopSolarKits, I was able to do it myself and it was easy. I bought a big battery, and I would have bought some higher wattage panels had I had a little more information. Other than that, their follow-up service was exceptional.”

    » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

    ShopSolar is an online retailer with a variety of solar solutions, including new and used solar panels, generators, batteries, inverters, cables and racks. Additional hardware and accessories are also available. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

    • Energy equipment: ShopSolar stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Custom kits with everything you need for self-installation or professional setup are also available.
    • Payment options: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International. It also partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR.
    • Warranties: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

    Solar Energy Companies Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

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    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      A complete guide to going solar

      We’ve heard from over 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018. A couple of things we know for sure: People like powering their homes with a reliable source of cheap, clean energy, and they don’t like getting into solar contracts that don’t meet their expectations. Here’s what to consider when selecting a solar company, how to think about solar costs and what to expect during and after the installation.

      Key insights

      Solar panels typically cost $18,000 to $43,000. On the bright side, you can finance or lease a system with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Though more expensive, high-efficiency photovoltaic (PV) panels are worth it if you have a small roof. They generate more electricity and require less space.

      Jump to insight

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the best financial incentive for most homeowners going solar.

      Jump to insight

      Systems usually pay for themselves in about 9.5 years, and the average homeowner can avoid $62,219 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      How much do solar panels cost?

      A typical 8-kilowatt (kW) solar panel costs $22,712 before any financial incentives. When the full federal solar tax credit is factored in, that price effectively drops to $15,898. How much you actually pay depends on the size of your system, where you live and if you also want a solar energy storage battery. On the high end, we talked to a solar customer in Massachusetts who paid around $50,000 for a system and a solar customer in Hawaii who spent $100,000.

      On average, homeowners with solar panels avoid $62,219 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      “The price of a system will depend on your electricity usage; there's not a fixed price but more of a range,” Neil Gallagher, who owns a solar company in Tampa, Florida, explained. Most installers price systems based on wattage. This “cost per watt” represents the price of each unit watt of electricity your solar panels will generate. Similar to how miles per gallon tells you how fuel-efficient a vehicle is, cost per watt shows how much energy generation you get per dollar. As of publishing, the average cost per watt is $2.84.

      Average solar panel costs by state

      *Before the 30% federal tax credit (ITC) or other financial incentives; **How long it takes to break even on solar panel installation costs with cash purchase; ***Total utility power costs avoided over 25 years

      How to pay for solar panels

      You can pay for your system upfront, but most people finance solar panels. A solar loan works like any other type of loan — there's an application and approval process, and you pay the loan back over time (with interest). Alternatively, solar leases and power purchase agreements are good options if you don’t want to take on debt.

      A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.

      Look at past utility bills to understand your monthly energy consumption patterns. If you finance solar panels, it might not be worth it if the loan payments are more expensive than your existing electricity bill.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Taking advantage of the federal solar tax credit

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the best financial incentive for most homeowners buying solar panels. The ITC reduces your federal income tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels, including labor and permit fees.

      For example, let’s say you spend $10,000 installing solar panels. The ITC is worth $3,000. If in the year your system becomes operational, you owe $5,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces your tax bill to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year.

      Don’t get confused

      A tax credit decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income. You won’t automatically get a check for 30% of what your system costs. However, you can get a refund check if the credit reduces your tax liability to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      What to consider before going solar

      Not every household benefits from solar panels in the same way. We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator.

      Is going solar worth it for me?

      Solar is worth it for a lot of homeowners. Systems usually pay for themselves in about 9.5 years, and the average homeowner can avoid $62,219 in total utility costs over 25 years. How much money solar saves you depends on electricity costs in your area.

      Since going solar, Lowell in Oklahoma said his average monthly electric bill went from $125 to about $15. Another solar customer, Rosineia in Massachusetts, told us she saves around $1,000 per year.

      In the worst-case scenario, you spend thousands on midtier equipment from a company with no follow-up support, like Brenda in Missouri. “I am still not sure if it is working correctly, as I only saved $6.66 last month,” Brenda told us. “Why would anyone pay $52,000 for a system and get less than a $10 return each month?”

      Solar energy pros and cons

      Despite the high upfront costs, the energy savings over time can deliver a strong return on investment. However, for buyers, there are costs beyond the initial investment, like maintenance of the panels.

