6 Best Solar Companies in Oklahoma (2025 Reviews)

Why We Chose Shine Solar, LLC

Shine Solar has been in business for eight years, and in that time, it has managed to maintain near-perfect reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews. It also offers a nice range of standard products and services, as well as add-on options, including energy efficiency upgrades that can help you get more value from your solar system.

Shine Solar also offers good warranty protection and guarantees that will help ensure your system lasts a lifetime and continues to deliver savings on your monthly electric bills.

While I think Shine Solar is a great company to go with in Oklahoma, there are some drawbacks to consider. One thing you should think about carefully is that the company doesn’t accept solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs). I generally don’t recommend these financing options, but solar is more expensive in Oklahoma than in most other states due to the high demand for electricity, which means homeowners need larger and more expensive systems. Having the option to go with a lease or PPA would mean greater accessibility, which, of course, is a positive thing. 

What I Like About Shine Solar, LLC

Shine Solar uses a team of in-house installers, some of whom are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). The experience and certifications that Shine Solar’s installers bring to the table should ensure a professional and safe installation, as well as an issue-free experience overall.

In addition to installing panels and batteries, Shine Solar also offers Aeroseal, which is a high-efficiency insulation. Add-on services like this not only make your home more efficient and help keep out the intense heat during Oklahoma summers, but also help you get more value out of your solar array by reducing your energy consumption. Shine Solar also tackles roof repair and replacement, so it’s a one-stop shop for going solar in Oklahoma. 

What I Don’t Like About Shine Solar, LLC

One downside to going with Shine Solar is that you’ll either have to choose a cash purchase or a solar loan, as the company doesn’t accept leases or PPAs. I usually don’t recommend these options anyway, but they are especially helpful in areas like Oklahoma, where the cost of going solar is well above the national average.

Shine Solar also doesn’t install EV chargers. This isn’t a huge deal right now, as Oklahoma has a relatively slow EV adoption rate. However, the state is continuously rolling out updates to its EV charging infrastructure plans via Oklahoma’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program, so I expect more homeowners will move to EVs in the near future and look for at-home charging capability.

Shine Solar, LLC Installation Process and Timeline

Shine Solar doesn’t include an estimated timeline for its solar installations. However, I would expect that you’d have to wait the typical 6 to 8 weeks between your initial consultation and the day your panels are installed and activated.

The process that Shine Solar follows is similar to what you see from most other providers. You’ll start with an initial consultation, during which a representative will inspect your home, take a look at your roof’s condition and assess your energy consumption by looking at your electric bills. The company will then design a system that meets your needs and fits on your home. Once you sign off on the design and sign your contract, the company will begin to pull permits from your local building department for the installation. As soon as those permits are approved, your installation will be scheduled and carried out. After final inspections from your building department and utility company, Shine Solar will activate your system. 

Shine Solar, LLC Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

Shine Solar scores nearly perfect scores in our ratings when it comes to its standard offerings and financing options. It uses in-house installers, which we typically prefer, as it reduces the risk of miscommunication between your main company and a third-party installer. It also reduces the risk of companies pointing fingers at each other if something goes wrong.

Shine also installs batteries alongside panels. In Oklahoma, all homeowners have access to net metering, which would typically mean that batteries only provide power during outages and won’t offer any financial incentive. However, the net metering policy in Oklahoma doesn’t require that you get credited for your excess generation at the retail rate. Ultimately, that means that most Oklahomans will either need oversized systems or batteries to eliminate their electric bill. Oklahoma is also prone to power outages due to the tornado activity in the area, so batteries are, on the whole, a good idea in the area in my opinion.

Shine Solar also offers every customer access to a mobile app to monitor their system’s performance after installation. This app comes from either the panel or the inverter manufacturer, so it’s not specifically from Shine, but the company does work with brands that offer access. Being able to monitor your system in real-time means you can identify problems with production early, and have a solution carried out that helps you maintain savings on your utility bills.

Cost and Financing Options

Shine Solar accepts cash purchases and solar loans, but it doesn’t offer leases or PPAs. The financing option you choose will have a major impact on your costs upfront, as well as your savings over time.

I typically recommend paying in cash for your solar array if it is at all possible. Using cash to buy your system will yield the greatest long-term savings, an average of $24,743 in Oklahoma, according to our research. Paying with cash also means you’ll own your system immediately, and any financing option that leads to system ownership lets you take the federal investment tax credit (ITC). In Oklahoma, the ITC is worth an average of around $11,022 if you can take the entire credit. The only downside to paying cash is that you’ll have to pay the entire system cost upfront. In Oklahoma, this is more of a burden than it is in most other states due to the high cost of solar. On average, you’ll have to spend $36,740 before any incentives, which is significantly higher than the national average.

Paying with a solar loan is the next best option because it still leads to panel ownership, lets you take the ITC and still provides outstanding savings — an average of around $19,700 in Oklahoma. You will have to pay interest on the loan, which will cut into your lifetime savings. Shine Solar has a special solar loan that most other installers don’t offer that includes 12 months of free solar before you have to start making payments, as well as $0 down. Most solar loans require that you pay a down payment, which reduces their accessibility, and they also require that you begin paying for your system immediately. As such, the loan from Shine is one of the best solar loans in the industry, in my opinion. It offers some of the benefits of a solar lease or PPA, like not having to put any money down, but it still increases your savings over other $0-down options and leads to panel ownership.

A lease is a rental agreement where you rent your panels and get to use the energy they generate for free. A PPA is similar, but instead of renting your panels, you pay nothing for them and then agree to buy energy from your solar installer rather than from your electric company. The benefit of these payment options is that you don’t have to pay any money down, and you sometimes aren’t subject to a credit check. However, they don’t let you take the ITC, and they also only save you between $4,000 and $5,000 over the life of your contract in most cases. 

Shine Solar, LLC Extra Services Offered 

4/5

Shine Solar gets nearly perfect scores in our ratings when it comes to the add-on services it offers. First, Shine Solar handles roof repair and replacement, which means you can get any roof work you need done at the same time your panels are installed. This makes Shine Solar a one-stop shop for most Oklahomans. It also means a lower risk of two different companies pointing fingers at each other if something goes wrong.

Shine Solar also offers Aeroseal, which seals air leaks in your home and adds insulation. This is a pretty major energy efficiency upgrade. Not only does it suggest that Shine Solar understands the big picture when it comes to solar, but it also is a great option in Oklahoma, where hot summers drive up energy consumption for air conditioner use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, more than 40% of a home’s energy and utility bills go toward heating and cooling, so Aeroseal can easily help you make the most of your new solar array.

Shine Solar also offers professional system monitoring with all of its installations. That means the company monitors your system’s performance and will reach out to you if there appear to be any issues. This can help uncover and rectify problems before they have a significant impact on your solar savings.

Unfortunately, Shine Solar doesn’t install EV chargers. Right now, I don’t think this is a huge downside because the EV adoption rate in Oklahoma has been fairly lackluster. However, with the proposed changes to the public charging infrastructure, I expect more people will turn to EVs, in which case I’d prefer to see solar installers offering at-home charging solutions.

Shine Solar, LLC Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Going solar is going to have a positive impact on the environment regardless of the equipment you install. Solar panel and battery manufacturing can still have a negative impact on the world around us, but you’ll still come out net positive in terms of carbon footprint and CO2 emission reduction. However, I do think choosing an installer that works with more sustainable solar brands is a good idea and will lead to a further benefit to the environment. I researched the panel brands Shine Solar works with to see which were the most sustainable overall.

The company predominantly installs Silfab solar panels. Silfab uses recycled materials in its production processes and has an end-of-life recycling program for old panels to help keep them out of landfills. It also doesn’t have a history of forced labor, poor working conditions or unfair pay, and there are no documented issues regarding racism in the workplace. All of these factors suggest that Silfab is a reasonably sustainable company to support. The only reason it loses points in our ratings for sustainability is because most of the company’s manufacturing takes place outside of the United States, where environmental regulations are a bit less stringent. 

Shine Solar, LLC Equipment Quality & Reliability 

19/25

Shine Solar also scores well when it comes to the reliability and quality of its products and workmanship. I’ve researched all of the tier-one panel brands and compared them based on 18 criteria, mostly related to power, performance and longevity. The Silfab panels from Shine Solar score a little below average in terms of durability, but they’re up there with the best of the best when it comes to efficiency and warranty coverage. I think 3 things, in particular, are important to consider when looking at the best panel brands for Oklahoma: the efficiency rating, the degradation rate and the max wind load.

The efficiency rating of a panel tells you how much of the sunlight that hits the surface will be converted into usable electricity. Panels with a higher efficiency rating will generate more power in all weather conditions, which means more of your bill will be offset. Ultimately, higher efficiency ratings mean greater long-term savings, especially in areas like Oklahoma, where one-to-one net metering isn’t mandated. The Silfab panels Shine Solar installs have a max efficiency rating of 21.4%. This is slightly below the tier-one average of 22%.

The degradation rate of a panel tells you how quickly the panel will lose efficiency. Most tier-one panels lose between 8% and 15% efficiency over 25 years and have performance guarantees that ensure the efficiency loss doesn’t happen more quickly than that. Silfab panels guarantee 90.2% efficiency will remain after 25 years, which is at the upper end of the typical range. In my opinion, low degradation rates like this are more important in areas like Oklahoma, where energy consumption is above average and panel performance over time plays a bigger role in long-term savings.

