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Best Solar Companies in Glendale, AZ

We compared 14 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Elevation
      2.4(111)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.3(2,958)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best Solar Companies in Glendale, AZ

      Our top solar company picks for Glendale

      1. Best overall: Elevation
      2. Our pick for solar leases: Sunrun
      3. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar

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

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,536,144 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 our top 3 solar companies in Glendale

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      The best solar companies in Glendale

      Solar panels can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most of Glendalite’s energy needs, considering the hot desert climate.

      Our top pick overall

      Elevation

      2.4
      111 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Panel warranty
      25+ years (product and labor)
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2014

      Elevation has an in-house team that completes the installation and provides ongoing support if you run into any issues. We also like that the Curb monitoring app connects to your home's electrical system to give you real-time data about your system. The app lets you remotely turn your smart devices on and off to stop waste and maximize efficiency.

      • “Enrolling with Elevation Solar was pleasant. It went smooth and the customer service team was great.” — Ray in Glendale
      • “I like my new solar system from Elevation. It's a new experience for me. I'm happy with it right now. I started it late in the year. They said I won't really build up credits and see that big of a change until next year. The installers were good and fast. But they could have explained a little bit more, taking me up on the roof and showed me what was going on. But I was comfortable talking with the rep with the emails and the few phone calls that we had.” — Samuel in Glendale

      Customers occasionally experience installation delays due to equipment upgrades, local permitting and supply chain issues.

      Elevation specializes in both grid-tied and off-grid solar power systems. Installers use equipment from Panasonic, Qcells, LG, REC and other top names in the solar industry. Systems incorporate either Tesla Powerwall or Generac PWRcell batteries.

      • Services: Consultations, system design, installation and ongoing maintenance, as well as services to reduce your home's overall energy consumption, like air sealing, insulation and duct sealing, are available.
      • Warranty information: Elevation has a lifetime workmanship warranty on solar systems and a 10-year workmanship warranty for roof penetrations. Solar equipment, including panels and batteries, comes with individual manufacturer's warranties.
      • Payment options: You can pay cash or finance. Elevation partners with various lenders to offer solar loans with competitive interest rates and flexible terms.

      Pros

      • Helpful reps
      • Quick and efficient installations
      • Free consultation
      • Several trusted brand names
      • Good warranty program

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Limited price transparency
      Our pick for solar leases

      Sunrun

      4.3
      2,958 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Panel warranty
      10-25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease
      Year founded
      2007

      We’ve talked to more than 2,000 Sunrun customers from across the country. 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.

      • “The install was excellent and the guys who were here were artists. They were very polite and they explained what they were going to do. They came twice because we had so many panels. We had 44 panels put up and they were here for two days. They were quiet when they did their work and there wasn't any damage. Twice a day, they would inform me of where they were and what they were doing. All in all, Sunrun did a good job and I would suggest to my friends to talk to them. The equipment works good and we haven't had any problems with it. It's well worth the investment.” — John in Buckeye

      Some reviews mention miscommunications or billing issues. For instance, John in Buckeye also said, “I thought that with the leasing I was doing, I would get an annual inspection. That was one of the reasons I went with that option because it was my understanding that they would come at least once a year and inspect, clean the system, and give me a good update. But I found out that they do not do any inspection. They only come and inspect if there is an issue.” So, read the fine print carefully and make sure you understand everything about ongoing services.

      Sunrun provides residential solar, battery storage and energy services in several states. Installers use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers like LG. You can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but Sunrun's leasing plans really set it apart.

      • 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 offers a 10-year warranty on workmanship and equipment, roof leak protection and a 25-year performance guarantee.
      • Lease terms: 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 for 25 years and include free repairs during that time.

      Pros

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

      Cons

      • Some customer service complaints
      • Occasional installation delays
      • Limited price transparency

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      157 reviews
      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, fast deliveries and good communication. You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It’s great for homes, RVs and outbuildings.

      • “ShopSolarKits works very well. I have tried it and I was really amazed with their shipping. The solar panels were packed that you could take a sledgehammer to that package and it wouldn't affect the solar panels. They really did a great job. They were extremely helpful. The salesman that I talked to helped me decide what would be the best for my scenario and for my home size. He was patient with me and answered those questions so that I was to a point where, “Yes, I want to do this.” I liked the video and it helped me. I'm 76 and I set it all up myself. So, I really appreciate them. The system does everything it said it would. I unplugged my refrigerator and plugged in my generator for about 24 hours. It gives me assurance that I have a backup if my electricity is cut off.” — Barbara in Avondale

      It's important to keep in mind that ShopSolar doesn’t 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.

