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Best Solar Companies in Kansas

We compared 55 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • ION Solar
      4.4(115)
    • Blue Raven Solar
      4.6(263)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Kansas

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    ION Solar logo
    Blue Raven Solar logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      To select the top picks for this guide, our research team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors.

      Our top solar company picks

      ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. 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.
      • 4,592,094 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.

      The best solar companies, reviewed

      ION Solar shines with top-tier solar equipment (but carries a premium price tag). Blue Raven also has positive customer feedback and uses high-quality materials that should last 25 years or more. If you’ve got a small solar project in mind, ShopSolar is the best value (if you don’t mind putting everything together yourself).

      Our top pick overall
      ION Solar
      ION Solar
      4.4
      115 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      21.9%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2013
      Learn More Read Reviews

      ION Solar stands out for its professionalism, quality workmanship, strong customer service and generally smooth installation process. We suggest getting a personalized quote to see if ION Solar is right for you.

      • “The install was smooth. They kept me apprised of the entire process and with respect to getting all the approvals, where it was during the entire process. I was able to track the progress by their emails, and they had an app as well that had a very high level view of where it was during the installation process, but I would get more details of where it was in the process by reaching out to them, or they would let me know as well.” — Syed in Topeka

      “They charge a little bit more,” Alexander in Topeka said, “but you get what you pay for.”

      ION Solar operates in several states, including Kansas. It’s NABCEP-certified. Installers use Silfab solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days.

      ION Solar services

      • Solar system design and installations
      • Roofing services
      • Energy production monitoring
      • Ongoing system maintenance

      ION Solar panels are guaranteed to produce at least 85% capacity for 30 years. Enphase microinverters come with a 25-year warranty. All work performed on your home during the installation is covered for 10 years.

      You can purchase the system outright or finance it through a solar loan. Rates and terms vary.

      Pros

      • Sleek, black-on-black panels
      • No upfront payment required
      • 24/7 monitoring
      • Solid warranty
      • Good reviews

      Cons

      • Doesn't offer maintenance or repair services
      • Some installation delays
      2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
      Blue Raven Solar
      Blue Raven Solar
      4.6
      263 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2014
      Learn More Read Reviews

      Blue Raven Solar takes a technology-focused approach tailored to the Kansas climate. We like that installers employ low-profile panel mounting and sleek cabling for visual appeal. The company also stands out for affordable financing programs that minimize out-of-pocket costs.

      • “The electrician on the team was especially helpful & friendly. The results look great & they were all very friendly & professional.” — Brent in Basehor

      David in Topeka has some complaints related to a rep’s communication. They miscalculated David’s roof pitch, and he wanted another person to take the measurements, but the company sent the same person. “He had a horrible attitude,” David told us. “Every time we try to talk to someone about our issues, we are given someone new that knows nothing about our issues. It's like they pull random people off the street to talk to us each time.”

      Blue Raven Solar advisors use proprietary software to design systems that maximize your annual energy output based on your roof specifics and local weather patterns. The company is available in Kansas City and Topeka.

      Blue Raven Solar services

      • Consulting and design
      • Professional installations
      • Financing solutions
      • System monitoring

      Blue Raven Solar has a standard 25-year warranty. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer. The company offers the FranklinWH aPower battery (12-year warranty) and the Tesla Powerwall 3 (10-year warranty).

      • Cash: You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system.
      • BluePower: This fixed monthly payment option lets you go solar without a significant upfront cost. There’s no prepayment penalty, and the plan is transferable to a new homeowner if you ever sell your house.
      • BluePower Plus+: Eligible customers can pay $0 upfront, get 18 months of free solar power and make fixed monthly payments after that. You own the system and are responsible for maintenance.

      Pros

      • Quality solar equipment
      • Flexible payment options
      • No upfront cost options
      • Energy storage options

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some communication issues
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation
      2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
      ShopSolar
      ShopSolar
      4.7
      159 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      Read Reviews

      ShopSolar specializes in do-it-yourself-friendly solar solutions, including custom solar kits with all the equipment you need for self-installation. The do-it-yourself approach can cost thousands less than typical solar installs, and you can still get quality gear.