Finally, the max wind load rating tells you the force your panels can withstand on the rear side from wind before sustaining damage. With the frequent tornado activity in Oklahoma, this is crucial to consider. The average max wind load rating among tier-one panels is around 3,520 Pascals, and the Silfab panels from Shine tie with Maxeon for the highest wind load rating in the industry — 5,400 Pascals. This makes them one of the safest options in Oklahoma.

Warranties and Guarantees

Going solar in Oklahoma costs more than in most other states because of the large system size requirements. As such, it’s crucial that you consider the warranty coverage you get with your system, as this will help ensure your system continues to serve you for years to come. I look at 4 types of solar panel warranties when researching installers.

First is the equipment warranty, which protects you from system damages caused by manufacturer defects. This actually comes from the panel or inverter manufacturer, but it gets passed to you through your installer. The industry standard for equipment warranties is 25 years of coverage. Silfab — the brand Shine Solar chooses to install — provides exactly that.

Second, I look at performance warranties. These also come from manufacturers and get passed to you through your installer. These guarantees promise that your panels will maintain a certain level of production for a given warranty term. Most manufacturers guarantee between 85% and 92% of your panels’ starting efficiency will remain after 25 years. Silfab panels from Shine are one of the few brands that offer an above-average performance warranty that lasts for 30 years.

Next, I consider the labor or workmanship warranty. Workmanship warranties cover the installation labor and help guarantee that you’re getting a professional installer to carry out the work. It also insulates you from system damage that results from a poor installation. The average labor warranty lasts for around 12 years. Shine Solar meets that standard, but it isn’t quite as long as some other providers. Again, longer labor warranties are better in an area like Oklahoma, where tornadoes and extreme weather can more quickly bring to light installation issues.

Finally, I look for roof leak warranties. These usually come from the installer, and they protect you from the repair costs for water damage related to the roof penetrations made to install your panels. Most installers don’t provide these coverages, and Shine Solar is one such company that doesn’t. In my opinion, this isn’t a huge deal in Oklahoma, where the annual rainfall is below the national average, but I’d really like to see this added protection for greater peace of mind.

Shine Solar, LLC Company Reputation 

21.5/25

Although solar installations in Oklahoma are trailing most other states — it currently ranks 39th in the nation for conversion, according to the SEIA — the local solar industry in Oklahoma is booming, with residential installations doubling between 2022 and 2023. Unfortunately, when there’s a big surge in demand, it’s also common to see a lot of companies popping up to take advantage of the demand. Companies that are just a few years old are more likely to go out of business, in which case they can void your workmanship warranty. I’m happy to report that Shine Solar has been around since 2016, and 8 years of experience is enough to suggest, in my opinion, that the company is here to stay.

Shine Solar also has NABCEP-certified installers on its team. Certification requires specialized training that further suggests your installation will be safe and professional. The company loses a few points in our rating system for not being an SEIA member. Membership suggests that a company is financially invested in the local solar industry, but I think NABCEP certification is a better indication of a high-quality installation, anyway.

Perhaps most importantly, Shine Solar maintains outstanding customer reviews, including a 4.71-star rating on the BBB and a 4.5-star rating on Google Reviews. These scores indicate that the company is committed to customer satisfaction and care, so you’re very likely to have a positive experience before, during and after your installation if you go with Shine Solar.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I also read through dozens of positive and negative customer reviews to get a sense of the company’s strengths and shortcomings. Many of the positive reviews mention professional sales representatives who are honest and forthcoming about the value of solar in Oklahoma, as well as the company’s willingness to respond quickly to warranty claims. I think this, above all else, is a good indication that you’re in good hands if you choose Shine.

I’ll include one positive and one negative review below to showcase the kind of service you can expect from Shine Solar.

“We have been very satisfied with Shine Solar company. Totally recommend this company if you are looking for solar and HVAC. The installation was done professionally throughout both of our installments. Our salesman answered all our questions concerning both installments. He was very detailed in the process and when we had questions, he answered promptly. We never felt pressured into our purchase. HVAC team was prompt, professional and very patient with our questions. Our house stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter months. Solar team did an excellent job setting up our solar. We were kept informed through the entire process. The apps to see how much the solar is producing are wonderful. Looking for solar? HVAC? Look at Shine Solar!” — Antonia S. via BBB

“Original installation went smoothly; panels have been on for a few months now but our electric bills have not [gone] down like they said they would. Basically we are paying double electric bills right now and have been trying to reach them to resolve this and can not reach anyone or get a call back.” — Chad B. via BBB

Shine Solar, LLC Customer Service

10/10

Our final scoring metric is the only subjective score, which I assign to each provider I review. I base this score on the customer reviews I read, as well as on my experience calling the provider as a secret shopper.

The large majority of the Shine Solar reviews are positive, and customers more often rave about customer service than they do complain. There are some instances of slow responses to issues after installation, but these seem to be one-off issues that the company works to correct. Shine responds to all BBB complaints, so it’s clear that it’s doing everything it can to keep its customers happy.

When I called Shine Solar as a secret shopper, I was met with a fast response from a human representative who was friendly and informative. They were able to answer a few questions I had about the viability of solar in Oklahoma, and they discussed the benefits and drawbacks of solar batteries honestly. In my book, this is a big upside for any provider, and it suggests that you’ll get a system that will genuinely save you money over time.

Why We Chose Solar Power of Oklahoma

Solar Power of Oklahoma is a local business that uses an in-house installation team, with members certified by NABCEP for greater peace of mind that your panels will hold up over time. The company uses QCells panels, which have above-average efficiency ratings, better degradation rates than most other panels and an above-average max wind load rating, which suggests that they’ll stand up better than most other brands to strong winds that tornado activity in the area could bring.

Solar Power of Oklahoma also has outstanding customer reviews that suggest you’ll have a positive experience before, during and after the installation, and the company has a track record of responding quickly to warranty claims, which should provide you greater peace of mind that your panels will last for decades to come.

With that being said, I think the major downside to this provider is the lack of warranty coverage you get. It doesn’t offer a workmanship or roof leak warranty, which I find a bit concerning, although it does seem to respond quickly to equipment damages and is willing to step in and help resolve any issues you might have. You just might have some associated out-of-pocket costs.

What I Like About Solar Power of Oklahoma

Solar Power of Oklahoma installs high-quality QCells panels that are well suited to the climate in Oklahoma. They have an above-average wind load rating that should help them stand up to tornado activity in the area, and they have one of the lowest temperature coefficients in the industry, which means they’ll continue generating close-to-peak power even in the hot summers in Oklahoma.

The company also installs batteries and EV chargers, giving you some options to customize your system. Batteries, in particular, are helpful in the area since Oklahoma doesn’t have one-to-one net metering available.

What I Don’t Like About Solar Power of Oklahoma

As mentioned above, I think the biggest drawback to working with Solar Power of Oklahoma is that you don’t get a labor warranty or roof leak coverage. The company does use NABCEP-certified installers to help ensure a professional installation, but I’d personally prefer a company that guarantees its work with a labor warranty for peace of mind.

Solar Power of Oklahoma also doesn’t tackle roof work or offer energy efficiency upgrades, so while its core services are solid, the add-on options are lacking a bit.

Solar Power of Oklahoma Installation Process and Timeline

Solar Power of Oklahoma outlines the installation process on its website, and it estimates that the entire process will take between 8 weeks and 14 weeks from start to finish. The bulk of this time — up to 4 weeks — will be waiting for final inspections and waiting for the permission to operate (PTO) from your power company.

The process of going solar with this company is pretty standard, as you’ll find for most installers. You’ll first have an initial inspection and property assessment, followed by a design process, during which the in-house team will design a system to suit your property and energy needs. The company will then pull permits and carry out the installation. Finally, they’ll schedule final inspections and request PTO from your power company. Once you receive that, your system will be up and running.

Solar Power of Oklahoma Standard Services & Financing 

25/25

Solar Power of Oklahoma is one of the few providers in our reviews that gets perfect scores when it comes to its core services. First and foremost, it uses an in-house installation team rather than outsourcing the installation work to third parties. This doesn’t always mean you’ll get superior service, but it does often let you avoid delays due to poor communication between companies, and it can help prevent providers from pointing fingers in the event that something goes wrong.

Second, Solar Power of Oklahoma is a certified Tesla Powerwall installer, so it offers solar batteries alongside its panel installations. Oklahoma has statewide net metering, but the credit rate is below the retail rate, so the excess power you send to the grid will offset less energy when you need to pull from the grid, like at night or during cloudy days, when your panels don’t keep up with consumption. Batteries can help maximize savings, in addition to providing power during outages for peace of mind.

Solar Power of Oklahoma installs Enphase microinverters, so all customers will get access to the Enphase self-monitoring app. This lets you see your real-time production and energy usage, which gives you the ability to identify production issues early, potentially allowing you to rectify problems before they cut too much into your savings.

Cost and Financing Options

Solar Power of Oklahoma accepts cash purchases, solar loans and solar leases, so of the 4 primary financing options, it’s only missing power purchase agreements (PPAs). You should choose based on your upfront budget and long-term savings goals, but understanding all of the options is a good place to start.

