5 Best Solar Companies in Utah (2024 Reviews)

Why We Chose Blue Raven Solar

Blue Raven Solar is, in my opinion, the best solar installer in Utah and also one of the best in the country. It has over a decade of experience, handles all of its installations and labor in-house to avoid complications, installs the highest-quality panels in the industry and maintains unusually positive customer review ratings despite completing countless installations. It has a history of fast responses to warranty claims, makes charitable donations and uses installers that hold certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

Blue Raven has also revolutionized solar financing with its BluePower Plus+ solar loan program, which I feel is the best way to finance solar panels if you aren’t paying in cash. I’ll get more into the specifics later, but for now, know that this loan program gives you added benefits and lower net costs than any other solar loan product I’ve heard of.

While Blue Raven has a lot going for it, it’s not a perfect company. It doesn’t offer any products or services aside from the basics, so if you’re looking for system customization options, energy efficiency upgrades or add-ons like EV chargers, Blue Raven isn’t the right fit for you.

What I Like About Blue Raven Solar

In my opinion, the best thing about Blue Raven is the access to affordable and accessible financing options. It accepts cash purchases, but it also has its BluePower Plus+ program, which includes no down payment requirement and 18 months of interest-free financing to help you accrue some electric bill savings before you have to start paying back the loan. The program combines the upfront affordability of a lease or power purchase agreement (PPA) — more on these later — with the long-term benefits of a solar loan.

I also have to note that the large majority of customers are happy with the service they get and comment about how the company’s sales representatives are honest about the benefits and drawbacks of solar. This is especially impressive for such a large installer that reportedly has completed over 200,000 installations.

What I Don’t Like About Blue Raven Solar

The biggest — and, really, the only — drawback to going with Blue Raven is that you won’t have access to any add-on services, like EV chargers, energy efficiency upgrades or company monitoring services. If you’re looking for a bare-bones system made up of just panels and batteries, I’d say Blue Raven should be at the top of your list of installer options. If you want other services, you should look elsewhere.

Blue Raven Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Blue Raven doesn’t have an estimated installation timeline listed on its site, but based on the lack of related complaints from customers, I’d guess that you’ll wait between 6 and 8 weeks from the initial consultation to the day of the installation. Blue Raven does mention that the permitting process makes for the longest waiting period — 4 to 6 weeks — all of which is typical in the industry.

It does outline its installation process, though, and it’s the same as what most other installers follow. You’ll start with a property inspection and solar consultation to make sure solar is a good fit for you and your home. Blue Raven will then design a system for your home, and it will pull all necessary permits once you approve the design. Finally, a rep will schedule the installation, which should take 1 to 2 days. After that, your system will be active and will begin generating power for your home.

Blue Raven Solar Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

Blue Raven scores very well in our ratings when it comes to the core services and financing options it offers.

First, it gets full marks for using an in-house installation team. I prefer this over companies that outsource installation labor because it simplifies the process and reduces the risk of miscommunication and potential finger-pointing if something goes wrong. Using in-house installers is particularly impressive for a company as large as Blue Raven, too, so you get the hands-on approach of an in-house installer with the resources of a massive national company.

Blue Raven installs solar batteries alongside its panels, too. Batteries are worthwhile in Utah and may even be necessary to see substantial long-term solar savings because the state doesn’t offer a 1-to-1 net metering program. Instead, any excess power you send to the grid will be credited to you at the lower avoided-cost rate, so you have to produce significantly more power to eliminate your electric bill. Batteries effectively give you access to 1-to-1 net metering because you can store energy on-site and call on it for free anytime you need it.

All Blue Raven installations include access to a free mobile app for monitoring your system, so you can track the performance and identify production problems that could require repairs. The earlier you address issues, the less money you’ll lose out on pulling from the grid in the interim, so this is a great service to have.

Cost and Financing Options

The only reason Blue Raven loses points in terms of core services and financing options is because it doesn’t accept solar leases or PPAs. However, given the company’s stellar financing program, I don’t think this is as big of a drawback as it would be for most installers. To understand why, you first need to know how the different payment options work.

