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Best Solar Companies in Virginia

We compared 111 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Blue Raven Solar
      4.7(263)
    • Sunrun
      4.2(3,027)
    • ShopSolar
      4.7(157)

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      Best Solar Companies in Virginia

      A typical solar panel installation in Virginia costs between $10,045 and $28,700, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. That’s a lot of money. Let’s make sure that your installation is reliable, efficient and suitable for Virginia’s climate.

      ConsumerAffairs is here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. Our 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.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,564,720 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.

      The best solar companies reviewed

      Blue Raven Solar and Sunrun are both worth considering for professional residential installations — we suggest comparing a few quotes to see which has the best deal in your area. If you already know what you need for a do-it-yourself project, skip down to ShopSolar.

      Our top solar company picks

      1. Blue Raven Solar: Our top pick overall
      2. Sunrun: Our pick for solar leases
      3. ShopSolar: Our pick for DIY and off-grid projects

      Blue Raven Solar

      4.7
      263 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2014
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best for Installation

      Blue Raven Solar has excellent reviews and transparent pricing. It also stands out for affordable financing programs that can minimize out-of-pocket costs.

      We like Blue Raven’s low-profile panel mounting and sleek cabling for their visual appeal. Plus, the 25-year warranty and productivity guarantee are good for peace of mind after the system is up and running.

      Happy customers praise the company’s quality installations and fair pricing.

      • “The installation was quick and efficient. The installers were polite and informative. They also cleaned up the property afterwards. They were a little late but they made up for it with their efficiency and manners. …” — Cesar in Portsmouth

      • “The crew showed up on time and you can tell they worked very close as a team. The crew was very informative and very professional and friendly. The insulation of the panels seem to go very quickly and neatly. I was very impressed of how easily they were installed and how well they looked once installed. They ensured everything was installed correctly. The electrician ensured the insulation of the panel boxes outside the house and the tie-in to the electrical panel was neat and square. The solar panels look amazing after installation.” — Troy in Yorktown

      • “I am very much satisfied with my choice of installing solar panels. My dealings with Blue Raven was outstanding thus far. They came when they said they would, They answer all my questions and I like the deal they gave me. P.S. The panels don't look bad on my house. That's all I have to say.” — William in Norfolk

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

      Blue Raven Solar offers homeowners an affordable way to go solar with some of the latest technology. The company has a location in Virginia Beach.

      Blue Raven Solar services

      • Consulting and design
      • Professional installations
      • System monitoring
      • Financing solutions

      Installations come with a standard 25-year manufacturer and 10-year workmanship warranty plus a roof penetration warranty. Storage battery warranties vary by manufacturer but are generally between 10 and 15 years. All systems come with a 25-year panel guarantee and a two-year production guarantee. Within that time, Blue Raven will reimburse you for lost energy.

      You can pay upfront and get immediate ownership of the solar panel system. Blue Raven also has some unique in-house payment options:

      • BluePower: This fixed, low monthly payment option lets you go solar without a significant upfront cost. There’s no prepayment penalty, and the plan is transferable to a new homeowner if you ever sell your house.
      • BluePower Plus+: This financing option combines aspects of a solar lease (or PPA) with the flexibility of solar panel ownership. Eligible customers can pay $0 upfront, get 18 months of free solar power and make fixed monthly payments after that. You own the system and are responsible for maintenance.

      Pros

      • Quality solar equipment
      • Flexible payment options
      • No upfront cost options
      • Energy storage options

      Cons

      • Occasional installation delays
      • Some complaints about miscommunication
      Our pick for solar leases

      Sunrun

      4.2
      3,027 reviews
      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Workmanship warranty
      10 years
      Year founded
      2007

      Sunrun is a leading full-service installer with battery storage options. 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 and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. The company provides free maintenance and repairs on leased solar systems. This company also stands out for offering roof leak warranties.

      Sunrun customers generally like the solar equipment options, installation crews and overall value.