A cash purchase is what I recommend if you can make it work, but it’s the least accessible option because you’ll have to pay your entire system cost upfront. Solar arrays are more expensive in Oklahoma than most other states — an average of $36,740 before incentives, according to our research, as compared to the national average of $29,970 — so this is the least likely option to work within your budget. However, paying in cash gives you the highest net savings over time — an average of $24,743 in your area — and lets you take the ITC, which holds an average potential value of over $11,000 in Oklahoma.

A solar loan is the next best option, in my opinion. You will have to pay interest on the loan, which will reduce your long-term savings by an average of around $5,000, based on our research. However, you can still take the ITC, your net savings should still average around $19,700 and you’ll own your panels, so choosing this option shouldn’t complicate the sale of your home. A loan is also much more accessible than a cash payment because you’re only on the hook for a down payment upfront, usually a few thousand dollars, which is much more reasonable than the $29,970 you’d have to pay upfront if you went with a cash purchase.

Solar leases are even less expensive upfront, as they typically don’t require any down payment at all. Solar Power of Oklahoma will install your panels with no money down. However, you will then pay a monthly rental fee for the panels and get to use the power they generate for free. This will lead to savings over time, but they total around $5,000 — far less than the $20,000+ you’d get if you chose a cash purchase or loan. Additionally, leases don’t let you take the ITC, so you’ll miss out on an average potential value of about $11,000, and if you sell your home before your contract is up, you’ll either have to pay an early termination fee or get the new owner to take over the agreement.

A PPA is similar to a lease, but instead of paying a panel rental fee, you agree to buy the energy your panels generate — usually at a rate that’s lower than the retail rate for electricity in Oklahoma — instead of buying it from your utility company. PPAs also don’t let you take the ITC, and they can complicate the sale of your home, but they’re another no-money-down option that helps keep solar accessible. Note that Solar Power of Oklahoma doesn’t accept PPAs, but the leases it offers are similar.

Solar Power of Oklahoma Extra Services Offered 

1/5

Solar Power of Oklahoma might have a perfect score in our ratings for the wealth of core services and financing options it offers, but it’s fairly limited when it comes to the add-on services available.

First, it lost points in our ratings because it doesn’t handle any roof work, including replacements and repairs. If your roof is damaged, leaking or nearing the end of its life, you’ll have to replace or repair it before it’s safe to install solar panels. Solar installers that also tackle roof repairs and replacements make it simple to get everything done at once. Plus, when you have a single company tackle both portions of the work, you have a single entity to point to to take responsibility if something goes wrong. If you go solar with Solar Power of Oklahoma and you need roof work before your installation, you’ll have to coordinate with a third-party company, which can be a bit of a hassle.

Solar Power of Oklahoma also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades beyond solar and battery installations. I love to see companies that couple solar panels with efficiency improvements, like new insulation, roofing, windows and doors or siding, not only because it suggests they understand the big picture of solar but also because they can help you save more money and get the most out of your system over time. Solar Power of Oklahoma doesn’t offer any of these services.

It does, however, install EV chargers, which is good news. Oklahoma has been slow to adopt EVs compared to many other states, but the recent upgrades to the public charging infrastructure should help make EVs more realistic throughout the state. As they grow in popularity, I expect that companies like Solar Power of Oklahoma that offer at-home charging capability will become more and more relevant.

Finally, this provider loses some points in our rankings because it doesn’t offer professional solar monitoring services. This service is helpful because it identifies problems with panel production and can get repairs underway sooner before the issue cuts significantly into your solar savings. You do get access to a mobile app for self-monitoring when you choose Solar Power of Oklahoma, but having experts monitor your production for you would, of course, be simpler and offer greater peace of mind.

Solar Power of Oklahoma Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices

As a part of my solar company review process, I look at the sustainability of each installer. I try to promote companies that run on clean energy themselves, but since there are relatively few of these, I more often look at the sustainability of the manufacturers each installer works with. Going solar will undoubtedly reduce your carbon footprint and provide an overall benefit to the environment, but you can do a bit more good for the ecosystem by choosing panels that are made with sustainability in mind. I look for companies that use recycled materials during manufacturing, have recycling programs for their old panels, are manufactured predominantly in the U.S. and don’t have a history of unsustainable business practices, like forced labor or unsafe working conditions in factories.

Solar Power of Oklahoma installs panels made by QCells, which ties with several other tier-one manufacturers in terms of the sustainability score in our ratings. QCells uses recycled materials to manufacture its products, it has an end-of-life recycling program for old panels and it doesn’t have a history of unsustainable business practices. The only reason the company loses points in our ratings is because its manufacturing isn’t primarily done in the U.S.

Solar Power of Oklahoma Equipment Quality & Reliability

In addition to how sustainable the equipment is, I also look at the overall quality of the panels offered and how reliable they’re likely to be in the long run. I assess each solar panel brand based on 18 factors, but I think three are particularly important in Oklahoma: the efficiency rating, the panel degradation rate and the maximum wind load rating.

The efficiency rating of a panel tells you how efficient your panels are, which is to say, what percentage of the sunlight they will be able to convert into energy you can use in your home. The higher the efficiency rating, the more power your panels will generate and the more you’re likely to save over time. High efficiency ratings are especially important in Oklahoma because they generate more power to help offset the above-average electric bills in the state. Additionally, since the net metering rate is below the retail rate you’d pay per kWh to your electric company, higher efficiency means you’ll offset more of your electric bills with a given system size, meaning greater overall savings. The QCells panels that are available from Solar Power of Oklahoma max out at 22.5%, which is just above the industry average for tier-one panels.

The degradation rate of a panel tells you how quickly your equipment will lose efficiency. All panels degrade over time as they generate power for your home, but most tier-one panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of the panels’ original efficiency will remain after 25 years. The higher the percentage remaining, the more power your panels will produce over time, and the greater the value and long-term savings you’ll see from your system. The panels available from Solar Power of Oklahoma guarantee that 90.58% of its starting efficiency will remain at the 25-year mark, which is better than most other leading brands.

Finally, the wind load rating tells you how much force — measured in Pascals (Pa) — your panels can resist from the rear side before getting damaged. This is a crucial consideration in Oklahoma because of the prevalence of tornado activity, which can threaten your solar equipment. The QCells panels available from Solar Power of Oklahoma have a wind load rating of 3,600 Pa, which is slightly above the industry standard and should be plenty to resist most strong winds in your area.

Warranties and Guarantees

The quality and durability of a panel can suggest longevity and value, but what matters even more are the warranties and guarantees you get from your panel manufacturer and installer. These not only suggest long-term value but guarantee it. I review 4 different types of solar warranties when comparing installation companies.

First, I look at equipment warranties, which are passed to you through your installer but come from your panel manufacturer. These protect you from manufacturer defects, which are rare but can lead to some serious out-of-pocket costs without a solid warranty. Most tier-one manufacturers provide an equipment warranty that lasts for 25 years, and this is precisely what you’ll get if you choose QCells panels from Solar Power of Oklahoma.

Second, I look at performance warranties, also called efficiency warranties. These guarantee a certain level of production from your panels over the warranty term. These can be particularly helpful in Oklahoma, where higher production is crucial for offsetting above-average rates of electricity consumption and combatting below-retail net metering rates. Most manufacturers guarantee that their panels will retain between 85% and 92% of their efficiency after 25 years. The QCells panels available from Solar Power of Oklahoma sit toward the upper end of that range, with a guarantee of 90.58% after 25 years.

Third, I look at the workmanship warranty. This comes from the installer and not the manufacturer, and it covers the labor to install your panels. Workmanship warranties typically don’t cover resulting issues, like roof leaks, but they do protect you from damage to your equipment during the installation. The average workmanship warranty lasts for 12 years, and unfortunately, Solar Power of Oklahoma doesn’t appear to offer any workmanship warranty. This is a pretty big downside to going with this company, in my opinion, although it does use NABCEP-certified installers that have years of experience, so one could argue that the risk of an issue resulting from the installation is lower than it would be with other installers.

Finally, I look to see if the installer offers a roof leak warranty. This can go hand-in-hand with a workmanship warranty to keep you protected from system damage and property damage that results from a poor installation. Solar Power of Oklahoma also doesn’t offer a roof leak warranty, which is another downside, as the state receives around the national average rainfall each year.

Solar Power of Oklahoma Company Reputation 

21.5/25

While the warranty coverage is lacking, Solar Power of Oklahoma scores quite high when it comes to its overall reputation in the area, suggesting that the lack of warranty options may not be such a major downside after all.

The company was founded in 2017, so it has 7 years of experience. Ideally, I’d like to see at least a decade of experience, as longevity in an industry as competitive as solar suggests that the company is here to stay, which means the warranty coverage provided will also stick around. A 7-year stint in the local market is still impressive, though, so it only loses a few points in our ratings for not hitting that 10-year mark.

As mentioned above, Solar Power of Oklahoma has NABCEP-certified installers on its staff. NABCEP certification demands training above and beyond what the State of Oklahoma requires for solar installers. The fact that Solar Power of Oklahoma has NABCEP-certified installers suggests not only that your installation will be of high quality but also that you’re less likely to see problems that might be covered by warranties in the case of other installers.

Solar Power of Oklahoma isn’t an SEIA member, so it loses some points in our ratings. SEIA membership proves a financial commitment to the local solar industry and can often help identify companies that are here to stay, which means they will also keep your warranty coverage intact.

