Best Solar Companies of 2026

Sunrun, Freedom Power Solar, Project Solar, ION Solar and Freedom Forever are our top picks
  1. Best overall: Sunrun
  2. Best for payment options: Freedom Power
  3. Best price transparency: Project Solar
  4. Best value: ION Solar
  5. Best customer service: Freedom Forever

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    Best Solar Companies of 2026

    The best solar companies in 2026 include Sunrun, Freedom Power and Project Solar, based on customer reviews, pricing, equipment and warranties.

    Going solar can help save money on electricity bills, but not all companies deliver on their promises. Choosing the wrong installer can mean poor equipment, surprise costs or warranties that don’t hold up when you need them. We did the research to help you make the right choice.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,866,211 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
    • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    Our top 5 solar company picks

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    2. Best for payment options: Freedom Power
    3. Best price transparency: Project Solar
    4. Best value: ION Solar
    5. Best customer service: Freedom Forever

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team evaluated solar installers using a structured scoring model focused on installation quality, customer experience, pricing and buying flexibility. Read the full methodology to learn more about how we evaluate and rank solar companies.

    Some picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our rankings or recommendations. ConsumerAffairs’ publishing policy ensures that journalistic content and user reviews on our site remain independent of commercial influences.

    Compare the best solar energy companies

    Learn more about solar energy
    Best overall
    Sunrun logo
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    20 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Why we picked Sunrun

    Sunrun is our top pick for whole-home systems because it gets positive feedback from verified customers plus offers a solid warranty. It also stands out for its strong battery options, including Tesla Powerwall installations and exclusive integration with the Ford F-150 Lightning for home backup power.

    The installation process starts by analyzing your past electricity bills to estimate your energy needs. Next, representatives assess your roof’s unique conditions — such as shading, pitch and sun exposure — to create the optimal system design for your home.

    Pros
    • Reliable system performance
    • Flexible payment options
    • Daily system monitoring
    • Roof leak warranty
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some billing issues reported
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    What reviewers say

    Customer reviews show that Sunrun can deliver meaningful savings in ideal conditions. However, outcomes vary. Some customers fully offset usage, while others still have utility bills.

    Equipment options

    Sunrun systems use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers. Battery storage options include Tesla, Lunar Energy and FranklinWH.

    Warranties

    Sunrun offers solid, all-in-one coverage for 20 years, including repairs, labor and a production guarantee. Sunrun (not the manufacturer) backs the warranty, so long-term protection depends on the company staying in business. The roof penetration coverage lasts for 10 years.

    Performance guarantee

    If your system underproduces, you’ll get a small credit based on the shortfall, according to the Sunrun BrightBuy with Protection Plus Agreement sample contract. The performance guarantee ensures at least 90% of the system’s estimated production over 25 years.

    Availability
    • California
    • Connecticut
    • Florida
    • Hawaii
    • Illinois
    • Maryland
    • Massachusetts
    • Nevada
    • New Hampshire
    • New Jersey
    • New York
    • Rhode Island
    • Texas 
    • Washington, D.C.
    Best for payment options
    Freedom Power Solar logo
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.8%
    Panel warranty
    25 to 40 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2007
    Why we picked Freedom Power Solar

    Freedom Power Solar’s leasing model makes solar accessible without a large upfront cost. Payments can start around $100 per month, with options for $0 down and up to 18 months of deferred payments for qualified buyers.

    Here’s when it makes sense: If your lease payment is lower than your current electric bill, you start saving immediately. And while utility rates are likely to increase over time, your payment stays more predictable. You’re essentially locking in today’s energy costs for the next 25 years.

    Pros
    • 0% escalator on leases
    • 24/7 performance monitoring
    • Transferable warranty
    • In-house, NABCEP-certified installers
    Cons
    • Limited availability
    • Some communication issues
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience
    What reviewers say

    Reviewers consistently highlight strong customer service, smooth installations and effective monitoring tools. Some do note communication challenges due to multiple touchpoints.