      • “Sunrun is best solar company. They are very cost effective company compared to other company. I am so happy to purchase here. Highly recommend them for hassle-free and efficient service. …” — Nikki in Ashburn

      • “They recommended a certain number of panels to get us to whatever and I said I need more. I wanted as many as will fit on the roof, which was a ridiculous number of panels. The guys said they never do that many but they did it all in one day. It was amazing. They were so professional and so efficient. They just knocked it out. It was really impressive. Dealing with Sunrun so far has been super easy. I would tell anyone to try them and I have been.” — Nicole in Bealeton

      Though Sunrun gets overall positive feedback from customers in Virginia, some recent reviews mention issues with billing or customer service.

      Sunrun is a leading residential solar, battery storage and energy services provider in Virginia and other states. Its Brightbox battery storage system works with both Tesla Powerwall and LG Chem lithium-ion batteries.

      Sunrun services

      • Residential solar panel installations
      • Battery storage units
      • 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 95% performance guarantee lasts 25 years. Leased systems typically come with free maintenance and repairs.

      • Cash: You can pay for the system in full upfront.
      • Loan: As of publishing, available discounts include $0 down for some financing plans.
      • Lease: You can lease solar equipment for a minimal upfront payment. Agreements typically last 25 years.

      Pros

      • Custom solar designs
      • Solar storage battery options
      • Daily system monitoring
      • EV charging solutions

      Cons

      • Some communication issues
      • Some billing problems

      ShopSolar

      4.7
      157 reviews
      Buyer's Choice Award Winner
      Max. panel efficiency
      Varies
      Workmanship warranty
      Varies
      Year founded
      2018
      1x Award Winner
      Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

      ShopSolar has plenty of equipment for off-grid, hybrid and mobile lifestyles. You can buy new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks — everything you need for an off-grid or hybrid setup. It’s also a solid option for Virginians looking for a reliable emergency backup power source.

      Satisfied customers like how easy it is to buy from ShopSolar.

      • “The process with ShopSolarKits was efficient. Everything seemed streamlined. I had everything I needed online. They have a great product and it's good value.” — Deana in Clintwood

      • “I had a good experience enrolling with ShopSolar. The reps were very knowledgeable, courteous and professional. I got a hybrid system. It can charge either off solar or off of power line. It’s DIY. It's easy to install. They provided good instructions.” — Mike in Glade Spring

      • “ShopSolar was great all the way through it. I'm well-satisfied with the product I bought and their service. I did everything online. I got a solar battery pack which happened to be a Bluetti. … ” — Dennis in Broadway

      ShopSolar sends detailed installation instructions, but it doesn’t provide professional installation services. Some customers have difficulties with the process, especially if they have little experience with solar or electrical systems.

      » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

      ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment, such as generators, batteries, cables and racks. You can find top-quality brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

      ShopSolar products

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

      Individual manufacturers’ warranties cover all solar equipment. You’ll get the full manufacturer warranty since ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells. 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: ShopSolar partners with Affirm on financing. Customers can make payments every two weeks or once a month for up to 36 months. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR.

      Pros

      • Complete solar packages
      • Lifetime customer support
      • Price match guarantee
      • 30-day return policy
      • Free nationwide shipping

      Cons

      • Some shipping and delivery delays
      • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

      Virginia solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about going solar in Virginia but aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. Our team has talked to dozens of solar customers in the Old Dominion — here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

      Key insights

      In Virginia, a typical residential solar panel system costs $10,045 to $28,700, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for most homeowners buying solar panels in Virginia.

      Jump to insight

      Watch out for door-to-door solar scams. Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      Going solar in Virginia

      Going solar might be easier than you think. Chong in Arlington told us they got a good deal on a loan and also took advantage of the 30% solar tax credit. Now their electric bill is drastically lower.

