Best Solar Companies in Pennsylvania

We compared 118 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Payment options
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,482)
    • Community solar
      CleanChoice Energy
      3.8(61)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(217)
    +2 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino
    Author picture
    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Pennsylvania

    Going solar in Pennsylvania can deliver long-term savings thanks to net metering and the state’s SREC market, despite limited sun and few state rebates. After reviewing dozens of providers, our experts found that Sunrun, CleanChoice Energy and ShopSolar stand out as the best solar companies in Pennsylvania.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,766,886 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 top 3 solar company picks for Pennsylvania

    1. Great leasing plans: Sunrun
    2. Community solar options: CleanChoice Energy
    3. Wide equipment selection: 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.

    Our pick for payment options

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007

    Sunrun takes a personalized solar design approach. Reps start by looking at your past electricity bills to estimate your energy needs. Then, they use a specialized computer tool to create the optimal solar system design for your roof.

    Its leasing program is a great way to get solar panels without the huge upfront investment. You don't have to pay for the equipment, installation, permitting or financing costs. Sunrun technically owns your system if you choose to lease, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. Lease agreements typically last 25 years.

    Sunrun customers are generally satisfied, but some have told us about communication issues. For instance, Kerri and Ron in Stroudsburg, were initially promised 99% efficiency but only achieved 60%. They also said there was a communication about tree height and additional panels needed, which understandably led to frustration with the installation coordinator.

    Additionally, leasing a system could make it harder to sell your house, according to Erika in Harleysville.

    Sunrun sells and leases customized residential solar energy systems and its battery storage service in 20 states and two U.S. territories. Customers can own or lease a system with $0 down. Sunrun offers free energy consultations and quotes. Over 830,000 homes across the U.S. have gone solar with Sunrun, according to the company.

    • High-efficiency solar panel installations
    • Battery storage solutions
    • Monitoring and maintenance
    • EV charging solutions
    Sunrun has warranty coverage, system maintenance and a performance guarantee. The warranty covers workmanship and equipment for 10 years. The performance guarantee lasts 25 years. Leased systems typically come with free maintenance and repairs. It also has a 95% system performance guarantee. Its terms and conditions focus on service use, including account registration and payments, with a general "as is" disclaimer without detailed warranty specifics in the provided sections.

    You can also pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but Sunrun’s leasing plans are what really sets it apart from other solar options in Pennsylvania.

    • Solar lease: Rent the solar system for $0 or little down. Then, you pay a fixed monthly payment for the term of your leasing contract, typically 25 years. You can also prepay for up to 25 years of solar energy.
    • Power purchase agreement: Purchase the electricity generated by the system at a fixed, predictable rate without worrying about upfront equipment costs.
    • Solar loan: Financing options with competitive rates to purchase the system for long-term ownership and potential for greater savings.
    Pros
    • Long time in business
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring
    Cons
    • Limited price transparency
    • Some communication issues
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Our pick for renters

    CleanChoice Energy

    CleanChoice Energy
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Payment options
    Varies
    Year founded
    2012

    CleanChoice Energy isn't a solar panel installer. Instead, the company purchases renewable energy on your behalf in the form of grid power and renewable energy certifications. This makes it a good option for people who rent or otherwise can't install a solar panel system.

    People like the simplified enrollment process, which you can start either online or through the mail. Pennsylvania customers also appreciate the competitive rates and environmental commitment. They generally recommended CleanChoice Energy as a reliable and affordable option.

    Some Pennsylvania customers seem annoyed by a lack of notification for contract expiration. For instance, Leland in Havertown, mistakenly thought the contract would automatically renew. “It screwed me one year because all of a sudden, I was back paid the full cost of power directly from PECO, which is higher than the CleanChoice,” Leland told us. “Other than that, it's a great deal. See if you can get CleanChoice in your neighborhood.”

    Another customer, Faulk in Mill Hall, told us, “They give you good deals to start out. But when they raise it and it's understood that they have the right to do that, you can negotiate with them.”

    CleanChoice Energy acts as an alternative energy supplier in New York. Instead of getting your electricity from the default utility company in your area, CleanChoice can provide electricity sourced from wind and solar power that is generated in the region. Your local utility still handles the poles, wires and infrastructure that brings power into your home.

    • Renewable energy supply
    • Community solar programs
    • Carbon offset options
    • Custom sustainability plans

    CleanChoice Energy has monthly, quarterly and annual memberships. Pricing plans may vary depending on the market conditions. It’s best to contract the company directly for the most accurate rate information in your area.