      You can clean your panels yourself, or hire a professional once or twice a year to keep performance optimal. Otherwise, dirt, debris and other substances accumulate on panels over time, reducing their effectiveness.

      Breaking down the pros and cons can help you get a better idea of whether or not solar is worth it for your home.

      Pros

      • Lower monthly energy bills
      • Energy independence
      • Reduced carbon footprint
      • Government incentives
      • Increased home value

      Cons

      • High initial cost
      • Can't move with you
      • Not a one-size-fits-all solution
      • Some ongoing maintenance

      Is my house a good candidate for solar panels?

      For best results, you need plenty of sunlight and a strong roof that faces the right direction.

      • What is the condition of my roof? Considering panels last about 25 years, it could be smart to replace your roof before going solar. Otherwise, you might have to spend thousands removing the panels, fixing your roof and reinstalling them. For instance, when Gwen in California had to re-roof her house, it cost $5,790 to temporarily uninstall and reinstall the panels.
      • What is my roof's angle, pitch and size? Roofs that face south, southeast or southwest are typically the best angle for solar panels, and a roof pitch of 25 to 45 degrees is best. The average dimensions of a solar panel are roughly 5.5 feet by 3.25 feet. Ideally, your roof is big enough to fit the number of panels required to meet your energy needs.
      • How much sunlight does my roof get? Lots of shade around your house — lots of tall trees or buildings, for instance — and your solar panels won't be as efficient. Solar panels still work on cloudy days, but the electricity generation drops by about 10% to 25%. Direct sunlight definitely boosts energy output.

      Pro tip

      If you have older electrical appliances, upgrade those before investing in solar panels. Getting your electrical loads as low as possible means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall.

      » MORE: How to save energy at home

      What are the best states for going solar?

      See how your state compares with others on residential electricity prices, solar installation costs, solar potential and solar-friendly policies.

      How to choose a solar company

      If you’re ready to go solar, look out for pushy sales reps who make big promises. Here's how to narrow down your options and find a reputable company that can provide ongoing service at a competitive price.

      1. Read reviews

      Read lots of solar company reviews and look for patterns of complaints related to bad customer service, misleading sales practices and issues with repairs and warranties.

      2. Compare quotes

      It’s always worth it to compare a few quotes. The price difference between one company and another can be thousands of dollars. Some solar companies have a lot more overhead due to marketing efforts, and that cost is passed on to the consumer.

      3. Check licenses and certifications

      Reputable solar companies are often associated with the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) or are certified by the Solar Rating & Certification Corporation (SRCC).

      4. Ask about solar panel efficiency

      When comparing solar panels, look for reliability, efficiency and durability. Higher-efficiency solar panels are more expensive but generate more electricity and require less space. Depending on where you live, the panels might need to be tough enough to withstand harsh weather conditions like hail, wind and snow.

      5. Pay attention to the warranty

      The best installers always offer warranties and service guarantees. They're also readily available for maintenance, system checks or addressing any concerns you might have after your solar system is installed.

      Panels usually come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers their performance for 25 years. Solar inverters are also a common source of maintenance issues, so check your warranty for that too. A typical solar inverter warranty lasts between 10 and 25 years.

      » BUYER BEWARE: Solar panel scams

      What to know about panels and other solar equipment

      The most common residential photovoltaic (PV) panels — monocrystalline and polycrystalline — are made of silicon cells, which easily absorb photons from the sun. But it's not just about picking the best solar panels. A solar array is made up of many different components. Think about how your whole system will work together.

      • Solar batteries store that sunny day for a rainy one. If you want to store the energy produced by your solar panels for use later, you need to install solar batteries. This is especially useful if you live in an area with frequent power outages or if you want to use solar energy when the sun is not shining. If you get a battery, you'll also need a charge controller.
      • Mounting and tracking systems maximize sun exposure. This attaches the solar panels to your roof or another location on your property. The mounting system needs to be sturdy and weather-resistant.
      • Inverters turn sunlight into usable energy. The solar inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used to power your home or business.
      • Monitoring lets you keep track of your system through an app. Monitoring apps provide real-time data on the performance of your solar panels. You get an alert if there's a drop in performance. Some advanced monitoring systems let your solar installation company access performance data remotely, which facilitates quick repairs.

      How do solar installations work?

      Understanding the installation process is important to knowing what you should expect.

