5 Best Solar Companies in Texas (2025 Reviews)

Why We Chose Solartime USA

Solartime USA is based right in Richardson, Texas, and was founded in 2009 so it’s a local installer with over a decade of experience and more than 32,000 installations under its belt. I personally went solar with a small, local company like Solartime USA, and while it cost me a bit more than choosing a larger, national company, I believe it was worth it for the quality customer service and warranty coverage. That’s exactly what you’ll get from Solartime: it has a nearly-perfect customer review rating — 4.99 stars out of 5 — with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and a perfect 5-star rating on Google Reviews. Especially in the home service industry, this is basically unheard of.

Solartime USA also goes above and beyond when it comes to the services it offers, so whether you’re looking for a standard rooftop or ground-mount solar array consisting of panels and solar batteries, or you want a solar carport to charge your electric vehicle (EV) or a solar pool heater, Solartime USA will be able to help.

If I were going solar in Texas, Solartime is the company I would personally choose, and based on the many customer reviews I read, I trust that the company will have your best interests at heart and lead you to a system that actually saves you money.

What I Like About Solartime USA

There are countless positive things I could say about Solartime. First off, in a state with such high demand and over 250 installers, the risk of picking an installer that doesn’t provide great customer service is, unfortunately, high. Solartime USA proves that it’s dedicated to customer satisfaction by maintaining nearly perfect review scores on the BBB and Google Reviews. On the BBB, specifically, Solartime USA has 68 customer reviews, all of which are 5 stars except one, which is 4 stars. I’ve never seen such positive reviews for a solar installation company, and it’s abundantly clear that going solar with Solartime means outstanding customer service from start to finish.

I also love Solartime’s breadth of services, which include the standards, like panels and batteries, but also other options that Texas residents, in particular, are likely to benefit from. For example, it installs electric vehicle chargers alongside its standard offers, which is crucial in Texas, the state with the third-most electric vehicle registrations in the country. It also installs solar carports and awnings that link directly to EV chargers, giving you options for producing solar power for your car without putting panels on your roof.

Solartime USA also installs panels manufactured by QCells and Panasonic, both of which have above-average wind load resistance. This is crucial in Texas, the state that sees the most tornado activity in the country.

What I Don’t Like About Solartime USA

There’s really not much I can say about Solartime USA that isn’t overwhelmingly positive. I did my best to find areas where the company could improve, and the only thing I can say — and I really feel like this is nitpicking — is that Solartime USA doesn’t tackle roof repairs or replacements.

When you’re going solar, it’s important that your roof is in good condition, otherwise you’ll have to uninstall the panels, repair or replace the roof and then reinstall the panels, which is an unnecessary expense. Solar providers will normally make sure your roof is in good condition with many years of life left before installing panels. Providers that tackle roof repairs and replacement in-house can save you from having to coordinate with a third-party roofing company. This is really a nice-to-have and not a necessity, so while it’s the only real negative thing I can say about Solartime, it shouldn’t be a reason not to go solar with this provider, in my opinion.

Solartime USA Installation Process and Timeline

Solartime USA outlines the process of going solar on its website, and it’s about what you’d expect from most installers. First,  the company will complete both a remote and in-person inspection of your home to assess your roof’s health and figure out what size system you’ll need. The representative will check your roof health and look at shading and the past 12 months of energy consumption. The in-house design team will then design a system that will suit your energy demands and fit on your roof, taking consumption habits and climate in your local area into account. Once you approve the design, the company will handle permits for you, and then install your system, schedule final inspections and activate the panels. From start to finish, you’re likely looking at 2 to 3 months, which is about average.

Solartime USA Standard Services & Financing 

25/25

Solartime USA gets perfect scores when it comes to its standard services and financing offers. First, it uses an in-house team of installers, which is ideal for avoiding miscommunications and unnecessary delays that you might get from a company that uses a dealer network, like Momentum. Solartime also covers the basics, like solar panel installation, solar battery installation and app monitoring.

I strongly recommend choosing an installer in Texas that installs solar batteries because the state doesn’t have any mandated net metering policy. Net metering lets you overproduce electricity with your panels, export it to the grid and then call on that energy later when your panels underproduce. Basically, with one-to-one net metering and a properly-sized system, you’re likely to eliminate your electric bill. Since Texas doesn’t have a net metering policy, batteries are necessary for many homeowners to take full advantage of the power their panels generate and maximize long-term savings. A lot of municipalities and electric companies offer net metering privately, but not all customers have access, so choosing an installer that offers batteries is still a good idea.

Solartime USA doesn’t have its own solar monitoring app, but it uses Enphase inverters, so you’ll get access to consumption and production data via the Enphase app. Most solar installers provide access to a third-party monitoring app, so this isn’t a stand-out benefit of choosing Solartime, but it is nice to have and could help you boost your savings.

Cost and Financing Options

Another crucial thing to consider when going solar in Texas is the cost of the equipment and the financing options available. Of course, cost is important no matter where you live, but it’s especially important in Texas because the cost of going solar, based on our research, is about $6,000 higher than the national average, primarily due to the above-average electricity consumption and larger system requirements to offset it.

Solartime USA maintains that the average cost per watt in Texas is around $2.95, which is well below what our research suggests — $3.18. As such, Solartime USA is likely to get you a system for significantly less than what most competitors will charge.

Still, Texans use more electricity than residents of nearly every other state — an average monthly consumption of around 1,178 kilowatt-hours (kWh) as compared to the national average of 899 kWh — which means most Texas residents will need larger and more expensive solar arrays to offset monthly electricity demands. Installers that provide access to multiple financing options help keep renewable energy more affordable.

Solartime USA accepts cash purchases, solar loans and solar leases, which covers all of the options I look for in an installer. If you can make it work, I strongly recommend going with a cash purchase. This means the highest upfront cost, but it also secures the fastest panel payback period possible and the best long-term savings. Cash purchases are the most beneficial from a savings standpoint. If you can’t make cash work, a solar loan is the next best option. You’ll pay a bit more for your system over time due to the interest, but your savings will still be higher than with a lease — an average of around $19,000 total, based on our data, as opposed to $5,000 with a lease.

A lease is a good option to have because it comes with no down payment and minimal credit requirements, but you never own your system with a lease, which means you can’t take the federal investment tax credit (ITC) — a value of about $10,971 in Texas, based on our research — and your savings will be significantly lower in the long run because there’s no payback period.

While I recommend going with cash or a solar loan, I do love that Solartime accepts more affordable options like leases because it helps keep solar more accessible overall.

Solartime USA Extra Services Offered 

3/5

Solartime USA scores well when it comes to the extra services it offers, only losing 2 points in our ratings because it doesn’t handle roof repairs or replacements. This isn’t a huge deal because you can just hire a third-party roofing company to get your roof solar-ready, but installers that tackle roof work in-house make it easier to go solar because they can provide all of the services you need at once without having to coordinate with a third party.

Aside from roof work, Solartime is an outstanding company to choose for additional services. It offers energy efficiency upgrades like generator installation for backup power and solar pool heaters, as well as solar carports, pergolas and awnings. These options can help maximize your savings and reduce your carbon footprint even further. It also installs EV chargers, including standalone chargers and those incorporated into solar carports. Texas has more EV registrations than all but two states — California and Florida — so having access to at-home EV chargers is more important in the Lone Star State than just about any other.

Finally, Solartime USA offers company monitoring for your system in addition to app monitoring, so its professionals can help identify issues with your system before they become severe and implement fixes to keep your electricity flowing and your savings growing.

Solartime USA Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Going solar in your home will undoubtedly reduce your carbon footprint and provide a net benefit to the environment, but just because solar panels are beneficial overall doesn’t mean the manufacturing process is also entirely sustainable. Solar panels demand raw materials, and the sourcing and recycling of those materials deem how sustainable each panel actually is. As such, we look at the solar panel brands each installer offers to see how sustainable the manufacturing process is overall.

Solartime USA scores a 7.5 out of 10, which is tied for first place in terms of overall sustainability. It installs QCells and Panasonic panels. Both of these manufacturers use recycled material in the manufacturing of panels and have end-of-life (EoL) recycling programs to reuse the construction materials rather than having the panels end up in a landfill. Both manufacturers lose a few points because they aren’t made primarily in the U.S., where environmental regulations tend to be stricter, but neither has a history of slave labor, child labor, unfair pay, poor working conditions or issues with solar inequity.

Solartime USA Equipment Quality & Reliability 

23/25

Solar equipment in Texas is expensive, with the average system totaling around $36,570 before any incentives. After you spend all of that money on panels, you want to be sure they’re protected from damage, especially in Texas, where tornadoes and hail occur frequently and threaten to damage rooftop panels with blown debris and hailstones or even rip them off of the roof, leaving you with property damage. We look at each company’s warranty coverage and guarantees to see how reliable the equipment is and how likely it is to stand up to severe weather events in Texas.

First, we consider the efficiency ratings for the panels offered by each installer, as a higher efficiency rating means more power generated regardless of the conditions, which ultimately means higher savings for you. The QCells and Panasonic panels provided by Solartime have max efficiency ratings of over 22%, putting them among the best of the best. They also have degradation rates that are better than industry averages, and both have above average wind load resistances that are likely to stand up to intense winds from tornadoes in the area.

Overall, the panels from Solartime are likely to outperform what you’d expect from many other installers, and they should give you many years of adequate savings.

