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Best Solar Companies in Thornton, CO

We compared 23 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Blue Raven Solar
      3.6(315)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.3(3,802)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.3(87)

    Best Solar Companies in Thornton, CO

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

    Our top 3 solar company picks for Thornton

    1. Best overall: Blue Raven Solar
    2. Our pick for solar leases: Sunrun
    3. Our pick for competitive pricing: Project Solar

    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 Thornton

    Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Thornton residents’ energy needs.

    Our top pick overall

    Blue Raven Solar

    Blue Raven Solar
    3.6
    315 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease, PPA
    Year founded
    2014
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Blue Raven Solar stands out for its exceptional service, innovative equipment and overall value. We've talked to more than 200 verified customers across the country over a recent two-year period: 94% were satisfied with their installation and setup, and 92% were satisfied with the technology.

    • “From consult to installation, Blue Raven was professional, efficient and easy to work with. Highly recommend. The install team were respectful and the electrician was professional and thorough. Cameron, our sales rep, answered all our questions and made us confident we chose the right company. The permitting process was flawless.” — Susan in Thornton

    Blue Raven Solar gets positive feedback from most customers. However, we have heard some complaints about installation issues, including delays in turning on the system, from some reviewers.

    Blue Raven installs top-tier panels, storage batteries and microinverters to maximize energy production. It provides free consultations and custom solar panel systems tailored to your home's energy consumption and roof specifications.

    • Services: The company handles the entire installation process, from obtaining permits to connecting your system to the grid. Monitoring to track your system's performance and maintenance or repair services are available as needed.
    • Warranty information: All systems have a 25-year panel guarantee and a two-year production guarantee. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer.
    • Payment options: You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system. There’s also a unique in-house payment option with no upfront costs, BluePower Plus+, which combines the best aspects of a solar lease with the flexibility of system ownership.
    Pros
    • Efficient installation process
    • Zero-down financing
    • Production guarantee
    • Excellent customer service
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some complaints about miscommunication
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Installation Experience
    Our pick for solar leases

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    4.3
    3,802 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    20 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    We like that Sunrun's leasing program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment. There’s no initial charge for any panels or other equipment, installation or permits.

    • “The experience when I enrolled with Sunrun was better than I expected. The installation went perfectly though it took a while to get hooked online. The power company here is a little slow. Since going solar, we’ve saved a little bit of money.” — Mike in Broomfield

    Make sure you read the fine print carefully. Some customers have said they are not satisfied with the contract and terms.

    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.
    • Warranty information: Sunrun provides 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, but Sunrun leasing plans really set it apart. 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
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional billing issues
    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
    4.3
    87 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. 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.

    • “Project Solar has the cheapest option to go solar. Their sign-up process was smooth and we had no issues. There was a manager assigned to my case and all communication was with this manager. It was very quick and good. They told me the price and that was the final price. Nothing was added. The installers also arrived on the day they were supposed to and installed it half a day.” — Dmitry in Centennial

    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: 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

    How we chose the best solar companies in Thornton

    We took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the semiarid climate, to choose the best solar companies in Thornton, Colorado, 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 Thornton Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Blue Raven Solar logo
    Sunrun logo
    Project Solar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      We’ve talked to hundreds of Coloradans who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Thornton 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 $13,671 in Thornton.

      Jump to insight

      Solar loans, leases and other programs make it easy to go solar with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers in Thornton may falsely claim to be affiliated with an Adams County or Colorado government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Thornton

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $10,002 to $27,882 in Colorado. Prices in Thornton are comparable, ranging from $10,002 to $27,882.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Thornton household needs a system with a capacity of 4.9 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average solar panel costs by system size in Thornton

      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 Thornton?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Colorado if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Thornton homeowners with solar panels can avoid $31,582 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 13.55 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      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 Thornton

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Colorado have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: The Colorado Solar & Storage Association’s COSSA Member Directory is a good place to start. Always check a solar installer’s electrical license with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple quotes from different solar companies to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others — this may indicate lower quality.
      • Verify claims: We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator.
      • 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.

      Going solar in Adams County

      In the legislative session of 2023, the Colorado General Assembly enacted a bill to standardize and streamline the solar permitting process across the state. The bill also stipulates that the maximum fee municipalities can levy on homeowners for such permits can't exceed $500.

      Solar incentives in Thornton

      The ITC expired at the end of 2025.

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for most homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. You can combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Colorado to maximize savings. For instance, you don't have to pay sales tax on solar panels and other renewable energy equipment.

      Thornton solar FAQ

      Will solar panels make my property taxes go up?

      Solar installations are exempt from property tax assessments in Colorado, meaning the value added to your home by solar panels won’t increase your property taxes.

      How does net metering work in Thornton?

      Net metering lets you draw power from the grid when your solar panels aren’t producing enough. In return, you can send excess energy back to the grid for credit. These credits can then be used to offset your electricity bill when your solar panels are not producing enough energy.

      Utility companies in Colorado usually credit customers for the excess electricity their solar panels generate at the same rate they are charged for electricity consumption (often called the retail rate). If you use Xcel Energy, any excess energy at the end of the billing period is carried over to the next month.

      Xcel Energy also offers Solar*Rewards, which is a similar performance-based incentive for homeowners and business owners. If you want to participate in either program, Xcel Energy recommends getting your application approved by its engineering team before starting a solar installation.

      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.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Thornton?

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

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Thornton

      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 Thornton, Colorado. 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 Thornton 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. Blue Raven Solar
      2. Sunrun
      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. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in Thornton, CO." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        2. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Thornton, 2024." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Colorado Solar." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        4. DSIRE, "Colorado Programs." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        5. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Colorado." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        6. Federal Trade Commission, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.
        7. Solar Power World, “Colorado legislature passes bill to streamline solar permitting and inspection.” Accessed Oct. 28, 2024.

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