Best Solar Companies in Arizona

We compared 191 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Sunrun
      4.2(3,257)
    • Freedom Forever
      3.5(76)
    • ShopSolar
      4.8(200)
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Arizona

    Based on recent reviews from verified local customers, equipment options and warranty terms, Sunrun is the best solar company in Arizona. Freedom Forever stands out for its online tools and mobile app, and ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment for do-it-yourself projects.

    Our top 3 solar company picks for Arizona

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    2. Best for online tools: Freedom Forever
    3. Best for DIY projects: ShopSolar

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Sunrun
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007

    Sunrun sells and leases customized residential solar energy systems and its battery storage. Happy customers consistently tell us about easy installation processes and significant savings on their electricity bills after switching to solar. We also like that Sunrun's leasing program is a great way to get solar panels without the huge upfront investment.

    There's always the chance of miscommunications on big solar projects. For example, Debbie in Sun City said there was a discrepancy between her Sunrun contract and what Titan Solar, the local installer, actually accomplished. Still, the majority of customers are satisfied with their decision to go solar with Sunrun.

    Pros

    • Easy to get started
    • Custom solar designs
    • Daily system monitoring
    • Smart technology
    • Free maintenance plans available

    Cons

    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional installation delays

    The warranty covers workmanship and equipment for 10 years. The performance guarantee lasts 25 years. Leased systems typically come with free maintenance and repairs. Its terms and conditions focus on service use, including account registration and payments, with a general "as is" disclaimer without detailed warranty specifics in the provided sections.

    As of publishing, available discounts include $0 down for some financing plans. You can lease solar equipment for a minimal upfront payment. Sunrun’s leasing plans are what really set it apart from other solar options in Arizona:

    • Monthly plan: You can lease Sunrun panels for $0 or little down. Then, you pay a fixed monthly payment for the term of your leasing contract, typically 25 years.
    • Full amount lease: You can prepay for up to 25 years of solar energy.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Our pick for online tools
    Freedom Forever
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2011

    Freedom Forever gets good feedback related to customer service. We also like that the company has an online portal and mobile app that lets you easily track installation progress and system performance. The app works on iPhone, iPad and Android for easy access anywhere.

    Happy customers report big savings and are satisfied with their systems’ performance, especially during outages or high-usage periods. However, some unhappy customers have reported feeling misled by sales representatives, particularly regarding billing expectations and timelines.

    Pros

    • Helpful online portal and mobile app
    • Large service area
    • Variety of financing options
    • 25-year production guarantee
    • Ongoing monitoring

    Cons

    • Vague equipment descriptions
    • Some customer service complaints
    • No commercial services

    Freedom Forever offers two types of coverage: The 25-year production guarantee promises that your system will produce the energy listed in your contract, and the standard warranty fixes or replaces parts if something breaks. The company also monitors your system for 25 years to catch problems early.

    Freedom Forever customers can pay for their system through loans, leases and power purchase agreements.

    Our pick for DIY projects
    ShopSolar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018

    ShopSolar is an awesome place to buy solar equipment for DIY projects. 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. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

    » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

    The important thing to keep in mind is that ShopSolar does not offer professional installation services. So, it’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work. Otherwise, you might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly.

    Pros

    • Great for homes, RVs and outbuildings
    • Customer solar kits available
    • Price-match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support

    Cons

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

    ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. The online retailer stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow, which are known for reliability. Reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer if you run into a warranty issue.

    You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. It also has financing options for as little as $0 down.

    • Online payments: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International.
    • Financing: ShopSolar 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.

    Solar Companies in Arizona Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

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      Arizona solar panel buyers guide

      Our team has talked to thousands of solar customers across the country — here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in Arizona.

      What to look for in a solar installation company

      The best solar energy companies provide end-to-end services, from system design and engineering to permitting, installation, inspection, monitoring and maintenance. Here’s what to look for.

      • Industry credentials: Confirm licensing, insurance and NABCEP certification for installers. Bonding is also necessary because it protects you if a contractor fails to complete the job or fails to meet other obligations, like paying for permits or subcontractors. Check the Arizona Contractor Licensing Database to vet potential hires.
      • Free consultations: Get multiple cost estimates from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower quotes than others — this may indicate lower quality.
      • Transparent terms: The contract should be easy to understand. If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification. Warranties and productivity guarantees provide peace of mind once your system is up and running.

      Ask the right questions

      Consider if you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guard. Critter guards are fencing around the bottom of the solar panel that keeps animals from nesting there.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Key insights

      In Arizona, a typical 6-kilowatt residential solar panel system is $12,960 before any financial incentives. That price drops to $9,072 after the full federal solar investment tax credit.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panels last a long time — you want to hire a well-established company that’s around for system support for at least 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      Many solar customers are happy with their cost savings, but some have felt misled by pushy sales tactics.

      Jump to insight

      How much do solar panels cost in Arizona?