    Equipment options
    • Solar panels: Maxeon, Mission Solar and Qcells
    • Batteries: Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ
    • Microinverters: Enphase
    • Rail and mounting systems: Pegasus Solar
    • Smart control panel: SPAN smart control panels
    • EV chargers: ChargePoint home charging station
    • Generators: Generac
    Warranties

    Freedom Power Solar stands out for its warranty strength. It has a 25-year workmanship warranty covering the installation and electrical work and a 10-year roof penetration warranty. When comparing sample contracts of our other top picks, it had the best manufacturer-backed panel warranties (up to 40 years).

    • Batteries (Tesla Powerwall 3): 10 years
    • Inverters (Enphase): 25 years on the inverter itself, five to 10 years on supporting electronics
    • EV Chargers (ChargePoint): Three years
    • Generac Generators: Five-year manufacturer warranty plus one-year workmanship warranty
    • SPAN Smart Panel: 10 years
    Performance guarantee

    Depending on contract terms, system performance is guaranteed at 84% to 92% of the original production for 25 years.

    Availability
    • Texas
    • Florida
    Best price transparency
    Project Solar logo
    Max. panel efficiency
    20.9%
    Panel warranty
    10 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2016
    Why we picked Project Solar

    Project Solar stands out for its clear pricing model and no-gimmicks sales approach. This should appeal to budget-conscious homeowners. Sales reps don’t earn commissions, which helps keep the process straightforward and pressure-free.

    As of publishing, full-service installations can start around $1.61 per watt. Your actual costs depend on location and system design.

    Pros
    • Wide availability
    • Streamlined installations
    • Roof leak warranty
    • Good value for money
    Cons
    • Subcontracted installers
    • Occasional communication issues
    What reviewers say

    Many customers tell us about significant savings, though some report unexpected delays.

    Equipment options

    Systems incorporate Qcells, Canadian Solar and Jinko panels. Enphase IQ 5P or Tesla Powerwall batteries are available.

    Warranties

    Project Solar provides a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty.

    Performance guarantee

    Project Solar offers an 85% production guarantee for up to 25 years. Keep in mind that if your panels underperform in the first year, your target gets permanently lowered for all future years — but if they overperform, the target stays the same.

    The annual target also gradually decreases over time, as some panel degradation is expected and built into the contract.

    Like most solar companies, Project Solar does not guarantee savings on your electricity bill — only that your system produces a certain amount of power. If it falls short, the company will pay you $0.15 per kWh of the difference.

    Availability

    Many states across the West, Midwest, Northeast and Southeast.

    Best value
    ION Solar logo
    Max. panel efficiency
    21.9%
    Panel warranty
    30 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2013
    Why we picked ION Solar

    ION Solar offers strong value for homeowners who want to go solar on a budget. We also like that its streamlined installation process includes custom design, and all equipment is backed by a solid warranty.

    Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days. Solar installations are complicated projects, and there’s always a chance that projected timelines change due to weather, supply chain issues and other factors.

    Pros
    • Proactive 24/7 monitoring
    • In-house installation crews
    • Premium hardware
    Cons
    • Some communication issues
    • Occasional installation delays
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience
    What reviewers say

    Happy clients tell us about quick installations, lower electric bills and good customer service. People sometimes mention issues with poor communication or unexpected costs.

    Equipment options

    ION Solar’s NABCEP-certified installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters.

    Warranties

    ION Solar provides long equipment coverage, including a 30-year panel output warranty and a 25-year inverter warranty. But there’s no true production guarantee, so if your system underperforms, you won’t automatically get compensated unless you can prove a defect.

    Availability
    • Colorado
    • Connecticut
    • Illinois
    • Maryland
    • Massachusetts
    • Nevada
    • New Mexico
    • Ohio
    • Oregon
    • Rhode Island
    • South Carolina
    • Texas
    • Virginia
    Best customer service
    Freedom Forever logo
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2011
    Why we picked Freedom Forever

    Freedom Forever makes going solar simple. Knowledgeable reps keep you in the loop throughout the entire installation process. We also like that its online portal lets you track your installation, access documents and monitor your system’s energy production.