With a cash purchase, you pay for your system upfront, so it’s going to be the most expensive and least accessible option. Paying in cash is the most beneficial in the long run, though, as you won’t need to pay interest on a loan, and you’ll own your panels, so your payback period will be minimized. Paying in cash also gives you access to the federal investment tax credit (ITC), which holds an average potential value of $7,560 in Utah.

A solar loan is the next best option, in my opinion. It’s much more accessible because you only need a few thousand dollars saved up in most cases to get started. Your loan will accrue interest, so you’ll pay an average of $5,000 more for your system over time — or miss out on $5,000 in long-term savings, depending on how you look at it — but you’ll still see an average savings of over $31,000 in Utah. Loans also let you take advantage of the ITC.

If you are going to go with a solar loan, I can’t recommend Blue Raven enough. The BluePower Plus+ program has no or low down payment requirements — depending on eligibility — and includes 18 months of interest-free financing. If you size your system appropriately, install batteries and are able to eliminate your electric bill, that could mean an average of over $1,600 in electric bill savings before you ever have to make a payment. It simply doesn’t get better than that.

Leases and PPAs are less beneficial because you never own your panels. They don’t let you take the ITC, and your long-term savings amount to just $5,000, on average, which means you miss out on around $31,000 in savings compared to a cash purchase. Blue Raven lost some points in our ratings for not offering these, as they’re still beneficial in some cases and help keep solar accessible to more people, but the BluePower Plus+ program helps improve accessibility while still giving you the benefits of solar system ownership.

Blue Raven Solar Extra Services Offered 

0/5

The only area of our ratings where Blue Raven doesn’t exceed expectations is in its extra services offered.

First off, Blue Raven doesn’t handle any roof work, so if you need roof repair or replacement before you go solar, it might be best to go with a different installer that does. You should have at least 10 years of remaining life in your roof before installing panels in order to avoid the added expense of removing them in a few years to do the roof replacement or repair you need. Companies that offer both roof services and solar installation can make getting everything done a bit easier and more convenient, and you’ll have a lower chance of the installers pushing blame onto one another instead of stepping in and fixing the issue.

Blue Raven also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades, like heat pump installation, insulation upgrades or efficiency audits. Some companies that do offer these services can help you further reduce your consumption and bump up your long-term savings. In an area like Utah, which experiences cold winters and hot summers, efficiency upgrades may be necessary, depending on the age of your home. You can always get them done down the road, but you won’t be able to include them in your ITC amount to save.

Blue Raven also doesn’t install EV chargers. Utah ranks 20th in the country in terms of EV adoption, which means this isn’t a huge deal for most customers. However, for Utah residents who are ahead of the curve and have either an EV or a plug-in hybrid, this could be a significant drawback. Again, coupling an EV charger with your solar array could save you up to 30% on the cost thanks to the federal tax credit.

Finally, Blue Raven doesn’t offer professional monitoring services. You’ll be able to monitor your own system for issues via the mobile app you get access to, but having your installer do the monitoring for you would just make your life a bit easier post-installation, so it’s kind of a shame that Blue Raven doesn’t provide this service.

Blue Raven Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Going solar is the best thing you can do to reduce your carbon footprint, and in Utah, it can offset an average of 0.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions every single month, according to the average monthly electricity consumption  in Utah and the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) emissions calculator. Over the lifespan of your panels, that’s an equivalent of 150 metric tons of CO2. Going solar will have a net positive effect on the environment, but the production of panels does still take its toll. That’s why I compare installers and the manufacturers they work with based on overall sustainability.

Blue Raven makes charitable donations to bring clean water to developing countries through its GivePower program, and it works primarily with Maxeon panels, which ties for first in our solar panel reviews based on sustainability. Maxeon uses recycled materials to reduce the negative effects of manufacturing, it has a recycling program for end-of-life (EoL) panels and it doesn’t have a history of unsustainable business practices, like forced labor or unfair pay.

