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Best Solar Companies in Tampa, Florida

We compared 29 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunrun
      4.3(3,573)
    • Customer service
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.3(336)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(218)
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +2 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Cassidy McCants
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Tampa, Florida

    Based on local customer satisfaction ratings, Sunrun is the best solar company in Tampa, Florida. Freedom Solar Power stands out for having good customer service, and ShopSolar is our pick for do-it-yourself projects.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,804,639 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 Tampa

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    2. Best customer service: Freedom Solar Power
    3. Best for DIY projects: ShopSolar

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on customer ratings and reviews, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our evaluations. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    Compare Tampa’s top solar energy companies

    Our Tampa solar company picks

    Solar can be a big investment. This guide highlights companies that are best equipped to meet most Tampa residents’ energy needs, considering the humid subtropical climate.

    Our top pick overall

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    4.3
    3,573 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews
    Pros
    • Reliable systems
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring
    • Roof warranty
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Occasional billing issues
    • Some customer service complaints

    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.

    Happy Sunrun customers tell us about efficient installations and savings on electricity bills. However, some reviews mention dissatisfaction with contract terms. (It’s important to read agreements closely before signing anything.)

    Since switching to solar energy, I have loved it, especially the noticeable reduction in bills, which was immediate. I have been with Sunrun for almost three years, and my experience has been excellent.

    Donna Tampa, FL

    Enrolling with Sunrun was pleasant, but it's been difficult to communicate with them. When I attempted to call, I left messages and never got return calls. Besides that, the initial installation went fine, and the people that installed the system worked carefully. I would give my recommendation.

    Marcus Tampa, FL
    • 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 customer service

    Freedom Solar Power

    Freedom Solar Power
    4.3
    336 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.8%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews
    Pros
    • Excellent customer service
    • 24/7 performance monitoring
    • Transferable warranty
    • In-house, NABCEP-certified installers
    Cons
    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing

    Freedom Solar Power installs American-designed solar panels that are built to last at least 25 years. It doesn’t subcontract work out to local companies, like some of the big national solar brokers.

    Freedom Solar Power isn’t the cheapest option, but we think the quality makes it worth it. Still, it’s smart to compare a few quotes.

    As of publication, eligible customers can get started with $0 down and no payments for 18 months.

    Customers generally have positive experiences with Freedom Solar Power, praising the helpfulness of the staff, smooth installation process and high-quality solar panels. However, some reviewers have mentioned communication issues.

    “I've had a great experience with Freedom Solar. They are thorough and very knowledgeable of their product. I've had a lower bill since going solar, which has been fantastic.”
    Annice Tampa, FL
    “The sign up process and the installation went smoothly. Recently, we got a very large unit and it was initially covering all our solar, but then in the last couple of months, our production has really gone down.”
    Christen Lutz, FL
    “We interviewed four companies and the sales lady from Freedom Solar was by far the most professional and seemed to know the product much better than everybody else. The technology and the use of the laptop to analyze the probable production of the solar on our house stood out in the presentation.”
    Anthony Bradenton, FL
    • Services: Freedom Solar Power handles everything from site assessment and permitting to installation and activation. It offers various battery storage options, system maintenance and repairs to help homeowners optimize energy generation.
    • Equipment: Installers use Maxeon, Qcells and Mission Solar panels. These high-efficiency panels feature a low-profile mounting system that makes them ideal for homeowners who want a sleek aesthetic.
    • Warranties: There’s a 25-year warranty on all equipment and installations, meaning 100% of repair or replacement costs are covered during that time. System performance is also guaranteed between 84% and 92% of the original production for 25 years.
    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
    • 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

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

    It’s a convenient place to buy everything needed for a do-it-yourself solar project. 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 at rates from 0% to 36% APR.

    ShopSolar gets overall positive feedback from most customers. 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.