    Pros
    • Easy to get started
    • Helpful online portal and mobile app
    • Variety of financing options
    • Good production guarantee
    Cons
    • Installation delays
    • Communication issues
    • Possible unexpected costs
    What reviewers say

    People like it when Freedom Forever delivers high-quality solar panel installations. But you should be aware that not all customers report savings, and some reviews mention issues such as delays in service.

    Equipment options

    Installers primarily use Tesla equipment along with select panel brands. Tesla Powerwall storage batteries are also available.

    Warranties

    The standard warranty covers repairs or replacements if something breaks.

    Production guarantee

    Freedom Forever focuses heavily on its 25-year production guarantee, backed by 24/7 system monitoring and proactive service. If your system underproduces, the company may pay you, fix the issue or even add panels. Key warranty details (like payout rates and workmanship terms) vary by contract and aren’t fully transparent upfront.

    Availability
    • Arizona
    • California
    • Colorado
    • Connecticut
    • Delaware
    • Florida
    • Georgia
    • Illinois
    • Maine
    • Maryland
    • Massachusetts
    • Michigan
    • Missouri
    • Nevada
    • New Hampshire
    • New Jersey
    • New Mexico
    • Ohio
    • Oregon
    • Pennsylvania
    • Puerto Rico
    • Rhode Island
    • Texas
    • Vermont
    • Virginia
    • Washington
    • Wisconsin

    Methodology: How we found the best solar companies

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team evaluated solar providers using a structured scoring model. We assessed several metrics across three core areas: customer experience, responsiveness and company details.

    1. Customer experience (based on verified reviews)

    Review data reflects verified feedback submitted to ConsumerAffairs between Feb. 1, 2023, and Jan. 31, 2026. We measured satisfaction with:

    • Installation
    • Customer service
    • Price
    2. Responsiveness and recency

    We also evaluated how actively companies engage with customers, including:

    • Review volume in the past six months
    • Response rate to recent reviews
    3. Company details

    We analyzed company-reported and performance-based metrics, including:

    • Warranty and workmanship guarantees
    • Available payment options
    • Price transparency

    How scoring works

    Companies earned a 0 to 10 score for every metric:

    • The top-performing company for each metric earned a 10.
    • Other companies were scored relative to that leader.

    This standardized system allows us to compare customer satisfaction data, company performance and financing features on the same scale.

    How winners were determined

    All companies were evaluated using the same set of metrics, but award categories apply different weightings depending on what the designation highlights.

    For example, “Best value” places greater weight on pricing satisfaction and warranty strength, while “Best payment options” prioritizes financing flexibility.

    The company with the highest weighted score in each category earned the corresponding “Our pick for” designation. If a company ranked first in multiple categories, we awarded that designation to the next-highest scoring company in that category to highlight a broader group of top performers.

    Solar Energy Companies Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunrun logo
    Freedom Power Solar logo
    Project Solar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      ConsumerAffairs has heard from thousands of homeowners who have already installed solar panels. Many are happy with their choice — people like clean energy and lower electric bills. But others say solar wasn’t worth the cost. In the worst-case scenario, homeowners end up paying for a system that doesn’t work and still have to cover their regular utility bills.

      This guide explains how to choose a good solar company, explore incentives and prepare for installation.

      Key insights

      The average residential solar panel system costs $20,534 in 2026. Expect to pay an extra $7,000 to $18,000 if you also want an energy storage battery.

      Jump to insight

      Small roof? High-efficiency panels can help. They cost more but make more energy in less space.

      Jump to insight

      Systems usually pay for themselves in about 11.4 years, and the average homeowner can avoid $49,283 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      Types of solar companies

      Solar companies don’t all work the same way. Here are the main types you’ll come across:

      • National installers operate across the country and offer a consistent, streamlined process. They usually have more financing options, but service can feel less personal.
      • Local installers focus on your area and often provide more personalized service. They may offer better pricing and know local incentives well.
      • DIY solar providers sell solar kits you install yourself. It can save money upfront, but you’ll handle installation, permits and setup on your own.
      • Solar leasing providers offer leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs). You don’t own the system. You pay monthly to use the energy it produces, usually with little to no upfront cost.