    Pros
    • 100% clean energy from local sources
    • Variable and fixed payment plans
    • No termination fees
    • Referral bonuses
    Cons
    • Services vary by location
    • Prices are dependent on market
    Our pick for DIY projects

    ShopSolar

    ShopSolar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018

    ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment, including complete solar packages, fast deliveries and good communication. It’s a great option if you need solar equipment for homes, RVs or outbuildings.

    You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything needed for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It also sells different monitoring systems that connect through Bluetooth or manufacturer apps.

    ShopSolar does not provide professional 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 sells custom solar kits and stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. It offers a variety of solar solutions, including solar panels, generators, batteries, cables and racks for DIY and off-grid projects. Equipment is available in full kits containing everything you need for self-installation or professional setup. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

    ShopSolar products

    • New and used solar panels
    • Custom solar kits
    • Solar generator bundles
    • Batteries, inverters, mounts and racks
    • Additional hardware and accessories

    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: Partners with Affirm and PayTomorrow. Affirm offers biweekly or monthly payments for up to 36 months, with APRs from 0% to 36%. PayTomorrow offers monthly payment plans with terms up to 48 months and APRs from 0% to 29.99%. Both options offer loans up to $20,000, have no fees and quick approval times.
    Pros
    • Wide selection for off-grid and DIY projects
    • Price-match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support
    Cons
    • Shipping and delivery restrictions or delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

    Solar Companies in Pennsylvania Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunrun logo
    CleanChoice Energy logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      If you've been thinking about going solar in Pennsylvania but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. Our team has talked to thousands of solar customers across the country. Here’s what to expect and what to look out for when buying solar panels in Pennsylvania.

      NOTE: President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” signed in July of 2025, phases out the federal solar tax credit. You now only have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install a system and get the 30% solar tax credit.

      Key insights

      A typical Pennsylvania household needs a 7.8 kW system to offset enough energy costs to make solar viable. Depending on your household energy usage, you might need a smaller or larger system.

      Jump to insight

      The federal Pennsylvania investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for buying solar panels in Pennsylvania. You can also lease a system with little upfront cost, but you aren't eligible for the ITC.

      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. We recommend thoroughly researching and comparing different providers before making a decision.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a solar company in Pennsylvania

      To choose a solar company in Pennsylvania, research local installers and compare their experience, reputation and credentials. It’s worth it to get quotes from multiple providers to fully compare their pricing for similar offerings. Additionally, review the warranty and services the company provides after installation — you want to hire a well-established company that will stick around for system support. Here’s what the best solar energy companies have in common:

      • Local experience: Look for installers with lots of experience in Pennsylvania. They are better at navigating regional incentive programs, permit processes, utility policies and designing systems to maximize energy production given the state’s climate and weather patterns. Choose installers who know the interconnection rules and net metering policies of major utilities like PECO, PPL, Duquesne Light and FirstEnergy subsidiaries.
      • Good reputation: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags: recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Free consultation: Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower quotes than others — this may indicate lower quality. Take this time to ask for performance estimates. Make sure the company uses your actual roof to model annual kWh output.
      • Complete services: The best solar companies provide end-to-end services, from system design and engineering to permitting, installation, inspection, monitoring and maintenance. Also, consider if you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guard.
      • Transparent terms: 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. Warranties and productivity guarantees provide peace of mind once your system is up and running.
      • Industry credentials: Legitimate solar companies have proper licensing, insurance and NABCEP certification for installers. Bonding is also important as it protects you if the contractor fails to meet certain financial obligations, like paying for permits or subcontractors. The Mid-Atlantic Renewable Energy Association (MAREA) has a free directory that includes information on installers across the state. The Philadelphia Energy Authority connects residents with city-approved solar installers through its Solarize Philly program.

      One resident, Brandi in Indiana, Pennsylvania, is usually cautious when something seems “too good to be true,” but admitted that a solar sales team got the best of her: She didn’t get the tax credit the rep said she would, and customer service was unreachable after installation. “I'm left with an expensive set of roof ornaments to the tune of $300+ per month and limited to no return in expense for energy costs,” she told us.

      That’s why it’s so important to thoroughly research and verify claims made by sales teams before making a decision. 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 a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Going solar in Pennsylvania

      The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission recommends residents choose a reputable solar contractor or installer that is registered with the PA Attorney General, as well as either the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) or UL PV certification. The commission also recommends getting at least three quotes or proposals with references before choosing your best option.

