5 Best Solar Companies in Illinois (2025 Reviews)

Why We Chose StraightUp Solar

StraightUP Solar is the company I would personally choose if I were going solar in Illinois. It’s a smaller, local company that only serves Illinois and Missouri, and it has close to 3,000 installations under its belt in the area. As a smaller company, StraighUp can stay committed to high-quality customer service, as evidenced by its near-perfect customer ratings on the BBB, where it maintains an incredible 4.67-star rating.

StraightUp accepts all of the major financing options to keep solar as accessible as possible — important in a state where the average cost to go solar is close to $26,000, based on our research. It also offers an impressive range of services, including the basics, like panel and battery installations, as well as energy efficiency upgrades, like smart panel installation.

The only real downsides to consider are the lack of a roof leak warranty and the below-average workmanship warranty, but the company’s experience and certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) somewhat make up for these drawbacks.

What I Like About StraightUp Solar

There are a lot of great things to mention about StraightUp Solar, but I think the biggest stand-out is its reputation for high-quality customer service before, during and, most importantly, after installation. The company has some of the best BBB customer ratings I’ve seen from a solar installation company, and the reviews rave about things that I think are crucial to look for in an installer, like the company standing behind its products and services long after installation.

StraightUp Solar gets perfect marks in our company ratings when it comes to standard services and financing options, so a system from this provider should be accessible and affordable, and you’ll be able to customize to your liking with any tier-one panel brand that suits your needs. 

What I Don’t Like About StraightUp Solar

While StraightUp Solar has a nice array of panel brands and standard offerings, it falls a bit short when it comes to auxiliary services. For example, it doesn’t handle roof repair or replacement, so you’ll have to find a third-party roofer to handle any repairs you need before going solar. It also doesn’t offer professional system monitoring, which would be a nice perk, especially in Illinois, where frequent thunderstorms and tornadoes can put added strain on your system.

StraightUp is also lacking a bit when it comes to warranty coverage. It doesn’t offer a roof leak warranty, which I’d typically prioritize in an area like Illinois, where some parts of the state see above-average rainfall and snowfall. Its workmanship warranty also only lasts for 10 years, which is about half the industry average. The company’s experience and NABCEP certification still suggest an expert installation, but I’d really like to see longer formal coverage.

StraightUp Solar Installation Process and Timeline

StraightUp Solar doesn’t mention average installation timelines on its website, but it does detail the process, which is similar to what most other installers follow. You’ll first start with a property assessment, which includes a roof inspection and measurements, as well as an analysis of your roof’s direction, shading on your property and your electric bills to gauge your energy demands. The company will then design a system to meet your needs, pull permits once you sign the contracts and then install and activate your system. StraightUp then stands behind its work and products according to its warranty coverage.

Based on the average timeline and customer reviews, I’d expect your installation to take between 6 and 8 weeks from the initial consultation to system activation.

StraightUp Solar Standard Services & Financing 

25/25

StraightUp Solar gets perfect marks in our ratings when it comes to its standard services and financing options. This category includes a look at core services, like solar panel and battery installation, as well as user monitoring options for customers, as well as the access the company provides to aspiring solar system owners.

First, StraightUp uses an in-house installation team, which I strongly prefer across the board. Having in-house installers means a lower risk of delays and communication issues within the company, as well as a single party to point at to take responsibility if something goes wrong.

StraightUp also installs batteries, which I love to see. In Illinois, batteries aren’t necessary for most customers because all investor-owned utilities in the state are mandated to provide net metering (NEM) at the retail rate. That means you can effectively use your utility provider as a battery, porting excess power to the grid and calling on it for free anytime you need it. In states with less appealing net metering policies, batteries help maximize savings over time, but most residents in Illinois don’t need to worry about this right now. Unfortunately, the credit rate in Illinois is set to decrease in the beginning of 2025, so I do prefer companies to “future-proof” their services by offering batteries now, like StraightUp does.

Finally, StraightUp installs all tier-one panel brands, and many of these include free access to user monitoring via a mobile app. Being able to monitor your system can help you find production issues and other problems early, which can help expedite repairs and reduce system downtime.

Cost and Financing Options

I also love that StraightUp accepts all of the major financing options, including cash, loans, leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs).

I recommend cash purchases to most customers because this option provides the highest long-term savings — an average of around $35,683 in Illinois, based on our research.  Paying in cash is the most expensive option upfront, but you’ll avoid monthly rental charges and interest on your equipment, which makes it the most financially beneficial option overall.

Solar loans make going solar far more accessible because you’re only responsible for a small down payment for your system, so you don’t need to come up with the entire amount right away. Loans do come with interest that adds up to an average of around $5,000 over the life of your loan, but you get the benefit of access to solar without the entire payment upfront. Both cash payments and solar loans also allow you to take the federal investment tax credit (ITC), which is an average potential value of $7,740 in Illinois.

If you can’t make a cash purchase or solar loan work within your budget, StraightUp also accepts leases and PPAs. Leases are like rental agreements for your panels that let you use the energy your system provides for free, whereas you agree to buy electricity at a discounted rate from your installer with a PPA.

Leases and PPAs save far less over time, usually between $4,000 and $5,000 overall, they don’t raise your property value like the ownership options would and they preclude you from taking advantage of the ITC. I generally don’t recommend them for these reasons unless you can’t make a loan or cash payment work, but I’m happy to see that StraightUp accepts them because they make clean energy more widely accessible.

StraightUp Solar Extra Services Offered — 2/5

As I mentioned earlier, StraightUp Solar doesn’t have as many options for add-on services as I’d like to see.

It offers energy efficiency upgrades, including the SPAN smart electrical panels, which can help you reduce your electricity consumption even further and give you control over the energy usage in your home. This isn’t as helpful in Illinois as it is in other states, where electricity prices and consumption are well above average, but it’s still a nice option to have.

StraightUp also installs electric vehicle (EV) chargers. Illinois is the seventh most popular state for EV adoption, and since the trend toward EVs is expected to continue, having access to at-home charging is a nice perk to prepare for the future. Installing an EV charger alongside your system with StraightUp also means you can apply the ITC to that added component as well, potentially reducing the cost of it by 30%.

StraightUp doesn’t handle roofing services, so if your rep determines you need a new roof or a repair before installing panels, you’ll have to find a dedicated roofer to carry out the work for you. This can potentially lead to finger pointing if something goes wrong with your roof — with your roofer blaming the roof penetrations for the issue and your solar installer blaming the roofer. There’s also an increased risk of roof leaks in some parts of Illinois due to above-average precipitation, so this is something to consider carefully when choosing an installer in your area.

StraightUp also doesn’t offer professional system monitoring. Again, this isn’t a major drawback because its panels and inverters will give you access to self-monitoring capabilities, but it would be a nice service to have for maximum peace of mind, especially in Illinois, where thunderstorms and tornado activity put your panels at an increased risk of damage.

StraightUp Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices — 7.5/10

A big reason to go solar, aside from the financial benefit, is to reduce your carbon footprint and improve overall sustainability. While breaking away from electricity generated by fossil fuels will absolutely accomplish that, I still think it’s important to consider the sustainability of the equipment your installer uses. Panel brands that use recycled materials during production, have end-of-life (EoL) recycling programs for used panels and don’t have a history of issues with slave labor, unsafe working conditions or racism in the workplace will provide a greater level of sustainability overall.