Warranties and Guarantees

When you spend thousands of dollars on solar panels, you want to make sure they’re going to continue providing you with benefits for years to come. That’s why we look at the warranty coverage and production guarantees offered by each company. We look at four different things to ensure the longevity of your system.

First is the equipment warranty, also called the manufacturer’s warranty. This covers defects and helps prevent losses of power production from issues that pop up during the manufacturing process. The standard in the industry is 25 year, and you get this from both QCells and Panasonic. Note that this coverage comes from the manufacturer and not the installer, but the installer dictates which brands it works with, so the installer you choose still matters.

Second, we look at the production warranty, which, in my opinion, is going to be the second-most important coverage option in Texas. This guarantees that your panels won’t lose more than a specified percentage of their starting efficiency over the warranty term. You need to look at both the term and the stated degradation rates to see how good the coverage is. The standard term is 25 years, which is what you’ll get from both panel brands offered by Solartime. QCells guarantees your panels will maintain 90.58% efficiency after 25 years, and Panasonic guarantees 92%. Panasonic is a bit better, but both are better than the average of around 86%. Lower degradation rates are especially crucial in Texas because consumption is so much higher than the national average, and greater efficiency means greater savings over time.

Third, we look at the workmanship warranty, which typically comes from the installer and not the manufacturer. This coverage guarantees that you won’t have any problems that stem from poor installation technique or mistakes made during the installation process. Since panels in Texas are under extra stress from strong tornado winds, this, in my opinion, is the most important warranty to consider in the Lone Star State. The industry average for a labor warranty is around 12 years, and Solartime goes above and beyond by offering a 20-year workmanship warranty.

Finally, we look at the roof leak coverage. Most installers don’t guarantee their roof penetrations, so you’ll usually be on the hook for related roof leaks. Many areas throughout Texas — particularly in the southeastern part of the state — see rainfall that is well in excess of and sometimes double the national average, which means roof leak protection is another important guarantee to consider. I’m happy to report that Solartime USA includes a roof leak warranty to keep you protected.

Solartime USA Company Reputation 

18.5/25

Solartime USA has one of the best company reputations I’ve seen in the entire industry, with a flawless 5-star rating on Google Reviews, an unmatched 4.99-star rating with the BBB and countless customer reviews raving about the customer service. In an area like Texas, where the demand for solar is so high, I see a lot of companies popping up to take advantage and turn a profit, and I usually recommend staying away from these providers, as they can void your warranty if they end up going out of business, which they often do. Solartime USA is the exact opposite, with over a decade of experience, 32,000 installations under its belt and, still, nearly perfect customer ratings across the board.

The only areas where Solartime lose points in terms of company reputation were for a lack of memberships and certifications and the company’s small size.

Solartime USA doesn’t make any representations as to whether or not it has installers on its in-house installation team that are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Certification from NABCEP requires additional training, which helps ensure a solid installation. However, since Solartime includes such great warranty coverage, I don’t really think of this as a necessity. It also lost points because it’s not a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). SEIA membership helps establish the company’s commitment to the industry as a whole, so again, even though Solartime lost some points here, I don’t think it’s indicative of a disreputable company.

Finally, Solartime lost some points in this category because it only services Texas. Companies with a wider footprint and a history of growth suggests longevity in the industry. However, that’s not to say that I don’t think Solartime will stick around — it has a decade of experience in Texas and has completed tens of thousands of installations, so I trust that it’s here to stay and will keep your warranty coverage intact for decades to come.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

As a part of my company review process, I read through dozens of customer reviews for Solartime to see what kind of service you can expect. Unlike with most other providers, all of the customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Customers rave about the communication and professionalism you’ll get from the company, and plenty of reviews mention that the provider holds up to its promises and delivers fast responses to warranty claims. I’ll include some reviews below that give you a snapshot of what you can expect. I normally include one positive and one negative review, but there quite simply aren’t negative reviews available, so I’ll have to include two positive ones.

“Outstanding communication, support, customer service, knowledge. [Solartime] installed my solar last fall and I have been very impressed throughout the process. The tip of the hat that prompted this review for me was a leak I had in my roof under the solar panels. I suspected the solar install was the cause but their technician helped me find the actual cause (a screw sticking out of the roof from the original roofer) AND they helped me by patching the problem even though it was not their fault. Incredible to find such great service in this day and age. Thank you.” — David G. via BBB

“EVERY team member showed themselves to be experts and passionate about their vocations. Grateful for the time they took to install the system with integrity and to answer all of our questions – both simple and complex. OUTSTANDING COMPANY!” — Allen B. via BBB

Solartime USA Customer Service 

10/10

The only part of my review that isn’t objective is the customer service score I give to each provider. I base this on my call to each company as a secret shopper, as well as on the specific feedback I see in the dozens of customer reviews I read for each provider. Solartime USA, unsurprisingly, gets perfect marks here.

When I called Solartime to speak with a representative, I was met with a quick response and a super friendly and knowledgeable rep who was willing and able to answer in-depth questions immediately. They were friendly and not pushy at all, which is what I like to see from a solar provider.

I also have never seen a solar provider maintain such overwhelmingly positive customer reviews. Every review I read through raved about the company and its services. Most importantly, customers love how quickly the provider responds to warranty claims, and in a state with frequent tornado and hail activity and above-average rainfall in some areas, this is particularly important.

Why We Chose Powered by Elevation

Powered by Elevation is my second pick for the best solar installers in Texas, and a big part of why I included it in my rankings is because it offers a variety of products and services beyond the basics. Specifically, its Curb system gives you remote access to your electrical system, so you can monitor your consumption and production remotely. This is helpful especially for Texas residents who don’t have access to net metering from their municipality or utility company, as it helps curb energy consumption to make the most out of the power you are able to use on-site.

Powered by Elevation doesn’t quite match Solartime USA in terms of customer ratings, but it does maintain above-average customer reviews scores, including a 4.06-star rating with the BBB and a 3.5-star rating with TrustPilot. In a state with over 250 installers, choosing a provider with scores like these is wise to avoid problems with companies that are just in the industry for the profit.

What I Like About Powered by Elevation

Powered by Elevation has the products and services Texans need to help make the most out of their solar arrays. Not only does the company cover the basics, like panels and battery installations, but it also installs other energy efficiency upgrades, like smart electrical panels. These perks can help bring down your monthly consumption and associated electric bills, which is more important in Texas than nearly every other state, as Texans use more electricity per month than all but three states. This really shows that Elevation gets the “big picture” of solar and is invested in more than just the benefits of panels.

Powered by Elevation is one of the only companies I found that includes a lifetime labor warranty with its systems. That means the installation labor is guaranteed not to be the cause of any panel or system issues for as long as they last. In a state like Texas, where tornadoes, hail storms and heavy rain can threaten panel longevity and test the installation labor, this is a huge pro to consider. Most companies include a 12-year labor warranty, and some don’t have one at all, so Powered by Elevation really stands out in terms of the peace of mind it delivers.

What I Don’t Like About Powered by Elevation

One downside to going solar with Powered by Elevation is that, while it provides a nice array of add-on services, it doesn’t tackle roof replacements or roof repairs. This isn’t really a huge deal, and most installers don’t offer these services, but it can be really convenient to choose a solar company that can also provide roofing services. It saves you from having to coordinate with a third party if you need roof replacement or repairs prior to going solar, and it leaves you with a single company to hold accountable in the case of a leak or related issue.

The only other minor downsides to choose Elevation include the lack of NABCEP certification for its installation team, the lack of SEIA membership and the small company size.

NABCEP certification requires that installers go through additional training, which means you’re more likely to get a professional install that’s problem-free. I don’t think this is as important for Elevation as it is for other providers because of the lifetime workmanship warranty the company offers, but it still caused the provider to lose some points in our ratings. SEIA membership is similar: it helps establish that a company is invested in the industry and isn’t going anywhere, but it’s not a necessity and shouldn’t stop you from hiring a particular installer.

Finally, Powered by Elevation is a small company, and providers that see a lot of growth are sometimes more likely to stick around and maintain your warranty coverages. Elevation has over a decade of experience, though, so I don’t really see this is a major drawback.

Powered by Elevation Installation Process and Timeline

The installation process with Elevation is going to be similar to what you’d expect from another provider. You’ll have an initial in-person inspection, then a design team will create a plan for your system that will fit on your roof and meet your energy demands. Once you approve that design, you’ll sign your contract, and a representative from Elevation will pull permits for your system. On the day of the installation, an in-house team will show up to install everything. Following the installation, Elevation will schedule final inspections before activating your system.

It’s worth mentioning that the use of in-house installers should lead to great communication throughout the entire process, which is more than you’d expect from a company like Momentum that uses a build-partner model (third-party installers). Additionally, after the installation, you’re likely to get service that’s better than average given the company’s stellar lifetime labor warranty. Some customer reviews mention delays in getting warranty-related work done, but it seems like most of the time the delays are on the part of the manufacturers and not Elevation.

Powered by Elevation Standard Services & Financing 

25/25

Powered by Elevation gets perfect marks when it comes to its standard services and financing options. In terms of services, it offers the basics, including panel installation by an in-house team of installers, battery installation and app monitoring. An in-house installation team often helps avoid communication breakdowns and unnecessary delays, so I’m happy to see Elevation using in-house installers. This arrangement also helps keep one company responsible, which prevents different parties pointing fingers if something goes wrong.