      Solar panel costs in Pennsylvania

      Pennsylvania solar panel costs typically range between $9,165 to $26,186. System size is the biggest factor in the total cost of solar panels. Costs also depend on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets. On the higher end, one solar customer in Pennsylvania told us they paid $100,000 for a system, including for a $23,000 battery.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Pennsylvania, the average cost per watt is $2.62.

      Average solar panel installation cost by system size in Pennsylvania

      This doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery — which sometimes costs as much as the panels. Solar batteries are a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      Panel quality and brand, roof complexity, inverter type and installation labor rates are also key factors affecting the cost of going solar in Pennsylvania.

      » EXPLORE: Best solar companies in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      You can pay for solar panel installation in Pennsylvania with cash, financing, a lease, a power purchase agreement (PPA) or through a home equity loan or line of credit. Each option comes with trade-offs in cost, ownership and long-term savings.

      Cash purchase

      Paying upfront with cash offers the highest long-term savings and full access to all tax credits and incentives. You also own the system outright with no strings attached. The downside is that this is the most expensive upfront option.

      Finance

      To reduce your upfront costs, you can finance your system through a solar loan. It works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay the loan back over time with interest. You’re still eligible for the federal tax credit when you finance your system, and monthly payments are often lower than your electric bill. The tradeoff is that loan interest cuts into your total savings.

      Lease

      Leasing solar panels has little or no upfront cost. It’s sometimes cheaper in the short term, but you’ll be disqualified from some of the best financial incentives, including the federal solar investment tax credit. You pay a fixed monthly rate, and the installer maintains the system (a key perk). However, long-term savings are reduced.

      Power purchase agreement (PPA)

      Pennsylvania legalized power purchase agreements (unlike many other states). PPAs are similar to leases, but you pay a variable rate based on how much electricity your panels produce. Like leases, you won’t qualify for 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.

      HELOC

      Some solar companies suggest using a home equity line of credit or loan to finance a solar installation. This can be a cost-effective option — home equity interest rates are relatively low, and it lets homeowners take advantage of the federal solar tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Pennsylvania

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant way to make installing panels more affordable. The ITC is a federal income tax credit equal to 30% of the cost of your solar energy system, including equipment, labor and permits. The credit is nonrefundable, so any unused portion rolls over into the next tax year.

      The ITC is not a rebate or a refund.

      Homeowners may also take advantage of solar renewable energy credits (SRECs), rebates and loan programs in Pennsylvania. For example, a program in Philadelphia has put solar on more than 2,000 rooftops, and there are plans to expand its efforts.

      SRECs give system owners 1 credit per 1,000 kWh produced, and one credit is worth between $30 to $50, depending on market supply and demand. That means you can earn back around $240 per year with a 6 kW system.

      Federal solar tax credit expires at the end of 2025

      The 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 under the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” signed in July of 2025. This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system to qualify for the 30% credit.

      » MORE: Pennsylvania solar incentives

      Net metering in Pennsylvania

      Net metering lets homeowners get credits for extra electricity their solar panels generate. To qualify for net metering in Pennsylvania, residential solar systems must be 50 kilowatts or less in size, which covers the vast majority of installations. Homeowners must submit an interconnection application to their utility to connect to the grid and establish the terms of the net metering agreement.

      Under state law, utilities must compensate solar customers for their excess generation at the full retail electricity rate. This policy, mandated by the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards Act, ensures that solar power is fairly valued and incentivized.

      Still, the goal of net metering is to let you produce enough renewable electricity for your own home's needs, but not drastically more than what you use.

      » EXPLORE: Where solar savings go the furthest

      Are solar panels worth it in Pennsylvania?

      We’ve talked to dozens of solar customers in Pennsylvania. With electricity costs continuing to rise, many tell us that solar is financially worth it for the long-term savings on monthly bills. On average, homeowners with solar panels in Pennsylvania avoid $61,682 total utility costs over 25 years.

      “I went solar as an investment for now and in the future. I also wanted to produce my own energy, as well as to help the environment,” Steven in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, told us. “After the first month, it reduced my electric bill to just the minimum connection fee and the system produced power for the future.”

      Another resident, Stephanie in Philadelphia, said her electric bill is $0 in the summer and about half what it was in the winter since going solar. “It's definitely a good deal,” she told us. “On cloudy days or rainy days, you're not getting a heck of a lot of generation. But the way the summers have been around here, and warmer weather stretching out for longer in the seasons than they used to, you’re crazy not to try and recoup some of that.”