      How much do solar panels cost?

      “The price of a system will depend on your electricity usage,” Neil Gallagher, who owns a solar company in Florida, explained. “There's not a fixed price but more of a range.”

      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.

      The table below doesn’t include the cost of a solar battery, which adds $7,000 to $18,000 to your total system costs.

      Average solar panel cost by system size

      Average solar panel costs by state

      A standard 7-kilowatt (kW) solar panel system costs $19,547. But if your household uses a lot of electricity, you need a bigger, more expensive system. Solar panel prices also vary by location.

      *Before any financial incentives; **How long it takes to break even on solar panel installation costs with cash purchase; ***Estimated total utility power costs avoided over 25 years

      Solar incentives by state

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) expired at the end of 2025, but many states still have solar incentives, such as rebates, tax credits or performance-based programs.

      For instance, California has several solar rebates available through local power companies. The Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program pays solar system owners for the electricity their panels produce.

      However, some states, like Oklahoma, West Virginia and Alabama, have little or no local incentives encouraging residents to adopt renewable energy.

      How to pay for solar panels

      Most people choose one of three options: a loan, a lease, or a power purchase agreement (PPA).

      With a solar loan, you borrow money to buy the system and make monthly payments until it’s paid off. You eventually own the panels.

      With a solar lease or PPA, you never own the system. Instead, a solar company installs and owns the panels, and you pay them a set amount each month. Leases are usually a flat fee. With PPAs, you pay for the power you use.

      Pro tip 

      If your loan or loan payment is higher than what you currently pay for electricity, solar panels might not save you money.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      How solar installations work

      Understanding the installation process helps you know what to expect from solar installers and avoid surprises.

      1. Consultation: Installers review your home’s solar potential using satellite data and your past electricity usage. Some might show you satellite images of your home at different times of the day. This shows which parts of your home get the most sunlight.
      2. Site assessment: A technician checks your roof’s size, angle, shading and condition to confirm it can support a solar panel system. These assessments provide an overview of your property’s solar potential.
      3. System design and quote: You’ll receive a custom solar energy system design with system size (in kilowatts), estimated production, cost and projected savings.
      4. Permits and installation: After permits are approved, installation usually takes a few days, depending on the system’s size and complexity.
      5. Inspection and activation: Your system is inspected and connected to the grid so it can begin generating electricity.
      6. Ongoing maintenance: Solar panel systems require minimal upkeep, but occasional cleaning helps maintain efficiency.

      How to choose a solar company

      The best solar companies offer reliable installation, transparent pricing and strong warranties. Use these steps to compare solar installers and find the right fit.

      1. Consider your energy goals

      Your goals determine the size and type of system you need.

      • To lower electricity bills, your system must cover most of your energy usage.
      • For energy independence or backup power, you’ll need a solar battery.

      The average American household needs a 7.5-kW system to offset its energy needs. You might need a bigger or smaller system, depending on your energy usage. If you have an electric vehicle, ask about EV charging options.

      2. Check reviews and reputation

      Customer reviews reveal how solar companies perform after installation.

      Look for patterns in:

      • Installation quality and timelines
      • Customer support
      • Accuracy of savings estimates

      Avoid companies with repeated complaints about poor service, misleading sales or billing issues.

      3. Compare at least three quotes

      Most installers set the price according to the system’s wattage, with a typical cost between $2.00 and $3.50 per watt. Think of cost per watt like miles per gallon for a car: It shows how efficient your system is.

      The average cost per watt is $2.78 in 2026.

      Make sure your solar quotes include installation, permits and grid hookup, and watch for hidden fees like monitoring or service charges. Ask about critter guards to protect your panels if you live in a rural area.

      4. Verify licenses and certifications

      The best 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). Solar installers also need electrical licenses in many states.

      5. Pay attention to the warranty

      Solar warranties can be confusing because they’re split across different types, and not all offer the same level of protection. Most systems include:

      • Product (equipment) warranty: Covers defects or failures
      • Performance warranty: Guarantees a minimum level of energy production over time
      • Workmanship warranty: Covers installation issues like wiring or roof penetrations

      When comparing solar companies, focus on who backs each warranty, whether there’s a production guarantee (which protects your savings if the system underperforms) and how coverage differs across panels, inverters, batteries and labor.

