Best solar companies in Jacksonville, FL

We compared 18 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Project Solar
      4.8(75)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.3(2,996)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best solar companies in Jacksonville, FL

      Our top solar company picks for Jacksonville

      1. Best overall: Project Solar
      2. Our pick for solar leases: Sunrun
      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 Jacksonville

      The best solar companies in Jacksonville

      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

      Project Solar

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

      We’ve talked to more than 50 Project Solar customers from across the country. Over a recent two-year period, 94% were satisfied with the price. Satisfaction ratings on customer service and technology were also above industry averages.

      Project Solar reps focus on simple, streamlined installations. The no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious clients who want either professional services or do-it-yourself options. We also appreciate the price transparency. Full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt.

      • “The equipment is very good quality. and I was very happy with their process. It was not a high-pressure situation and I never felt like they were trying to take advantage of me. Also, they always responded to any emails or requests rapidly.” — Gregory in Jacksonville

      The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about some delays due to material shortages or supply chain issues.

      Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase.

      • 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 proces
      • High-quality equipment
      • Great value

      Cons

      • Occasional miscommunications
      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing
      Our pick for solar leases

      Sunrun

      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Panel warranty
      Varies
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease
      Year founded
      2007

      We like that Sunrun's leasing program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment. There’s no initial charge for any panels or other equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it.

      Make sure you read the fine print carefully. Several customers have said they are not satisfied with the contract and terms.

      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. Leasing 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 complaints
      • Occasional billing issues

      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 an awesome selection of equipment, helpful customer service and fast deliveries. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

      • “I like ShopSolarKits' products. … They're not cheap, but they're not expensive as well. It didn't cost $20,000. I hook up my solar kit to my freezer. It runs my freezer 24 hours a day. It took $45 off my electric bill. When it rains and storms here in Florida and electricity goes off, I use the solar kit to do my refrigerator, freezer, and little stuff I need around the house. … Once you know what you're doing, it's easy. I would buy from ShopSolarKits again. I'm gonna have my daughter buy some if she needs them. They're a good product.” — Eugene in DeBary

      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. While the company doesn't offer direct installation services, video guides and other tutorials 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

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

      How we chose the best solar companies in Jacksonville

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

      Jacksonville solar panel buyers guide

      Based on feedback from hundreds of Floridians who have already gone through the solar panel installation, here’s what Jacksonville 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 $23,705 in Jacksonville. 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, Jacksonville homeowners with solar panels avoid $16,479 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

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

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Jacksonville

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,945 to $22,700 in Florida. Prices in Jacksonville are comparable, ranging from $8,307 to $23,734.

      The average Jacksonville household needs a system with a capacity of 10.63 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.

      The table below does not include the cost of an energy storage battery, which can be as expensive as the panels ($7,000 to $18,000). A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it later. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Jacksonville

      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; you also aren’t responsible for system maintenance. 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 Jacksonville?

      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, Jacksonville homeowners with solar panels can avoid $16,479 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      But it doesn’t work out for everyone in Jax. Florida averages 3.5 to 4.5 peak sun hours each day. However, lots of shading — like trees or tall buildings above your roof — could make your solar system less efficient.

      We suggest using 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. As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering.

      » 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 Jacksonville

      One of Jacksonville’s 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 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.
      • 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

      Solar incentives in Jacksonville

      Residents can take advantage of statewide solar incentives in Florida, including a solar sales tax exemption and property tax abatement. The newly funded Solar for All program should eventually make rooftop solar more accessible to low-income and disadvantaged communities in Jacksonville and surrounding areas.

      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 Jacksonville

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

      Jacksonville solar FAQ

      What does “cost per watt” mean?

      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. Nationally, costs per watt range from $2.50 to $5. In Jacksonville, the average cost per watt is $2.37.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      Thanks to the Solar Rights Act, Florida homeowners can install solar panels regardless of their HOA’s preferences. 

      » GREENEST STATES: Florida ranked 32nd in 2024

      How does net metering work in Jacksonville?

      Sometimes, your solar panels might generate more electricity than your household can use. Net metering lets you sell that extra electricity to the local power grid. This earns you credits that lower your electric bill. Some residents accumulate enough credits to almost fully cancel out their electric bills. You can apply for the program through JEA.

      However, you should be aware that JEA and other Florida utilities are 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 enroll, the better.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Jacksonville?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Jacksonville. 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? Jacksonville (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.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Jacksonville

      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 Jacksonville, 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 Jacksonville 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. 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, "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 Jacksonville, 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 (EPA), “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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