I always look at online review ratings for solar installers to see how the company treats its actual customers, and Solar Power of Oklahoma does not disappoint when it comes to customer reviews. It has a 4.2-star customer rating on the BBB and a 4.5-star rating on Google Reviews. These scores are well above average for the solar industry and suggest that the company is committed to a positive customer experience and satisfaction.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

While overall customer ratings are a good resource to look at when evaluating solar installers, I also read through dozens of actual reviews to see what the company handles well and where it could stand to improve. The positive reviews for this provider mention things like constant communication, fast responses to warranty claims and an honest and low-stress sales process. Negative reviews suggest that there are some issues with communication, specifically after the installation is complete, but thankfully, these seem to be few and far between.

I’ll include one positive and one negative review for this provider below so that you can get a sense of the best and worst experience you might have with Solar Power of Oklahoma.

“We used SPO to get our panels installed on our roof at our house. I requested several quotes from other vendors and some were super expensive but SPO was very reasonable. Our sales rep was super friendly and patient as we had SO MANY questions. The project manager was just as helpful and kept us informed as everything was progressing. The install crew came out and finished everything in one day. Every one of them was very knowledgeable and walked us through the installation while they were completing it. The system is working well and we’re just waiting on our RTO. Great experience and would definitely recommend.” — Pedro via Google Reviews

“When I first contacted them, they were the best. Very professional. Easy to get ahold of. After I paid them and the install was complete, they will not return my calls. Their answering machine says they will call back within 2 days. 3 phone calls later and no call. My unit is not working.” — Mary H. via Google Reviews

Solar Power of Oklahoma Customer Service

7/10

The last part of our solar company review process is assessing the company’s overall customer service. This is the only subjective part of our methodology, and I personally come up with the scores based on the dozens of company reviews I read through, as well as on a call I make to the provider as a secret shopper.

Based on the customer reviews, which are well above the industry average, I have no qualms about recommending this company to anyone looking to go solar in Oklahoma. It’s clear from the reviews I read through that the company cares about its customers and is willing to go above and beyond to uphold that reputation. Most customers are pleased with their service, so it’s safe to assume you will be, too.

Unfortunately, I had to deduct some points here because I didn’t get a timely response to my secret shopper call. I was sent to an automated message system when I called and was asked to leave my name and phone number. No one got back to me in the first 48 hours, which doesn’t suggest the same kind of customer service that the online reviews do.

Why We Chose Astrawatt

Astrawatt has nearly perfect customer review scores across multiple sites, which suggests that you’re very likely to be pleased with the customer service you get. Those include a 5-star rating on both the BBB and Google Reviews, as well as a 4.1-star rating on TrustPilot.

Astrawatt also has one of the highest company reputation scores in our ratings for Oklahoma solar installers, further suggesting that you’ll have a positive overall customer experience, including a lack of issues after the solar panel installation is complete. It uses NABCEP-certified installers and has 8 years of experience to provide some peace of mind. It also has a workmanship warranty that lasts for 20 years, which is far better than the industry average and longer than most local competitors.

While I think Astrawatt is a solid option for going solar in Oklahoma, there are some drawbacks to consider first. Most importantly, it doesn’t accept leases or PPAs, so there aren’t any no-money-down options available. These would be nice to have in Oklahoma, where the average cost to go solar is around 40% higher than the national average. Plus, it covers the basics well, but it’s severely lacking when it comes to add-on products for system customization.

What I Like About Astrawatt

Astrawatt uses in-house installers to ensure a high-quality installation, and you don’t have to worry about multiple companies complicating things and potentially pointing fingers at each other if something goes wrong. The company also installs batteries, which is a nice option to have in Oklahoma, as they typically offer a financial benefit due to the below-average net metering policy in the area.

Astrawatt also has a solid workmanship warranty that lasts for 20 years — much longer than the industry average — and, as mentioned above, it has a stellar company reputation and a history of outstanding customer service.

What I Don’t Like About Astrawatt

I think the biggest downside to going solar with Astrawatt is that the company only covers the basics and doesn’t offer much in the way of system customization. It doesn’t handle roof repairs or replacements, so you’ll have to coordinate with a third-party company if you need roof work done before your installation. It also doesn’t handle any energy efficiency upgrades, so if you’re looking to maximize the value of your solar array by making your home more efficient with new doors or windows or a smart thermostat or electrical panel, you’ll have to turn elsewhere.

Additionally, Astrawatt doesn’t offer a roof leak warranty. This isn’t a huge deal in some parts of Oklahoma that see less than half the national average rainfall each year, but in other areas that see above-average rainfall, a roof leak warranty would provide some much-needed peace of mind that your home is protected.

Astrawatt Installation Process and Timeline

Astrawatt Solar doesn’t share estimated timelines on its site, but based on the high customer ratings and few complaints about delays in the installation process, I’d expect you to have to wait for between 6 and 8 weeks from your initial consultation to the day your panels are activated, which is around the average in the industry.

The process is similar to what you’d expect from most other installers. You’ll start with an in-person property inspection, during which your rep will inspect your roof and gauge your average monthly electricity consumption. Next, the company will design a system to meet your needs and provide you with a contract to approve the design and your payment option. Once you sign, the reps will pull permits for your system, Astrawatt will schedule your installation and send an in-house installation team to install everything. The last step is to wait for final inspections, which Astrawatt will schedule for you.

Astrawatt Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

Astrawatt scores quite highly in our ratings when it comes to its standard services and financing options, only losing points because it doesn’t accept leases or PPAs.

It uses an in-house installation team, which can simplify the communication with your installer and also reduce the risk of poor customer service and slow response times leading up to the installation. The company also installs solar batteries, which I think are beneficial in Oklahoma. The state has a net metering policy, but the rate at which you’re credited is below the retail rate per kWh, so batteries help offset more of your monthly charges and give you the best chance of eliminating your electric bill.

Astrawatt also includes free access to a solar monitoring mobile app with each of its installations. You’ll either get this through the panel or inverter manufacturer, depending on which brands the company uses for your home. Most solar installers include this from the manufacturers they work with, but it’s still nice that Astrawatt offers it, as it helps you identify issues with your system before they have a major negative impact on your long-term savings.

Cost and Financing Options

Astrawatt accepts two of the four main financing options: cash and solar loans. These are the options I recommend to most homeowners. However, it still would be nice if it accepted the no-money-down options to help keep solar more accessible, especially in an area like Oklahoma, where installation costs are well above average.

With a cash purchase, you pay for your system upfront using cash, which means you’re on the hook for the highest upfront payment of all the financing options — an average of $36,740 in Oklahoma, according to our research. Aside from the high upfront cost, though, paying in cash brings only benefits. You get to take advantage of the investment tax credit (ITC), which can effectively bring down your total by up to $11,022 in Oklahoma — although it’s important to note that not all residents can take full advantage of this perk. You also see the highest savings possible — an average of $24,743, based on our research — of all of the payment options.

If you can’t make a cash payment work, which is common in Oklahoma given the high cost of equipment, then I recommend a solar loan. With a loan, you pay a small down payment and then finance the rest of the cost. You’ll pay interest that will detract from your savings, but you should still see around $19,750 net savings over time, on average. You can still take the ITC if you use a solar loan, too.

A lease is like a rental agreement. You pay nothing upfront and instead agree to pay a monthly rental fee for your panels, but in exchange, you get to use the power they produce for free. Leases are appealing because they require no money down, and many companies can guarantee savings over time. However, you’ll never own your panels, so savings will top out around $5,000 — much lower than the $19,000 to $25,000 you’d see with cash or a loan. You also cannot take the ITC if you lease, so you’ll miss out on a potential of around $11,000 in incentives. Note that Astrawatt doesn’t accept leases.

A PPA is similar to a lease, but instead of renting panels from your solar company, you instead agree to buy the power they generate. PPAs require no money down, but they have low long-term savings of around $4,000 to $5,000, and they preclude you from taking the ITC, just like a lease. Astrawatt also doesn’t accept PPAs. I don’t recommend leases or PPAs, but if these options sound like the right fit for you, you’ll have to choose a different provider.

Astrawatt Extra Services Offered 

1/5

Astrawatt might have the basic services like panels and batteries down, but when it comes to the add-on services available, this provider is severely lacking.

First, Astrawatt doesn’t handle any roof work. If you need a repair or replacement before it’s worth installing solar panels, you’ll either have to find, vet and coordinate with a third-party roofing company or find another solar installer that also tackles roof work. It’s more convenient going with a solar provider who can do everything all at once, so Astrawatt lost some points in our ratings due to the lack of this service.

The company also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades. I really love when installers also offer services related to insulation, windows, doors, siding, smart thermostat installation or new, high-efficiency HVAC equipment, as it lets you maximize your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your cooling bills even further. That’s especially true in a hot climate like Oklahoma’s.

Astrawatt doesn’t offer professional monitoring services and loses more points in our ratings accordingly. You’ll get access to an app to monitor your system yourself, but it’s more convenient to have everything be hands-off, as it would be with professional monitoring services.

Astrawatt scores just a single point in our ratings in terms of extra services because it installs EV chargers. This is a plus because EVs are becoming more and more popular, and I expect that popularity to continue to rise in Oklahoma, as the state continues to improve its public charging infrastructure. Having access to at-home charging means owning an EV will be more convenient and potentially save even more money than panels alone would.

