Best Solar Companies in Lakeland, FL

We compared 3 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.6(284)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.1(3,093)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
    +2 more
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Lakeland, FL

    Our top solar company picks for Lakeland

    1. Best overall: Freedom Solar Power
    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 that 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.
    • 4,609,174 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 in Lakeland

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

    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 spoke with over 200 Freedom Solar customers nationwide. 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 like using the app to track their solar energy production post-installation.

    • “I like Freedom Solar Power's customer service. The urgency was phenomenal. They let us know everything ahead of time, when they were coming, what they were doing, about how long it was gonna take, and they didn't disturb anything. I love going solar with Freedom because it cut my bill in more than half.” —  Rhonda in Winter Haven

    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 one reliable backup battery option, the Tesla Powerwall.

    • 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 Solar 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
    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. Lease contracts typically last 25 years and include free repairs.

    Pros

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

    Cons

    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Occasional billing issues
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    ShopSolar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018

    ShopSolar is a great place to buy solar equipment for do-it-yourself projects. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

    Some customers have told us about problems with damaged equipment, but reps generally resolve these issues quickly.

    The important thing to keep in mind is that ShopSolar doesn’t provide installation services. So, it’s best to know a little about solar panels and electrical work. You might get frustrated with the process or install something incorrectly otherwise.

    » 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, online courses, video guides and other support is 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 Lakeland

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

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

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      Lakeland solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Floridians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Lakeland 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 $23,569 in Lakeland. 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, Lakeland homeowners with solar panels avoid $49,142 in total utility costs over 25 years

      Jump to insight

      According to the Florida attorney general, common solar scams often involve pushy sales reps, misleading contract terms and over-promised savings.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Lakeland

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,945 to $22,700 in Florida. Prices in Lakeland are comparable, ranging from $7,455 to $21,299.

      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 Lakeland, the average cost per watt is $2.13.

      The average Lakeland household needs a system with a capacity of 11.17 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 Lakeland

      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. Lakeland Electric has an interest-free loan program to help residents pay for solar panels, solar water heaters and other clean energy equipment.
      • 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. The biggest downside if you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Is solar worth it in Lakeland?

      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, Lakeland homeowners with solar panels can avoid $49,142 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 at 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. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Lakeland

      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 (FSEC) 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.
      • Avoid scams: 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.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Going solar in Polk County

      Central Florida, including Polk County, is susceptible to hurricanes. Make sure your system incorporates hurricane-resistant mounting and anchoring techniques. You should also consider adding battery storage for backup power during outages.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Florida ranked 34th in 2024

      Solar incentives in Lakeland

      Residents can take advantage of statewide solar incentives in Florida and local programs, including Lakeland Electric rebates.

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best financial incentive for a lot of homeowners. 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 $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000.

      » GREENEST STATES: Florida ranked 32nd in 2024

      Additional solar incentives in Lakeland

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

      Lakeland solar FAQ

      How does net metering work in Lakeland?

      Net metering earns you credits that lower your electric bill. Some residents accumulate enough credits to almost fully cancel out their electric bills. However, Florida utility companies statewide 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 get started, the better.

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

      The city of Lakeland requires you to submit a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Permit application through its Building Inspection Division. 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?

      In Florida, the Solar Rights Act ensures property owners can install solar panels, even if a homeowners association is involved. HOAs can suggest placement, but only if it’s within 45 degrees of due south and doesn’t reduce efficiency.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Lakeland?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Lakeland. 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.

      Methodology: how we chose the best solar companies in Lakeland

      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 Lakeland, 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 Lakeland 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. Freedom Solar Power
      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 Lakeland, 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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