Blue Raven Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

21/25

Blue Raven scores well in our ratings based on the quality of its equipment and the warranty coverage it provides, as well. When it comes to equipment reliability, I look at 18 factors related to the manufacturers an installer works with and the panel specifications to arrive at this rating. Of those 18, I think 3 are especially important to Utah residents: the panel degradation rate, the temperature coefficient and the max snow load rating.

A panel’s degradation rate tells you how much efficiency your panels will lose as they age, with lower rates translating to higher long-term savings. Slower degradation is crucial in places like Utah where 1-to-1 net metering isn’t available because a longer-lasting panel means a higher level of performance to minimize how much energy you need to pull from the grid. Most tier-1 panels guarantee a degradation of no more than 15% over 25 years.  The Maxeon panels that Blue Raven works with have the slowest degradation rate in the industry, guaranteeing a loss of no more than 8% over that timeframe.

The temperature coefficient of a panel tells you how much temporary efficiency loss your panels will experience for each degree above 25 Celcius (75 Fahrenheit) the temperature climbs. Keep in mind that solar panels tend to be significantly hotter than ambient temperatures because they’re designed to absorb as much direct sunlight as possible. A lower temperature coefficient means less efficiency loss in the hot Utah summers. The average efficiency loss per degree among tier-1 panels is -0.29% for each additional degree (C). Maxeon has a temperature coefficient of just -0.27%, which is better than average.

Finally, the max snow load rating tells you the force your panels can withstand from accumulating snow. Many areas of Utah see above-average annual snowfall, with some cities seeing an incredible 500 inches per year. In those areas, in particular, it’s crucial to choose a panel that won’t get damaged by heavy snow. Maxeon panels have a snow load rating of 5,400, which is right around the industry average of 5,870.

Warranties and Guarantees

Panel specifications are important to review and think about, but what I think is even more crucial is the warranty coverage you get. I look at 4 different standard warranties to paint a complete picture of how well protected your system will be.

First is the equipment warranty. This comes from your manufacturer and ensures your system won’t experience issues related to manufacturer defects. Most panel brands offer a 25-year equipment warranty, and Maxeon has the longest coverage in the industry with a warranty that lasts for 40 years.

Second is the efficiency warranty, which is what guarantees that you won’t see efficiency degradation greater than the degradation rate stated in the panel specifications. Most tier-1 manufacturers guarantee no more than a 15% loss over 25 years. The Maxeon panels you’ll get from Blue Raven guarantee no more than an 8% loss in that time frame, and the warranty coverage goes beyond that for a total of 40 years. This is ideal for ensuring long-term performance and savings in Utah, where 1-to-1 net metering typically limits savings.

Third is the labor warranty. This is offered by your installer and guarantees that the installation process won’t cause any system or property damage. The average labor warranty lasts for 12 years. This is the only area where Blue Raven’s warranty package falls short of the industry standard, as it offers just a 10-year workmanship warranty.

Fourth, and perhaps most importantly, is the roof leak coverage. A roof leak guarantee promises that your roof won’t leak and leave you with expensive water damage as a result of going solar. This is helpful for peace of mind no matter where you live, but it can be especially helpful in a state like Utah, where above-average snowfall can increase the risk of leaks. Most companies don’t offer a roof leak warranty at all, which makes Blue Raven’s 10-year roof leak warranty all the more impressive.

Blue Raven Solar Company Reputation 

22.5/25

I mentioned earlier that Blue Raven maintains an outstanding reputation in the solar industry, so it should come as no surprise that it scores well above average in this section of our ratings.

The first thing I look at to assess a company’s reputation is the years of experience it has. Unfortunately, there are a lot of companies that pop up in the industry to capitalize on the high demand for solar only to realize a few years later that they can’t keep up with the intense competition. If your installer goes out of business, your labor warranty and roof leak coverage is usually voided in the process. That’s why I prefer companies with a decade or more of experience and success behind it. Blue Raven has been serving customers since 2014, so it has the longevity I look for in a reliable company.

I also look for SEIA membership to establish a company’s likelihood of staying in business. Membership requires a financial investment into the local solar industry, so companies that don’t have a certain level of success are unlikely to be able to maintain membership. Blue Raven isn’t an SEIA member, but given its track record and time and success in the industry, I think this is less of a big deal than it would be for smaller, less-established installers.