Astrawatt Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Since the EcoWatch team prioritizes sustainability, I also dive into the overall sustainability of each installer. In most cases, that involves looking at which brands the company works with and grading those based on their commitment to the environment. Going solar is going to have a net positive impact on the environment, but you’ll have the biggest positive impact by choosing a more sustainable panel brand.

I look for brands that use recycled materials in their manufacturing processes, have recycling programs to keep old panels out of landfills, manufacture predominantly in the U.S. and don’t have a history of racism in the workplace, poor working conditions, forced labor or other socially unsustainable business practices.

Astrawatt installs panels made by Maxeon, REC, QCells and Silfab, all of which tie with a few other tier-one brands in our panel sustainability ratings. None of them are manufactured mostly in the U.S., but all use recycled materials during production, have end-of-life programs for spent panels and don’t have a history of social issues in the workplace.

Astrawatt Equipment Quality & Reliability 

17/20

In addition to the sustainability of the equipment you install, I think it’s important to consider the quality and the warranty coverage you get to guarantee that quality. I look at 18 panel specifications for each brand offered by installers and compare them based on what I believe is most important in Oklahoma. With sunny days, a less-than-ideal net metering policy and frequent tornado activity, I think panel efficiency, panel degradation rate and max wind loads are the most important things to consider when choosing a panel brand.

The efficiency rating is important because it’s directly tied to your production and savings. The higher the efficiency rating, the more power your panels generate, and the higher your potential savings will be. In Oklahoma, this is particularly important because a panel with a higher efficiency rating will provide a greater offset given the below-retail net metering rate. Higher efficiencies let you generate more power to make a bigger dent in your grid consumption. Most tier-one panels have efficiency ratings of 22% or higher, and I’m happy to report that most of the panels Astrawatt installs meet that criterion. Silfab is just under that average. Of the options available, Maxeon has the highest efficiency, topping out at 24.2%.

The degradation rate tells you how quickly that efficiency degrades as your panels experience real-world conditions. A slower degradation means your panels will continue saving you money even as they age. Again, this is crucial in Oklahoma, as higher efficiency ratings over time will continue to offset the above-average rate of electricity consumption for years to come. Most tier-one panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of the efficiency will remain after 25 years, and all of the panels from Astrawatt fall within that range. Maxeon is, once again, the best, guaranteeing the full 92% after 25 years.

Finally, the max wind load rating tells you how much upward force your panels can withstand without getting damaged. This is particularly important in Oklahoma, where frequent tornado activity can test the limits of rooftop panels. Tier-one brands have an average rating of 3,520 Pascals (Pa). The REC and QCells panels from Astrawatt sit just above that at 4,000 and 3,600 Pa, respectively. Maxeon and Silfab are the best options with respect to wind loads, as they lead the industry with ratings of 5,400 Pa, making them safer options in Oklahoma.

Warranties and Guarantees

Going solar is expensive, especially in Oklahoma, where high rates of electricity consumption demand larger and more expensive systems than are required in most of the country. That’s why I think it’s particularly important to consider the warranty coverage you get for your system in Oklahoma. I look at 4 different warranties to assess each installer and gauge what kind of protection you get for your investment.

First, I look at the equipment warranty. This comes from the manufacturer of your panels, but it’s passed through your installer. This coverage is important no matter where you live. Most panel brands guarantee that your panels will be free of damage related to manufacturer defects for 25 years. All of the brands Astrawatt installs meet this standard, and Maxeon goes above and beyond with an industry-leading 40-year warranty.

Second, I look at the performance warranty, which guarantees that your panels will retain a certain level of efficiency over the warranty term. This is especially important in Oklahoma because energy consumption is well above the national average, so a loss of system efficiency is going to lead to a larger financial hit. Most tier-one manufacturers guarantee that your panels will retain between 85% and 92% of their starting efficiency over a span of 25 years. All of the brands available from Astrawatt fall within this range, with Maxeon and REC guaranteeing the full 92%. Maxeon also has a 40-year efficiency warranty, which is again the best in the industry.

Third, I look at the workmanship warranty. This is the first of the 4 that comes from the installer, in almost all cases, and it guarantees that your system won’t sustain damage due to a faulty installation. A longer workmanship warranty is a good way to ensure you’re hiring a reputable installer that’s confident in its capabilities. The average workmanship warranty is 12 years, and I’m pleased to report that Astrawatt nearly doubles that.

Finally, I look to see if the installer offers a roof leak warranty, which is similar to a workmanship warranty but is more specific. It guarantees that you won’t experience roof leaks or related water damage due to the roof penetrations made to install your array. This is really helpful for establishing peace of mind in the areas of Oklahoma that see around the national average amount of rainfall, and it’s less important, in my opinion, in the drier areas that see minimal rainfall.

Astrawatt Company Reputation 

22.5/25

Next, I assess each provider based on its reputation in the solar industry. To get a read on installers, I look at customer ratings on sites like the BBB and TrustPilot, I read through company reviews and I assess the provider based on its years of experience and industry affiliations and memberships. Astrawatt scores higher than most other companies in the area when it comes to its reputation.

Astrawatt was founded in 2016, so it has 8 years of experience in the local industry. The solar market is extremely competitive, and companies come and go all the time, often within just a few years of opening their doors. Unfortunately, when companies go out of business, they can void your warranty coverage. I look for solar installers with more experience, ideally over a decade, because a long history in the industry suggests longevity and your warranty coverage staying intact for years to come.

Another thing Astrawatt has going for it is that it has NABCEP-certified installers on its in-house team. NABCEP certification requires training beyond what’s mandated in the State of Oklahoma, which means a certified installer is more likely to provide a professional and safe installation that’s less likely to give you problems down the road.

Astrawatt is also a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), which suggests a financial commitment to the local solar industry, again reinforcing that the installer is here to stay, and so is your warranty coverage.

Finally, Astrawatt has some of the best customer ratings of any solar installer in Oklahoma. It has a 5-star rating on the BBB’s website, a 5-star rating on Google Reviews and a 4.1-star rating on TrustPilot. These are well above the industry average and suggest that your experience is likely to be an overwhelmingly positive one.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I also think it’s important to see what customers rave and complain about, as some companies get poor customer ratings because they use aggressive marketing tactics like door-to-door sales, which can be a downside but doesn’t suggest that you’ll have a bad experience. To that end, I read through dozens of reviews for Astrawatt. I found that positive reviews mention great communication, a willingness to answer questions and work out issues with HOAs and permitting problems and a fast and professional installation with no issues. Negative reviews suggest that there are some one-off issues with dropped communication after the installation, but the company seems quick to reply and correct any related problems.

I’ll include a positive and negative review below so that you can see what the best- and worst-case scenario will be if you choose to move forward with Astrawatt.

“Astrawatt is great! They helped me through my HOA which was against solar panels over the course of two years. They proactively informed me when new laws were enacted to allow solar panels despite such HOA. The installation itself took only two days and has been running smoothly since. They also helped answer some questions which helped me to get the tax credit. Overall great service and dedication.” — Eric via TrustPilot

“Reid was very helpful when we installed our solar a year or so ago. Called to talk about adding Batteries. I prefer an in person appointment but was scheduled for an online appointment. That appointment was forgotten the Reid called back and said he would send a proposal based on the information I sent. It’s been 3 weeks without a word.” — Gary R. via TrustPilot

Astrawatt Customer Service

8/10

The last part of our company assessment is for customer service. I come up with this score myself based on the customer reviews I read through and a secret shopper call I make to gauge the customer service you can expect as a new customer.

I deducted 2 points in this area because of the occasional issues with delayed communication after the installation. Most of the communication from this company seems great, but there are some minor problems you could run into down the road. On the other hand, my secret shopper call went very well. I felt like the representative was knowledgeable about the local solar industry, as they were able to answer some questions I had and even made some preliminary recommendations for a system. Overall, I’m pleased with the customer service this company seems to offer, and I’d be comfortable choosing Astrawatt for my own solar array.

Why We Chose Techsico Solar

Techsico Solar was founded in 2018 and already has an impressive line-up of services, including a slew of energy efficiency upgrades that most other installers don’t offer, as well as a handful of positive customer reviews that suggest it’s off to a good start in the industry. While it’s a younger company than most others in our rankings, it uses NABCEP-certified installers to provide some peace of mind to customers.

Techsico is a great option for system customization, in part due to those energy efficiency upgrades. It’s a full-service electrician, too, so you can combine panels with batteries, EV chargers, solar carports, smart thermostats and more to get the most out of your system. In fact, all solar installations from Techsico come standard with efficient lighting upgrades and a smart thermostat installation to boost your home’s energy efficiency while going solar.

I think Techsico is a good company to go with in Oklahoma, but there are some drawbacks to consider. Most importantly, it doesn’t include any labor warranty or roof leak warranty. Warranty coverage is important for protecting your investment and securing some peace of mind that your system will continue functioning for decades, so I’d only recommend Techsico if you’re not concerned about system guarantees.

What I Like About Techsico Solar

As mentioned above, Techsico Solar has an impressive number of energy efficiency upgrades and add-on options available to help you customize your system. It tackles roof-mount and ground-mount systems, solar carports, solar pergola and patio covers, smart thermostat installations, energy monitoring and surge protection services, lighting upgrades and more. You can use these services to get the most benefit out of your system and have the biggest positive impact on the environment.