Solar batteries are particularly important in Texas because of the lack of a statewide net metering program. For any customer who doesn’t have access to NEM from their municipality or electric company, batteries offer effective on-site net metering, so you can make the most of the electricity your panels generate and maximize savings.

App monitoring gives you access to your production and consumption habits, even if you don’t upgrade to Elevation’s Curb smart panel. Having system data at your fingertips lets you monitor for deficiencies and find errors with production so that you can get the problem corrected quickly to avoid missing out on savings. Most installers provide access to app monitoring through the panel or inverter manufacturer, so this isn’t really a stand-out feature.

Cost and Financing Options

Solar is more expensive in Texas than most other states primarily because the monthly consumption is so high — about 22% higher than the national average — and systems need to be sized up to match the demands. The average cost of a solar array in Texas is around 33% higher than the national average as a result, which means the cost and financing options from each provider are crucial to consider.

Elevation doesn’t provide pricing information for its services, which is typical, but we can look at the financing offered by the company to see how viable an option Elevation is as a whole. It accepts cash purchases, solar loans and solar leases.

I strongly recommend you pay in cash if at all possible, which I know will be tough in Texas due to above-average system costs. However, you get immediate ownership of your system, no interest to drive up long-term costs, the fastest possible payback period and the highest possible savings — an average of around $24,913 in Texas, based on our research.

A solar loan is the next best option, in my opinion. You’ll pay around $5,000 in interest over the life of the loan, which drives up the total system cost, but you still own the panels and should save about $20,000 overall. Both cash and solar loans let you take the ITC, as well, and if you can take the entire incentive, you’ll effectively save an average of $10,971 on your Texas solar system.

A solar lease isn’t as beneficial because it doesn’t let you take the ITC and you never own your panels, so you’ll never see a panel payback period, and your savings will be around 70% lower than with a loan. However, leases are an important option to have in Texas because they don’t require down payments. Since solar is more costly in Texas than most other states, having access to a no-money-down financing option like what Powered by Elevation offers is crucial.

Powered by Elevation Extra Services Offered 

3/5

Powered by Elevation has some really appealing add-on services, especially for Texas solar customers, which complement the base services. Most notably, it installs EV chargers, which means you can lump in the cost of the charger with your other equipment and take the 30% tax credit for the added costs. Texas is home to more EV owners than almost every other state, with California and Florida being the only states with a wider rate of adoption to date. EV registration numbers are just continuing to rise in Texas, so I expect that many prospective solar customers in the area will want to plan for the future and couple their panels and batteries with an EV charger.

Powered by Elevation also has some energy efficiency upgrades, which are helpful in Texas, where electricity consumption is higher than in just about any other state. The company installs insulation, which can help combat the heat and reduce air conditioning costs in the hot Texas summers. It also installs Curb, which is the company’s exclusive smart electrical panel. This gives you remote control over your energy consumption and also gives you data that can help you curb your usage and reduce electric bills — also important in Texas given the above-average utility bills.

Elevation also offers company monitoring for your system, so you don’t have to be glued to an app to identify panel issues and damages — the professionals will find them for you.

The only reason Elevation lost points here is because, much like Solartime USA, Elevation doesn’t handle roof repair or replacement. Again, this isn’t a huge deal, but if you need roof work done before your panel installation, you’re going to have to coordinate with a third-party company.

Powered by Elevation Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Converting the clean energy via solar, as you might guess, is more or less guaranteed to reduce your carbon footprint, which means solar conversion has a net positive effect on the environment. Still, the solar industry as a whole isn’t perfect, and we prioritize manufacturers who use sustainable practices, like sourcing recycled materials for use in production and providing a dedicated recycling program for panels that reach the end of their useful lifespan. The environmental impact really comes from the manufacturers and not the installers, but I looked at the panel brands Elevation works with to get a sense of its eco-friendliness.

Powered by Elevation installs panels made by QCells, REC and Panasonic, all of which tie for the best in the industry in terms of sustainability. All three use recycled materials in production and have end of life (EoL) recycling programs available to reduce the long-term negative impact of manufacturing. None of these companies have a history of slave labor, child labor, unsafe working conditions or other problems related to social sustainability. The only reason these brands don’t get perfect scores is because they are manufactured outside of the U.S., where environmental regulations tend not to be as strict.                                                                                                              

Powered by Elevation Equipment Quality & Reliability 

23/25

In addition to looking at the sustainability of the brands Elevation works with, I also reviewed them for quality, reliability and warranty coverage. All three brands offered hit max efficiency ratings of 22% or higher, which puts them among the best in the industry. REC has the highest rating of the three at 22.6%, making it the best option for electricity generation and long-term savings from an efficiency standpoint. You’ll get more power from REC panels and should see higher long-term savings as a result.

Next, I usually look at wind and snow resistance, although, in Texas, heavy snow isn’t really a risk. The state does, however, see more tornadoes than any other, so I paid particular attention to wind resistance. All three brands have above-average wind resistance, and with REC and Panasonic edging out QCells, as both are rated for 4,000 Pascals (Pa). These should stand up even to the extreme weather in Texas.

Finally, I think the temperature coefficient is an important consideration in Texas. All panels lose efficiency in hotter temperatures, and lower temperature coefficients mean less of a loss. In Texas, where average daily temperature highs routinely hit above 90, a lower loss of power is crucial to offset electricity consumption from AC use to maximize your long-term savings. All three panels offered by Elevation tie for the second-lowest temperature coefficient in the industry, making them all well-suited for use in Texas.

Warranties and Guarantees

In my opinion, warranty coverage is one of the most important things to consider when going solar, as they help protect your system — an average investment of over $36,500 before incentives in the Lone Star State — and keep it functioning for decades to come. I look at four types of warranty coverage: equipment warranties, production warranties, labor warranties and roof leak guarantees.

Equipment warranties come from the manufacturer and not the installer, but the brands each installer chooses to work with affect the coverage you get. These warranties protect you from manufacturer defects, which can help prevent damages to your system that could otherwise lead to outages and decreased production and savings. The standard coverage in the industry is 25 years, and all three brands from Elevation provide just that.

Production warranties guarantee that a certain percentage of your panels’ beginning efficiency will remain after the warranty period. In my opinion, these are even more crucial because they provide peace of mind that your system will continue performing and providing maximum savings. The typical warranty term is 25 years, and most tier-one panels guarantee between 85% and 92% efficiency remaining after that period. All three brands from Elevation come with that term and guarantee between 90% and 92%, putting them above-average overall.

Labor warranties come from the installer and not the manufacturer, and they guarantee that you won’t run into system damage as a result of poor workmanship, in this case on the part of Elevation. Avoiding problems with the installation reduces your risk of roof leaks and also ensures your panels continue to perform and help you maximize your savings. Most companies include around 20 to 25 years for workmanship, but Elevation offers a lifetime warranty. This is really spectacular, and in my opinion, is one of the primary things that makes the company stand out, even in a competitive market like Texas.

Finally, I look at roof leak warranties, which specifically guarantee that the roof penetrations made to install your panels won’t lead to roof leaks. Most companies don’t offer a dedicated roof leak guarantee, and Elevation also doesn’t. It did lose some points in the warranty rating system we use because of it, but in my opinion, this isn’t a huge deal in Texas, where rainfall is less prevalent than in most other states.

Powered by Elevation Company Reputation 

17.5/25

It’s always important to choose a reliable solar installer to protect your investment, and in Texas, where the average cost to go solar is well above average, it becomes even more crucial. Texas also has over 260 installers available to choose from, making the decision challenging. In an effort to sort out the best from the worst, we do an in-depth review of each company’s reputation in the industry by looking at company scores and reviews on sites like the BBB and TrustPilot, as well as looking at longevity in the industry and memberships.

Powered by Elevation was founded in 2014, and with over a decade of experience, it gets full marks for longevity. This is important because a lot of fly-by-night companies pop up to take advantage of demand — especially in areas like Texas where it’s so high — and then disappear and take your warranty coverage with them. Companies with longevity, like Elevation,  are less likely to go by the wayside.

Elevation also maintains an A+ rating and a customer score of 4.05 stars with the BBB, putting it well above the industry average in terms of its customer service record. It has a slightly less impressive 3.2-star rating on TrustPilot, but this is still above average.

Elevation loses some points in our company reputation category because it doesn’t use NABCEP-certified installers, who go through additional training and are more likely to provide a quality installation. However, I believe this is a non-issue and one that’s more than made up for with the provider’s lifetime workmanship warranty. It also loses points for not being an SEIA member, which would suggest that the company is a bit more invested in the industry as a whole.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

As a part of my review of each provider’s customer service, I read through dozens of reviews to see what the actual complaints and praises are. I’m happy to report that quite a few positive reviews mentioned the company’s willingness to follow through on warranty claims, and that most people reported that their technicians and sales people were helpful and professional. Unfortunately, there are negative reviews that mention the opposite, so it seems like the local office assigned to your project might have an impact on your experience.

I’ll include one positive and one negative review below to illustrate the varying experiences you could have with this provider.

“Elevation Solar is a dependable and trustworthy company. My solar system had problems after a few years, and Elevation scheduled and arrived on [time] to fix and replace all problem units under warranty!” —Duke H. via BBB

“The experience I had with Elevation on my solar installation was extremely unpleasant and very disappointing. The quality of the installation was subpar. There was damage to my new roof that I just replaced in preparation for solar. Shingles were torn up, patches of holes everywhere and spray paint was used to cover damages. When it came to repairs they took forever with no sense of urgency. I highly discouraged anyone from using Elevation Solar.” —Peter T. via BBB

I will say that Elevation does a great job of responding to complaints. The one I included above had a response that mentioned that the company reimbursed the homeowner for damages, which is something I don’t see from many installers.