      • “My first purchase with them was an open box item, and I’ve been really happy with the products. They offered video support for beginners. With the big ticket items that I bought from them, I used their customer service, and it was very, very good.” — Rodney in Tonganoxie

      Customers occasionally express frustration over shipping and delivery mix-ups. For instance, Rodney had some issues with a second order — ShopSolar sent the wrong package, which took a long time to resolve.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment, such as generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find top-quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      ShopSolar products

      • New and used solar panels
      • Solar storage batteries
      • Inverters
      • Charge controllers
      • Cabling and hardware
      • Mounts and racks

      ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties. If you run into a warranty issue, reps can help you contact the equipment manufacturer.

      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. Annual percentage rates (APRs) range from 0% to 36%.

      Pros

      • Free shipping
      • 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

      Kansas solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about switching to solar power but feel overwhelmed by the options, you're not alone. Our team has talked to several solar customers in Kansas — here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel system costs $10,920 to $31,200, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is a significant financial incentive for most homeowners buying solar panels in Kansas.

      Jump to insight

      Watch out for door-to-door solar scams. Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      How much does it cost to go solar in Kansas?

      Average solar panel costs in Kansas typically range between $10,920 and $31,200. 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.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Kansas, the average cost per watt is $3.12.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Kansas

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance instead. A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years.

      Leasing solar equipment is attractive to people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system. Using a home equity line of credit or loan to finance a solar installation can be another option — home equity interest rates are relatively low, and homeowners can still take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Kansas

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners. The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. This tax credit applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, as well as labor and additional features for monitoring the system.

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

      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. The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe.

      However, the credit rolls over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount. So, if you only owed $2,000 the year you went solar, you could claim the remaining $1,000 the next taxable year.

      » MORE: Kansas solar incentives

      Are solar panels worth it in Kansas?

      For many homeowners, going solar in Kansas is worth it for lower energy bills and less reliance on local power companies. On average, Kansas homeowners with solar panels can avoid $60,286 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Solar power provides clean, renewable energy while locking in consistent electric rates for years. “I have a goal of having my house be zero net energy,” Dick in Olathe told us after going solar in 2020. “I also want to minimize the amount of carbon dioxide I put into the atmosphere.”

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

      However, we’ve also heard about problems with leaks and roof damage caused by installing the solar panels, leading to frustration and difficulties in getting repairs. As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s usually worth it for the reduction in energy bills and reliance on local power companies. The return on investment of a solar panel installation depends on your system's efficiency and size. 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 choose a solar company in Kansas

      Choosing a solar company in Kansas requires careful consideration if you want the best value for your investment. In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Here’s what else to keep in mind when hiring a solar company.

      • Check certifications: In Kansas, a licensed electrician must be responsible for the final connection of your solar panels to the meter. We suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This certification shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • 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.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Kansas.
      • Read the fine print: Make sure you understand everything about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services.

      FAQ

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

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Kansas averages 4 to 5.5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      Can I get free solar panels in Kansas?

      There’s no totally free option to get solar panels in Kansas that we’re aware of. Unfortunately, scams that promise free solar panels can cost consumers a lot of money. However, you can lease solar equipment with minimal upfront costs.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Do I really need a solar storage battery?

      A solar battery helps you increase your energy independence and is essential if you want to go off-grid. Solar batteries let you store the solar energy you produce to use when your system is not generating power.

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components.

      Ultimately, deciding between a broker or solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process. A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, working directly with a solar installer is best.

      How does net metering work in Kansas?

      Net metering is a system of give-and-take between you and your utility company. It lets you earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to the grid. These credits can offset the cost of electricity consumed at other times. In Kansas, Evergy and other utilities are required to offer net metering.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. 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 Kansas 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: 10%

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

      Reputation and local experience: 10%

      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Kansas. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Kansans’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      Not sure how to choose?

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        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. DSIRE, "Kansas Programs." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Kansas." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Kansas Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Kansas, 2024?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
        6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
        7. Kansas Corporation Commission, “Net metering in Kansas.” Accessed Sept. 20, 2024.

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