Techsico also uses in-house installers that helps cut down on poor communication and issues with spotty customer service, and its use of NABCEP-certified electricians helps ensure that your installation will be safe and professional.

What I Don’t Like About Techsico Solar

The biggest drawback to going with Techsico Solar, in my opinion, is that it doesn’t offer any warranty coverage above and beyond what comes from your panel manufacturer. There’s no workmanship warranty or roof leak warranty, and although the risk of a shoddy installation is reduced by the company’s NABCEP certification, I’d really like to see those warranty coverages for greater peace of mind.

Techsico Solar was also founded in 2018, and in my opinion, 6 years isn’t long enough of a track record to prove that the company is here to stay. With that being said, since the provider doesn’t offer any warranty coverage itself, you won’t lose much if it does go out of business.

Techsico Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Techsico Solar doesn’t have a timeline for its installations on its website, so it’s unclear how long it will take from your initial consultation to the day your system is active and starts generating power for your home. However, I’d expect that it would be between 6 and 8 weeks, which is the industry average.

The solar conversion process also isn’t clearly outlined, but it should be more or less the same as what you’d see from other installers. You’ll first have an in-person consultation, during which time a Techsico representative will inspect your roof, gauge your electricity consumption and assess your solar needs. The company will then design a system to meet your needs, have you sign your contract and then pull permits for the installation. Finally, Techsico will install your components based on the design, schedule final inspections with your building department and utility company and then activate your system.

Techsico Solar Standard Services & Financing  20/25

Techsico Solar scores well in our ratings when it comes to its standard services and financing options, and it only loses points for not accepting leases or PPAs.

It uses in-house installers, which tends to reduce the risk of poor customer service, as there’s just a single company responsible for your installation. It also means you’ll have just one company to point the finger at if something goes wrong, which can make getting a resolution in place a bit simpler.

Techsico installs solar batteries, which I love to see in Oklahoma. The local net metering policy calls for a below-retail credit rate for excess power you produce and send to the grid, and solar batteries help you maximize your savings by effectively crediting you at the full retail rate. With a battery, you get the most value for the power your panels generate, likely saving you more money over time.

Techsico also installs panels, inverters and batteries that include a mobile app for solar system monitoring. This app can help you identify problems early on, potentially saving you money if you also implement a fix more quickly. Most solar installers offer this through their equipment brands, so this isn’t a special option from Techsico, but it is nice to have.

Cost and Financing Options

There are 4 main solar financing options you can consider: a cash purchase, a solar loan, a lease and a PPA. Techsico only accepts cash purchases and solar loans. It’s important to understand all of the options before choosing, as your choice will determine how much you’ll have to pay for your system upfront and the savings you can expect over time.

With a cash purchase, you’ll have to pay the entire cost of your system initially, which is always expensive but especially so in Oklahoma, given the above-average system size and price. However, you’ll own your system immediately and won’t have to pay any interest, which means you’ll see the highest long-term savings — an average of around $24,750, based on our research. Paying in cash also lets you take the ITC, which could effectively bring down your system costs by up to 30% — an average potential value of $11,022 in Oklahoma.

More customers go with a solar loan because it only requires a small down payment and a credit check as opposed to close to $25,000 in expendable cash. You can still take the ITC, and you’ll still own your system eventually. However, you will have to pay interest on your loan, which reduces your all-in savings by an average of about $5,000.

A solar lease is a rental agreement that gives you access to the power your panels generate in exchange for a monthly rental fee for your equipment. Solar leases are appealing because they require no money down and are highly accessible. However, you won’t own your panels at any point, which means you can’t take advantage of the ITC — that’s a potential value of around $11,000, on average, that you’ll miss out on. A lease can also complicate the sale of your home, as backing out of leases early can be expensive and problematic in some cases. Most importantly, though, your lifetime savings are expected to max out around $5,000, which is a fifth of what you’d see with a cash purchase.

A PPA is another no-money-down option, but instead of paying a rental fee to your installer, you agree to buy the energy your panels produce instead of buying power from your electric company. In most cases, installers structure these to guarantee savings. PPAs are accessible, but they don’t let you take the ITC, and they can complicate the sale of your home just like a lease can. Additionally, PPAs save about the same as a lease in most cases, so your net savings will be significantly lower than if you chose a cash purchase or loan.

Note that Techsico doesn’t accept leases or PPAs. I did deduct some points in our ratings for this, as access to these low-cost options is nice to have, but I should mention that I recommend cash purchases and loans to most customers anyway, so I don’t think this is a huge drawback.

Techsico Solar Extra Services Offered 

3/5

As mentioned above, one of my favorite things about Techsico is the wide range of add-on services and energy efficiency upgrades it offers to its customers.

The company loses 2 points in this section of our ratings because it doesn’t handle roof replacements or repairs. This would be a nice perk to have because it means you’d be working with a one-stop-shop that can prepare your roof for solar before installing your panels. This makes the solar conversion process more convenient, so it would be nice if Techsico offered this, too. However, beyond the lack of roof work, Techsico is a stellar option if you’re looking for products and services above and beyond the standard panel and battery options.

First, it installs EV chargers, which is nice to have in Oklahoma, where EV adoption is above-average and likely to continue to rise as the public charging infrastructure continues to improve. At-home charging capability is a nice perk to have for convenience if you have an EV or plan on buying on in the future.

Techsico also installs more energy efficiency upgrades than I’ve seen from any other installer. It offers solar carports, solar pergolas and patio covers, smart thermostat installation, upgrades to efficient lighting, solar attic fans, smart appliances and full-service electrical work. This combination of add-ons not only suggests that Techsico gets the big picture of solar, but it also helps you maximize your system’s value and have the largest positive impact on the environment.

Finally, Techsico offers professional energy monitoring and surge protection services, which helps safeguard your home and identify any production issues that could otherwise lead to system damage and a loss of savings. Perhaps best of all, all installations include lighting upgrades, professional monitoring and surge protection and a smart thermostat installation.

Techsico Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

At EcoWatch, we always try to put sustainability and environmental friendliness first, which is why our solar installer reviews include a look at each provider’s overall environmental impact and sustainability practices. In most cases, this involves looking at the panel brands each installer chooses to work with and assessing how sustainable those companies are. I look for companies that use recycled materials for manufacturing, have recycling programs to keep old panels out of landfills, are manufactured mostly in the U.S. and don’t have a history of social inequity or poor working conditions in the workplace.

Techsico installs panels manufactured by QCells and REC, which tie with a few other brands for first place in our sustainability ratings. Both companies source recycled materials for production, have end-of-life recycling programs for spent panels and don’t have any documented issues with forced labor, poor working conditions or racism in the workplace. Neither brand is manufactured predominantly in the U.S., so they both lose a few points in our ratings for that reason.

I should mention that going solar is always going to reduce your carbon footprint and have a net positive impact on the environment. I just think going with an installer that carries sustainable brands is a good way to maximize that impact.                                                                                                         

Techsico Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

17/25

In addition to sustainability, I look at the quality and reliability of the equipment each installer offers, as well as the warranty coverage that guarantees that quality. I compare brands based on 18 different metrics, 3 of which I think are most crucial in Oklahoma. Those include the efficiency rating, the degradation rate and the max wind load rating.

The efficiency rating of a panel dictates how much power your panels will produce relative to the amount of available sunlight. HIgher efficiency ratings will always lead to greater savings. I think high efficiency ratings are a good thing to optimize for in Oklahoma because homeowners use more power per month than those in most other states, so higher efficiency ratings should help offset that above-average consumption and save you more over time. Most tier-one panels have efficiency ratings around 22%, and both the QCells and REC panels available from Techsico meet that standard.

The degradation rate of a panel tells you how quickly it will lose that efficiency. All panels degrade over time, but the speed of the degradation can give you an idea of how long your panels will continue to save you money. Again, this is important in Oklahoma, as a slower degradation rate will help offset more of your above-average energy bills for longer, leading to higher long-term savings. Most panel brands guarantee that between 85% and 92% of the initial efficiency will remain after 25 years. The QCells panels from Techsico guarantee 90.58% after that timeframe, and the REC panels available are slightly better for Oklahomans, as they guarantee 92% after 25 years.

Finally, the max wind load rating of a panel tells you the wind speeds it can resist from underneath without sustaining damage. I think this is a crucial aspect to consider in Oklahoma due to the frequency of tornado activity in the state. A higher wind rating means your panels will persist through more intense weather common in the area. The average wind speed rating for tier-one panels is around 3,520 Pascals (Pa). Both brands available from Techsico exceed this average, with QCells and REC panels sitting at 3,600 and 4,000 Pa, respectively. Both options should serve Oklahomans well, with REC being a slightly safer option.

Warranties and Guarantees

In addition to panel specs, it’s important to look at the warranty coverage you get with your system, especially in Oklahoma, where the average solar investment is about 40% higher than the national average. I look at 4 types of warranty coverages to get a complete picture of how protected your system is.

First, I consider the equipment warranty, which your installer passes to you through the panel manufacturer. Most tier-one panel brands include 25 years of coverage for manufacturer defects, and both QCells and REC meet this standard.

Second, I look at the performance warranty, which guarantees a certain level of efficiency over the warranty period. The average performance warranty for tier-one panel brands guarantees that 85% to 92% of the starting efficiency will remain after 25 years. This kind of longevity is especially important in Oklahoma, where the average monthly electricity consumption is around 1,078 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, much higher than the national average of 881 kWh. A superior performance warranty will help ensure your solar savings for decades. QCells guarantees 90.58% remaining efficiency after 25 years, and REC is slightly better, as it guarantees 92% over that time period.