Powered by Elevation Customer Service 

8/10

Finally, I personally assign a customer service score for each provider, which I base off of a phone call with the company, as well as the general sense of service I get from reading through dozens of reviews.

My phone call to Elevation as a secret shopper left me with a positive impression of the company. I got in touch with a live representative quickly, and they were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. They were able to answer questions about net metering and the effect the policy has on the usefulness of solar batteries.

I’m also impressed by the company’s responses to customer complaints on the BBB, as well as the measures it seems to go to in order to make things right after an issue. I only deducted points here because there are issues in the first place, but overall, I think the customer service you can expect from Elevation is excellent.

Why We Chose Momentum Solar

Momentum Solar is, in my opinion, the best solar company in Texas if you’re looking for high-quality customer service and communication throughout your installation. The company has a concierge service that guarantees a single point of contact throughout the entire process of going solar, which helps it achieve that quality care. It also has above-average customer ratings — a 3.08-star rating — and an A+ rating with the BBB. I think these kinds of customer ratings are even more important to look for in an area like Texas, where demand is high and you, unfortunately, have a higher risk of choosing a provider who is in the industry primarily because of profit.

I will note that Momentum has a very recent history of complaints related to servicing warranties, but the company’s overall ratings are still quite high, and the company has responded to all of them on the BBB, which is a good sign that it’s working to correct what I hope is just a small hiccup in its otherwise great reputation.

Momentum Solar also doesn’t limit its customers to one or even a handful of solar brands like most other providers. Instead, they work with all tier-one brands, which means you can customize based on the conditions in Texas. Installing solar in your area is more expensive than most other states due to the above-average system size needed to offset high consumption, so you can choose a brand that primarily aligns with your budget. Alternatively, you can choose a more expensive brand to prioritize instead for maximum energy production. In the last decade alone, electricity costs in Dallas have gone up by more than 5 cents per kWh, around a 40% increase. Experts believe those prices will continue to rise, which means choosing a higher-efficiency panel could end up being worth it. In any case, Momentum gives you access to all major panel brands, so you can prioritize as you see fit.

Momentum also gets perfect marks when it comes to its primary services and financing options offered, the latter of which should help more customers afford solar in Texas, which is especially nice, given the high cost of solar in the state.

What I Like About Momentum Solar

There are a lot of things I like about Momentum, but the one that stands out to me most is the customer service and communication. I’ve read hundreds of solar reviews for dozens of providers in Texas, and one of the most common complaints I see is a lack of communication, especially when it comes to delays caused by slow inspections, system activation and warranty claims. Momentum has a long history — 15 years — of providing constant communication to its customers. The concierge service that includes a single point of contact undoubtedly helps the company maintain that reputation. When I went solar, I did so with a smaller local company in my area, and still, I had several people I had to reach out to based on my question. It wasn’t a huge deal, but it did get a little frustrating at times. With Momentum, you can avoid that entirely.

I also love the equipment options available from Momentum. You can work with your representative to see which of the tier-one panel brands that works best for your home and budget, which could help you save money on the initial installation or boost your long-term savings. In a place like Texas, having that freedom means you might be able to bring down what are some of the highest installation costs in the U.S. or optimize for efficiency and performance to avoid increased utility bills. I imagine most residents still have the rate spikes in February 2021 in mind, and high-performance panels and batteries from Momentum could help avoid any increases if something similar happens in the future.

What I Don’t Like About Momentum Solar

Momentum Solar covers the basic services well and gets the highest scores possible in our ratings for standard services, but I do wish it offered more in the way of add-on services. First, it doesn’t install EV chargers, which is a pretty big drawback, in my opinion, especially in Texas, the second most popular state for EV purchases. It also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades beyond solar, which I personally would look for if I lived in Texas, where residents use more electricity per month than all but three states. Efficiency upgrades would help make Momentum the complete package for reducing consumption and saving money on utilities.

Momentum also has a slew of negative BBB reviews and customer complaints specifically related to warranty claims. It seems like there was an uptick of complaints starting in February of 2024, and many reviews since then have been negative. The company still maintains good overall ratings, but if I were a prospective solar customer, I’d be a little concerned about the sudden change. I do hope that the company will turn things around and continue to keep its customers happy going forward.

Momentum Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Going solar with Momentum will be similar to most other installers. You’ll have an initial property inspection during which a tech will inspect your roof and take measurements. The in-house design team will then design a system that fits on your roof and optimizes your production based on how much electricity you use monthly. You’ll then get that design with a formal quote, and once you approve it, Momentum will pull permits for your system. Finally, the company will schedule your installation and install your system, after which you’ll be covered by Momentum’s warranty package (more on that later).

Momentum doesn’t include an average time that the process will take from start to finish, but you can reasonably expect an average timeline of 6 to 8 weeks.

Momentum Solar Standard Services & Financing 

25/25

Momentum Solar gets perfect marks in our rating system when it comes to its standard services and financing options. It uses an in-house installation team for all installations, which I personally love and recommend. Having a single company responsible for the installation means a lower risk of miscommunication and delays, as well as a single company to hold responsible if anything goes wrong.

In addition to panels, the company also installs batteries, which are crucial for many Texans to save long-term with solar due to the lack of a statewide net metering policy. In states with one-to-one net metering, any overproduction of electricity gets sent to the grid, and you earn net metering credits, which you can call on any time your panels don’t meet your live-time electricity demands. For example, if you generate excess power during the day when the sun is shining, you can “store” it with your power company and call on it later for free when your panels underproduce, like at night. Net metering helps maximize savings. Customers without net metering, including many in Texas, often need on-site storage to save excess power for later use. Without a battery, you’d pay for power from the grid even if you overproduced during the day, which cuts into your net savings.

Momentum Solar also has its own solar app that lets you make payments and track system performance. This can be useful for monitoring your system yourself to identify problems and dipping efficiency early. It can also be especially useful in areas like Texas, where electricity consumption is unusually high, as you can monitor your energy usage and make adjustments to your daily habits that can help you save more over time.

Cost and Financing Options

Momentum also gets top marks for providing customers access to a variety of payment options, including cash purchases, solar loans, leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs).

Going solar in Texas costs more than most states, but if you can make a cash purchase work, I strongly recommend it. Paying in cash lets you avoid the interest on a solar loan, saving you an average of around $5,000, based on our research. You also own your system immediately, so all of your reduced energy bills will go toward paying off your system right away. You’ll enjoy the fastest panel payback period and see the highest net savings of any of the options if you pay in cash.

Most customers choose a solar loan because it comes with significantly lower upfront costs — usually a down payment of a few thousand dollars as opposed to the statewide average cash prices of over $36,500. Loans let you pay for your system over time, partially using ongoing savings to make your payments, so they’re far more accessible. However, you will pay an additional $5,000, on average, in interest over the life of your loan, so your net savings will be lower than with a cash purchase.

A lease is an even more accessible option to finance your solar because there’s usually no down payment requirement at all. However, instead of leading to panel ownership, you just rent the panels for an average of 25 years, and you get to use the power they produce for free. This could be a decent option that leads to savings if you’re one of the Texas homeowners who has access to one-to-one net metering, but you’ll never see a panel payback period, your savings will be an average of around $20,000 lower than if you bought in cash and you can’t take the federal investment tax credit — an average potential value of $10,971 you’d be leaving on the table.

PPAs are similar to leases, so they’re equally as accessible, but your total savings will also be lower than if you chose another option. With a PPA, you don’t pay a monthly rental fee for your panels and instead buy the electricity that the panels generate. This should save you money in Texas, but total net savings will be between $4,000 and $5,000, so it’s much lower than what you’d see from a cash purchase or loan.

Momentum Solar Extra Services Offered 

2/5

Momentum might get perfect marks when it comes to its core services, but it’s lacking a bit when it comes to the add-on services. It only scores 2 points because it handles roof repairs and replacements in-house. This is helpful for homeowners who need roof work done before going solar because it means you won’t have to coordinate with a third-party company for the work. That means a better chance of avoiding delays and miscommunication, and it also means a single company is responsible if there’s a leak or something else goes wrong.

Unfortunately, Momentum loses points when it comes to its extra services because it doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades. I like to see solar companies providing things like insulation updates, window and door replacement and even smart panel upgrades because it suggests that the company understands the big picture. The fact that Momentum doesn’t offer these efficiency upgrades is more of a drawback in Texas than most other states because Texans use more electricity than residents in just about any other state. Efficiency upgrades would mean more in Texas than most other areas in the U.S., and they’d do more for your monthly savings.

Momentum also loses some points in terms of extra services offered because it doesn’t install EV chargers and doesn’t offer company monitoring for your solar array. Texas is the third-most popular state for new EV registrations, and I suspect the trend toward electric vehicles is only going to continue there. I think it’s a good idea for homeowners to prepare for the future and install EV chargers alongside their solar array. That way, you can apply the ITC to all of the equipment, including the charger, and save money. Company monitoring for panels would also be nice because it’s the easiest way to detect panel damage before it leads to a significant dip in production and savings. Momentum does have an app that lets you monitor your system, but leaving that to a professional would absolutely be easier.