StraightUp installs all tier-one panel brands, which means it scores the highest points for a single panel brand in our rating system. Many of the brands, including REC, QCells and Maxeon, use recycled materials in production, have recycling programs and don’t have a documented history of any social or workplace-related issues.

I should also note that StraightUp Solar is a certified B-Corp, and it offsets between 85% and 95% of its company-used energy with solar. It’s also a carbon-neutral company.

StraightUp Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability — 15.85/25

The average solar array in Illinois costs around $25,800 before incentives, and when you’re investing that much in your home, you want to be sure that the equipment will last. That’s why we research all of the panel brands each installer uses based on overall durability, which includes looking at 18 specifications and factors for each. There are two things I recommend prioritizing in Illinois to maximize the longevity and value of your solar array.

First is the max wind load, which tells you the force your panels can face from underneath without sustaining damage. This is important in Illinois because strong winds from thunderstorms and hurricanes can put panels with lower ratings at a greater risk of problems. StraightUp’s panel brands include Maxeon and Silfab, both of which have wind ratings of 5,400 Pascals, which is more than 150% of the industry average of 3,620 Pascals, making them ideal for high-wind areas like Illinois.

Second, I recommend looking at the degradation rate. All panels lose efficiency over time, and the degradation rate tells you how quickly that happens. Most panel manufacturers guarantee between 85% and 92% remaining after 25 years. REC and Maxeon panels are two solid options from StraightUp that sit at the high end of that range. These should generate more power and offset more of your electricity after installation. I think this is especially important for Illinois residents who are serviced by municipal utility companies or electrical cooperatives, as the NEM credit rate is well below the retail rate, so more production means a higher chance of eliminating your electric bill.

Warranties and Guarantees

Warranty coverage is even more crucial, as it provides greater peace of mind that your system won’t experience or cause problems and that you’re covered if it does. There are 4 types of solar warranties to consider.

Equipment warranties come from the manufacturer and protect you from problems arising due to manufacturer defects. In my experience, this is relatively uncommon, but protection is still great to have. The standard equipment warranty covers manufacturer defects for 25 years. Most brands from StraightUp match this, with Maxeon standing out as the industry leader with an incredible 40 years of protection.

Performance warranties guarantee a certain level of efficiency from your panels, with better warranties indicating greater savings over time. The standard in the industry is a 25-year efficiency warranty that guarantees between 85% and 92% of the starting capabilities remaining after that time. Some of StraightUp’s panel brands, like REC and Maxeon, guarantee 92%, making them the best in the industry for long-term performance.

Workmanship warranties cover the installation labor for your system, so these typically come directly from the installer guaranteeing their work. This is especially helpful in Illinois, as poor installation technique is more likely to lead to system damage during the thunderstorms and tornadoes that frequent the Prairie State. The average labor warranty is 12 years, and StraightUp falls a bit short here by offering just a 10-year labor warranty. I will say that the company’s experience and NABCEP certification does suggest that you’ll still get a high-quality installation, but formal warranty coverage would still be nice.

Finally, roof leak warranties protect you from property damage stemming from roof leaks related to the solar panel installation. These are more useful in Illinois than most other states because of the above-average rainfall and snowfall that naturally increase the risk of leaks. Most companies don’t offer roof leak warranties and, unfortunately, StraightUp Solar is among them.

StraightUp Solar Company Reputation — 23.5/25

Illinois is home to 114 solar installers and is the 14th most popular state for solar adoption. With such a high demand, I’ve, unfortunately, seen some companies enter the industry to take advantage only to go out of business a few years later. The worst-case scenario is the company voiding your warranty coverage in the process and no longer offering to service your panels if you need repairs or maintenance. A good way to avoid a company like this is to look at its reputation in the area.

StraightUp Solar has one of the highest company reputation scores I’ve seen in the entire industry, let alone in Illinois. It has 15 years of experience to prove longevity, which, in my opinion, suggests that its future is brighter than a brand new company. Its installers are certified by NABCEP, which demands a higher level of training than is required by the state, and suggests you’ll get a truly professional installation. The company is also an SEIA member, which shows that it’s invested in the industry and is likely in clean energy for more than just profit.

StraightUp Solar is a certified B-Corp, which means it does more than it’s obligated to when it comes to environmental and workplace sustainability. This alone is a great sign that you’re getting a company that cares and not one that’s looking to profit off of you.

The company’s stellar reputation is also reflected in its customer reviews. It has an unprecedented 4.67-star customer rating with the BBB, as well as an A+ score. The company doesn’t have a TrustPilot page or any Google Reviews posted, but the BBB scores alone suggest high-quality service and a company committed to the customer experience.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

As a part of my company analysis, I read through real customer reviews of each provider to see where it excels and where it could stand to improve. The large majority of customer reviews for StraightUp Solar are positive and mention things like honest salesmanship, good communication throughout the process, a respectful installation crew and an unwavering commitment to customer service.

Incredibly, there’s only one negative review for the company on the BBB, and it mentions a higher charge for concrete piers for the customer’s ground mount solar. Importantly, the company responded, apologized for the discrepancy and even noted that it would change its estimate process to account for the issue in the future. To me, this is a clear indication that the company does everything in its power to avoid displeased customers.

I’ll include one positive and one negative customer review below to give you a better idea of the best and worst StraightUp has to offer in terms of customer service.

“Had panels installed on my roof and can’t recommend StraightUp enough. From the design process to install, to the walkthrough afterward, everyone I worked with was generous with their time, answered all my questions and [was] quick to respond to questions. The panels look great on the roof and the system connecting to the house and utility itself is unobtrusive; you don’t really even know it’s there. The App from Enphase gives you [peace] of mind that everything is working [correctly], and you can see real time the [money] you’re saving! Go out and get some solar panels now!!!” — Jonathan S. via BBB

“Beware of surprise costs. We were presented with a $3,500 cost for 3 9-foot piers in concrete for our ground mount array only with a pre-permit approval request. One would think this predictable. We are considering cancellation now (costing at least $1,000) rather than suffer further surprises.” — David W. via BBB

StraightUp Solar Customer Service — 10/10

The final category in our rating system is the only one that’s subjective, and to arrive at this score, I look at what customers like and dislike about the company and the process of going solar with its representatives. StraightUp is a smaller company, so I read through all of its reviews on the BBB.

Customers are overwhelmingly pleased with the company’s service, including the responses they get after installation regarding issues and warranty claims. People are also thrilled with the knowledge and professionalism of the company’s representatives, and I think this is increasingly important in the solar industry as demand rises and more and more companies are coming on the scene to turn a profit. StraightUp gets perfect scores when it comes to customer service, and I personally would have no reservations using this company in my own home, which is the highest praise I could give.

Why We Chose Palmetto Solar

Palmetto Solar would be my first choice if I knew I couldn’t make a cash purchase work and couldn’t qualify for a solar loan. The company accepts cash and financing, but it also accepts leases that come with the ability to switch to buy your system at the 5-year mark. This isn’t something I’ve seen from any other installer, and it’s one that gives you the benefits of a lease — putting no money down — combined with the potential for taking advantage of the higher long-term savings you’d get with another financing option.