Third, I look at the workmanship warranty, which usually comes from your installer and covers the installation labor. This warranty can help avoid panel damage that could result from poor installation technique. Unfortunately, Techsico Solar doesn’t offer a workmanship warranty. For comparison, the typical coverage lasts for 12 years, so you’ll ultimately get less peace of mind from Techsico than you would from most competitors.

Finally, I look for roof leak warranties, which guarantee your roof penetrations won’t leak throughout the warranty period. Most installers don’t offer a roof leak warranty, and Techsico is one that doesn’t provide any coverage. This is a bigger deal in areas of Oklahoma that see rainfall in line with the national average — around 36 inches of rain per year — but it’s less of a downside in the areas of the state that see below-average rainfall. Still, coverage provides additional peace of mind, so I do wish Techsico offered a roof leak warranty.

Techsico Solar Company Reputation 

20.5/25

Oklahoma is home to just 18 solar installers, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, and in areas with so few choices, I strongly recommend assessing an installer’s reputation in the local market before deciding. Techsico scores reasonably well in this portion of our review process.

It loses some points because the company was just founded in 2018. I look for companies that have a decade or more of experience, as that kind of longevity suggests that the provider has the experience and commitment to the industry to stick around. Younger companies are less stable and more likely to go out of business, and they can void your warranty coverage if they do.

I also prefer companies that use NABCEP-certified installers and electricians, as these professionals receive specialized training above and beyond what’s required by the state. Techsico has NABCEP-certified installers on staff, which means you have a better chance of getting a safe and professional installation from experienced technicians.

Techsico isn’t an SEIA member, so it loses a few additional points in our ratings. SEIA membership suggests that a company is financially invested in the local industry, so it can be a good indication that a company is here to stay, as is the warranty coverage it provides. Techsico doesn’t offer warranty coverage outside of the warranties that come from its equipment manufacturers, but I still prefer to see membership, as it suggests your installer will be able to service your system in the future if anything goes wrong.

Techsico isn’t rated on the BBB’s website, likely because it is a relatively young company, and it doesn’t have any reviews on TrustPilot, so it loses some points for that, too. However, it has a 4.8-star rating on Google Reviews, which is well above average for the industry and suggests that you’re likely to receive great customer service.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

While overall ratings are a good thing to look at, I also read through customer reviews to see specifically where the company performs well and where it could stand to improve the customer experience. The positive reviews for Techsico suggest that the company cares a great deal about making customers happy, offers great communication before, during and after the installation and goes above and beyond to ensure customers see expected savings with their system. Notably, there’s only a single review that’s not 5 stars on Google, and it appears it was left for the wrong company.

I normally include 1 positive and 1 negative review to show the best and worst you can expect from each provider, but since there are no legitimate negative reviews, I’ll include 2 positive reviews that paint a complete picture of the service you can expect.

“Ted was great to work with. He answered all my many questions, even spending a Friday evening talking me through things. Throughout the process he communicated and would respond nights and weekends, always. When he came to visit for a potential estimate. he walked through everything. I had other companies come out and they just try to sell and push “Specials”. Ted KNEW the business and potential concerns. He then was part of the install team. When PSO dragged their feet, he/they reached out, and [the] next business [day], PSO was there to install the meter needed. I would highly recommend!!! Do not hesitate to go solar!!” — John D. via Google Reviews

“Ted and the crew did a wonderful job. They were very perceptive to questions and would find an answer instead of just making something up. Ted worked with me on what my energy needs were and made them clear. I’m sure if I have questions in the future even though our transaction is over he would be just as helpful.” — Lee D. via Google Reviews

Techsico Solar Customer Service 

10/10

Finally, I assign a customer service score to each provider based on the dozens of reviews I read through, as well as my experience as a secret shopper. All of the legitimate reviews for Techsico are positive and mention things like honest salesmanship, professional installations and high-quality, constant communication. If I lived in Oklahoma and didn’t mind the lack of a workmanship warranty, I’d absolutely consider Techsico for my installation.

I also called Techsico and acted as a secret shopper to see what kind of initial customer service they provide. The representative answered quickly, addressed some questions I had and didn’t use high-pressure sales tactics to schedule an inspection. They seemed honest and informative, and they were even willing to make some recommendations for boosting home energy efficiency to get the most out of the system. Overall, I was impressed with the experience.

Why We Chose ION Solar

ION Solar makes charitable donations — including time and money — to bring solar power to organizations and residential homes at no or low cost through its ION Earth program. Going solar with ION means reducing your carbon footprint and also spreading the positive benefits of renewable energy to people that couldn’t otherwise afford to convert to solar. This kind of charitable program, in association with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, means that going solar with ION has a greater positive impact on the world than going with most other providers.

ION Solar is also a one-stop shop for solar, as it handles roof repairs and replacements in addition to panel installations, and it uses NABCEP-certified installers and offers a 10-year workmanship and roof leak warranty to provide peace of mind that your system will continue performing and saving you money for years to come.

There are some downsides to consider, too, though. Most importantly, ION Solar has middling reviews that suggest your overall experience may not be the best, including a 2.79-star rating on the BBB and a 2.2-star rating on TrustPilot. It also doesn’t offer much in the way of add-ons, so system customization options are minimal.

What I Like About ION Solar

ION Solar is one of the few installers in Oklahoma that goes above and beyond to maximize its impact on the environment and the world at large. It makes charitable donations and helps bring renewable energy to people and businesses that might not be able to afford it. If you’re looking for a company with a positive social and environmental impact, I’d recommend ION.

It also includes a solid roof leak warranty to protect your home from leaks and water damage, which most installers don’t offer. If you’re in need of a new roof, ION can also couple your solar installation with professional and warrantied roofing services, which means you won’t have to search for and vet a separate roofing company. This makes the process of going solar a bit more convenient.

What I Don’t Like About ION Solar

The biggest concern I have about going solar with ION is the below-average customer review rating it has across multiple sites. Reviews suggest that there are some instances of poor communication after the installation, especially in regards to warranty claims, which is a pretty significant downside, in my opinion. Others complain about misleading sales tactics, which is upsetting, as this kind of behavior gives the solar industry a bad name and increases the risk of getting stuck with a system that ends up costing you money. If you do go with ION, I strongly recommend doing your own research beforehand to see if the agreement you enter into will actually save you money.

I also wish ION offered more add-on services, like energy efficiency upgrades and EV chargers. You can always opt for these after the installation, but it would be nice to get them all done at the same time and apply the ITC to everything to save more money on your system.

ION Solar Installation Process and Timeline

ION Solar provides an overview of its installation process on its website, and it’s about what you’d expect from most other installers. You’ll start with an in-person inspection so that a representative can assess your roof and your home. The engineering team will then design a system that suits your home and send you a proposal for your approval. Once you sign, ION will pull permits and schedule your installation once they receive approval. The installation should take just a day or two, after which ION will schedule final inspections before activating your system.

ION doesn’t mention how long the entire process will take, but I’d expect a timeline of 6 to 8 weeks, which is the average in the solar industry.

ION Solar Standard Services & Financing

25/25

ION Solar gets perfect scores when it comes to its standard services and the financing options it accepts. First, it uses in-house installers, which means your project won’t be outsourced to a third-party company. This can help avoid miscommunication and delays in the installation process, and it often leads to better customer service since you have a single company working to protect its reputation.

It installs solar batteries, which is an upside, in my opinion, as they’re often financially beneficial in areas like Oklahoma, where net metering credit rates are below the retail rate for electricity. Batteries let you offset your consumption one-to-one even when the sun isn’t shining, so you ultimately pay less for your power. This is also beneficial in Oklahoma because of the above-average consumption rate, and a battery may lead to higher long-term savings.

ION Solar uses Enphase microinverters, so every installation will include free access to the Enphase app. This lets you monitor your system’s production, which means you can identify production issues and potentially get repairs underway earlier to avoid missing out on solar savings.

Cost and Financing Options

The financing option you use to acquire your solar equipment plays a major role in your upfront costs and long-term savings, so I always review the financing options offered by installers. ION Solar accepts cash purchases, solar loans and solar leases.

I recommend a cash purchase if you can make it work, as this option yields the highest savings over time — an average of around $24,750 in Oklahoma, based on our research — and lets you take the ITC, a solar incentive with an average potential value of $11,000 in your area. The downside of paying in cash, of course, is that you’ll have to pay the entire cost upfront. This is less viable of an option in Oklahoma than most other states because the cost of the larger system required in the area is about 40% higher than the national average.

A solar loan is the next best option. It still gives you ownership of your system and access to the ITC, but it’s far more accessible because you only have to pay a small down payment upfront and pass a credit check. The interest you pay will depend on your interest rate and the cost of your system, but on average, you’ll pay around $5,000 in interest, which reduces the average savings from $24,750 to around $19,750.

A solar lease is one of the most accessible options because you don’t need to pay anything upfront. Instead, you agree to pay a monthly rental fee for your system and then get to use the energy your panels generate for free. Leases come with some pretty significant downsides, though. First, you miss out on the potential savings of $11,000 because you can’t take the ITC if you lease. You’ll also never own your panels, so selling your home can be a bit more complicated if you’re not at the end of the lease when you move. Finally, lifetime savings are only around $5,000, according to our research, which is a fifth of what you’d save if you paid in cash.