Momentum Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

I always look at the sustainability and overall environmental impact of the companies I review because, while going solar has a net positive effect on the environment, there are still some areas where solar manufacturers can do their part to decrease the negative impact of manufacturing. I look for installers who work with manufacturers that use recycled materials in their panels, have an end-of-life (EoL) recycling program to keep old panels out of landfills and don’t have a history of unsustainable business practices, like unsafe working conditions, slave labor or child labor.

Momentum works with all tier-one panel brands, so I rated it based on the highest-scoring single panel brand in terms of sustainability. Several of the brands available from Momentum — including REC, QCells, Maxeon and Canadian Solar — use recycled materials, have EoL programs and don’t have a documented history of social or moral issues. Momentum therefore scores as high as possible in this category, solely losing points because none of the products are manufactured primarily in the U.S.                                             

Momentum Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

20/25

The quality and reliability of the solar equipment you install is always crucial to consider because it directly affects how much electricity your system will generate, which determines your long-term savings. I look at many different performance specifications for the panels each company installs and create a total rating for quality and reliability based on those and warranty coverage. Some of the important specs for Texas residents include max efficiency, wind load resistance and temperature coefficient.

The panel efficiency is important because higher efficiency ratings mean more power production in all weather conditions. A higher level of production is more important in Texas than most other states because homeowners use well above-average amounts of electricity per month. Greater production from panels means they’re better suited for areas like Texas, where energy demands are high. If you’re looking to optimize energy production with Momentum, you can go with Canadian Solar or Jinko panels, which have the two highest efficiency ratings in the industry — 23.1% and 23.23%, respectively.

Wind load resistance is important because Texas sees more tornadoes than any other state in the country. A panel’s wind load rating tells you what sustained wind speeds the panel can hold up to without getting damaged, so the higher the number, the more likely your panel is to last through a tornado or severe storm. Choose Maxeon or Silfab panels from Momentum for the highest wind resistance in the industry — 5,400 Pascals, compared to the average of around 3,500.

All panels become less efficient in higher temperatures, and the temperature coefficient of a panel tells you how much efficiency is lost per degree above 77 degrees (F). The lower the number, the better, especially in an area like Texas, where summer temperatures routinely reach well into the 90s. LONGi has the lowest temperature coefficient in the industry, so consider that brand from Momentum if you want maximum production year-round. REC, QCells and Panasonic panels are right behind it, making them great options, as well.

Warranties and Guarantees

Solar panel production and performance is great, but if that capability declines shortly after installing your system, you’ll lose out on savings in the long run. When you’re investing tens of thousands of dollars into solar, you want to make sure your system is going to last for a long time, and that’s where warranty coverage and guarantees come in. I look at four types of warranty coverage for each installer I review.

First, I look at the equipment warranty, also known as the manufacturer’s warranty. As the name suggests, this comes from the panel manufacturer and not the installer, but the installer still matters because that’s the company that chooses which brands you have access to. This coverage keeps you protected from issues arising from manufacturer defects, so it can save you from dips in efficiency and a loss of savings. The typical coverage is 25 years, but you can get up to 40 if you have your Momentum installer use Maxeon panels.

Second, I look at the performance warranty, which guarantees a certain level of efficiency from your panels within the warranty period. You really need to consider the starting efficiency in addition to the warranty period to determine how valuable the coverage is. Performance warranties are especially important in Texas because they help guarantee that your above-average electricity demands in Texas will continue to be met, ultimately driving up your net savings over time. The typical efficiency warranty is 25 years, but the degradation rates differ across manufacturers. Maxeon panels once again provide the best coverage, with 40 years total and 92% of the starting efficiency — which is above-average to begin with — remaining after 25 years. I personally think the performance warranty is the most crucial in Texas because energy consumption is so high, and a guaranteed high level of production to match it will help maximize savings.

Next, I look at the labor or workmanship warranty. This comes directly from the installer and tells you how long the installation labor is covered. Basically, the longer the warranty, the more confident your installer is in its ability to get the job done without compromising your roof structure. The standard labor warranty is around 12 years. If you go with Momentum, choosing Maxeon panels will, once again, offer the best coverage. Maxeon panels include a 40-year warranty for labor, too, which is outstanding and offers the best protection for your system. Some parts of Texas see above-average rainfall each year, which means a solid labor warranty like this could help avoid some severe property damage.

Finally, I look at the roof leak warranty, which specifically covers water damage from a roof leak if poor installation is determined to be the underlying cause. Most companies, including Momentum, don’t offer roof leak coverage. This isn’t a huge deal in some parts of Texas, but if you live in the southeastern part of Texas that sees heavier rainfall, this could be a deal breaker.

Momentum Solar Company Reputation 

14.5/25

Texas is home to over 260 solar installers and is the second-most popular state for solar conversion, and unfortunately, that means that I’ve seen a lot of companies enter the space just to turn a profit. That kind of business model often leads to poor installation services, poor customer service and then a higher risk of your warranty coverage getting voided if the provider does go out of business. That’s why it’s so important to choose a company that has a positive reputation.

In order to recommend companies with a good reputation, we look at a few factors. First, I look at the company history and how many years of experience it has. Providers like Momentum with over a decade of experience have proven that they’re here to stay and are less likely to leave the industry and void your warranties. I also look at state availability and company growth, as larger or expanding companies suggest that the provider is successful and may continue on that trajectory. Momentum is considered a small national company, and it hasn’t shown signs of expanding into new states, but it has recently expanded the coverage area where it installs batteries.

Next, I look at customer review scores and ratings on sites like the BBB and TrustPilot. Momentum Solar reviews on the BBB include a 3.04-star rating, which is above average for the solar industry, and a 1.8-star rating on TrustPilot, which is still slightly above average, but, of course, not ideal. Momentum loses quite a few points when it comes to its reputation score because of these ratings.

I also look at paid memberships and specific licenses, like SEIA membership and NABCEP certification, to determine a company’s overall position in the market. Momentum doesn’t have either, which are minor downsides, in my opinion. SEIA membership suggests that company is invested in the industry, and NABCEP certification requires additional training for installers and gives you a better chance of getting a professional, problem-free installation.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I think it’s important not only to look at customer ratings but also to read through why companies get the ratings they get. For example, some providers use aggressive marketing tactics that get them in hot water when it comes to customer reviews, but they may very well provide outstanding service if you do sign up, so those negative reviews, in my opinion, would be less indicative of a “bad company” to choose for solar installation.

Most of the positive Momentum reviews mention high-quality customer service and constant communication throughout the design and installation process, which I think is a good sign. Most of the negative reviews mention things like delays in getting repairs done that are covered by warranties, as well as some potentially misleading marketing and sales tactics, including misrepresenting savings or incentives. I’ll include two reviews of the company below to give you an idea of the positive and negative aspects of working with Momentum.

“Amazing experience since day one! Everything they promised was just how it was, My electric bill is much much lower than what I was paying a steady lower payment for my solar. Customer service was great; always there for me. The whole process for installation was smooth sailing.” —John S. via BBB

“This company is the worst, hands down. I had a tornado damage my house 6 weeks back, and I need to get my roof fixed. I keep calling trying to get the solar panels removed but every time I call I keep getting told there is an estimate being made. Every time it rains here, I get more damage to the house but this company will not even call you back. When I got the solar panels installed, I was told I would get one free removal and installation in case I ever needed a new roof.” — Billy B. via BBB

I also should mention that a lot of the recent customer reviews on the BBB have been negative. It seems like the company might be going through some growing pains, which is leading to a slew of negative customer experiences. I’m hoping Momentum is able to turn this around in the near future, but it’s something to consider if you’re thinking about hiring Momentum.

Momentum Solar Customer Service 

8/10

Our last metric for rating solar providers is for customer service, in general, and Momentum scores quite high here. I base this rating off of the dozens of customer reviews I read through, as well as on my call to the provider as a secret shopper. The Momentum rep I spoke with was friendly and able to answer all of the questions I had about solar and the company’s services. Of course, that was just a sales call, and your experience with the actual installation and beyond can vary.

The reviews I read suggest that a lot of the issues come before the installation, including misrepresented savings and representatives incorrectly explaining how the investment tax credit works. Some of the issues after installation seem to stem from the fact that Momentum uses third-party installers, so if that’s concerning to you, I’d recommend choosing a company that uses in-house installation teams, like Solartime USA or Powered by Elevation.

Why We Chose Palmetto Solar

Palmetto Solar is a great company to choose if you’re looking for a choice of financing options. Palmetto accepts all of the primary financing options, and it has some additional perks if you choose a lease that makes this option more affordable and enticing. I don’t particularly recommend leases, but in a place like Texas, where the cost to go solar is well above average, I think they’re helpful for keeping solar as accessible as possible.

Palmetto has a good company reputation score, with over a decade of experience, NABCEP-certified installers, SEIA membership and above-average customer review scores. In a place like Texas, where demand for solar is second-highest in the country and the opportunity for less reputable installers to pop up and take advantage of that demand is greater, a reputation like the one Palmetto has established for itself is worth that much more.

Palmetto doesn’t have the best workmanship warranty, as it only lasts for 10 years — half the standard in the industry — but you do get a roof leak protection guarantee that lasts for 5 years, which most companies don’t offer, so the below-average workmanship warranty is less of a big deal.