Blue Raven also has NABCEP-certified installers on its staff, and these installers go through specific training for solar installations. They’re more qualified to install solar arrays than electricians and general contractors, and since Utah doesn’t require any specific PV installer’s license, Blue Raven is going to be more qualified to handle your system than most competitors. That certification offers added peace of mind that’s crucial when you’re investing tens of thousands of dollars in a clean energy system.

Lastly, I review each company’s customer review ratings across sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), TrustPilot and Google Reviews to see what real customers think of the service quality. Blue Raven maintains an A+ rating with the BBB and a stellar 4.25-star rating from customers on the site, a similarly impressive 4.1-star rating on TrustPilot and a 4.1-star rating on Google Reviews. These scores are all well above average and showcase how committed Blue Raven is to customer service and satisfaction.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

While I think customer rating reviews are important, I also think they only tell part of the story. I also read through a few dozen reviews to see what specific things customers tend to mention. I look for red flags that suggest you should stay away from the provider, as well as patterns that indicate issues that are likely to repeat.

Many positive reviews mention good communication from the initial consultation through the installation and beyond, fast responses to warranty claims and honest salesmanship. Negative reviews mention some instances of aggressive marketing, poor workmanship and issues with professionalism. On the whole, though, most customers are pleased with Blue Raven’s service, so the likelihood is that you will be, too. I’ll include 1 positive and 1 negative review below to give you an idea of the best and worst you could get from Blue Raven.

“Everyone at Blue Raven Solar was great to work with. The sales rep, the support staff, the system installers all were professional, polite, and proficient in their part in the process.  The details of the whole engagement were clearly communicated.  Any questions or concerns we had or clarifications we needed along the way were promptly attended to and answered by their support staff.  They followed up with several emails to guide the process. The installation, inspections and meter upgrade went smoothly.  We turned on our system.  We are now gladly using solar energy.   If you are thinking it is time for a solar system for your home, I highly recommend Blue Raven Solar.” — Rick S. via Google Reviews

“There is little or no customer service. Once you sign that dotted line, they’re done with you. Panels were installed, one of the installers shoved some boxes in my hands (light bulbs and a new thermostat), what do I do with these? Are the panels turned on? Instructions?? Had NO idea the power company had to change the meter. Who arranges for that? Apparently nobody! FINALLY, after almost 3 months, the meter was changed. Do you think anyone informed us? NO. Ok, are we turned on now? No. Almost another month goes by, we get an email from someone, not BR. Congratulations on your solar panel install.  Here, download the app, here, you turn the panels on yourself and figure it out.  I would NOT recommend this company. Same goes for the finance company they work with. Sign the dotted line, that’s it, they’re done with you. I do want to add that the installers did a great job.” — Linda L. via Google Reviews

Blue Raven Solar Customer Service 

10/10

The last portion of our ratings takes a look at the company’s overall customer service. This is the only part of our assessment that’s based on subjective scoring. I first read through reviews to get a sense of the overall customer service the installer provides, and then I call the company as a secret shopper to see how the first interaction goes. As I mentioned above, Blue Raven has its fair share of negative reviews and issues indicated in negative customer reviews, but the large majority of the reviews are positive and highlight things I’d recommend looking for in an installer, like honest sales practices and solid installation technique.

I also called Blue Raven as a secret shopper and was pleased with how the conversation went. The representative I spoke with was extremely friendly, warm and professional, and they stayed on the phone with me for several minutes answering questions before asking to set up an in-person consultation. I got the sense that the reps aren’t overly sales-y and know what they’re talking about. Overall, I think the likelihood that you’ll have a positive customer experience if you choose Blue Raven is very high.

Why We Chose Smart Wave Solar

Smart Wave Solar scores well in most areas in our rating system, but what stands out the most is its warranty coverage, which should ensure you get decades of problem-free solar production and peace of mind that your investment is protected. The company is a relatively small one, only serving Utah and Colorado, and that’s evident in the customer ratings, which are well above-average, as you might expect from a smaller installer that can focus more on customer service than business growth.