Power purchase agreements (PPAs) are similar to leases, but you buy the power your panels generate from your solar installer rather than purchasing it from your electric company. These also require no money down and are highly accessible. They come with the same downsides of a lease, though. Note that ION doesn’t accept PPAs, but it gets full marks in our ratings in terms of financing options because it accepts leases, which are similar to PPAs.

ION Solar Extra Services Offered 

2/5

ION scores well in our ratings when it comes to its core services, but it scores below-average for add-on service availability.

The one add-on service ION offers is roof repair and replacement. This is a nice option because it means you won’t have to vet roofers and coordinate with a third-party company if you need roof repairs or a replacement before going solar. The company offers separate roof warranties, too, which provides some additional peace of mind that you’ll be leak- and issue-free after converting to solar.

Unfortunately, ION’s add-on options end there. It doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades, so if you’re looking to maximize the value of your system by simultaneously reducing your energy consumption, I’d recommend a different company. Things like new windows and doors, new insulation and smart thermostats can make a big difference, especially in a hot, sunny climate like the one in Oklahoma.

ION also doesn’t install EV chargers, and it doesn’t offer professional system monitoring. EV chargers will likely be more beneficial in the future, as Oklahoma is expanding its public charging infrastructure to help make driving EVs in the state more accessible. Professional monitoring can also take the burden off of you, as you won’t have to identify production issues yourself using the Enphase app.

ION Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Converting to solar is going to reduce your carbon footprint significantly and have a massive net positive impact on the environment, but I still think it’s important to go with the most sustainable equipment possible to maximize that positive impact. I assess all of the brands each installer uses and try to prioritize companies that work with manufacturers that use recycled materials during production, make it easy for homeowners to recycle old panels and use socially sustainable business practices.

ION Solar installs panels from Canadian Solar and Silfab, both of which tie with several other brands for first place in our ratings for sustainability. Both companies lose some points because they predominantly manufacture outside of the U.S., where labor laws and environmental regulations are less stringent. However, both source recycled materials for manufacturing, have end-of-life recycling programs for their equipment and don’t have a history of racism, poor working conditions or forced labor in the workplace.

I should also note here that ION Solar goes above and beyond to maximize its impact on the environment and the solar industry as a whole. Each installation helps the company donate equipment and time to charitable donations to bring renewable energy to homeowners and businesses that wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford going solar. You can read more about the ION Earth program and the company’s partnership with Habitat for Humanity on the ION Earth information page.                                                                                                           

ION Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

19/25

ION Solar scores higher than many other installers in the area in terms of its equipment quality and reliability, too, which is a pretty big upside to choosing this provider. I look at 18 specifications for panel brands from each installer to come up with this score, and I think 3, in particular, are important considerations for Oklahoma solar customers. Those include the efficiency rating, the degradation rate and the max wind load rating.

The efficiency of a panel tells you how much of the available sunlight your panels can collect and convert to usable energy for your home. Higher efficiency ratings should yield higher long-term savings because they have a better chance of offsetting your consumption. This is particularly important in Oklahoma, where residents use far more power per month in their homes — an average of around 1,078 kWh per month compared to the national average of 881 kWh. The average efficiency rating among tier-one panels is around 22%. The Silfab panels from ION top out at 21.4%, just under the average, and the Canadian Solar panels top out a bit higher at 23.3%. I’d recommend Canadian Solar for efficiency and savings if you go with ION.

The degradation rate tells you how quickly your panels lose efficiency, and a slower degradation rate will improve the chances of continuing to offset your high consumption and maximize solar savings over time. Most tier-one brands guarantee that your panels will lose no more than 8% to 15% of their starting efficiency over 25 years. Silfab guarantees 90.8%, and Canadian Solar guarantees 89.4%. Both brands from ION fall within the average range, which Silfab being a bit better for long-term savings.

The max wind load tells you what wind speeds your panels can withstand, and higher ratings are superior in Oklahoma due to the frequent tornado activity. The average wind load is 3,520 Pascals (Pa). The Silfab and Canadian Solar panels from ION have ratings of 5,400 Pa and 2,400 Pa, respectively. If you live in an area that’s particularly prone to tornadoes — like most of Oklahoma — I’d recommend Silfab panels for longevity.

Warranties and Guarantees

Also important are the warranty coverages your manufacturer and installer provide, as these help guarantee your system will continue to perform over time and will remain problem-free. I recommend looking at 4 types of warranty coverage.

First, consider the equipment warranty. This comes from the panel manufacturer and is passed through to you from your installer. The typical equipment warranty insulates you from out-of-pocket costs associated with manufacturer defects for 25 years. Both brands available from ION are in line with the average.

Second, look at the performance warranty. This is the coverage that guarantees a certain level of production over the life of your system. Better performance warranties suggest that your system will continue offsetting your energy consumption, which is especially important in high-consumption areas, like Oklahoma. The typical performance warranty lasts for 25 years, and the Canadian Solar and Silfab panels from ION come with superior 30-year coverage for performance, which is outstanding.

Next, look at the workmanship warranty, which comes from your installer rather than the manufacturer. This protects you from system damage caused by poor installation technique, so a better labor warranty often means a more professional installation. The average workmanship warranty lasts for 12 years. Unfortunately, ION Solar only offers a 10-year workmanship warranty, so you get less peace of mind than if you went with most other installers.

Finally, look for a roof leak warranty, which guarantees your roof penetrations won’t leak for the warranty term. This is less important in some areas of Oklahoma that see below-average rainfall, but it’s still a nice guarantee to have for peace of mind. Most companies don’t include this coverage, so I’m happy to see that the 10-year workmanship warranty from ION includes protection for roof leaks.

ION Solar Company Reputation 

17.5/25

Unfortunately, the solar industry is home to a lot of disreputable companies that could end up costing you more money and frustration, so I always assess each provider based on their local reputation. ION Solar loses quite a few points in this area of our review process, which is a pretty major downside to going with this installer, in my opinion.

It does use in-house installers, which is a good sign, as this means a single company is responsible for communication and customer service. I prefer this over companies that outsource installation, as there’s generally less quality control when labor is outsourced. ION has also been around since 2013, and I love to see companies with a decade or more of experience. Newer companies are more likely to fail, especially in an industry as competitive as solar, so this kind of longevity suggests that the company and its warranty package will stick around long after your installation.

ION also uses NABCEP-certified installers, who have more specialized training for photovoltaic (PV) installations than non-certified technicians. Once again, this suggests that you’ll get a safe, professional installation that’s free from issues.

Unfortunately, that’s where the positive notes on ION’s reputation end. The company has an A+ score with the BBB, but its customer rating there is just 2.79 stars, which is below average. It also has a 2.2-star rating on TrustPilot. These below-average scores suggest that the company sometimes struggles with customer service. If you’re looking for high-quality service and a completely reliable company, I’d recommend looking elsewhere.

Finally, ION Solar isn’t an SEIA member. This membership solidifies an installer’s financial commitment to the local solar industry, so while it’s not a huge deal that ION isn’t a member, it is something I look for in installers to suggest longevity and company stability.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

The customer review scores for ION Solar are a bit troubling, and I read through dozens of reviews across multiple platforms to see where ION falls short. Positive reviews mention professionalism and timeliness throughout the installation, as well as a system that lives up to customer expectations. Unfortunately, there are quite a few negative reviews, too, and these mention some troubling issues, like slow response times to warranty claims — a significant red flag, in my opinion — and some potentially misleading marketing tactics, like overselling the benefits of solar in Oklahoma.

I’ll include 1 positive and 1 negative ION Solar review below to give you an idea of the best and worst you can expect from this provider.

“From sales to the final inspection of the ION Solar system everything was smooth. No pressure sales team, professional installation team and great communication from ION personnel that kept me informed through the approval process! If youre considering solar, go with ION.” — Greg B. via BBB

“I had solar installed on my home. I noticed 3 loose support brackets in June. My system is under warranty, so I called Ion to make the repair. They said a repair technician would call me to schedule the repair. No one called. I called in July and was told the same thing. No one called. I received a text message saying they didn’t have anyone in the area to do the repair, and when they did, they would call me. It is now August and still no call. I tried to call the support and was on hold for a really long time. I tried to use the chat function and no one answered that. I have emailed. I have text messaged them. No response. Don’t buy solar from them. Once you install, they will not follow through with anything they are supposed to.” — Audrie S. via BBB

ION Solar Customer Service 

3/10

The last part of our solar company review process involves looking at the actual customer service you’ll receive. To come up with this score, I read through dozens of customer reviews to gauge the overall customer experience, and I also call the company as a secret shopper before assigning a subjective score.

ION lost quite a few points for customer service not only because it has below-average customer ratings but also because some of the issues mentioned in online reviews are pretty significant red flags, in my opinion. Many customers are pleased and don’t run into issues, but those who do mention misleading marketing practices and delays in responding to warranty claims. In my own experience going solar, these were 2 things I would have personally avoided.

ION did get some points in this portion of our ratings because my experience as a secret shopper was pleasant. The company was quick to respond to my inquiry, and the representative was friendly and knowledgeable. If the customer service I received on my call extended through the installation, ION would have scored much higher for customer service.