What I Like About Palmetto Solar

Palmetto Solar has one of the highest company reputation ratings of the best solar installers in Texas, higher than Solartime USA, Powered by Elevation, Momentum and SunRun. As I mentioned above, I think a strong reputation is worth more in the Texas solar market than in most other states because the demand is so high, and less reputable installers are rampant in the area.

I also love Palmetto’s breadth of financing options and the perks that it offers with some of the options. It accepts cash, loans and leases, and the last option comes with added benefits, like better production guarantees (a minimum of 90% of the stated production is guaranteed, or Momentum will pay you the difference), free maintenance and company monitoring to detect panel issues early. Having these financing options and added perks for low-cost payment plans is especially useful in Texas, where the cost to go solar is around 30% higher than the national average, according to our research.

What I Don’t Like About Palmetto Solar

Of course, there are some things I’m not thrilled with when it comes to Palmetto. It loses quite a few points in our ratings because of its limited services. Perhaps most importantly, it doesn’t install solar batteries, which is a big drawback in Texas. Customers who have access to one-to-one net metering don’t really need to worry too much about this, but those who don’t will really need access to batteries to maximize their savings. Batteries are also particularly useful for customers with time-of-use electricity rates because they let you prioritize grid consumption during off-peak hours when the power is less expensive. TOU plans are prevalent in Texas, so batteries will appeal to more customers there than in other states where standard electricity rates are the primary option.

Palmetto contracts out its installations to third parties, which, again, isn’t ideal because the provider has less control over your customer experience, and there are additional companies in the mix that can cause delays and pointed fingers in the case of an issue. Palmetto also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades as part of its services, and it doesn’t handle roof repairs or replacements, so you’ll have to coordinate with other providers if you want these add-on services.

Palmetto Solar Installation Process and Timeline

The process of going solar with Palmetto is pretty standard. First, a representative will connect with you to inspect your home and your roof and take measurements. Next, the design team will design a system that suits your home in terms of dimensions, layout and power production, and a rep will send you a contract based on your preferred payment method. Once you approve the design, Palmetto’s team will pull permits, install the equipment and then service your system under its warranty coverage. You might face some additional delays or issues with professionalism because Palmetto uses third-party installers, but it really depends on which company is assigned to your solar project.

Palmetto details its solar installation process on its website, but it doesn’t provide a timeline for the process. Based on the customer reviews I’ve read, you can expect the timeline to be about average, which means 6 to 8 weeks and potentially longer if there are delays in pulling permits and getting final inspections done.

Palmetto Solar Standard Services & Financing 

17/25

Palmetto Solar loses quite a few points when it comes to our rating for its standard services because it doesn’t install solar batteries. Batteries are helpful for maximizing savings in areas where there is no net metering policy or the excess energy your panels generate and export is credited at a below-retail rate. Texas doesn’t have a statewide net metering program, and while some municipalities and utility companies offer it anyway, many Texas homeowners don’t have access to the perk. If you don’t, I recommend installing a battery to get the most out of your system, which means Palmetto isn’t the best solar installer for you.

Palmetto also loses some points in the service category because it outsources installations to third parties. I prefer companies with an in-house installation team, as there are fewer moving parts and a single company to point to if there’s a problem. With third-party installers, things can get a bit messy and lead to delays, miscommunication and even a higher risk of roof or system damage due to a poor installation.

Palmetto does have its own mobile app that lets you monitor your system and energy consumption from your phone, which can help you identify production issues and even boost your savings by letting you prioritize electricity usage during off-peak hours.

Cost and Financing Options

Palmetto doesn’t post specific system costs on its site because every system is different, and prices can vary widely. However, it does mention that the average cost of solar equipment is around $3.40 per watt, which is above average based on our research. The average Texas home needs a solar array that’s around 11.5 kW, which would put your total cost at $36,570 before incentives or $25,599 after the federal tax credit.

More important than the cost, in my opinion, are the financing options available, and this is where Palmetto shines. Palmetto accepts cash, loans, leases and PPAs, so you have plenty of options for how to pay for your system. I recommend a cash purchase if you can make it work because you’ll avoid the interest of a solar loan, and you’ll own your system right away, which means you’ll save far more — an average of around $25,000 in Texas — than if you went with another option. Of course, paying in cash comes with the highest upfront cost, and this option is less accessible in areas like Texas where large, expensive systems are necessary to offset consumption.

Solar loans are the next best option, in my opinion. You’ll still eventually own your system, and you’ll see the same savings as paying in cash less any interest — all told, we estimate the savings in Texas to be around $20,000 with a loan, and that’s after the panels pay for themselves. Loans still give you access to the federal tax credit, and they raise the value of your home just like a cash purchase would.

I don’t particularly recommend leases because the savings overall are lower, and you’ll never own your panels, but having the option is great because it helps keep solar accessible — this is especially important in Texas, where the cost to go solar is well above the national average. Palmetto’s lease option is called LightReach, and it boasts some additional perks, like a 90-95% efficiency guarantee to ensure savings each month, free maintenance and repairs, a buyout option after 5 years and professional system monitoring to detect issues immediately. These added benefits make Palmetto’s lease option a particularly attractive one.

I should add that leases won’t add to your property value, and they don’t let you take the federal tax credit, so I really only recommend this option as a last resort if you can’t make a cash purchase or solar loan work for you.

Palmetto Solar Extra Services Offered 

2/5

Palmetto falls a bit short when it comes to the extra services it offers, too. It doesn’t tackle roof repair or replacement, which means you’ll have to go through additional company vetting and hiring if your rep determines that your roof needs work before it’s safe to install panels. This is a minor annoyance, but it’s something to consider if your roof is 15 to 20 years old or more.

Palmetto also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades, which is a shame for Texas homeowners, as they use more electricity than residents of nearly every other state. Companies that include efficiency upgrades not only help you minimize your carbon footprint, but they also help you get the most out of your solar array and boost your savings even further. I also think companies that offer efficiency upgrades are more likely to understand the big picture of solar, which could mean they’re more likely to get system sizing and expectations right. Palmetto loses some points for limited services, but that doesn’t mean you’re going to get a subpar installation.

Palmetto gets a point in the extra services category for installing EV chargers, and another for offering professional system monitoring. I think EV chargers are a great add-on service to have access to in Texas, as it’s the third-most popular state for EV adoption, so more and more customers are going to want charging capability at home. Professional monitoring is also a plus because it’s more likely to uncover potential issues early, and getting a fix in place sooner is likely to help avoid dips in production and a loss of savings, which could be particularly detrimental in a high-consumption area like Texas.

Palmetto Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Going solar with an appropriately-sized system is always going to have a net-positive impact on the environment, but I still recommend going solar with equipment that is produced as sustainably as possible. Manufacturers who use recycled materials in the production process and have end-of-life (EoL) recycling programs for its equipment are a good way to maximize the positive impact your system has on the ecosystem. I also suggest choosing a socially sustainable company, which means no history of racism, poor working conditions, unfair pay, slave labor or child labor.

Most of the discussion we can have about an installer’s sustainability is related to the products it chooses to install. Palmetto works with QCells and REC panels, which are both tied for the best sustainability scores in the industry, based on our solar panel reviews ratings. They both use recycled materials in the manufacturing process, they both have EoL programs to prevent used panels from ending up in landfills and neither company has a history of any social issues or poor working conditions. They just lose some points because they aren’t manufactured predominantly in the U.S., where requirements for safety and environmental friendliness tend to be stricter.

Palmetto Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

17.85/25

Going solar in Texas means a sizable upfront or long-term investment, usually somewhere around $36,570 before incentives, according to our research. With the high cost of conversion, you want to make sure your equipment is going to last, which is why we do an in-depth review of the panels themselves, as well as the warranty coverage you get for the equipment.

QCells and REC panels both have above-average efficiency ratings — 22% and 22.6%, respectively — which means your system will generate more power and offset more electricity consumption in the long run. This is an important thing to consider in Texas, where the typical home consumes over 1,150 kWh, about 28% more than the average U.S. resident. Above-average efficiency means greater savings.

Both panel brands from Palmetto have above-average wind resistance ratings, too. This is important in some areas of Texas — particularly Northern Texas — where tornadoes are more common than anywhere else in the country. Good wind resistance ratings means your panels will stand up to higher sustained wind speeds, resulting in less property damage in extreme conditions. REC panels have a slightly higher resistance rating of 4,000 Pascals, but both should be good options in Texas.

We also pay particular attention to the temperature coefficient, as many parts of Texas see extreme summer temperatures in the high 90s. A low temperature coefficient means your panels will continue to perform well even in high temperatures, when panels naturally lose some efficiency. REC and QCells tie for the second-lowest temperature coefficient in the industry, making them great options for areas with hot climates like Texas.

Warranties and Guarantees

Of course, when you’re spending tens of thousands of dollars on solar equipment, you want to be certain that the components are going to last and continue saving you money for years to come. That’s where warranty coverage and guarantees come in. I look at 4 types of warranty coverage to make sure the companies I recommend are solid options for long-term savings in Texas.

First, I consider the equipment warranty, which covers manufacturer defects and issues that could arise from those defects. This warranty comes from the manufacturer, but both brands Palmetto works with include the industry average of 25 years of coverage for defects.

Second, I look at the performance warranty, which guarantees that your panels will maintain a certain percentage of their starting efficiency over the warranty term. This is especially important in Texas because a system that meets your demands for the first few years but then falls short of your needs due to dropping efficiency is going to mean lost savings and a longer panel payback period. The industry standard is a 25-year guarantee of 85% to 92% of the efficiency remaining after that point. Both QCells and REC panels fall within this range and should deliver excellent long-term results in Texas.