Palmetto also offers its Palmetto Protect plan, which includes a 5-year roof leak warranty — a great coverage option to have in Illinois, where annual rainfall and snowfall are both above average — and a 95% system production guarantee to give you peace of mind that your electricity needs will be met for years to come.

Palmetto isn’t perfect, though. It outsources all installation labor, which can lead to delays and frustration with the installation process in some cases, and it also has a relatively small array of products and services available, so it’s not the best if you want a one-stop shop for all things solar and efficiency.

What I Like About Palmetto Solar

Aside from Blue Raven, I think Palmetto Solar has the best financing option available, which includes an innovative approach that combines lease and loan options to keep solar accessible but also give homeowners the best chance of saving money in the long run.

Palmetto also scores quite high in our ratings when it comes to company reputation, as it uses NABCEP installers, is an SEIA member, has 14 years of experience behind it and still maintains above-average customer ratings on the BBB and TrustPilot.

What I Don’t Like About Palmetto Solar

As I mentioned above, Palmetto is lacking when it comes to its services offered. It doesn’t install batteries, which isn’t currently a major downside for most Illinois residents since net metering is available at the full retail rate for customers of investor-owned utilities. However, with the decreased credit rate arriving in Illinois in  2025, I do strongly prefer companies that offer batteries. Palmetto  also doesn’t handle roof work or offer any energy efficiency upgrades.

Palmetto’s warranty coverage is also pretty good and includes a roof leak guarantee, but the workmanship warranty only lasts for 10 years, which is half the industry standard.

Palmetto Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Going solar with Palmetto follows a similar trajectory to what you’d see from most other installers. You’ll first need a rep  from the company to inspect and assess your home, then Palmetto will design a system to suit your needs. Once you sign off on the design and final price, the company will pull permits, have a third-party installer in your area install your equipment and then schedule final inspections before activating your system.

Palmetto doesn’t note how long the process will take from start to finish, but based on industry averages and customer reviews I’ve read through regarding the timeline, I think you could reasonably expect the standard 6 to 8 weeks from initial contact to system activation. It might take a bit longer, though, since Palmetto uses third-party installers, which can lead to some delays.

Palmetto Solar Standard Services & Financing 

17/25

Palmetto scores below average in our ratings when it comes to its standard services and financing. It loses the most points in this area because it doesn’t install solar batteries, so it’s really only a good option if you know you want a panel-only system. As I mentioned before, I don’t consider this as much of a downside in Illinois as I would in many other states. The reason is that solar batteries provide two perks.

First, they allow you to maintain power through outages, which is nice to have in a state like Illinois where severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are common. Second, and more importantly, in my opinion, they allow you to store solar electricity that your panels overproduce and let you call on that energy for free when they underproduce, like at night. On-site storage can help maximize long-term savings, but only in areas that don’t have net metering or good net metering policies. Illinois mandates all investor-owned utilities — which serve most residents — to offer one-to-one net metering as of right now, the best option for the policy in the country. Most Illinois residents won’t see any financial benefit from installing batteries, so I generally don’t recommend them in the state. However, they’ll become more of a necessity in January 2025, when the credit rate is set to decline for all customers in Illinois.

Palmetto also doesn’t handle roof replacements or repairs. It’s not a good financial decision to install panels over an old or damaged roof because you’ll soon have to pay for removal and replacement to address your roof. Solar installers who handle roof work in-house can get everything from the roof replacement to the solar panel installation done for you. This is more convenient, and it also means a single company is responsible for any issues that go wrong, so there’s no opportunity for finger-pointing.

Palmetto also lost some points in our standard services category because it doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades, like smart electrical panels, insulation, or window and door services. I personally love to see solar companies offering these options, as it helps customers make their homes as efficient as possible and increases the chance of eliminating electric bills.

Palmetto does install EV chargers — which is great to see in Illinois, one of the top states for EV adoption — and it also gives you access to the Palmetto app, which lets you monitor your system for problems to get solutions in place more quickly, once again helping you get the most savings possible from your system.

Cost and Financing Options

Palmetto accepts cash purchases and solar loans, as well as solar leases through its LightReach program. I think it’s important to highlight why cash and loan options are the most beneficial, but I’m also a big fan of Palmetto’s lease structure.

Paying for your system in cash is always going to lead to the highest long-term savings because you avoid the interest of a loan and see the fastest payback period possible. A cash purchase leads to an average lifetime savings of $36,683 in Illinois, according to our research, which is well above the national average. Paying in cash also means you’ll own your panels and can take advantage of the federal investment tax credit, an average potential savings of $7,740 in Illinois. However, this option does come with the highest upfront costs, making it the least accessible.

Solar loans are the next best option, in my opinion. They’re much more accessible because you’re only responsible for a small down payment, usually a few thousand dollars as opposed to the full cost of the system. They still lead to panel ownership, so you get access to the ITC, and they won’t complicate the sale of your home, like a lease could. However, you will pay interest on your loan, which averages around $5,000 total, so your lifetime net savings will be significantly lower — an average of around $31,683 — than if you paid in cash.

I generally don’t recommend leases unless it’s the only option that works for you, and it’s the most likely to, as it usually requires $0 down. Lease agreements also often come with free panel maintenance and repairs, but the lifetime savings are only around $5,000, on average, so you’ll miss out on over $26,500 as opposed to using a solar loan. Leases also don’t let you take the ITC, so that’s another potential $7,740 you leave on the table.

With that being said, I do think Palmetto is a good choice if you know you need to lease your system. The company is one of the only ones I’ve ever seen offering a buy-out program with its leases, so you can get the upfront benefits of a lease, like putting no money down, and still have the potential to switch to another financing option after 5 years.

Palmetto Solar Extra Services Offered 

2/5

Palmetto also scores below average when it comes to the add-on services and products it offers. As I mentioned, Palmetto doesn’t handle roof work, so if you need roof repair or replacement before installing panels, you’ll have to deal with the inconvenience of vetting a local roofing company and coordinating to have the work done before going solar. Having 2 companies working on your roof can also lead to finger-pointing if there’s an issue and neither wants to take responsibility for the problem. Roof-related issues are more of a risk in Illinois than most other states, as the annual precipitation is above average.

Palmetto also doesn’t provide access to any energy efficiency options, which can help maximize the value and savings you see from your solar array, especially with older homes. I like seeing companies offer efficiency-boosting services, as it shows that they get the “big picture” and know that sustainability and savings have more to do with a holistic approach than cramming as many solar panels on your roof as possible.

Palmetto does offer professional monitoring for systems under its Palmetto Protect program, which gives you greater peace of mind that production issues will be caught and addressed sooner to minimize the loss of savings. It also installs EV chargers, which I think is a big deal in Illinois, given that it’s the 7th most popular state for EV adoption. You can have Palmetto install your charger alongside your other equipment so that you can apply the ITC to that add-on equipment, as well. With the average battery price sitting around $10,000, that’s around $3,330 in potential savings.

Palmetto Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Converting your home to solar is going to have a net-positive impact on the environment because you’ll be reducing the energy you use that’s produced by burning fossil fuels and trading it for renewable energy from the sun. However, I still think it’s important to consider the sustainability of the products your installer uses. I look for installers that use products from manufacturers that include recycled materials in their production lines, have recycling programs for its old equipment, are, ideally, manufactured in the U.S. and don’t have a history of ethical or social issues in the workplace.