      1. Initial consultation: When you start contacting solar installers for quotes, some may show you satellite images of your home at different times of the day. They use these pictures to demonstrate which sides of your home get the most sunlight.
      2. Site assessment: The installer often conducts a physical or remote (using satellite imagery) assessment of your property. The installer evaluates your roof's orientation, size, shading and condition. These assessments provide an overview of your property's overall solar potential.
      3. System design: The installer then designs a solar system for your property and provides a detailed proposal based on the site assessment and your energy needs. This proposal should include the system size (in kilowatts), estimated energy production, cost, potential savings and return on investment.
      4. Panel installation: After you secure your permits, your solar company begins the installation process. Local installers often have in-depth knowledge of local building codes and practices that help ensure smooth installation. This process typically takes a few days but can vary based on the system's size and complexity.
      5. Final inspection: Once the solar system is installed, it needs to be inspected by local authorities and the utility company (if grid-tied) to ensure it meets all regulations. After inspections, the system can be commissioned, and you can start generating solar power.

      FAQ

      How do solar panels work?

      Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work by harnessing the power of the sun and converting it into usable electricity. The most common types of residential solar PV panels — monocrystalline and polycrystalline — are made of silicon cells, which easily absorb photons from the sun.

      If your solar panel system is connected to the grid, any excess energy your system generates during the day can be fed into the grid and credited to your account through net metering. At night, your system can draw energy from the grid to power devices and appliances in your home.

      Solar panels still work on cloudy days, but the electricity generation drops by about 10% to 25%. Direct sunlight definitely boosts energy output.

      How many solar panels do I need to power my house?

      The average American household ends up needing 15 to 30 panels to fully power a home. How many solar panels you need depends on your energy usage, roof and solar panels' efficiency. To figure out your energy usage, check your utility bill for "kWh used." To get your monthly average, look at bills for the past year, add up the stated kWh used and divide by 12.

      In general, the output of one residential solar panel is anywhere from 100 watts to 500 watts, depending on the capacity of the equipment and operating conditions. Most panels on homes are rated to output between 250 watts and 450 watts, meaning they produce 250 to 450 watt-hours of electricity for each hour they are exposed to direct sunlight.

      » WATT’S THE DIFFERENCE? kW vs. kWh

      What solar options are available for small businesses?

      Businesses, local governments and nonprofits of all sizes can benefit from commercial solar panel installation. Solar carports, ground-mounted systems and solar thermal energy systems are also options. The biggest difference between commercial and residential solar panels comes down to scale, financing options and tax incentives.

      Do I need a solar battery?

      A solar battery is not always necessary, but it can provide significant benefits. Solar batteries store excess energy generated during the day for use when your panels aren't producing electricity, such as at night or during power outages. They are particularly useful if you want energy independence, live in an area with frequent grid outages or don't have net metering options with your utility company. However, they do add to the overall cost of your solar system.

      How long does it take to install solar panels?

      Installation times depend on a range of factors, especially seasonality and supply chain issues. The actual installation might take only a day, but it takes time to design, plan and activate the system. Dan in California said it took a few weeks; Shahida in New York said it took a year.

      Get expert advice on solar companies

      How do solar panels help reduce my carbon footprint?
      Robert Kaufmann

      Robert Kaufmann

      Professor, environmental science, Boston University

      Solar panels generate electricity without using fossil fuels (e.g., coal, oil or natural gas). Burning fossil fuels is the largest source of anthropogenic sulfur emissions. As such, solar panels reduce carbon emissions, which reduces one’s carbon footprint.

      Read their bio
      Yogi Goswami

      Yogi Goswami

      Professor, chemical engineering, University of South Florida

      Since solar panels convert sunlight to power directly without the need to burn any fuel, no CO2 is emitted while sunlight is being converted to electrical power. Considering that power from coal emits about 1.05 kg CO2/kWh, from natural gas about 0.44 kg/kWh and from oil about 1.1 kg/kWh (based on the data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration), solar panels significantly reduce carbon footprints by avoiding these emissions.

      Read their bio
      Sarah Kurtz

      Sarah Kurtz

      Professor, electrical engineering, University of California Merced

      Solar panels help by reducing the amount of fossil fuels that are used to generate electricity. If used alongside electric vehicles and heat pumps, solar panels further decrease the reliance on fossil fuels in transportation and heating. If solar panels were widely adopted, they could eventually eliminate our carbon footprint altogether by replacing fossil fuel-based energy generation.