I should also mention here that Palmetto Protect, which comes free with all leases, includes a 95% production guarantee, which means your system will generate 95% or more of what Palmetto predicts it will, or it will pay you the difference. This is huge, as a common complaint I read in company reviews is overpromising on production and savings, followed by disappointment and ongoing costs that are higher than expected. This guarantee from Palmetto helps avoid those issues entirely.

Next, I look at the workmanship warranty, which is the first coverage offered by the actual installer. This warranty protects you from problems that arise from a faulty installation procedure. I think it’s more important in Southeastern Texas where rainfall is above average, but it’s good to have no matter where you live. Palmetto covers workmanship for 10 years, which is half the industry standard, so it loses some points in our ratings due to below-average coverage.

Finally, I consider roof leak warranty coverage, which specifically protects you from water damage that stems from the roof penetrations to install your panels. Most companies don’t offer this, but the Palmetto Protect service from the company covers roof leaks for 5 years. Again, this is less important in many parts of Texas due to the below-average rainfall, but it’s still nice to have.

Palmetto Solar Company Reputation 

20.5/25

Palmetto Solar has a solid reputation in the solar industry, so it scores well in our ratings. First, it was founded in 2010 and has over a decade of experience, which suggests that it’s around for the long haul. In places like Texas, where the demand for solar is so high, I often see companies pop up to take advantage and then go out of business just a few years later. This is a shame because it often leads to poor customer service and voided warranty coverage, which I’d recommend avoiding at all costs.

Palmetto also gets full marks for using NABCEP-certified installers, which means your installation team will be headed by a professional with more training than is legally required for solar installers, as well as maintaining SEIA membership, which suggests that the company is invested in the industry. Once again, these are good signs that the provider is here to stay, as will be your warranty package if you choose the company.

Palmetto also has an A+ rating with the BBB and few complaints filed from customers. Unfortunately, we had to rank the company as average in terms of actual customer reviews, as there aren’t any posted to the BBB or TrustPilot. There’s just one complaint about delayed system activation, but the company resolved the problem for the customer.

I don’t necessarily think the lack of reviews is concerning, but of course, it does make it difficult to assess the customer service. I did read through quite a few reviews on Google Reviews, where Palmetto maintains a stellar 4-star rating with over 1,500 reviews.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

As a part of my company assessment, I like to read through reviews to see where companies are succeeding and falling short of customer expectations. A lot of the positive reviews about Palmetto mention high-quality customer service, fast response times, knowledgeable representatives and honest sales presentations that match real-world system performance. Negative reviews mention things like delays in getting warranty-covered damages fixed, as well as unexpected delays in getting systems activated. I’ll include one positive and one negative review below so that you get an idea of the best- and worst-case scenarios you could see if you choose Palmetto.

“Everyone was so nice and extremely easy to work with.  My sales [team was] fantastic.  They made sure I understood everything and were very thorough.  Palmetto handled every detail and kept in close contact with me so [that] I was always up to date on the process.  Installation was quick.  The installation crew was wonderful.  They cleaned everything up and made sure I was satisfied before leaving.  The entire experience was extremely pleasant and simple.  I would recommend them 110%.” — Denise M. via Google Reviews

“Signed in April, and 5 months later I still don’t know when I am going to start using the system. They came and installed the panels and boxes with all the electrical needed pretty quickly.  I was told 3 months tops! I even talked with DTE and have a project number but no project paperwork or photos.” — Linda via Google Reviews

Palmetto Solar Customer Service 

8/10

The last component of our solar company ranking methodology is a review of the provider’s customer service. I personally come up with this rating based on a call to the company as a secret shopper and the dozens of reviews I read through.

I called Palmetto to see what their sales call process was like, and I was thoroughly impressed. The representative knew what they were talking about and answered questions about system performance and local incentives. They were also friendly and courteous, and I didn’t feel like I was being pressured into scheduling an in-person inspection.

I also read through quite a few Palmetto Solar reviews and found that the majority of customers are pleased with the experience. Some complain about long wait times for system activation and warranty repairs, but I think these have more to do with the third-party company assigned to the project than Palmetto. You kind of get the luck of the draw, but based on the reviews I read, it seems like Palmetto mostly has solid providers tackling their installations and repairs.

Why We Chose SunRun

SunRun is the company I’d recommend if you’re concerned about your system or property getting damaged, whether that occurs because of tornado activity in Northern Texas, above-average rainfall in Southwestern Texas or just prolonged exposure to the elements. SunRun’s above-average protection is only available with leases, so I’d only recommend it if you know you want a lease. If you do go with that payment option, though, you get the typical equipment and performance warranties from the manufacturer, plus a 10-year roof leak guarantee, free maintenance and repairs for the life of your contract and professional monitoring to identify issues early, all included in the lease package.

SunRun offers some other perks, too, like battery installations, energy efficiency upgrades, EV charger installations and more, all of which can help you get the most out of your panels and maximize your solar savings in the long run. Ultimately, I don’t think you can get more peace of mind than you can if you choose to lease your system through SunRun.

I should note that I have some issues with SunRun’s business plan. For example, I don’t love that it pushes leases by making them more appealing because they’re less beneficial than other payment options. They also have been the subject of some class-action lawsuits for deceptive marketing practices in the past, which, of course, isn’t ideal.

What I Like About SunRun

SunRun is a solid option, in my opinion, if you know you want to go solar with a lease. It has some of the best protection included in its lease options, like free company monitoring, free maintenance and repairs and added roof leak coverage to keep your home protected. SunRun also estimates that the average solar array in the U.S. will cost around $25,000, which is little less expensive than our estimates. This likely means that going solar with SunRun is going to cost less than it would with another installer, as pricing seems to be below average.

SunRun has an outstanding array of energy efficiency upgrades, including smart electrical panels, EV chargers and battery/EV charger combos, which no other installer offers right now. These are great options for residents of Texas, specifically, because the rate of electricity consumption is higher than in nearly every other state. Every efficiency boost in Texas is going to go further and save you more than in most other areas.

What I Don’t Like About SunRun

SunRun prioritizes leases by incentivizing them with better maintenance and protection plans, which I don’t particularly love. It’s nice to have access to leases, and perks like these are great, but leases are, overall, less beneficial for solar customers from a financial perspective, so I’m not a fan of them being pushed.

SunRun also has a history of shady marketing practices, including misrepresenting savings and incentives to customers and over-promising and under-delivering when it came to energy production and long-term benefits. It does seem like the company has taken a turn for the better in the recent past, but things like this will always leave a bit of a sour taste in my mouth when reviewing solar companies.

SunRun also doesn’t handle roof replacement or repairs, which is a service I like to see from solar installers, and it outsources all of its installations to third-party installers, which can lead to some variation in the quality of customer service, as well as issues with miscommunication and delays in getting your system up and running.

SunRun Installation Process and Timeline

From the time you first contact SunRun to the point at which your system is active and saving you money, the company notes on its website that you could wait for between 8 weeks and 6 months, depending on a few factors. The longest period of time you’ll be waiting — 2 to 8 weeks — is for the permits to be approved, which really depends on your local building department and not on SunRun. Still, the process takes longer than average with SunRun, so keep that in mind if you’re in a rush to make the switch to clean energy.

The process itself is similar to what you’d expect from most other companies. You’ll have your initial property inspection, followed by the in-house design team designing your system. Once you approve the design and sign a contract, SunRun will pull permits, install the system and then wait for final inspections before activating the array. At that point, your panels will be generating power for your home.

SunRun Standard Services & Financing 

22/25

SunRun gets near-perfect scores in our ratings when it comes to its standard services and financing options. It only loses points because it outsources its installations to third-party installers, which can be a negative thing in some cases. Your experience is really going to depend on the local installer assigned to your project, and this variation means you may have good or bad experiences along the way.

In addition to panels, SunRun installs solar batteries, including the Tesla Powerwall, the most popular option. It does also have the Shift, which is the company’s own non-backup battery designed to maximize savings for customers with TOU energy plans. However, the Shift battery is only available in California and Hawaii. I’d love to see SunRun offer this in Texas in the future, as TOU plans aren’t uncommon in the Lone Star State. I do think prioritizing traditional batteries is wise, though, because there’s no mandated net metering policy in Texas, so lots of customers will benefit from having battery storage to help maximize savings.

SunRun has its own mobile app that lets you monitor your system, make payments and even see your consumption habits. This is helpful not only for identifying problems with your system if you notice unexpected dips in production but also for keeping track of consumption, potentially allowing you to make adjustments to prioritize usage when the sun is shining and your panels are offsetting what you use. This is especially helpful in Texas, where consumption is about 28% higher than the national average, meaning there’s more room for savings.

Cost and Financing Options

SunRun accepts cash purchases, solar loans and leases, and it incentivizes leases with added protection, free maintenance and more.

I recommend a cash purchase if you can make it work. Paying in cash means you’ll instantly own your panels and won’t have to pay any interest for a loan. Not paying interest saves you around $5,000 total, based on our research, and faster panel ownership will lead to higher long-term savings. Paying cash also lets you take the federal investment tax credit (ITC), an average potential value of around $10,971 in Texas.

Choosing a solar loan also lets you take advantage of the ITC, but it’s much more affordable upfront because you only have to pay a down payment. In a place like Texas, where the cost of a solar array tops $36,000 in most cases before incentives, loans make solar panels much more attainable. You will pay interest, though, which will likely total around $5,000. Of course, that will eat into your savings.