      Some customers experienced problems with their purchases, such as damaged or faulty equipment, but ShopSolar generally resolved 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. While the company doesn't offer direct installation services, resources and support for do-it-yourself installation, including online courses, guides and videos, 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

      • Huge selection of solar equipment
      • 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 Glendale

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

      Glendale solar panel buyers guide

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

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar installation costs $7,637 to $21,821 in Glendale

      Jump to insight

      With electricity costs continuing to rise, many find it’s financially worth it in the long run.

      Jump to insight

      Federal and local financial incentives can make solar more affordable for residents. You can also lease a system with little upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Glendale

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,560 to $21,600 in Arizona. Prices in Glendale are comparable, ranging from $7,637 to $21,821 on average.

      Installers usually price systems according to their wattage. “Cost per watt” is like the “price per square foot” when you buy a house. It helps you compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes. In Glendale, the average cost per watt is $2.18.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Glendale

      The average Arizona household needs a system with a capacity of 9.2 kW to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on your household energy use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Is solar worth it in Glendale?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Arizona 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.

      Living in Glendale, it’s hard not to run the air conditioning 24 hours a day most of the year. Like a lot of residents, Maria in Surprise went solar not only for the environmental benefits but also to stop worrying about how much electricity she uses, especially in the summer.

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

      Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 7 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost). On average, Arizona homeowners with solar panels can avoid $59,661 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      » 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. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Glendale

      One of the most common solar scams involves fake solar companies selling systems without any intention of really installing them. The other one is falsely claiming to be affiliated with state agencies.

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

      • Check certifications: In Arizona, a contractor must qualify as a solar contractor to install, repair or alter residential solar devices. You can verify these through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Look out for red flags — 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

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment. Eligible homeowners can also borrow against equity in their house to finance a solar panel system.

      • 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; you also aren’t responsible for system maintenance.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Solar incentives in Glendale

      You can combine local solar incentives in Arizona with the federal solar tax credit.

      • State tax credit: You can claim 25% of your total solar system costs, up to $1,000, on your state taxes. Leased systems and PPAs are not eligible.
      • Sales tax exemption: Arizona has a 100% state sales tax exemption on the purchase and installation of solar energy devices (up to $5,000 per device).
      • Property tax exemption: Solar technology adds no taxable value for property tax assessment. In other words, your property taxes won’t increase just because solar panels increase your home value.

      » GREENEST STATES: Arizona ranked 42nd in 2024

      Federal tax credit

      You should also use the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC). It 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 $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000.

      Additional solar incentives

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

      Glendale solar FAQ

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

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

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Arizona ranked fourth in 2024

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

      You need building and electrical permits through the City of Glendale Planning and Development Services Department. After installation, you have to schedule inspections with the City of Glendale to ensure compliance with building codes and safety standards.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Glendale?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Glendale. You can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with minimal upfront costs. There is usually a low ongoing monthly fee. In general, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.

      How does a power purchase agreement work?

      A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis. It’s typically a fixed price, with a cheaper cents/kWh rate than traditional utilities have for the same amount of electricity.

      How does net metering work in Glendale?

      Net metering lets you earn credits for sending any excess solar power into your local grid. Arizona technically has a system called net billing. This differs from net metering, where customers would get paid the full retail price for their extra electricity. Net billing pays a lower rate, which means customers earn less for the excess power they produce.

      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.

      Methodology: how we chose the best solar companies in Glendale

      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 Glendale, Arizona. 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 Glendale 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. Elevation
      2. Sunrun
      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, "Arizona Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "“The cost of solar panels in Arizona." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. EnergySage, "“The cost of solar panels in Glendale, AZ." Accessed July 22, 2024.
        4. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Arizona Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Arizona, 2024." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        6. United States Environmental Protection Agency "Solar for All." Accessed Aug. 13, 2024.
        7. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC),, "Solar Licensing Database." Accessed Aug. 29, 2024.
        8. Arizona State Legislature, "33-1816: Solar energy devices; reasonable restrictions; fees and costs”." Accessed Aug 6. 2024.

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