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Best Solar Companies in Maryland

We compared 94 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,498)
    • Long-term savings
      ION Solar
      4.0(120)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(218)
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Maryland

    Based on our analysis of reviews, warranties, payment options and more, Sunrun is the best solar company in Maryland. ION Solar stands out for long-term savings, and ShopSolar is a leading source for everything you need for a do-it-yourself solar project.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,773,849 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.

    Our 3 picks for the best solar companies in Maryland

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    2. Best for long-term savings: ION Solar
    3. Best for DIY projects: ShopSolar

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. 

    Some of our picks are Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not influence our evaluations. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    Compare top-rated solar energy companies in Maryland

    Our Maryland solar company picks

    Maryland homeowners have more solar options than ever. Based on reviews, warranties and value, here are our top solar companies in the state.

    Our top pick overall

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    4.2
    3,498 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews
    Pros
    • Reliable system performance
    • Flexible payment options
    • Daily system monitoring
    • Roof leak warranty
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some customer service complaints
    • Billing issues reported by some customers

    Sunrun’s installation process starts with an analysis of your past electricity bills to estimate your energy needs. Next, representatives assess your roof’s unique conditions — such as shading, pitch and sun exposure — to create the optimal system design for your home.

    We also like that Sunrun’s solar lease program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment. With leases, Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. 

    What to consider: Some customers report dissatisfaction with contract terms. So, we think it’s important to review agreements closely before signing anything.

    “The installation was quick and efficient. I also haven't had any issues after the installation at all.”
    Pierce Monrovia, MD
    “The enrollment process at Sunrun was quite straightforward… Since the installation, we have noticed a marked decrease in our electricity bill, which has been a welcome change.”
    Janet Gaithersburg, MD
    “The installation process went as smoothly as possible, without any hiccups. … I'm really satisfied with the amount of electricity it's producing and the fact that it has virtually eliminated my electric bill.”
    Francis Sparrows Point, MD
    • Services: Sunrun is a full-service installer that also offers battery storage and EV charging solutions.
    • Equipment: Installers use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers. Tesla, Lunar Energy and FranklinWH solar storage batteries are available.
    • Warranties: The standard warranty covers workmanship and equipment for 10 years for purchased systems. The performance guarantee lasts 25 years. Leased systems typically come with free maintenance and repairs.
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Our pick for long-term savings

    ION Solar

    ION Solar
    4.0
    120 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    21.9%
    Panel warranty
    30 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2013
    Learn More Read Reviews
    Pros
    • No upfront payment required
    • 24/7 monitoring
    • Good customer service
    • Solid warranty
    Cons
    • Some communication issues
    • Occasional installation delays

    From helpful sales reps to knowledgeable installers, ION Solar really stands out for its strong customer service. Happy customers like that reps focus on clear communication and installers get the job done quickly.

    We suggest getting a personalized quote to see if ION Solar is a good fit for you. Most projects are completed in 60 to 90 days.

    What to consider: Reviewers in other states sometimes mention communication issues or installation delays. These types of complaints are common in the industry.

    Solar installations are complicated projects, and there’s always a chance that projected timelines change due to weather or supply chain issues.

    “The process with ION Solar was good. It was seamless and as expected. The installers were good. … We got the first bill. It was $100 less.”
    Luis Germantown, MD

    The dude who sold me the ION Solar was cool. His name was Noe. Everything went fine. However, they were supposed to come paint the conduit but they didn’t. They didn’t paint the one on the roof. For the one on the side of the house, they didn’t have paint for it and I had to use my paint and t...

    Jack Baltimore, MD
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience
    Our pick for DIY projects

    ShopSolar

    ShopSolar
    4.7
    218 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018
    Read Reviews
    Pros
    • Wide selection of equipment
    • Great for RVs and outbuildings
    • Price match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support
    Cons
    • No professional installation
    • Some shipping and delivery delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

    ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment, including solar storage batteries and generators.

    We like that it has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication.

    You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. Financing is available with rates between 0% and 36% APR.

    What to consider: Some customers experienced problems with their purchases, such as damaged or faulty equipment. Generally, ShopSolar resolved these issues with refunds or replacements.

    “I liked their site. I got an EcoFlow kit. It came with a battery backup and solar panels. So, I did it mostly for batteries that I wanted to be able to be self-sufficient. The stuff was packaged well. It came quickly.”
    Paul Columbia, MD
    “I've chosen Shop Solar Kits several times since my first purchase because they consistently deliver superb customer service. … The ease of their online service, combined with their responsive nature, makes shopping with them a seamless experience.”
    Debbie Arnold, MD
    • Equipment: You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks. Equipment comes from quality brands like REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow.
    • Warranties: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties.

    Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Maryland

    We started with a list of popular solar companies and narrowed it down to those serving Maryland. We then ranked them based on the factors that matter most to homeowners:

    Local customer satisfaction (65%)

    We analyzed reviews from verified customers in Maryland. Companies with the most recent positive ratings were scored higher.

    Price satisfaction (7%)

    We evaluated customer feedback on overall cost and value.

    Installation satisfaction (7%)

    We looked at reviews of the installation process, including professionalism, timeliness and overall quality of the work.

    Customer service satisfaction (7%)

    We evaluated feedback on how responsive and helpful each company is before, during and after installation.

    Payment options (7%)

    We considered companies that make paying for solar easier by offering multiple financing and payment options.

    Warranties and guarantees (7%)

    A long warranty shows confidence in a company’s work. We compared both equipment and workmanship warranties. Our top picks provide 10 to 25 years of coverage.

