Best Solar Companies in Clearwater, Florida

We compared 12 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunrun
      4.1(3,085)
    • Customer service
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.6(284)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
    +2 more
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Clearwater, Florida

    Our top solar company picks for Clearwater

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    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.
    • 4,604,069 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
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    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    The best solar companies in Clearwater

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

    Our top pick overall
    Sunrun
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007

    We’ve talked to more than 2,000 Sunrun customers. Over a recent two-year period, 77% were satisfied with their installations and 73% were satisfied with the technology. Many tell us about significant savings on electric bills and would highly recommend the company to others.

    • “We had a representative from Sunrun come to the house and talk to us about it. We thought it was a pretty good deal as far as everything was concerned. We went ahead and had them do it. The installation was absolutely fantastic. They put their stuff up in one day and they did a great job but it took a month to get the various inspections from TECO. We've been very happy with the solar. It's been a consistent amount every month and on some months, we have more from TECO because we've overrun the balance. Overall, we've done really well the last year with the solar panels on the roof.” — James in Sun City Center
    • “Their reps stayed in contact with us throughout the whole process and they were very cordial and respectful of our time. It's been over a year since we've been with them and it has saved utilities drastically. Also, the app is as good as far as apps go. It works and it shows me what I like to see. It shows my usage, but not just that day, for the week, month, and year. The only thing I regret is not getting a solar battery. I didn't have the funds at the time but I can add it via storage battery later on. That's what we plan to do so that increases our efficiency in the home.” — Alex in Thonotosassa

    Unfortunately, not everyone sees the savings they expected. “Sunrun seemed to be competent and when their reps came out for the installation, they were very polite and they seemed to know what they were doing,” Robert in Sun City Center told us. “But since we had our solar panels, the change in our electricity bill has been insignificant.”

    Sunrun specializes in residential solar systems with battery storage. Installers use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers like LG.

    • Services: Sunrun designs and installs customized solar panel systems for homes and businesses. Technicians provide ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure optimal performance.
    • Warranty information: Sunrun provides a 10-year warranty on workmanship and equipment, roof leak protection and a 25-year performance guarantee.
    • Payment options: You can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but Sunrun leasing plans really set it apart. With leases, there’s no initial charge for panels, equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. Contracts typically last 25 years and include free repairs.

    Pros

    • Reliable systems
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some customer service complaint
    • Occasional billing issues
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Freedom Solar Power
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.8%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2007

    We’ve heard from more than 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 find the app helpful in 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. I've told many friends about Freedom and most of them already applied with Freedom.” — 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
    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
    ShopSolar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018

    ShopSolar offers fast delivery on equipment for DIY projects. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup. We also like that it has free shipping on all solar kits, a price match guarantee and lifetime customer support.

    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
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

    How we chose the best solar companies in Clearwater

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors, to choose the best solar companies in Clearwater 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

    Solar Companies in Clearwater Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

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      Clearwater solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Floridians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Clearwater 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 $22,221 in Clearwater.

      Jump to insight

      Make sure your solar installation has hurricane-resistant mounting and anchoring techniques.

      Jump to insight

      On average, Clearwater homeowners with solar panels avoid $58,475 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Clearwater

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,945 to $22,700 in Florida. Prices in Clearwater are comparable, ranging from $7,710 to $22,028.

      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 Clearwater household needs a system with a capacity of 10.24 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 Clearwater

      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. Locally, the Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF) provides low-interest solar loans up to $50,000 with 7.99% to 8.25% APR.
      • 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 Clearwater?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Florida if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Clearwater homeowners with solar panels avoid $58,475 in total utility costs over 25 years.

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

      The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment.

      Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 10.5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      How to find a reputable solar company in Clearwater

      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: Solar companies must apply for panel certification through Florida Solar Energy Center’s Photovoltaic Certification Portal, and you can confirm registrations through the FSEC’s Registered PV Modules page. 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.
      • Consider your climate: Clearwater’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means solar panels are exposed to salt air, which can accelerate corrosion. Choosing panels with corrosion-resistant materials and coatings is crucial.
      • Avoid scams: According to the Florida Attorney General, common solar scams are related to misleading contract terms and over-promised savings. Another one is falsely claiming to be affiliated with state agencies.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Going solar in Pinellas County

      Duke Energy’s Clean Energy Connection is a community solar program that lets homeowners tap into the environmental perks of solar without the hassle of installing solar equipment on their own property. With this program, residents can earn bill credits of 4 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and generate renewable energy certificates (RECs) to offset their electricity usage. Expect to pay a base subscription fee of $8.35 per month.

      » GREENEST STATES: Florida ranked 32nd in 2024

      Solar incentives in Clearwater

      Residents can take advantage of statewide solar incentives in Florida and local programs. However, the federal solar investment tax credit 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 Clearwater

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

      Clearwater solar FAQ

      How does net metering work in Clearwater?

      Net metering lets you earn credits for sending excess solar energy into the Florida Power & Light grid. These credits can then be used to offset your electricity bill when your solar panels are not producing enough energy. Some residents accumulate enough credits to almost fully cancel out their electric bills. However, Florida is gradually decreasing the value of net metering credits. From January 2024 to December 2025, residents will earn a 75% energy usage credit for their excess energy production. These rates decrease to 60% in 2026 and 50% in subsequent years. So, the sooner you get started, the better.

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Clearwater?

      Residents may need both building and electrical permits for solar panels. Based on the Clearwater’s Schedule of Fees, Rates and Charges and the fee estimator, expect to pay between $40 and $200. 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 protects homeowners’ right to install solar panels. Homeowners associations can review plans but can’t block installations. They may suggest locations, provided they don’t affect performance and stay within 45 degrees of due south.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Clearwater?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Clearwater. You can lease solar panels with minimal upfront costs, but there is usually an ongoing monthly fee.

      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.

      Is my house a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. If you have a lot of shading around your house, the panels might not get enough sun to power your home. Here are some other questions to ask yourself:

      • What is the size and angle of my roof? Clearwater (and the rest of the Sunshine State) is in the Northern Hemisphere, so solar panels perform best on south-facing roofs. The worst place to install would be on north-facing roofs, especially if those roofs have a high pitch. For example, if the only place you can install is a north-facing roof with a 30-degree pitch, your costs will likely go up by 30% to 40%.
      • How old are my appliances? Getting your electrical loads as small as possible before going solar means you’ll need a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall. If you have older electrical appliances, upgrade those before investing in solar panels.
      • What is the condition of my roof? If you have to replace your roof, do that before you install solar panels. Solar panels are designed to last up to 30 years, so you want your roof to last just as long. Otherwise, it could cost thousands to remove the panels, fix your roof and reinstall the panels again.
      How long do solar panel installations take in Clearwater?

      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.

      How are solar costs trending?

      Solar panel costs in Florida have fallen 47% over the last 10 years, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association.

      Is it cheaper if I install solar panels myself?

      It’s potentially cheaper to install your solar energy system yourself, but it’s difficult and dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing, especially for a large residential project.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros and cons

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Clearwater

      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 Clearwater, 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 Clearwater 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. Sunrun
      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 Clearwater, 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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