Palmetto installs panels manufactured by REC and QCells, both of which tie other industry leaders for being the most sustainable in the industry. They both use recycled materials in production, have end of life recycling programs and don’t have a history of racism, forced labor, unfair wages or child labor in their factories. They both lose some points, thought, because neither is predominantly manufactured in the U.S. 

Palmetto Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

17.85/25

With the average cost of a solar panel system in Illinois sitting around $25,800 before incentives, it’s crucial to consider the reliability of the equipment you’re installing, as well as the warranty coverage you get for the components. When it comes to quality and reliability, we research and rate individual panel brands based on 11 metrics, and I think 2 in particular should be the top priority when deciding which brand and installer is right for you.

First, I recommend looking at the max wind load rating, which is a measurement of how much upward force from wind your panels can endure without sustaining permanent damage. This is important in Illinois because your system is likely to see high wind speeds more often than they would in most other states due to the frequent thunderstorm and tornado activity. The standard wind load rating among the top panel brands is 3,520 Pascals. The REC and QCells panels Palmetto installs exceed this at 4,000  and 3,600 Pascals, respectively, making them some of the best panels for Illinois residents, in my opinion.

Second, I suggest looking at the panel degradation rates. All panels lose efficiency over time, but the higher the degradation rates, the less power your panels will generate over time, and lower production leads to decreased savings. Most tier-one panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of their panels’ efficiency will remain after 25 years. REC is an industry leader in this regard, guaranteeing the full 92%, and QCells is just above 90%, putting it near the top. As such, I think both brands from Palmetto will serve Illinois residents well in the long term and will help continue to offset the above-average electricity prices in the area.

Warranties and Guarantees

Warranty coverage is where the real peace of mind comes from, though. I consider four different warranty options that are common in the industry when evaluating solar installers and the equipment they use.

First, I look at equipment warranties, also called manufacturer warranties. These protect you from damage and dipping efficiency caused by manufacturer defects. Panel defects are somewhat rare with tier-one panels, but they can absolutely happen, and having warranty coverage for them helps ensure your investment is protected.

Second, I look at efficiency warranties, which also come from the manufacturer. As I mentioned above, most manufacturers guarantee between 85% and 92% of the panel’s efficiency will remain after 25 years, and both REC and QCells panels from Palmetto guarantee close to that maximum to ensure long-term performance and savings. The Palmetto Protect program also guarantees your system as a whole will generate 95% or more of the estimated production in your contract to provide even more peace of mind. Most installers don’t offer this added performance warranty.

Next, I look at workmanship warranties, which guarantee that you won’t run into any problems caused by the installation labor and technique. This is especially helpful for keeping your system protected from the high wind speeds your panels could be subjected to in Illinois from frequent thunderstorms and tornado activity. The industry average is a 12-year workmanship warranty. Unfortunately, Palmetto falls short here by offering a 10-year workmanship warranty. Palmetto does use NABCEP-certified installers, though, which means a bit more peace of mind that a highly experienced tech will be installing your system.

Finally, I consider roof leak warranties, which insulate you from repair costs caused by leaks through the roof penetrations created to install your system. These are more valuable in Illinois than they would be in most other states because of the above-average rainfall and snowfall the state sees. Most installers don’t offer these, so I was happy to see that the Palmetto Protect coverage includes a 5-year roof leak guarantee.

Palmetto Solar Company Reputation 

21.5/25

Illinois is the 14th most popular state for solar adoption and is home to over 110 installation companies, so a company’s reputation within the local solar market speaks volumes about its ability to stay relevant and affordable among so much competition. Unfortunately, in areas like Illinois that see a high demand for solar, you’re more likely to see companies come onto the scene to turn a profit. Not only are these companies more likely to go out of business and void your warranty coverage, but they’re also more likely to provide poor customer service in the meantime.

Thankfully, Palmetto scores quite well when it comes to company reputation. It has been around since 2010, so it has almost 15 years of experience and a successful track record that suggests longevity of the company and its warranties. It also uses NABCEP-certified installers who go through training beyond what’s mandated by the state, so you’re more likely to get a quality installation. Palmetto is also an SEIA member, which shows a financial investment in the solar industry and, once again, suggests longevity.

One of the best ways to determine a company’s willingness to put future customers first is to look at how it has treated past customers. Palmetto has an A+ rating and an above-average 3.38-star customer rating with the BBB, as well as an above-average 3.7-star rating with TrustPilot. I should note that it only has a single rating on TrustPilot, which is a 5-star review that has been adjusted downward for lack of reviews. It’s BBB score, though, is based on over 200 reviews, which is outstanding.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I like to get an idea of how each solar installer I review actually handles customer service, so I read through dozens of reviews on sites like the BBB to see where the company excels and where things seem to go wrong. Positive reviews for Palmetto mention professionalism and a seamless planning and installation process that yields the expected savings. Negative reviews mention aggressive sales tactics, potentially misleading documentation and claims and, in some cases, underperforming systems. It seems like the third-party installation team assigned to your solar project plays an important role in your overall experience, which is one reason I’m not a fan of companies outsourcing the installation labor.

I’ll include one positive and one negative Palmetto Solar review below so that you can see the best and worst this company has to offer.

“The installation process unfolded as expected. No issues. Very happy with the process and results. Production of the system is on par with the predictions. The 30% tax rebate made the purchase a profitable and environmentally friendly plan.” — Jeff L. via BBB

“Within 3 years of having solar panels, my inverter has broken twice, meaning that my panels aren’t producing any energy. This takes months for them to replace. Also, I have been paying an electricity bill every month the same amount I was paying before solar panels were installed. Customer service is of no help.” — Simone J. via BBB

Palmetto Solar Customer Service 

8/10

The last metric we use to evaluate solar installation companies is a rating I assign to each company myself. I base this on my experience during a secret shopper call, as well as on the many reviews I read through that indicate whether or not the company’s customer service could use some improvement.

My secret shopper call to Palmetto went well, and I’m happy to report that the representative was knowledgeable, able to answer questions on the phone and was friendly and courteous. They did ask me to schedule an in-person property assessment, but I didn’t feel pressured at any point to accept.

I did deduct some points from Palmetto for its customer service based on some of the reviews I read. It seems like the company does make use of aggressive marketing and sales tactics in some cases, and I had to consider that some customers felt misled by the sales representatives. When I went solar, my rep was overtly honest and open and made sure I understood everything I was signing. I don’t expect you to get the same from Palmetto in all cases. Additionally, the use of third-party installers does seem to lead to some poor customer experiences in some cases, but it depends on the installation company assigned to your home.

Why We Chose Windfree Solar

I’m generally a big fan of local solar installers because they tend to provide better customer service, and in some cases, they understand the local needs of homeowners better than larger, national companies. This can lead to greater savings in some cases, and representatives might be able to help you take advantage of all of the local solar incentives in your area. Some examples of Illinois solar incentives that a company like Windfree may be able to navigate more readily include the Illinois Shines Program and the Illinois Solar for All Program, which is geared toward making solar more accessible to low-income residents.