      » GREENEST STATES: Virginia ranked 22nd in 2024

      What to look for in a solar company in Virginia

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment and comprehensive warranties. Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Virginia. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives.

      • Check certifications: Solar installers in Virginia are required to have a specialized license, called an Alternative Energy System (AES) license, in addition to being duly licensed as a general contractor. You can verify these credentials and certifications through the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. We also suggest hiring NABCEP-certified installers. This shows you the company takes its business seriously.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
      • Read reviews: Reading reviews is the best way to check a company’s track record. 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.
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Virginia.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations, and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company. If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services — ask.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Virginia?

      Average solar panel costs in Virginia typically range from $10,045 to $28,700.

      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, especially if you go off-grid. Permitting, utility fees and maintenance also add to the cost of going solar.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Virginia, the average cost per watt is $2.87.

      The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. Not surprisingly, the smaller your system, the less you pay. A typical Virginia household needs a system with a capacity of 10.95 kW to offset enough energy costs to make solar viable. Here are the average costs by system size in the state.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Virginia

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      You can pay cash, but most people finance solar panels with a solar loan. It works a lot like any other type of loan — there’s an application and approval process, and you pay it back over time (with interest).

      You have the option of getting a lease or power purchase agreement in Virginia. Leasing your solar equipment can minimize the initial cost. But you won’t be eligible for the federal solar ITC since you won’t own the system.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years.

      Virginians can also take advantage of Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing. The program will pay for 100% of your solar installation costs, and you pay it back through a fee on your property taxes. It takes around 10 to 20 years to pay this type of loan back.

      Using a home equity line of credit or loan to finance a solar installation can be another option — home equity interest rates are relatively low, and homeowners can still take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Virginia

      Virginia has a property tax exemption for the value added to your home by solar panels and a statewide solar renewable energy certificate (SREC) program. There are also Charlottesville solar tax credits, Fairfax County solar energy equipment tax exemptions and other local solar incentives.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the most significant financial incentive for Virginians going solar. The ITC reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. 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.

      The ITC applies to both residential and commercial installations, and it includes the cost of the solar panels and other equipment, as well as labor and additional features for monitoring the system.

      Are solar panels worth it in Virginia?

      For many, going solar in Virginia is worth it for reducing energy bills and reliance on local power companies. On average, Virginians with solar panels can avoid $60,802 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      The significant initial investment leads a lot of people to finance their equipment through a solar loan. It’s still worth it as long as your loan payment is cheaper than your current utility bill. For example, Dustin in Jarrell only pays $200 per month for his solar loan, which is about $100 cheaper than what he was paying for electricity before.

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

      However, we’ve also heard about problems with leaks and roof damage caused by the installation of solar panels, leading to frustration and difficulties in getting repairs. As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      We also suggest using The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’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 through Google.

      In the best-case scenario, you save enough to justify the expense and feel good about reducing your carbon footprint. As electric rates continue to rise, there’s more long-term financial stability and sustainability with solar panels. More and more Virginia homeowners are finding that solar power is financially worth it in the long run.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Virginia averages 3.5 to 4 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      Can I get free solar panels in Virginia?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Virginia. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can cost you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

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

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

      Ultimately, deciding between a broker or 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, working directly with a solar installer is best.

      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 fixed rate that’s lower than you would receive without a PPA.
      How does net metering work in Virginia?

      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.

      Net metering also lets you earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to the grid. These credits can offset the cost of electricity consumed at other times.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      In Virginia, homeowners associations (HOAs) are allowed to limit the size and location of your solar panels.

      Methodology

      The Consumer Affairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. 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 Virginia 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: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Reputation and local experience: 10%
      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Virginia. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Virginians’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Our top pick overall: Blue Raven Solar
      2. Our pick for solar leases: Sunrun
      3. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar

      Not sure how to choose?

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        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, "Virginia Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
        2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Virginia.”  Accessed March 29, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Virginia Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Virginia?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
        5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
        6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.

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