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Best Solar Companies in Tempe, AZ

We compared 13 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunrun
      4.3(2,958)
    • Great monitoring app
      Elevation
      2.4(111)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.6(63)

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      Best Solar Companies in Tempe, AZ

      Our top solar company picks for Tempe

      1. Best overall: Sunrun
      2. Great monitoring app: Elevation
      3. Competitive pricing: Project Solar

      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 Tempe

      Find a Solar Energy partner near you.

      The best solar companies in Tempe

      Going solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Tempe residents’ energy needs, considering the hot desert climate.

      Our top pick overall

      Sunrun

      4.3
      2,958 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Panel warranty
      10-25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease
      Year founded
      2007

      We’ve talked to more than 2,000 Sunrun customers from across the country. Over a recent two-year period, 77% were satisfied with their installations and 73% were satisfied with the technology. Many tell us about significant savings on electric bills and would highly recommend the company to others.

      • “I highly recommend Sunrun. They have a good model and they explained things thoroughly. They didn't try to oversell me as some other companies did. I was impressed from the get-go with Sunrun's approach. For a portion of the time of installation, I was not in the house but they kept me posted in terms of what was going on. It went smoothly. With Sunrun, I'm saving some money and there's zero maintenance. There's been zero issues with the equipment. It's been self-sustaining up to this point.” — Patrick in Phoenix
      • “The enrollment was very easy and everything was explained very clearly. The rep was articulate and very astute. Everything was answered before I could get any questions out. Sunrun is one of the greatest benefits of my entire life. My bill was over $300 and now it's $84.” — Lawrence in Scottsdale

      Some customers have said they are unsatisfied with the contract and terms — make sure you read the fine print carefully.

      Sunrun is a leading provider of residential solar, battery storage and energy services in the United States. 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.
      • Warranty information: Sunrun offers a 10-year warranty on workmanship and equipment, roof leak protection and a 25-year performance guarantee.
      • Payment options: You can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan. 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 for 25 years and include free maintenance and repairs.

      Pros

      • Reliable systems
      • Flexible payment options
      • Comprehensive warranties
      • Daily system monitoring

      Cons

      • Some customer service complaints
      • Occasional installation delays
      • Limited price transparency
      Our pick for great monitoring app

      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 if you run into any issues. We also like that the Curb monitoring app connects to your home's electrical system to give you real-time data about your system. The app lets you remotely turn your smart devices on and off to stop waste and maximize efficiency.

      • “I recently decided to upgrade my home's energy efficiency and I went with Elevation. They educated me on the inefficiencies in my home and how completing the upgrade will provide a return on my investment in a couple of years. It was a no-brainer. The price was right, the crew was helpful and my home is much better at staying cool in the summer months! Would recommend!” — Josh in Gilbert
      • “So glad I chose this company for my [installation]. They went above and beyond to make sure any issues or concerns were taken care of. They were extremely professional, so kudos to Diana. She educated me on the energy report and should see my bill reduced.” — Kayla in Phoenix

      Customers occasionally experience installation delays due to equipment upgrades, local permitting and supply chain issues.

      Elevation specializes in both 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 has 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
      • Quick and efficient installations
      • Free consultation
      • Several trusted brand names
      • Good warranty program

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • 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

      We’ve talked to more than 50 Project Solar 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.

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

      • “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. 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 in Mesa

      The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about some 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: Project Solar specializes in residential solar installation projects. 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

      How we chose the best solar companies in Tempe

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

      Tempe solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Arizonans who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Tempe residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with local and federal incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar installation costs $7,805 to $22,300 in Tempe.

      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 Tempe

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $7,560 to $21,600 in Arizona. Prices in Tempe are comparable, ranging from $7,805 to $22,300 on average.

      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 Tempe, the average cost per watt is $2.23.

      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.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Tempe

      Is solar worth it in Tempe?

      Tempe's desert climate, with very hot summers, makes solar a valuable investment for long-term energy savings. 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 cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment.

      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.

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

      But it doesn’t work out for everyone in the Grand Canyon State. Most areas average 7 to 8 peak sun hours each day. However, lots of shading could make your solar system less efficient.

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

      » 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 Tempe

      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: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look out for red flags — complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews. Companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Tempe are better at navigating the local regulations, permits and available financial incentives.
      • 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? Then, carefully review the proposal. 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 solar benefits without owning the equipment. Eligible homeowners can borrow against home equity to finance a solar panel system.

      • 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

      Arizona has the highest average solar potential of any state and relatively low rooftop solar installation costs. It also has generally solar-friendly policies and a personal tax exemption to help defray the costs of installing rooftop solar systems.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Arizona ranked fourth in 2024

      Solar incentives in Tempe

      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.

      » GREENEST STATES: Arizona ranked 42nd in 2024

      Federal tax credit

      You should also use the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC). 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.

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. 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.

      Additional solar incentives

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

      Tempe solar FAQ

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

      The City of Tempe Community Development Department requires an electrical permit on all residential solar installations. You can submit a building permit application along with other required documents, including site plans, electrical diagrams and panel specifications, through the online Citizen Access Portal. Fees vary depending on the project size and complexity.

      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 Tempe?

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

      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 Tempe?

      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.

      Tempe and the rest of Arizona technically use 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.

      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 Tempe

      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 Tempe, 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 Tempe 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. Elevation
      3. Project Solar

      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 Tempe, 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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