Windfree Solar also has some of the highest customer ratings I’ve seen from an Illinois solar installer, which suggests that it will provide best-in-class customer service and support throughout your entire experience.

On the other hand, Windfree doesn’t offer any add-on services, so it’s really only a good option for homeowners who just want panels or panels and on-site storage. It’s also severely lacking when it comes to warranty coverage, as there’s no workmanship warranty and no roof leak warranty, which means less peace of mind overall.

What I Like About Windfree Solar

Windfree Solar is a small, local company, so going solar through them means supporting a truly local business. Its small size also means that it’s able to provide the kind of customer service you just can’t get from a large national company. You’re a real customer rather than a number, and the near-perfect 4.6-star customer rating on Google Reviews is proof of the commitment the company has to its customers.

Windfree also accepts all of the major financing options to help keep solar affordable and accessible to all, and it works with a wide range of solar panel brands, which allows you to customize your system based on upfront cost, maximum power output or another metric that will work best for your specific property.

What I Don’t Like About Windfree Solar

The biggest downside to going solar with Windfree, in my opinion, is that you don’t get the same warranty coverage you would from most other installers. There’s no workmanship warranty and no roof leak warranty, and these are pretty significant drawbacks, especially in Illinois, where extreme weather is more common than it is in other states. Thunderstorms, tornadoes and above-average precipitation can all expose issues with your installation more quickly than in other states.

Windfree also doesn’t offer any of what we consider add-on services. If you need roof work before going solar, or want an EV charger or energy efficiency upgrades, you’ll have to turn to another company.

Windfree Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Windfree doesn’t have an estimated timeline for its installation process on its website, but based on the size of the company and the customer reviews I read that mentioned the provider’s expediency, I’d expect it to take the typical 6 to 8 weeks.

The installation process itself is pretty standard, too. You’ll have an in-person inspection, during which a tech will gather information about your property so that the design team can create a system that will suit your particular needs. Once you sign the contract, the company will pull permits and then have an in-house installation team install all of your equipment according to the specifications. Finally, Windfree will activate your system, and your panels will start generating power for your home.

Windfree Solar Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

Windfree gets near-perfect marks when it comes to its standard services and financing options. It uses an in-house installation team, which can help avoid communication issues over going with a company that coordinates with third parties. Having an in-house team also means you’re more likely to have a positive overall experience with professional installers.

Windfree installs solar batteries, which can be helpful for maximizing long-term savings if you’re serviced by a municipal electric company or an electric cooperative. However, I recommend you check to see your net metering program before you decide on on-site storage. Solar batteries are expensive and only provide a single benefit right now — power during blackouts — if you have access to one-to-one net metering. Any customers in Illinois serviced by an investor-owned utility likely don’t need batteries to save if they go solar before January 2025. However, I do like that Windfree offers batteries so that other Illinois residents who don’t have a one-to-one net metering policy can still get the maximum financial benefit from their systems. It also will help keep the company a viable option after the credit rate decreases.

The equipment that Windfree works with will give you access to a solar monitoring app, which lets you track your system’s performance. This can be helpful for identifying low performance and uncovering problems early before they cut significantly into your savings.

Cost and Financing Options

Windfree accepts cash payments and solar loans, so anyone looking for leases or PPAs will need to turn to another company. I don’t think this is a major downside, as paying in cash or with a loan is going to yield the highest savings and greatest benefits overall, but I would like to see $0-down solar financing options available for the sake of accessibility.

Of the two options available from Windfree, I strongly recommend a cash purchase. Paying in cash is the least affordable option upfront, as you’ll owe the entire cost at once — an average of $25,800 in Illinois. However, you’ll avoid the interest of a loan, saving you an average of $5,000 over the life of your system. Cash payments let you take advantage of the ITC, providing an average potential savings of $7,740 in Illinois, and they will boost your home value if you go to sell your home.

Solar loans are more accessible because they only require a small down payment and a credit check rather than the full amount upfront. They also come with many of the same benefits, including access to the ITC, a bump to your property value and impressive long-term savings. However, you will end up paying an average of around $5,000 more for your solar array in the long run because of the interest.

Windfree Solar Extra Services Offered 

0/5

Windfree is really lacking when it comes to the add-on services available. In fact, it gets no points in our rating system for the add-ons we typically look for in a provider.

It doesn’t handle any roof work in-house, so you’ll need to coordinate with a local roofer if you need roof work done before it’s safe to install solar panels. This can be a hassle, and it requires more time on your part to sort through and vet roofing companies. Using two companies for roof and solar work also means the companies could each blame the other in the case of a leak or other issue, which can lead to delays in getting repairs done.

Windfree doesn’t install EV chargers, which is a shame to see in a state like Illinois, where the EV adoption rate is well above the national average. You could always add at-home charging in from another installer, but getting it done alongside your panel install would mean you could apply the ITC to the cost of the charger as well, effectively reducing the cost by up to 30%.

Windfree also isn’t the company for you if you want to maximize your home’s efficiency alongside your panel installation to get the most value out of your system. Windfree doesn’t offer electric panel upgrades or any other options that would boost your home’s efficiency or reduce your electricity consumption. With the cost of electricity in Illinois sitting above the national average, it would be nice to see the provider offer some efficiency upgrades.

Finally, Windfree doesn’t include professional monitoring for its systems. You do get access to the self-monitoring app from the manufacturers Windfree works with, but the responsibility of tracking performance and identifying production issues will be yours, which is less convenient than having an expert do it for you.

Windfree Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Going solar is going to have a positive impact on the environment, but I still think it’s important to pay attention to the sustainability of your installer and the manufacturers of the equipment it uses. Solar manufacturers that use recycled materials during production, have recycling programs available for used panels and don’t have a documented history of poor working conditions, unfair wages or racism or slave labor in the workplace are, overall, more sustainable and increase your positive impact on the world around you.

Windfree installs panels from REC, QCells, Jinko, LONGi, Heliene and URE. In our solar panel reviews, REC and QCells tie the best in the industry in terms of sustainability. The only area they lose points is for manufacturing outside of the U.S. LONGi scores a bit lower because it doesn’t use recycled materials in its manufacturing process, and Jinko is even lower because it was recently cited in an investigation for using forced labor. Heliene and URE aren’t tier-one panel brands, so I’d personally go with a different brand. REC and QCells would be my top picks from Windfree.                                                                                                             

Windfree Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

10.85/25

I assess the quality and reliability of the panels each installer uses based on 11 metrics related to performance, and I also take a look at 4 types of warranty coverage that are available for solar arrays to see what kind of long-term performance and peace of mind you can expect from each installer. Unfortunately, Windfree has one of the lowest ratings in our solar company reviews, specifically when it comes to the warranty coverage available.

Of the 11 metrics I look at for solar panel performance, I think 2 are especially crucial for Illinois residents to consider: the max wind load rating, and the degradation rates for panels.

The max wind load tells you the amount of force your panels can resist from underneath, which, generally, will only be applied by wind forces. Much of Illinois is prone to severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, so the higher the wind rating of a panel, the better suited it is for Illinois homes, in particular. Of the tier-one panel brands Windfree Solar installs, REC and QCells have the best wind load ratings at 4,000 and 3,600 Pascals, respectively. For comparison, the average among tier-one panels is 3,520. Both of these brands should suit your home well, even in the extreme weather it may see.

