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Best Solar Companies in Orlando, Florida

We compared 28 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

  • Top overall
    Sunrun
    4.3(3,229)
  • Competitive pricing
    Project Solar
    4.7(78)
  • DIY projects
    ShopSolar
    4.7(188)

Best Solar Companies in Orlando, Florida

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By: Kathryn Parkman
+2 more
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Edited by: Cassidy McCants
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Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

Our top 3 solar company picks for Orlando

  1. Best overall: Sunrun
  2. Competitive pricing: Project Solar
  3. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar

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

The best solar companies in Orlando

Solar can be a big investment. Considering the humid subtropical climate, our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Orlando residents’ energy needs.

2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
Sunrun
Sunrun
4.3
3,229 reviews
Max. panel efficiency
22%
Panel warranty
Varies
Payment options
Cash, loan, lease
Year founded
2007
Get Started Read Reviews

We’ve talked to more than 2,000 Sunrun customers. Over a recent two-year period, 77% were satisfied with their installations and 73% were satisfied with the technology. Happy customers often tell us about significant savings on electric bills. We also like that Sunrun’s solar leases make it easy to go solar without a big upfront investment.

  • “They kept me informed every step of the way, through the installation and the permitting from the city. They were very good with that. The reps were very pleasant to deal with. The installers got the job done in two days. The system is helping and it's saving me money with my electric bill.” — Peter in Orlando
  • “The installation went fine and it looked professional. Everything is working great. I monitor the system and I see how many kilowatts. My electric bill has only been between $35 and $40 all summer long with the solar. So I'm happy with it because I'd be paying a lot more for electricity right now without it, even with the lease payment I'm making to Sunrun. When the system stopped monitoring for three days, I called them and the rep said that they were having problems. It took about a day, but then they got it taken care of.” — Dale in Orlando

Marie in Orlando had a couple of concerns, including that Duke Energy might increase fees. “If they go up a lot, the fee I paid to lease the panels from Sunrun, $85, plus what I paid them is gonna be equal to what I was paying for my electric bill before,” she told us.

Marie’s other concern applies more generally to solar leases: “I have heard that if I sell my house, I have to remove the panels, unless the people that want to buy it decide they wanna keep the panels. But in order for my house to be listed, some realtors require that the panels be removed prior to their advertising the house.”

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 after the installation is complete.
  • Warranty information: There is a 10-year warranty on workmanship and equipment, roof leak protection and a 25-year performance guarantee.
  • Payment options: You can pay upfront or take out a loan, but leasing plans are what really set Sunrun apart. With leases, there’s no initial charge for panels, equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. 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 billing issues/li>
1x Award Winner
Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
Our pick for competitive pricing
Project Solar
Project Solar
4.7
78 reviews
Max. panel efficiency
20.9%
Panel warranty
25 years
Payment options
Cash, loan
Year founded
2016
Read Reviews

Project Solar reps focus on simple, streamlined installations. Over a recent two-year period, 94% of customers we talked to were satisfied with the price. Satisfaction ratings on customer service and technology were also above industry averages.

The no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious clients who want either professional services or do-it-yourself options. Full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt.

  • “There was no sales pressure with Project Solar. … The process was very transparent. I knew what was happening, where I was at each stage. The local contractor was very friendly as well. They also explained how I could reach out to them and Project Solar if there was some problem. The system gives the same features that other big companies give, and it's cost-efficient. For the same amount of kilowatts, my friend installed a higher rate whereas I am done with $13,000 and he paid $24,000. We both are producing the same amount of energy now. If you know how to install things, it's even cheaper.” — Praveen in Orlando

The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about 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: 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
  • Subcontracted installers
  • No in-house financing
Our pick for DIY projects
ShopSolar
ShopSolar
4.7
188 reviews
Max. panel efficiency
Varies
Panel warranty
Varies
Payment options
Cash, loan
Year founded
2018
Read Reviews

A nice selection of equipment and fast deliveries make ShopSolar our go-to pick for DIY projects. 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. I bought two small ones at first then I decided to buy their 2,000 kilowatt product. The two were doing good, but they don't last as long as the big one does. … 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.” — 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 needs and energy requirements. The company doesn't offer direct installation services, but online courses, video guides and other forms of 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

  • 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

How we chose the best solar companies in Orlando

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

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In this guide

Top Picks

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ShopSolar logo
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Orlando solar panel buyers guide

We’ve talked to hundreds of Floridians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Orlando 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 $24,351 in Orlando. 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, Orlando homeowners with solar panels avoid $52,980 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 Orlando

A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,945 to $22,700 in Florida. Prices in Orlando are comparable, ranging from $7,884 to $22,527. On the high end, Jonathan in Orlando paid $42,000 for solar panels (not including a battery).

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. As of publishing, Orlando’s average cost per watt is $2.25.

A typical Orlando household needs a 11.17 kW (kilowatt) system to fully offset its 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 Orlando

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 Orlando?

Solar panels are generally worth it in Florida if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, homeowners with solar panels can avoid $52,980 in total utility costs over 25 years.

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

But it doesn’t work out for everyone in the Theme Park Capital of the World. 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.

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 on your house. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator.

The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 9 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

» 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. Jonathan in Orlando said he was quoted $4,200 to take the panels off and reinstall them.

» SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

How to find a reputable solar company in Orlando

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.

One of Orlando’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.

» TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

Going solar in Orange County

The major utility providers in Orange County, Duke Energy and OUC, offer net metering programs. Additional initiatives, like OUC's OUCommunity Solar or Duke Energy's Clean Energy Connection, provide virtual access to solar energy without installing panels on your property.

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

Solar incentives in Orlando

Residents can take advantage of statewide solar incentives in Florida and local programs. For instance, OUC has community solar options and rebates for solar water heaters.

The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for a lot of Orlando 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.

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.

You won’t get a refund for the extra amount if the solar tax credit is more than your tax bill. However, you can get a refund if the credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year. You can also carry over any unused credit to the next tax year.

Additional solar incentives in Orlando

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

Orlando solar FAQ

Is my house a good candidate for solar?

Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Here are some other questions to ask yourself:

  • What is the size and angle of my roof? Orlando (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.
  • 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. Otherwise, it could cost thousands to remove the panels, fix your roof and reinstall the panels.
How does net metering work in Orlando?

Net metering is a system of give-and-take between you and your utility company. It lets you access power from the grid when your panels don’t generate enough electricity. You can also earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to the grid. Some residents accumulate enough credits to almost fully cancel out their electric bills.

» GREENEST STATES: Florida ranked 32nd in 2024

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

An electrical permit application must be submitted to the local government. If you hire a professional installer, they will likely complete this step for you. Alternatively, you can use Orlando’s online permit portal to do it yourself. 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?

Florida law allows homeowners to install solar panels, even if they’re in a homeowners association. Associations can place certain restrictions on where solar panels are installed.

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 Orlando

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 Orlando, 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 Orlando 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. Sunrun
  2. Project Solar
  3. ShopSolar

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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 Orlando, 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.
    12. Duke Energyy, "Clean Energy Connection." Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.

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