      Read their bio
      Harvey Bryan

      Harvey Bryan

      Professor, building technology, Arizona State University

      Solar energy can offset grid power, which is usually generated by carbon-based fossil fuels, making your home’s energy use cleaner. The impact depends on your utility — some have a high level of renewables, while others rely heavily on fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. Many utilities now offer clean energy plans, which supply 100% renewable electricity to customers at a slight premium. Advances in battery storage also help balance solar output, making it a more reliable energy source that reduces dependence on dirtier power plants.

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      Can solar panels help regions affected by climate change?
      Robert Kaufmann

      Robert Kaufmann

      Professor, environmental science, Boston University

      The reduction in local carbon emissions will have little immediate effect on the severity or frequency of climate-induced flooding or extreme heat. However, if properly networked into the grid, solar panels can decentralize power production, increasing the supply of electricity to localities during extreme weather events.

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      Yogi Goswami

      Yogi Goswami

      Professor, chemical engineering, University of South Florida

      Certainly, solar panels help. However, since the global environment doesn’t have any boundaries, having more solar panels everywhere would help reduce the carbon footprint and, therefore, reduce the impact of climate change.

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      Sarah Kurtz

      Sarah Kurtz

      Professor, electrical engineering, University of California Merced

      Solar panels can provide localized benefits, such as offering shaded parking to reduce heat exposure. However, they do not prevent floods directly, as extreme weather events will continue to occur.

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      Harvey Bryan

      Harvey Bryan

      Professor, building technology, Arizona State University

      Yes, but the impact is global rather than local. Rising CO2 levels from centuries of fossil fuel use have driven climate change, and while solar adoption helps, results aren’t immediate — it might take decades to see the benefits. Countries like Norway, with 90% [electrical vehicle] adoption, show how policy can drive change. The challenge is ensuring long-term commitment, as some governments scale back renewable efforts due to political shifts, slowing down climate action.

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      Are there environmental risks associated with large-scale solar panel installations?
      Robert Kaufmann

      Robert Kaufmann

      Professor, environmental science, Boston University

      The laws of thermodynamics dictate that every human effort has environmental risks. The extraction of materials used and the fabrication of solar panels cause environmental damage. However, these damages are generally smaller than those caused by other forms of electricity generation.

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      Yogi Goswami

      Yogi Goswami

      Professor, chemical engineering, University of South Florida

      If we plan to recycle solar panels, the effect on the environment from used panels will be very small. As for the land use, you certainly need land for the solar panels. However, for residential use, you can use the roofs of buildings for solar panels. For larger scales, you can use strategies to reduce the land-use impact and, in some cases, make a positive impact. For example, for large car parking lots, you could use the panels to provide shade to the parked cars. For agricultural farms, you could use the panels to form the boundaries of the farms.

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      Sarah Kurtz

      Sarah Kurtz

      Professor, electrical engineering, University of California Merced

      Solar competes with agriculture for land use, but strategies such as agrivoltaics allow for dual use of land. While solar panels do contribute to waste, their long lifespan (decades) minimizes the waste issue compared to other energy sources.

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      Harvey Bryan

      Harvey Bryan

      Professor, building technology, Arizona State University

      All energy sources have risks: Fossil fuels impact climate; hydropower can disrupt aquatic life; nuclear presents long-term waste storage challenges. Solar’s impact is relatively minor, but land use and end-of-life disposal need careful management. Compared to fossil fuels, solar has far fewer environmental drawbacks. The key is to weigh risks over time — legacy energy sources like coal and natural gas cause significant pollution, while renewable options, despite some challenges, offer a more sustainable path.

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      What are the main barriers to solar adoption?
      Robert Kaufmann

      Robert Kaufmann

      Professor, environmental science, Boston University

      One of the largest obstacles is the large up-front costs. As such, many households cannot afford solar panels even though they would save money in the long run. This barrier can be lowered by low interest loans. Also, renters find it difficult to reap the benefits of solar panels because renters do not have property rights.