      I went solar as an investment for now and in the future.”
      — Steven in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

      There are a few potential downsides. Some residents have complained that utility companies’ fees related to rooftop solar systems are prohibitively high. Still, for many homeowners, going solar is worth it in Pennsylvania for the lower energy bills and less reliance on local power companies.

      Overall, electric rates throughout the United States have been increasing, and no one knows what the next few years will look like. The average homeowner in Pennsylvania uses quite a bit of power, which adds up to a lot of savings when you switch to solar.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar pros and cons

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in Pennsylvania?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Pennsylvania. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      What solar scams are common in Pennsylvania?

      Beware of solar salespeople using high-pressure tactics like claiming free installation offers that will expire if you don’t sign up now, warns the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in Pennsylvania. These scammers might steal your personal and banking information under the guise of checking your eligibility qualifications. Representatives making promises about zero upfront costs or claiming a government program will cover the cost of your new solar panel installation are likely running a solar scam.

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

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

      Ultimately, deciding between a solar broker and a 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, it’s best to work directly with a solar installer.

      Should I replace my roof before going solar?

      As a rule of thumb, consider fixing your roof before going solar if it’s more than 10 years old. 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?

      What permits do I need to go solar in Pennsylvania?

      Each municipality in Pennsylvania handles permitting in its own way. Many municipalities treat the installation of small residential solar panels as an accessory use (like adding a pool or shed) to your home rather than as principal or condition uses (meant for larger utility-scale projects).

      You may also need an environmental permit on top of an electrical permit, as well as a building permit under the Uniform Construction Code (UCC) for solar. Local code officials have the discretion to waive certain documentation requirements. Even if a UCC permit is not required, you may have a different solar permitting ordinance that applies.

      Do I really need a solar battery?

      A solar battery system protects against fluctuating energy costs and policy changes while maximizing the benefits of your solar panels. As regulations change, batteries can insulate you from unfavorable policies and offer opportunities for future financial benefits, like participating in demand response programs or selling stored energy to the local grid. Solar batteries are also a must if you want real energy independence and are essential if you go off-grid.

      How many solar companies are in Pennsylvania?

      As of publishing, there are 467 solar energy companies in Pennsylvania, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

      What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a PPA, you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a lower rate than you would receive without a PPA.

      Methodology

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team objectively evaluates solar providers to highlight those best equipped to meet most homeowners' needs. To choose our top picks for this guide, we started with a list of popular providers. First, we narrowed it down to the ones available in Pennsylvania. We then 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 the most positive recent ratings left by local reviewers on our site were given preference.

      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.

      Warranties: 20%
      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its product and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranties terms. All of our top picks have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Financing and payment options: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Overall reputation: 10%
      We considered each company's history, mission and value. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect.

      To recap, our top picks for the best solar companies in Pennsylvania:

      1. Sunrun: Flexible payment plans
      2. CleanChoice Energy: Community solar options
      3. ShopSolar: Good for DIY projects

      Not sure how to choose?

      Get buying tips about Solar Companies in Pennsylvania delivered to your inbox.

        By entering your email, you agree to sign up for consumer news, tips and giveaways from ConsumerAffairs. Unsubscribe at any time.

        Thanks for subscribing.

        You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter! Enjoy reading our tips and recommendations.

        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, “Pennsylvania Programs.” Accessed March 10, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, “Pennsylvania solar panels: local pricing and installation data.” Accessed March 10, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Pennsylvania Solar.” Accessed March 10, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in Pennsylvania, 2024?” Accessed March 10, 2024.
        5. LancasterOnline, “New Pennsylvania solar customers face unexpected hurdles.” Accessed March 10, 2024.
        6. Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. “High Performance Building Program (HPB) - PA Dept. of Community & Economic Development.” Accessed April 2, 2024.
        7. Pennsylvania Solar Center, “Zoning and Permitting Solar in Your Municipality.” Accessed April 2, 2024.
        8. Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, “DEP Permit Application Consultation Tool.” Accessed April 2, 2024.
        9. Pennsylvania House Democrats, “Schweyer bill to create community solar program passes house.” Accessed April 2, 2024.
        10. Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, “Renewable Energy Sources | PAPowerSwitch.” Accessed April 2, 2024.

        Read more Pennsylvania solar company reviews

        Showing 10 of 118

        Want your company to be on this guide?

        Yes, continue
        Comparing

        ×