The degradation rate tells you how much of the panel’s starting efficiency will be lost over time. With above-average electricity prices in Illinois, lower degradation rates will mean more electricity generated in the long run and more savings over time than you’d see in most other states. Most panels guarantee between 85% and 92% of the starting efficiency remaining after 25 years. REC is the best option from Windfree in this regard, as the panels guarantee the full 92% after that time. QCells guarantees 90.58%, which is still outstanding. All of the other options sit under that 90% mark, which will ultimately mean slightly lower savings over the life of your system.

Warranties and Guarantees

Since solar panels are expensive no matter where you live, any solar customer should pay close attention to the warranties offered by their solar panel manufacturers and installers. These will help provide peace of mind that your system will continue serving you, usually for decades to come, and almost always longer than the average solar payback period in Illinois — around 11 years, according to our research. I think it’s important to look at 4 different types of warranties when evaluating solar installers.

First is the manufacturer’s warranty. As the name suggests, this comes from the panel manufacturer, and it covers manufacturer defects that could lead to panel or inverter failure. Most manufacturers of tier-one panels provide a 25-year equipment warranty. REC and QCells both meet this standard, and LONGi and Jinko fall short with 12-year manufacturer warranties.

Second is the performance warranty, which guarantees that your panels will retain a certain level of production over time, even as the equipment naturally degrades. I think this is more important than equipment warranties in Illinois because it helps ensure that your above-average electricity costs will continue to be offset. Most manufacturers include a 25-year performance warranty that guarantees somewhere between 85% and 92% of the panel’s original efficiency over that time. REC panels from Windfree guarantee the full 92%, QCells guarantees 90.58% and LONGi and Jinko each guarantee 89.4%. REC is the top performer, but all of these panels should suit you well in Illinois.

Third, I consider the workmanship warranty, which comes directly from the installer in most cases. This covers the labor to install your panels and ensures that the installation process will not cause damage to your system components. In a place like Illinois, I think this is especially helpful because strong winds from tornadoes and thunderstorms can put added stress on your equipment and uncover workmanship problems more quickly. The standard workmanship warranty is 12 years, and this is one area Windfree really falls short, as it doesn’t offer any labor warranty at all.

Finally, I look for roof leak warranties, which guarantee that the roof penetrations made to install your panels will stand up to rain and snow, both of which fall in above-average quantities in Illinois. Most companies don’t offer roof leak warranties, and, unfortunately, Windfree is one of them.

Windfree Solar Company Reputation 

18.5/25

In a competitive solar market like the one in Illinois, a company’s reputation can speak volumes about its commitment to quality customer service and the likelihood that you’ll have a positive experience going solar. I’m happy to report that, despite the below-average warranty coverage you get from Windfree, most customers are overwhelmingly pleased with the service.

Windfree Solar was established in 2009, meaning it has an incredible 15 years of experience. Longevity in the solar industry suggests a company’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing solar landscape, as well as its future success, which can help keep your warranties and ongoing service intact. I also look for NABCEP certification and SEIA membership when evaluating companies, as these can help further establish a provider’s commitment to clean energy and proper installation technique. Unfortunately, Windfree doesn’t use NABCEP-certified installers, and it’s not an SEIA member.

Where Windfree shines in regards to company reputation, though, is in its customer ratings. It has an A rating with the BBB, as well as a near-perfect 4.6-star rating on Google Reviews. This is well above the average rating for a solar installer. I’ve seen many local companies with 2- to 3-star ratings, so the fact that Windfree has just 6 negative reviews out of 90 is a big deal. Windfree doesn’t have any reviews on the BBB or TrustPilot, but since this is out of the company’s control, we didn’t deduct any points.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I also read through dozens of Windfree Solar reviews to see what customers loved and where the company could stand to improve. Positive reviews mentioned things like ongoing communication throughout the planning and installation, an honest and informative sales process and a clear and accurate explanation of what the customer could expect in terms of the installation timeline and, more importantly, long-term savings. Negative reviews mention that the service after installation is often delayed, and some customers mention poor communication after the installation is completed.

I’ll include a review from each end of the spectrum below to give you an idea of the best and worst you can expect from Windfree.

“Spent weeks looking into solar companies when I narrowed it down to a few to meet with. After speaking with Windfree, I got the best feeling from our conversations. Helped [that] they also had the best price. [The representative] was easy to talk to and wasn’t pushy in any manner. They even gave an option to pay a little more to have the conduit piped through my attic instead of on the outside of the roof, which is a huge eyesore that you don’t realize with other companies until after they do the job. The expectations were set and he didn’t play games to make it seem like it would get done faster than it would actually take to get the paperwork signed. The installers were friendly and professional. There were some minor issues after the install, but Windfree and the electric contractor took care of things quickly.  Would recommend.” — Craig T. via Google Reviews

“While the installation was fine, it took them a month to provide me a link to install the app. And now, the app and the battery they installed are not working as intended. It’s been two months, and all I can get from them is “someone is looking into this”. So my advice would be to not use them if you plan to have a battery on top of your solar panels. And keep your fingers crossed everything goes smoothly. They clearly have follow-up issues.” —Aurelien S. via Google Reviews

Windfree Solar Customer Service 

10/10

The last portion of our company review is a subjective score that I assign to each provider, which I base on a call to the company acting as a secret shopper, as well as the specifics of the reviews I read through when evaluating the company.

The call to Windfree was a pleasant one. I got connected with a knowledgeable and friendly representative right away when I called, and it was one of the most promising conversations I had with a solar company. They answered questions, were upfront about solar batteries not being necessary in most cases in Illinois and didn’t seem pushy in any way.

The mostly positive reviews corroborate these findings. The large majority of customers rave about the communication and honesty they experienced throughout the process, and although there do seem to be some problems maintaining contact and fixing issues after the installation, for the most part, the company seems to be on top of everything. Provided you understand the disappointing lack of warranty coverage, I think Windfree is a solid choice for going solar in Illinois.

Why We Chose SunRun

SunRun is a company I’d seriously consider if I knew that I wanted a lease because it offers a few appealing perks for customers who choose this financing option. I’ll say again that I don’t recommend a lease, but if you know it’s the only option that will work for you and your budget, I think SunRun is a company you should consider. You get more than double the warranty coverage for the installation labor when you lease with the company as opposed to using cash or a loan, plus free company monitoring for your system.

With that being said, I’m not a big fan of SunRun promoting leases like this because, ultimately, paying with cash or a loan is more beneficial for customers in the long run. SunRun has also had some issues with customer service following installation, specifically related to delayed repairs, and it has been the target of class-action lawsuits in the past related to aggressive sales tactics and misleading marketing practices. I think it’s crucial to do your research and understand the pros and cons of solar before contacting SunRun. Ideally, I’d like to see companies being honest about their products and services, as this leads to a better customer experience and a healthier solar industry as a whole.

What I Like About SunRun

The biggest upsides to choosing SunRun, in my opinion, are the additional perks you get when you lease your system. Specifically, SunRun offers free maintenance and repairs for the life of your lease — 25 years — and the company includes a 25-year warranty for equipment and workmanship with leased systems, which is 15 years longer than what you’d get if you bought your equipment or financed with a solar loan. SunRun also includes professional system monitoring with leased systems, so not only will you have superior warranty coverage, you’ll also have an expert monitoring team looking for problems that it will then fix at no cost to you. This means ultimate peace of mind that you’ll see no out-of-pocket costs for the life of the lease.