    “My experience with them has been fantastic. I'm very happy with them. The process was very easy. We told them what we were looking for, what we wanted the unit to do, and they did all the calculations and told us exactly what we needed, and that's what we went with.”
    Gerald Leesburg, FL
    “I recently purchased a solar generator from Shop Solar after finding them online. I'm quite pleased with the generator, though I haven't used it to its full potential yet. It performs as I expected.”
    Avery Beverly Hills, FL
    “I liked them over a lot of other solar people, just because most solar companies try to get you on monthly payments and upsell you. But the ShopSolar people just sold me the stuff. Their website is straightforward. Customer service was also very responsive.”
    David Alachua, FL
    • 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 Tampa

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

    Local customer satisfaction (65%)
    We analyzed reviews from verified customers in Tampa. 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 Tampa Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunrun logo
    Freedom Solar Power logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Floridians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Tampa 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 $14,976 in Tampa. 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, Tampa homeowners with solar panels avoid $66,804 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      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.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a solar company in Tampa

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Florida have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts.

      According to the Florida Attorney General, common solar scams are related to pressuring salespeople, misleading contract terms and over-promised savings. Here are some hiring tips.

      1. Know what you want

      If you’re going solar to save on energy costs, you have to make sure your system is big enough to generate enough power.

      A typical Florida household needs a 7.2 kW (kilowatt) system to offset energy costs enough to make going solar worth it. Depending on your household energy usage, you might need a smaller or larger system.

      How do I know what size system I need?

      On your electric bill, it should say how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you used last year. Divide that number by 1,200 to estimate your system size in kilowatts (kW). For example, if you used 12,000 kWh last year, you need a 10-kW system.

      What to know about solar batteries

      Solar panels only generate electricity when the sun is shining. A solar battery stores the extra energy your panels produce during the day so you can use it at night or during a power outage.

      Adding a battery can provide backup power and reduce electricity costs, but it comes with a higher upfront price. Solar battery costs are generally between $7,000 and $18,000.

      Pro tip

      If you have an electric car, ask about EV charger options. Homeowners in more rural parts outside of Tampa should also consider critter guards to protect the panels.

      » RELATED: How many solar panels do you need for your house?

      2. Read reviews

      Look at reviews on platforms like ConsumerAffairs and other 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

      Local experience matters too. Companies with a history in Florida understand state-specific incentive programs, utility rules, permitting requirements and how to design systems that perform well in the Tampa Bay area’s unique climate.

      3. Check credentials

      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. Confirm your installer also has:

      • Proof of 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)

      4. Compare quotes

      Get at least three or four quotes to compare different pricing, financing terms and estimated energy production.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Florida, the average cost per watt is $2.16.

      Make sure the quoted price includes installation, permits and grid hookup, and watch for hidden fees like monitoring or service charges.

      5. Read the fine print

      The contract should be easy to understand. Focus on warranties for panels, inverters and installation workmanship, as well as any performance guarantees.

      If anything about payment schedules, warranties, monitoring services or system maintenance doesn’t make sense — ask for clarification.

      Pro tip

      Upgrade old appliances before going solar. A more eco-friendly water heater, refrigerator or clothes dryer reduces how much electricity your household needs. That means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall.

      » MORE: How to get the best solar quotes

      Solar panel costs in Tampa

      Average solar panel costs in Florida range anywhere from $7,544 to $21,553. Prices in Tampa are comparable, ranging from $7,292 to $20,835. The size of your system is a significant factor in your overall costs.

      Average solar panel costs by system size in Tampa

      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. 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 Tampa?

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

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Florida if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 7.85 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost). On average, Tampa homeowners with solar panels can avoid $66,804 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering.

      We suggest using the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house, and Project Sunroof is reliable free solar savings estimator.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Potential roof problems

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels again. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      Solar incentives in Tampa

      The ITC expired at the end of 2025.

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is set to expire at the end of the year, much earlier than previously scheduled. This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system to qualify for the 30% credit.

      On the bright side, residents can still take advantage of a few solar incentives in Florida and local programs, including a sales tax exemption and property tax abatement.

      FAQ

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

      Hillsborough County has an electrical permit fee for residential and commercial solar systems. This fee is $590 for commercial projects and $190 for residential. All building projects in Florida over $2,500 must also submit a Notice of Commencement outlining the scope of their home improvements.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      In Florida, property owners have a legal right to install solar panels. Homeowners associations can’t block installations but may suggest a placement as long as it doesn’t negatively impact performance.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Tampa?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Tampa. You can lease solar panels with minimal upfront costs, but there is usually an ongoing monthly fee.

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      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, “Florida Programs.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.
      2. FSEC, “Solar Certification.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.
      3. Solar Energy Industries Association, “Residential Consumer Guide to Solar Energy.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2025.

      Not sure how to choose?

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