    Solar Companies in Maryland Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunrun logo
    ION Solar logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      We’ve heard from over 100,000 verified solar customers since 2018, including dozens in Maryland. 

      A couple of things we know for sure: People like powering their homes with a reliable source of cheap, clean energy. They don’t like getting into solar contracts that don’t meet their expectations. 

      Here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in Maryland.

      Key insights

      In Maryland, a typical residential solar panel system costs $9,270 to $26,486, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      The federal solar tax credit expires soon. You have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install a system and get the 30% solar tax credit.

      Jump to insight

      Many solar customers are happy with the service, installation and cost savings. Others felt misled by pushy sales tactics and ended up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a solar company in Maryland

      Solar panels are a long-term investment — most systems last 25 years or more. That means choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right equipment. 

      Based on our research, the best solar energy companies share a few traits: strong customer reviews, high-quality equipment and reliable warranties. Here are the five steps to finding the right fit. 

      1. Research companies 

      Local experience matters. Companies with a history in Maryland understand state-specific incentive programs, utility rules, permitting requirements and how to design systems that perform well in the occasionally snowy winters and warm, humid summers.

      2. Read reviews

      Look at reviews on platforms like ConsumerAffairs, Better Business Bureau and solar-specific forums to see real customer experiences. Watch out for these red flags:

      • Equipment failures that aren’t resolved quickly
      • Misleading sales tactics about costs or savings
      • Billing and contract issues

      3. Compare quotes

      Get at least three solar quotes to compare prices, equipment, warranties and services. Be cautious of unusually low bids — they may signal poor-quality panels, hidden fees or weak warranty coverage.

      As you’re getting quotes, consider if you want a solar storage battery, an electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in Maryland.

      4. Check credentials

      Solar installation companies have to be licensed as home improvement contractors with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission. 

      And if the solar panels connect to your electrical system or the power grid, a licensed electrician has to do that part. Confirm your installer also has:

      • Insurance coverage to protect your home during installation
      • NABCEP certification (the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners is a respected national credential for solar installers)

      5. Read the fine print

      The contract should be easy to understand. If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification.

      » GUIDE: Best solar companies in Baltimore

      How much does it cost to go solar in Maryland?

      Average solar panel costs in Maryland typically range between $9,270 and $26,486. 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.

      The table below doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery. Adding a battery to your system can increase your overall system costs by $7,000 to $18,000.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Maryland, the average cost per watt is $2.65.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Maryland

      Solar incentives in Maryland

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is now set to expire at the end of the year, much earlier than previously scheduled. The credit was expected to drop gradually, then fully expire in 2035 — but those future step-downs have been eliminated as of July 2025. 

      This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system in order to qualify for the 30% credit.

      On the bright side, Maryland also has additional tax incentives and rebates. For example, homes with solar can get property tax credits and exemptions for the value the solar equipment adds to their homes.

      » EXPLORE: Maryland solar incentives, tax credits and rebates

      Are solar panels worth it in Maryland?

      The general consensus is that solar panels are worth it in Maryland. On average, homeowners can avoid $69,077 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      We’ve talked to dozens of Maryland residents who have gone solar. Many reported significant savings on their electricity bills after installing solar panels.

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

      For example, Rebecca in Baltimore said she likes getting cheap bills from Delmarva Power since installing solar panels: “It's definitely worth it. It's crazy how much money we're saving already.” 

      However, we’ve also heard about problems with leaks and roof damage. For instance, Roger in Aberdeen, who was overall happy with his decision to go solar, told us, “I was very unsatisfied with the time it took to both remove the panels and then put them back when I had my roof replaced.”

      The return on investment of a solar panel installation depends on the efficiency and size of your system. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 8.11 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      It's definitely worth it. It's crazy how much money we're saving already. ”
      — Rebecca in Baltimore, Maryland

      FAQ

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is similar to buying a car. You could pay cash, but many people finance their system through a solar loan. If you have enough savings to pay upfront, the biggest advantage is no interest charges.

      Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system.

      Maryland also has legalized power purchase agreements (PPAs), unlike many other states. PPAs work very similarly to leases. The biggest downside to both is that you’ll be disqualified from many of the best financial incentives, like the 30% federal solar tax credit. It also might make your house harder to sell since a new buyer will have to take over the lease agreement.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      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. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity. 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. Reducing your electrical loads now means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper.

      Use the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’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 a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Should I replace my roof before installing solar panels?

      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 will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      Can I get free solar panels in Maryland?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Maryland. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can end up costing you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      How does net metering work in Maryland?

      Net metering lets homeowners get credits for extra electricity their solar panels generate. Your solar panels convert sunlight into electricity that powers your home first. Any excess electricity your panels generate flows back into the grid.

      In Maryland, systems eligible for net metering must be less than 2 megawatts (MW) in capacity or 200% of your annual baseline electricity. Each month, you are still billed for the net difference between your electricity usage and the amount you generate:

      • If you generate more than you use: Your bill will be smaller or even negative, indicating a credit.
      • If you use more than you generate: You will be billed for the difference at the standard rate.

      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 guide include:

        1. DSIRE, "Maryland Programs." Accessed Sept. 18, 2025.
        2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Maryland.” Accessed Sept. 18, 2025.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Maryland Solar." Accessed Sept. 18, 2025.
        4. Federal Trade Commission, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 18, 2025.
        5. U.S. Department of Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.” Accessed Sept. 18, 2025. 

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