SunRun also has some appealing products that I haven’t seen from any other installer. Namely, it has an exclusive deal with Ford to provide two-way EV chargers for the Ford F-150 Lightning, which lets you charge your truck with your panels and also use your EV as a backup battery during power outages. This is a great way to get the benefits of a backup battery combined with the savings you’d see from an EV. Since batteries aren’t necessary to maximize savings for most Illinois customers, I think this is an outstanding option to avoid having to pay for a standalone battery while still getting the perks it would offer.

What I Don’t Like About SunRun

One issue I have with SunRun is that it contracts out the installation labor to local solar companies. Most large, national companies do this, but it can lead to communication problems, delays and even finger-pointing if something goes wrong. SunRun appears to have cleaned up its customer review ratings in the past few years, which is great to see, but it has had a history of poor review ratings due to delays in getting problems covered under warranty fixed.

SunRun also isn’t the best company if you want to maximize your financial upside by buying your panels outright or using a loan to go solar. If you choose one of those options, you only get a 10-year warranty for labor, which is half the industry average.

Additionally, while SunRun has obviously made efforts to improve its customer review ratings, it still has a lot of recent reviews on the BBB and TrustPilot, with 4,500 complaints filed with the BBB in the last 3 years. It’s not fair to compare a massive company like SunRun to a local installer based on filed complaints simply because it does a lot more business and has the capacity to receive more complaints, but this is above-average even when compared to other similarly-sized companies. Momentum Solar is reasonably similar in its size, for example, and it has about a fifth of the complaints filed with the BBB.

SunRun Installation Process and Timeline

SunRun provides a general timeline of between 8 weeks and 6 months from your first contact with the company to the day your panels are activated and start producing power. This is longer than I’ve seen from some other providers, but the company does note that the steps that takes the longest — between 5 and 14 weeks — include the permitting process and the final inspections for interconnection. These steps are largely out of any installer’s hands, so the long timeline isn’t solely a reflection on how quickly SunRun works.

The process itself is similar to what you’d see from most other installers. You’ll have an initial inspection during which a rep will inspect your home and measure your roof. SunRun will then design your system, have you sign your contract and then pull permits. Once approved, SunRun will send a third-party installer to your home to install everything, which takes between 2 and 5 days (a little longer than many other companies that take 1 to 3 days). Finally, SunRun will schedule final inspections before activating your system.

SunRun Standard Services & Financing 

22/25

SunRun ticks most of the boxes when it comes to providing the core services and financing options I look for in a solar company. The only reason it loses points in this section is because it uses third-party installers instead of an in-house installation team. Using third parties is more likely to lead to customer service problems and variances in the overall customer experience. Having an additional party involved in the installation can cause communication breakdowns, and there can be issues with one of the companies taking responsibility if something goes wrong.

Aside from using third-party installers, SunRun gets maximum points when it comes to its services and financing options. First, it installs solar batteries — specifically, Tesla Powerwalls. Most customers in Illinois are serviced by investor-owned utilities, which are required to provide one-to-one net metering, effectively taking away the savings that batteries could otherwise provide. I don’t suggest batteries in Illinois for this reason, but I do like that SunRun offers them because they do still provide the benefit of maintaining electricity through outages, and they’re still financially beneficial for customers of municipal electric companies and electric cooperatives that don’t have to offer the same net metering perks. As I mentioned before, the net metering policy is set to decline in Illinois in January 2025, so having access to batteries will help keep SunRun a solid option even after that takes effect.

SunRun also gives all customers access to the mySunRun app, which lets you monitor your system remotely and make payments on your equipment. Self-monitoring is a good thing to have because you could potentially identify issues with production that could cut into your savings. More importantly, SunRun includes professional monitoring with all of its systems, which takes the burden of monitoring off of you and still ensures your system performs as expected.

Cost and Financing Options

SunRun notes on its site that the typical cost for an average solar array is around $25,000, which is right in line with the average in Illinois, based on our research. Of course, system prices will vary based on size and the equipment you install alongside your panels.

SunRun also accepts cash purchases, solar loans and solar leases, which covers all of the options I look for from installers.

If possible, I recommend you go with a cash purchase because it provides the greatest benefit. You’ll see the highest savings — an average of over $35,600 in Illinois — your property value should increase and ownership won’t complicate the sale of your home. The only downside to paying in cash, of course, is that it demands the largest upfront payment.

The next best option, in my opinion, is a solar loan. This will still lead to panel ownership and much higher savings than a lease would provide, but the interest you’ll pay on the loan will cut into your total savings. Interest often adds up to around $5,000, so your long-term savings should be around $30,600. However, you’ll usually only be on the hook for a small down payment, so provided you pass the required credit check, it’s a more accessible option than paying cash.

SunRun provides some added benefits for leasing customers, like longer labor warranties and free panel maintenance and repairs, but I still would only recommend a lease as a last resort if you can’t make a cash purchase or solar loan work. Leases don’t let you take the investment tax credit, as paying cash or with a loan would, so you’ll miss out on an average effective savings of $7,740 based on the cost of solar in Illinois. Plus, leases can complicate the sale of your home, as the buyer will need to assume the lease payments, or you’ll need to pay an early cancellation fee, which can be substantial. Leases are the most accessible option, though, as they’re no-money-down options, so I’m still pleased to see SunRun accepting them.

SunRun Extra Services Offered 

3/5

SunRun also scores quite well when it comes to the non-standard service and equipment options. It loses some points in our ratings because it doesn’t handle roof repairs or replacements. If your roof isn’t in good condition with at least a decade of useful life left, installing solar panels could end up costing you more overall because you’d need to pay for and coordinate a panel removal at some point to replace your roof. Solar installers that handle roof work make it easier and more convenient to get everything done at once for peace of mind, which allows you to avoid the frustration of finding and coordinating with a separate roofing company.

SunRun does score some points in our extra services review section because it provides access to energy efficiency upgrades in addition to solar panel installation. Namely, you can choose to install the SPAN Smart Electrical Panel, which gives you remote control over your electrical system and consumption, allowing you to reduce overall energy usage and potentially boost your savings further.

It installs EV chargers, too, including standard chargers and the Ford F-150 Lightning two-way charger, which is a product I really hope other installers will start including in their services. Illinois is one of the top states for EV adoption, so the option for installing an EV charger along with your system can help you prepare for the future and apply the ITC to the charger, as well, effectively saving you 30% on the cost.

Finally, SunRun includes professional system monitoring for all of its customers. This is a nice perk to have because it means issues with production should become evident immediately, allowing you to get a fix underway sooner and continue to maximize your utility bill savings.

SunRun Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Going solar is going to reduce your carbon footprint and have a positive impact on the environment, but that doesn’t mean the solar industry — specifically, panel manufacturers — shouldn’t do their part prior to installation to minimize emissions and pollution. I assess each provider based on the panel brands they install and how sustainable they are. I look for manufacturers that use recycled materials in the manufacturing process, have recycling programs for used panels and don’t have a history of workplace issues, like forced labor, child labor, racism or unfair pay.

