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Best Solar Companies in Mesa, AZ

We compared 20 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Elevation
      2.4(111)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.6(63)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

    Top Picks

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      Best Solar Companies in Mesa, AZ

      Our top solar company picks for Mesa

      1. Best overall: Elevation
      2. Competitive pricing: Project Solar
      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 Mesa

      Find a Solar Energy partner near you.

      The best solar companies in Mesa

      Going solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Mesa resident’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. We also like that the Curb monitoring app connects to your home's electrical system to give you real-time data about your system. It lets you remotely turn your smart devices on and off to stop waste and maximize efficiency.

      • “Have an amazing experience working with Pete the Energy Efficiency manager. He walk us through everything step by step. Prepared us for what to expect during the install and everything went as planned. Couldn't be happier. Thank you sir!” — Kiva in Mesa
      • “... Elevation as a whole has been great to work with, no complaints. The system is saving me tons of $$$ and that is the best compliment I can give to any product/company.” — Tony in Mesa
      • “Eric K is awesome. We have been working with him for over 2 years now, and have recommended multiple neighbors of ours to Eric and Elevation Solar. From the beginning, he was honest, helpful, and you can tell he knew what he was talking about. Our solar system does exactly what he said it would do, and we are saving a lot of money after making the switch to solar.” — Mike in Mesa

      Customers occasionally experience installation delays due to equipment upgrades, local permitting or supply chain issues. These are common complaints about solar installations in general.

      Elevation specializes in 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 provides 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
      • Free consultations
      • Useful monitoring app
      • Good warranty coverage

      Cons

      • Some installation delays
      • Limited price transparency
      Our pick for competitive pricing

      Project Solar

      4.6
      63 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2016

      Project Solar reps focus on simple, streamlined installations. The no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious clients who want 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.

      We’ve talked to more than 50 verified 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.

      • “My experience was very good. I put the order in and they took care of everything. My one complaint was how long it took, but I don't know if that was overly long or if that's just normal. I put the order in in September and it took until May for everything to get turned on. But I was able to track the progress via the website, which was very convenient and the install went very smoothly. They sent their subcontractors out and they got everything put in.” — John in Mesa

      Consider if you want critter guards. “One thing is they didn't tell me about critter guard, which is a fencing they can put around the bottom of the solar panel to keep animals from going under the solar panel. I bought that and then the contractors came back out and put it up,” John told us.

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

      • Services: 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 process
      • High-quality equipment
      • Great value

      Cons

      • Occasional miscommunications
      • No in-house financing

      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 and everything else needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It’s great for homes, RVs and outbuildings.

      • “They were excellent. … The impression I got from the reviews online was that that's what it would be, and it definitely has been. So they've been very helpful. The customer service was very good. They definitely did their thing and did a great job.” — Evan in Chandler

      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. In addition to panels, you can buy solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks. 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 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 Mesa

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

      Mesa solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Arizonans who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Mesa 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 installation costs $7,264 to $20,755 in Mesa.

      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

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

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Mesa

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,560 to $21,600 in Arizona. Prices in Mesa are comparable, ranging from $7,264 to $20,755 on average.

      The size of your system greatly affects the overall cost. 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.

      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 Mesa, the average cost per watt is $2.08.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Mesa

      Is solar worth it in Mesa?

      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 price of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. However, you can lease or finance minimal upfront costs.

       Another potential financial downside has to do with the Salt River Project utility, according to Greg in Mesa. “We decided to go solar because it’s the right thing to do for our environment,” Greg told us. “In spite of SRP’s very poor stance on solar we felt like it would be worth the investment.”

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

      With electricity costs continuing to rise, many find 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 again. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Mesa

      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, solar PV installers need a general contractor's license as well as an electrician's license. 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: 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? 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.

      • 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

      Going solar in Maricopa County

      Going solar in Mesa isn’t just a green move; it's often a smart money move. With electricity costs continuing to rise, more homeowners find solar power is financially worth it in the long run.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Arizona ranked fourth in 2024

      Solar incentives in Mesa

      The federal solar investment tax credit reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. 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.

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

      You can combine the following 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 equipment 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.

      Additional solar incentives

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

      Mesa solar FAQ

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

      You have to submit a Residential Solar Program Application to the Mesa Energy Resources Department. If approved, you then sign an Interconnection Agreement and Net Metering Addendum with the City. Before interconnection, you must provide a roof photo to verify the installation matches the approved plans. Depending on your system's complexity, you may also need an electrical permit.

      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 Mesa?

      Mesa and the rest of Arizona technically has a system called “net billing.” This is different 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.

      Net billing is a way for solar panel owners to get paid for extra electricity they produce. When your solar panels make more power than you need, you can send this extra power to the electric grid. The power company then gives you credit on your bill for this electricity, but it's at a lower rate than what you pay for electricity you use.

      » GREENEST STATES: Arizona ranked 42nd in 2024

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

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

      Can I get solar panels for free in Mesa?

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

      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 can save by buying fewer panels.

      Methodology: how we chose the best solar companies in Mesa

      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 Mesa, 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 Mesa 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. Project Solar
      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 Mesa, 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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