Best Solar Companies in Cape Coral, FL

We compared 14 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Project Solar
      4.8(75)
    • Customer service
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.6(280)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best Solar Companies in Cape Coral, FL

      Our top solar company picks for Cape Coral

      1. Best overall: Project Solar
      2. Our pick for customer service: Freedom Solar Power
      3. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar

      To choose the top picks for this guide, we compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners who 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.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,547,329 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.

      Compare the top 3 solar companies in Cape Coral

      The best solar companies in Cape Coral

      Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies best equipped to meet most residents' energy needs, considering the humid subtropical climate.

      Our top pick overall

      Project Solar

      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2016

      Project Solar reps focus on simple, streamlined installations. Over a recent two-year period, 94% of customers were satisfied with the price. Satisfaction ratings on customer service and technology were also above industry averages.

      • “When we decided to sign up, the process was not too complicated. They sent correspondence via email and we signed it. It was pretty smooth. Then they came and did their job and the system has been working since. It was a quick experience.” — Royan in Lehigh Acres

      The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about delays due to material shortages or supply chain issues. Royan also said follow-up communication could be better.

      Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase. Full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt.

      • Services: Project Solar specializes in residential solar installation projects. Reps can handle the necessary paperwork, engineering plans and permit submissions for the installation. You can get a free online quote and explore sizing options for their homes.
      • Warranty information: There is a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Both are limited and have exclusions like weather damage or misuse.
      • Payment options: Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer financing solutions for professional solar installations. DIY customers can pay cash or finance through a third-party lender.

      Pros

      • Easy sign-up process
      • High-quality equipment
      • Great value

      Cons

      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      22.8%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2007
      2x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best for Installation

      We’ve heard from over 200 Freedom Solar customers. Over a recent two-year period, 92% were satisfied with the installation and setup, 94% were pleased with the price and 85% were happy with the customer service. People also say the app is helpful for tracking energy production post-installation.

      • “The agent who I met, Adrien, was very clear about explaining everything. I had an issue with the city about some permits which was something outside Freedom but other than that, Freedom stuck to the plan. I am so happy. My monthly bill went too far low. It's $40 now. They said it's just the first year that I have to pay money for the company. After this, I will have credit that will pay everything for me.” — Ahmed in St. Petersburg

      Freedom Solar isn’t necessarily the cheapest option. We think the quality makes it worth it, but you might want to shop around and compare a few quotes.

      Freedom Solar installs American-designed solar panels and offers two reliable backup battery options, the Tesla Powerwall and the SunPower SunVault.

      • Services: Freedom Solar designs and installs custom solar panel systems for homes, handling everything from site assessment and permitting to installation and activation. It offers various battery storage options, system maintenance and repairs to help homeowners optimize energy generation.
      • Warranty information: Freedom Solar Power offers a 25-year lifetime warranty on equipment and installations. System performance is guaranteed to remain between 84% and 92% of the original production for 25 years.
      • Payment options: You can pay upfront or secure a loan through one of their financing partners. Freedom does not currently offer solar leases.

      Pros

      • Excellent customer service
      • 24/7 performance monitoring
      • Transferable warranty
      • In-house, NABCEP-certified installers

      Cons

      • Somewhat limited availability
      • No in-house financing

      ShopSolar

      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Panel warranty
      Varies
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2018
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment and fast deliveries. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

      • “A year ago, I purchased from ShopSolarKits online, and the process was generally easy for somebody who knows what they're looking for. They shipped out my order, then I put it together myself. It's portable, and it's here waiting for backup energy. I've used it once for that purpose too.” — Chip in Fort Myers
      • “The purchase with ShopSolar was really good. I called and spoke to a man named Alex and we talked over what my needs were. I got the EcoFlow Delta Max and the installation was very easy. I really like the fact that it would charge quickly with solar. We used it after Hurricane Ian to power our refrigerator and we didn't lose what we had in it.” — Leslie in Fort Myers

      Some customers have told us about problems with damaged equipment. On the bright side, reps try to quickly resolve these issues with refunds or replacements.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      • Services: Reps can help you design a custom solar system based on your specific needs and energy requirements. The company doesn't offer direct installation services, but online tutorials and video guides are available.
      • Warranty information: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by individual manufacturers’ warranties.
      • 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 to offer financing options.