SunRun works with panels from QCells, Canadian Solar and REC, all of which tie for the best in the industry in terms of sustainability. All three brands are manufactured primarily outside of the U.S., so they lose some points in our ratings, but none have a history of problems related to social inequity or poor working conditions, and all of them use recycled materials and make an effort to make their products more recyclable at the end of their lifespan.

SunRun Equipment Quality & Reliability 

16.65/25

I also assess each installer’s preferred brands based on their quality and overall reliability in the long run. I use EcoWatch’s solar panel review methodology to compare brands, which includes a review of 11 metrics related to performance and longevity, as well as a review of each installer’s warranty coverage spread across 4 categories.

Of the 11 metrics I use to compare solar panel brands for quality and reliability, I think two are especially important for Illinois residents. The first is the max wind load, which tells you the upward force your panels can resist in strong winds. Much of Illinois sees above-average thunderstorm and tornado activity, so strong winds are a distinct issue to consider in your area. Canadian Solar is the only one of the brands SunRun installs that has a below-average wind load rating of 2,400 Pascals, compared to the industry average of 3,520 Pascals. QCells sits slightly above the average at 3,600 Pascals, and REC is the best suited for the weather in Illinois with a wind load rating of 4,000 Pascals.

The second important factor is the degradation rate, which tells you how quickly your panels will lose efficiency. Electricity prices in Illinois are above the national average, so a slower degradation rate is likely to save you more in Illinois than it would in most other states. Most tier-one panels guarantee between 85% and 92% of their starting efficiency after 25 years. REC guarantees the full 92% after 25 years, once again making it the best option in Illinois, in my opinion. QCells is the net best option with just over 90%, and Canadian Solar sits just below 90% after the warranty term.

Warranties and Guarantees

Solar arrays are expensive, so warranty coverage is an important thing to consider when choosing an installer, as these will help protect your investment and ensure you see maximum savings. I look at 4 types of warranty coverages from each provider to compare them.

Equipment warranties usually come from the manufacturer and protect you from issues caused by defects in the products. Most manufacturers — including all 3 of the ones SunRun works with — include a 25-year equipment warranty.

More important, in my opinion, is the production or performance warranty. As I mentioned above, this coverage guarantees that your panels will continue performing at a specific level for the warranty term, with the standard coverage ensuring between 85% and 92% of the panel’s original efficiency remains after 25 years. All 3 brands SunRun installs fall within this range, with REC providing the best coverage at the full 92%. This is especially helpful in a place like Illinois, where electricity prices are above average and the number of sunny days is slightly below average. Longer-lasting efficiency means higher savings over time, especially in these conditions.

Next, I look at workmanship warranties, which cover problems stemming from the installation labor. Poorly installed panels are more likely to sustain damage and can reduce your long-term savings as a result. The risk is higher in an area like Illinois, where severe thunderstorms and tornado activity are common. The standard labor warranty lasts for 12 years. SunRun only offers a 10-year labor warranty if you pay with cash or a loan, but you get an above-average labor warranty of 25 years if you lease.

Finally, I consider roof leak warranty coverage, which guarantees solutions for any leaks that result from the roof penetrations made to install your panels. Roof leak warranties, in my opinion, offer ultimate peace of mind, and they’re especially helpful in Illinois, where rainfall and snowfall are both above the national average. The standard in the solar industry is, unfortunately, no roof leak warranty, but I’m happy to report that SunRun offers one that lasts for 10 years, regardless of how you pay for your system.

SunRun Company Reputation 

19.5/25

While I have some minor reservations related to SunRun’s customer service, on paper, the company scores very well in terms of its reputation. The company was founded in 2007, so it has over 15 years of experience installing solar. In a highly competitive industry — and local industry in Illinois, which is home to over 110 installers — longevity in the industry suggests that a company is able to adapt to ever-changing solar policies, regulations and customer expectations. A long company history doesn’t prove future success, but it does suggest it, which means the company is less likely to go out of business, potentially voiding some of your warranty coverage in the process.

SunRun uses third-party companies for the installation labor, which I don’t love, but it does use NABCEP-certified installers. NABCEP certification requires specialized training for the electrical work related to your system, so it once again suggests you’ll be getting a professional and safe installation from a true expert. SunRun is also an SEIA member, which shows that it’s invested in the solar industry, another sign of a good solar installer.

SunRun maintains pretty impressive customer reviews relative to its size, too. It has an impressive 3.62-star customer rating with the BBB, although its TrustPIlot score is a less impressive 1.4 stars. It’s important to note that the company has a lawsuit pending, which is mentioned on its BBB page, related to issues with deceptive marketing and sales practices, as well as some issues arising from its use of third-party installers. I will say that I’ve been keeping an eye on SunRun’s customer review ratings for years now, and it has notably improved its scores, so I do hope that the company is on the up-and-up. However, the recent lawsuit suggests that there are still some issues the company faces due to its size and scale.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I read through dozens of recent SunRun reviews to get a sense of how the company actually treats its customers. Positive reviews mention that the sales and installation process is smooth and that systems perform in line with the company’s expectations and estimates. Negative reviews mention delays in getting repairs addressed, long wait times for installations and poor customer service, specifically after the installation. A lot of the reviews I read contradict each other, and I suspect some of the discrepancies are a result of SunRun outsourcing so much of its business, including installation labor.

I’ll include one positive and one negative review below to give you an idea of what SunRun brings to the table in terms of customer service.

“Got my system about a year ago and it saved me 500 dollars every month compared to what I would be paying to [my electric company]. The customer service is super quick and responsive! I’ve had 5 of my close friends and family [members] also get Sunrun, and they have all had similar if not better experiences!!! Only complaint is not getting it sooner!” — Bruce B. via BBB

“Sunrun uses aggressive marketing and convinced me after multiple calls that if I installed solar I would not have to pay my local grid operator — maybe a small amount in peak times but we would generally have credits. It has been the opposite experience in that I am still paying SDG [my electric bill] and [am] now also paying SunRun, which equates to approximately the same amounts I paid last year; [I] therefore have had zero savings and in fact am paying more. Installing solar has been frustrating and expensive, and my situation has not been resolved. Sunrun’s aggressive sales people promised one thing and I received another. I am extremely unhappy with this company.” — Aurelia C. via BBB

SunRun Customer Service 

4/10

Our last category for rating solar installers is a subjective customer service score that I assign to each provider. I base this on two things: a secret shopper call to the company, as well as the dozens of recent reviews I read through on sites like the BBB and TrustPilot.

My call to SunRun was a pleasant one. The rep didn’t seem aggressive or overly sales-y, but I will say that they seemed to be pushing a lease, which I’m not a fan of. I like that SunRun offers leases, but the fact that the rep recommended a lease and that the company includes perks to promote leases doesn’t sit well with me. Again, if you know you want a lease, I think SunRun is a solid option because of those perks, but I’d prefer that it represented the benefits of the other financing options a bit more openly.

I also deducted some points here because SunRun has a history of falling short on promises, specifically when it comes to customer service and warranty repairs. In my opinion, this is an even bigger downside than pushing leases on customers. SunRun does seem to be working on these issues, as its review scores have improved quite a lot over the past few years, but I think it has more room to grow and hope it will continue that upward trend.