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      Sarah Kurtz

      Sarah Kurtz

      Professor, electrical engineering, University of California Merced

      The barriers to solar adoption are highly variable. In New York City, it is difficult to find low-cost places to mount [solar panels] that will not be frequently shaded, but in California, the challenge is more about how to make use of the solar electricity after the sun sets. California has installed > 13 GW of batteries that can charge during the day and then discharge after sunset. Even though 13 GW is roughly half of a typical nighttime load in California, California could still benefit from more batteries. In many places, people don’t want to change how they are using land. If a county considers itself to be an agricultural county, replacing fields of corn with solar panels changes the county’s identity. Perhaps using agrivoltaics can help in such a case because sheep can graze underneath the panels, allowing the farmers to continue creating food for everyone’s tables while also generating electricity without carbon emissions.

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      Yogi Goswami

      Yogi Goswami

      Professor, chemical engineering, University of South Florida

      The biggest barrier is that, for solar power, you have to pay for the panels and the balance of the system up front, while the benefit comes over time after the capital investment has been made. Since the panels pay for themselves over time, creative financing schemes can make it possible for the users to pay costs over time so that the periodic payments are less than the savings from the panels.

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      Harvey Bryan

      Harvey Bryan

      Professor, building technology, Arizona State University

      Uncertainty, misinformation and policy shifts are major barriers. The recent pause on infrastructure investments has slowed renewable growth despite prior tax credits boosting the industry. Battery storage is expanding rapidly, making solar more viable, and utilities are adopting it for economic benefits. However, shifting political priorities might redirect funding back to fossil fuels. Overcoming these obstacles requires long-term planning, public awareness and stable government support.

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      Methodology

      ConsumerAffairs used a data-driven approach, guided by its expert editors, to select the top solar companies. This process is regularly updated to reflect new customer reviews, company data and industry trends.

      To identify the top five picks for different buyer needs, including the best overall solar company, we applied a weighted scoring system that considered verified customer review data and available information on features including payment options, equipment selection, warranties and guarantees.

      Selection process

      We conducted a sentence-by-sentence sentiment analysis of thousands of reviews on our site from Oct. 1, 2021, through Sept. 30, 2024, to identify the aspects that people care about most in solar companies. We then decoded the reviews and star ratings to calculate the percentage of reviewers who are “happy” or “satisfied” with each aspect for each company, which we refer to as the “satisfaction rating” for that aspect. For solar companies, these aspects included installation, customer service and price.

      For each satisfaction aspect or feature, a company received a score from 0 to 10. The company with the best satisfaction rating or strongest feature received a full score of 10; other companies’ scores were adjusted proportionally. We applied different weightings of aspects and features for each top pick. The weighted scores were then totaled to calculate a final score for each category. Here’s how we weighted each category:

      • Top overall pick: Focused on customer satisfaction with installation and setup, price and customer service, and the company’s warranty and performance guarantee and payment options
      • Top pick for value: Focused more heavily on price satisfaction and the warranty and performance guarantee
      • Top pick for customer service: Focused primarily on customer service satisfaction as well as installation and price satisfaction, warranty and guarantee, and payment options
      • Top pick for financing options: Focused on financing flexibility and payment options
      • Top pick for DIY projects: Focused on availability of do-it-yourself equipment and off-grid systems

      The company with the highest final score in each category was awarded the top spot. In cases where one company scored highest in multiple categories, the company with the next-highest score was chosen. To recap, our top picks for best solar companies in 2025 are:

      1. Sunlux: Best overall
      2. Project Solar: Best for value
      3. Freedom Solar Power: Our pick for customer service
      4. Blue Raven Solar: Our pick for financing options
      5. ShopSolar: Our pick for DIY and off-grid systems
      Guide sources

      ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

      1. U.S. Department of The Treasury, “Consumer Solar Awareness.” Accessed April 3, 2025.
      2. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, “As PV Market Evolved in the Last Year, Prices Went Up, Prices Went Down.” Accessed April 3, 2025.
      3. EnergySage, “Solar panel cost in 2025: It may be lower than you think.” Accessed April 3, 2025.
      4. U.S. Department of Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.” Accessed April 3, 2025.
      5. U.S. Department of Energy, “Walk Me Through It: A Step-By-Step Guide for Consumers Going Solar.” Accessed April 3, 2025.
      6. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Solar Market Insight Report.” Accessed April 3, 2025.
      7. NPR, “People are rushing to install solar panels before Trump becomes president.” Accessed April 3, 2025.

      Not sure how to choose?

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