      Pros

      • Great for RVs and outbuildings
      • Price-match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Lifetime customer support

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

      How we chose the best solar companies in Cape Coral

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors, to choose the best solar companies in Cape Coral, Florida, based on the following key features and respective weightings:

      • Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      • Warranty terms: 20%
      • Equipment selection: 20%
      • Financing and payment options: 20%

      » MORE: Full methodology

      Cape Coral solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Floridians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Cape Coral residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with government incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $25,581 in Cape Coral. However, solar loans and leases have minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      It’s financially worth it for many in the long run. On average, Cape Coral homeowners with solar panels avoid $41,567 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      According to the Florida Attorney General, common solar scams are related to misleading contract terms and over-promised savings.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Cape Coral

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,945 to $22,700 in Florida. Prices in Cape Coral are comparable, ranging from $7,899 to $22,568.

      This doesn’t include the cost of a solar battery, which is sometimes as much as the panels ($7,000 to $18,000). A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages.

      Installers usually price systems according to their wattage. The average Cape Coral household needs a system with a capacity of 11.42 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Cape Coral

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease.

      • Solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright.
      • Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and 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.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Is solar worth it in Cape Coral?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Florida if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 10.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost). On average, Cape Coral homeowners with solar panels can avoid $41,567 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering. Use NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is another free solar savings estimator.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Potential roof problems

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels again. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Cape Coral

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Florida have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: One of the most common solar scams involves falsely claiming to be affiliated with state agencies. You can confirm a solar company’s certification through the Florida Solar Energy Center’s Photovoltaic Certification Portal. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Going solar in Lee County

      Cape Coral’s proximity to the coast exposes solar panels to salt air, which can accelerate corrosion. Make sure your solar installer uses hurricane-resistant mounting and anchoring techniques.

      » GREENEST STATES: Florida ranked 32nd in 2024

      Solar incentives in Cape Coral

      Residents can take advantage of statewide solar incentives in Florida and local programs. Cape Coral has recently entered an agreement with the PACE Program, but it may not be available to its residents just yet. To find out more about funding in your area, contact the Florida PACE Funding Agency.

      Federal tax credit

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for most homeowners. The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income. For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000.

      Additional solar incentives in Cape Coral

      Check DSIRE for the most comprehensive source of information about solar incentives and policies in Florida.

      Cape Coral solar FAQ

      How does net metering work in Cape Coral?

      Net metering lets you draw power from the grid when your solar panels aren’t producing enough. In return, you can send excess energy back to the grid for credit on future utility bills. Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC) currently offers net metering.

      Some residents accumulate enough credits to almost fully cancel out their electric bills. However, utilities statewide are gradually decreasing the value of net metering credits. So, the sooner you get started, the better.

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Cape Coral?

      Lee County typically requires residents to get both electrical and building permits when installing solar panels. To find out if your project qualifies for certain permits, follow the Solar-Photovoltaic System and Heaters Application and Permitting Guide. All building projects in Florida over $2,500 must also submit a Notice of Commencement outlining the scope of their home improvements.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      Florida law ensures Florida property owners can install solar panels. HOAs can request placement within 45 degrees of due south as long as it doesn’t affect panel effectiveness.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Cape Coral?

      We’re not aware of a completely free solar option in Cape Coral. You can lease solar panels with minimal upfront costs, but an ongoing monthly fee usually exists.

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      How long do solar panel installations take in Cape Coral?

      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.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Cape Coral

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Cape Coral, Florida. For this guide, we objectively 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 generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Cape Coral customers were given preference.

      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 craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      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.

      Financing and payment options: 20%

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

      ConsumerAffairs Research Team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Project Solar
      2. Freedom Solar Power
      3. ShopSolar

      Not sure how to choose?

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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. DSIRE, "Florida Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Florida." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. EnergySage, "“The cost of solar panels in Cape Coral, FL." Accessed July 22, 2024.
        4. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Florida Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Florida, 2024." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        6. United States Environmental Protection Agency, “Solar for All.” Accessed Aug. 13, 2024.
        7. Federal Trade Commission, "Solar Power for Your Home." Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.
        8. Solar and Energy Loan Fund, "Solar Products." Accessed Aug. 12, 2024.
        9. FSEC, "Solar Certification." Accessed Aug. 15, 2024.
        10. The Florida Senate, "Net Metering." Accessed Aug. 15, 2024.
        11. Florida PACE Funding Agency, "About Florida PACE." Accessed Aug. 12, 2024.

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