A lease is an even more affordable option, as you typically don’t have to put any money down. SunRun’s lease is a great deal if you know you want a lease to begin with because you get free maintenance and repairs and a 95% production guarantee to sweeten the deal. Leases are the least beneficial option over time, though, as you’ll never own your system or see a payback period. You should still save money, but savings average around $5,000 over the lease term, which is around $20,000 less than if you paid cash. SunRun offers leases for panels and batteries, so Texans who don’t have access to net metering can still get a lease and maximize their savings by establishing effective on-site net metering with a battery.

SunRun Extra Services Offered 

3/5

SunRun gets great scores when it comes to its extra services offered, only losing points in our rankings because it doesn’t address roof repairs or replacements. If you need roof work done to make solar installation worthwhile, you’ll have to coordinate with a third-party company to have it done. This isn’t as convenient as it would be if SunRun did the work in-house, and it also opens the door for your roofing company to point the finger at SunRun if there’s a leak, which could create problems and unnecessary out-of-pocket costs for you.

SunRun installs EV chargers, which I think is important in Texas, specifically, due to it being one of the top states for EV adoption. More and more customers are going to be looking for at-home charging capability, and SunRun is ahead of the game, in my opinion, by offering it now.

SunRun also offers some energy efficiency upgrades. The one I think is most exciting is the Ford F-150 LIghtning setup that lets you use your EV pickup truck as a backup battery for your home. This is exclusive to SunRun customers for right now, and I’d really love to see other companies offering things like this that help customers adopt clean energy solutions together to have the biggest positive impact on the environment.

You can also get a smart electrical panel, which can help you reduce your energy consumption overall and maximize the benefits you see from your solar array. This is especially helpful in areas where electricity consumption is above average, like Texas.

Finally, SunRun scores points here for offering company monitoring for your system to uncover problems quickly before they cut into your savings. You only get this with a lease or if you pay for it separately, but having the option means you can take the monitoring burden off of yourself for greater peace of mind.

SunRun Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Going solar is undoubtedly going to reduce your carbon footprint and have a positive impact on the environment by offsetting fossil fuel consumption, but there are still areas where the solar industry can improve and go above and beyond to maximize that impact. I look for installers that use solar panel and battery brands that use recycled materials in their manufacturing process, have recycling programs for used equipment and have a solid company history that doesn’t involve poor working conditions, slave labor, child labor or unethical business practices. SunRun installs a few equipment brands that I evaluated individually in terms of sustainability: QCells, Canadian Solar and REC are its three main panel brands that I reviewed.

All three of these brands use recycled materials in their products, have recycling programs for old equipment and have no recorded history of any ethical or social problems. The only place these brands lose points is for manufacturing based outside of the U.S., as requirements and legislation tends not to be as strict in other countries. Still, all three brands tie for the best in the industry in terms of sustainability.

SunRun Equipment Quality & Reliability 

16.65/25

I also evaluate all of the brands for their overall quality and reliability, which I determine based on a few key specifications. First, I look at the efficiency, as panels with higher efficiency ratings generate more power, which means a greater opportunity to save money on your monthly utility bills. All three brands SunRun offers have above-average efficiency ratings, with Canadian Solar leading the charge at a max efficiency of 23.1%. I think any of these brands will be sufficient for generating the above-average electricity Texans use on a monthly basis, though.

For Texans who see more tornadoes than residents of any other state, the wind resistance of a panel (which tells you the sustained wind speeds it can handle without damage) is important, too. Canadian Solar ranks below average with a wind resistance of 2,400 Pascals, while QCells and REC are above average with 3,600 and 4,000 Pascals, respectively. If you live in an area with frequent tornado activity, I strongly recommend QCells or REC panels from SunRun.

The temperature coefficient is also important to consider. All panels lose efficiency as the temperature rises, and with summer temperatures in Texas routinely hitting above 90 degrees, choosing a panel with a low temperature coefficient is going to have a pretty significant impact on generation and overall savings. REC and QCells tie for the second-best temperature coefficient in the industry of -0.24%. Canadian Solar’s coefficient is -0.29%, making it a slightly less desirable brand overall for Texas homeowners.

Warranties and Guarantees

Solar warranties are another important factor to consider, as they help avoid headaches and out-of-pocket costs for repairs and replacements that could have been avoided. I look at 4 different warranty options from each provider I review.

First is the manufacturer’s warranty, which, as the name suggests, comes from the manufacturer. All three brands that SunRun works with include the standard 25-year manufacturer’s warranty. This protects you from manufacturing defects and any related problems.

SunRun offers additional protection. If you lease with SunRun, you get additional coverage from the installer, which is uncommon, that guarantees free equipment replacement if there’s a problem with the equipment. This is just one way SunRun provides that unrivaled peace of mind for its leasing customers.

Next, I look at performance warranties, which promise that your panels will maintain a certain level of efficiency over the warranty term, which is usually 25 years. These warranties also come from the manufacturer, but the brands your installer chooses to work with will have an impact on the coverage you get. REC and QCells both have a 25-year performance warranty, and Canadian Solar has a 30-year performance warranty. REC and QCells guarantee above 90% efficiency after 25 years, which is in line with the best in the industry. Canadian Solar panels degrade a bit more quickly and maintain 89.4% after 25 years, but this is still outstanding.

The first warranty I look at that comes solely from the installer is the workmanship warranty. This covers damage related to the installation process, which means you shouldn’t see any panel or roof damage as a result of poor installation technique. SunRun includes a 25-year workmanship warranty on leased systems, which is more than double the industry average of around 12 years. If you purchase your system or use a solar loan, you only get 10 years of coverage, which is less than ideal.

Finally, I consider the roof leak warranty, which covers roof damage caused by panel installation. Most companies don’t offer a roof leak warranty, but SunRun covers roof penetrations for 10 years regardless of the payment method you use. This is especially good news for customers in Southeastern Texas who see above-average rainfall, but with roof leaks being one of the most likely issues to occur after solar panel installation, this is great coverage to have regardless of your location in the state.

SunRun Company Reputation 

19.5/25

SunRun scores relatively high when it comes to its reputation in the industry. First off, it was founded in 2007, so it has over 15 years of experience in the industry. Longevity isn’t always a sign of a good company, but it does suggest that it’s here to stay, which means your warranty coverage will be, too. Some companies, especially in Texas where the demand for solar is high, come into the industry to turn a quick profit and end up going out of business just a few years later. Unfortunately, that often means your warranty coverage goes with it, leaving you responsible for repairs and maintenance that should be taken care of by the installer.

SunRun also has good ratings and customer review scores on sites like the BBB and TrustPilot, which boost its reputation score. It has an A+ rating with the BBB and a customer review rating of 3.62. This is above-average, which is especially impressive for a company of this size that outsources installations. Its rating on TrustPilot — 1.3 stars — isn’t as admirable, but for a larger company, this is pretty standard, unfortunately.

SunRun is an SEIA member, which suggests that the company is financially invested in the solar industry, and it uses NABCEP-certified installers on each project, which means a high level of professionalism and skill will go behind installing your system.

Lastly, SunRun is available in 20 states, but it hasn’t shown any recent signs of expanding. This could suggest stagnation, which might not be ideal for the future of the company. However, SunRun has improved its customer ratings in the last few years, so I suspect it’s focusing on improving the customer experience and satisfaction before expanding, which I think is a positive thing.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I read through dozens of customer reviews on sites like the BBB for every company I review, but since SunRun has thousands of reviews posted on the BBB, I read through over 100 recent ones to get a good sense of what customers can realistically expect from the provider. Most of the positive reviews mention things like professional sales representatives, tidy installations, reps willing to help file for incentives and expectations on production and savings being met. Negative reviews mention the exact opposite: expectations regarding savings not being met, unprofessional and pushy salespeople and delays in getting responses. I believe that your experience depends heavily on the local installer SunRun assigns to your solar project, and that’s the reason for the conflicting information in customer reviews.

I’ll include one positive and one negative SunRun review below to help paint a picture of the kind of service you can expect from this company:

“I just completed my second year as a Sunrun customer and I have been very pleased with my solar panels and solar production. [My] Sunrun consultant has been very helpful, especially in how to understand my ComEd bills and how my solar panels save me money. He is very thorough in his explanations and patient with me. I highly recommend Sunrun for the quality of service and excellent products.” — Kathleen R. via BBB

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

SunRun Customer Service 

4/10

The last metric we use for scoring is for customer service, which is the only subjective part of our company review process. I personally assign this score to each provider in the review, and I base it off of a call to the company to gauge the quality of the customer service, as well as my personal experience in researching the provider over the past few years.

When I called SunRun as a secret shopper, they were really friendly, and the representative was able to answer questions for me right away. They did recommend a lease, which I’m not thrilled with because it’s a less appealing and beneficial option, but they weren’t pushy one way or the other, and I didn’t feel pressured to schedule an in-person appointment.

I deducted some points in the customer service category for two reasons. First, SunRun does have a lot of negative reviews and complaints filed, even when accounting for the size of the company. The company also has a history of misrepresenting solar savings and incentives, which I’ve seen in customer reviews over the years, and even the recent reviews seem to reflect that issue. SunRun has also been involved in class-action lawsuits in the past for aggressive sales tactics and misleading marketing, so I deducted some points for these reasons, as well.