      Arizona solar panel costs typically range between $7,560 and $21,600. The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

      A typical Arizona household needs a system with a capacity of 9.2 kW to offset enough energy costs to make solar viable. Depending on your household energy usage, you might need a smaller or larger system.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Arizona, the average cost per watt is $2.06, which is one of the cheapest in the United States.

      The table below doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      Average solar panel installation cost by system size in Arizona

      How do I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many people finance their system through a solar loan. Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to borrow thousands of dollars to go solar or take on the responsibility of maintaining their system.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years.

      Arizona also has legalized power purchase agreements (PPAs), which work very similarly to leases. The biggest downside to both is you’re disqualified from many of the best financial incentives, like the 30% federal solar tax credit. Your house also might be harder to sell since the buyer will have to take over the lease.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Are solar panels worth it in Arizona?

      Going solar is worth it in Arizona mostly for the lower energy bills and reduced reliance on local power companies. Over 25 years, Arizona homeowners with solar panels can save about $65,970 in total utility power costs. A typical residential solar panel installation usually pays for itself within 6.9 years in Arizona.

      Over 25 years, homeowners with solar panels can typically avoid $20,000 to $90,000 in total energy costs.

      One solar customer we talked to, Lorene in Tucson, went solar for a number of reasons: "Sustainability, to save money, to get out from under the thumb of TEP." She likes leasing the system and plans to rely on it in retirement. It's nice having a locked-in, predictably low monthly energy bill.

      Similarly, Chad in Peoria is also saving a lot of money each month and really likes “not having to pay anything else to APS.”

      Arizona's climate makes it a great location for residents interested in going solar. The state averages seven to eight peak sunlight hours per day, maximizing the amount of power produced by your solar energy system. Ultimately, going solar is a worthwhile investment in most states, but particularly in Arizona.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Ideal candidates have a south-facing roof with little to no shade and are in areas with high solar irradiation. It's also essential to assess the structural condition of your roof to ensure it can support the weight of solar panels.

      NREL’s PVWatts Calculator estimates how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. You can also use Project Sunroof, a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      Do I need a permit to install residential solar panels in Arizona?

      The permitting process depends on where you live. For example, Maricopa County solar permits can be found online. If you live in Phoenix, use the SolarAPP+ Program​ to verify code compliance for residential solar panel projects.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      No. Homeowners associations in Arizona are not permitted to unreasonably restrict solar energy systems.

      Are there any financial incentives for going solar in Arizona?

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the biggest factor in reducing the cost of going solar in Arizona. The ITC credits 30% of the system’s total cost (including equipment, labor and permits) toward what you owe on federal income taxes. Additional solar incentives in Arizona include a state income tax credit and a sales tax exemption when you buy solar panels, solar water heaters and similar equipment.

      How does net metering work in Arizona?

      If your solar panels generate more electricity than your home needs, the excess can be sent into the grid through net metering. You get a credit on your account when this happens. During times when the solar panels don't produce enough electricity, you can use those credits to draw electricity from the grid.

      Arizona's net billing policy does not technically meet the definition, as excess solar generation is no longer credited one-to-one against household electricity consumption for that billing period. Unless you install a battery to store excess energy your system produces during the day, you should enroll in net metering if possible.

      What is the difference between a solar lease and PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a PPA, you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a lower rate than you would receive without a PPA.
      Can I get free solar panels in Arizona?

      There's no legitimate, totally free option to get solar panels in Arizona that we're aware of. Unfortunately, scams that promise free solar panels can cost consumers a lot of money. There are no programs that provide solar panels in Arizona, but you can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with no upfront cost (or a small one).

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Do I really need a solar battery?

      Investing in a solar battery system makes sense, especially if net billing rates decline in Arizona. It lets you maximize the power your system produces by storing excess solar energy instead of sending it to the grid. This reduces reliance on the grid and can save money if net metering rates are low.

      Batteries also stabilize energy costs by avoiding expensive peak electricity rates, providing backup power during outages, and increasing solar utilization by preventing excess energy from going to waste.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team objectively evaluates solar providers to highlight those best equipped to meet most homeowners' needs. To choose our top picks for this guide, we started with a list of popular providers. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Arizona. We then weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with the most positive recent ratings left by local reviewers on our site were given preference.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and warranty terms. All our top picks have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Financing and payment options: 10%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Overall reputation: 10%

      We considered each company's history, mission and value. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect.

      To recap, our top picks for the best solar companies in Arizona are:

      Guide sources

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

      1. Arizona Legislature “33-1816: Solar energy devices; reasonable restrictions; fees and costs” Accessed May 15, 2025.
      2. DSIRE, "Arizona Programs." Accessed May 15, 2025.
      3. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Arizona.” Accessed May 15, 2025.
      4. Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), "Arizona Solar." Accessed May 15, 2025.
      5. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in Arizona, 2024?” Accessed May 15, 2025.
      6. Tucson Electric Power, "What You Should Know About Residential Solar Systems." Accessed May 15, 2025

      Not sure how to choose?

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