      Watch for common gaps

      • Roof penetration warranties are often shorter (around 10 years), even when other coverage lasts 25+ years.
      • Some contracts don’t guarantee system performance at all.
      • Fine print may include requirements for maintenance, monitoring or claim deadlines.

      Compare solar warranties

      Pro tip

      Solar warranties may sound comprehensive, but the details — especially who backs them and whether performance is guaranteed — matter more than the headline number.

      What to know about panels and other solar equipment

      The most common residential photovoltaic (PV) panels — monocrystalline and polycrystalline — are made of silicon cells. Silicon cells 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 working together.

      • Solar panels: Some solar panels work better than others. Small roofs may need more expensive high-efficiency panels to make enough power. High-efficiency panels generate more power per square foot, allowing you to produce the same energy with fewer panels. However, lower-efficiency panels may be more cost-effective if space isn't a concern.
      • 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 and a charge controller. 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.
      • 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 give you 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.

      Is going solar worth it?

      Solar is worth it for a lot of homeowners. Systems usually pay for themselves in about 11.4 years, and the average homeowner can avoid $49,283. 

      Look out for pushy sales reps who make big promises.

      How much money solar saves you depends on electricity costs in your area. In states that offer full-retail net metering credits, adding a battery mainly provides backup power rather than extra savings, so factor that into your payback calculations.

      Real-world examples

      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 Jaycodezone in New York. “You keep paying for the solar loan and the electric company. I had installed solar with them just last year,” they wrote in a review, “and the panels have stopped producing power. No one is commenting on when this will be fixed.”

      » EXPLORE: Where solar savings go the furthest

      Solar energy pros and cons

      Despite the high upfront costs, solar offers energy savings that can deliver a strong return on investment over time. 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?

      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. When determining if solar is a good option for your home, you should also ask yourself the following questions:

      • 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.

      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.

      FAQ

      What is the best solar company?
      After analyzing thousands of customer reviews, equipment options, payment plans and warranties, Sunrun stood out as the best solar company overall. Freedom Power Solar offers more flexible payment options, and Project Solar has the most transparent pricing.
      What is the payback period for solar panels?
      The payback period for solar panels is the amount of time it takes for your energy savings to equal the upfront cost of your system. In most states, solar panels pay for themselves in six to 12 years. After that, your system is essentially generating free electricity (aside from minimal maintenance).
      Are solar panels covered by insurance?

      If your solar panels are mounted on your roof, they’re typically covered under your standard homeowners insurance policy as part of your dwelling. Just make sure your policy reflects the added value of your system.

      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.

      For example, if your household uses 1,000 kWh per month, and you install panels that each generate 400 watts under optimal conditions, you'll need about 21 panels to meet your energy needs. Here's the math:

      • 1,000 kWh per month divided by 30 days = 33.3 kWh per day
      • 33.3 kWh per day divided by 5 hours of effective sunlight per day = 6.7 kW solar system
      • 6.7 kW divided by 0.4 kW (400-watt panel) = 16.75 panels

      However, this doesn’t account for system losses, shading or seasonal changes, so installers typically recommend adding 10% to 30% more capacity, bringing you to about 21 panels.

      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.

      What is Tier 1 solar company?

      A Tier 1 solar company makes its own panels and has done so for at least five years with a track record of reliable products. This label often means it's a stable business that invests in research and manufacturing.

      » MORE: How to choose solar panels

      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.

      Read their bio
      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.

      Read their bio
      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.

      Read their bio
      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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      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. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed March 18, 2026.
      2. N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center, “Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency.” Accessed March 18, 2026.
      3. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Energy.” Accessed March 18, 2026.
      4. EnergySage, “Solar panel cost in 2026: It may be lower than you think.” Accessed March 18, 2026.
      5. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Solar Market Insight Report.” Accessed March 18, 2026.

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