Smart Wave Solar also maintains excellent customer review ratings, including a 3.96-star review on the BBB and a 4.7-star review on Google Reviews. These suggest that you’re almost certainly going to have a positive experience and be pleased with the products, system performance and workmanship.

There are some drawbacks to going with Smart Wave Solar that you should consider before you decide, though. Namely, the company doesn’t offer any add-on products or services, so it’s only a good choice if you know you just want panels and batteries. It also doesn’t accept leases or PPAs, so it’s going to be more expensive and less accessible than many competitors that do.

What I Like About Smart Wave Solar

One of the best things about Smart Wave Solar is the warranty coverage you get with your system. First, you get a 25-year workmanship warranty, which is more than double the industry average. This should give you total peace of mind that the technicians know what they’re doing and have the training necessary to install a system that won’t give you problems shortly after the work is done. Most of the products Smart Wave Solar installs also come with solid equipment and performance warranties, so your individual system components and the system as a whole should last you for decades to come.

I’m also a fan of the customer review ratings Smart Wave Solar has been able to maintain, as they’re well above the industry averages across multiple platforms. This suggests that your experience is going to be a positive one, both during the installation and beyond.

What I Don’t Like About Smart Wave Solar

One drawback to consider carefully before choosing Smart Wave Solar is that you don’t get a roof leak warranty. The labor warranty and equipment warranties are all average or above average, so your actual panels and inverters and the labor to install them is all covered, but you won’t be insulated from roof leaks. I do think the risk of leaks is relatively low, given the company’s experience, labor warranty and customer ratings, but I’d still love to see some formal coverage for roof leak risks.

I should also note that Smart Wave Solar is probably not the right company for you if you want to be able to customize your system and get the most value possible by including add-ons in the installation. Smart Wave Solar Only tackles panel and battery installation, so you should turn to another provider if you want things like EV charger installation, energy efficiency upgrades or other services.

Smart Wave Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Smart Wave Solar doesn’t provide an average installation timeline on its website. However, after reading through a few dozen customer reviews, I didn’t see any complaints about delays or long processing times, so I expect you’d wait the average 6 to 8 weeks from the initial consultation to the day of the installation.

The process the company follows is typical, too. You’ll first have an in-person consultation, during which a representative from the company will assess your home for solar, determine what factors will affect your system size and performance and take measurements of your roof. Next, the company will design a system that meets your needs. Once you approve the design, Smart Wave will go to work pulling all necessary permits. Next, they’ll schedule and complete the installation and then set you up with a monitoring app to track your system performance and energy consumption.

Smart Wave Solar Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

Smart Wave Solar scores reasonably well in our ratings when it comes to the typical services and financing option it offers. First off, it gets full marks for using an in-house installation team. Some companies outsource the installation labor to third-party installers, which isn’t always a bad thing, but it does increase the risk of shoddy workmanship and miscommunication that can lead to delays. I prefer companies like Smart Wave Solar that tackle everything in-house, as that means you always have a single entity to hold responsible for any issues.

Smart Wave Solar installs batteries alongside panels, which I think is good news for most Utah residents. Utah uses what’s called net billing, which means every kWh you overproduce with your panels and send to the grid means less than a kWh that you can call on for free down the road if you need it. The actual credit you receive per kWh exported is the avoided cost rate, which is lower than the retail rate for energy. This makes it challenging to see savings with solar unless you install batteries, as they effectively give you access to one-to-one net metering, which is much more beneficial. Most Utahns will benefit from solar batteries, so I’m pleased to see Smart Wave offering them.

All of the solar arrays Smart Wave Solar installs include access to a solar monitoring app, which gives you the ability to monitor your system production and your consumption in real time. If you use the technology wisely, you can identify production issues early on and get repairs underway before they have a major negative impact on your solar savings. Most companies offer access to a similar app, but it’s still worth mentioning as a useful tool you get from Smart Wave.

Cost and Financing Options

Smart Wave Solar only accepts cash purchases and solar loans. These are the only options I recommend to most homeowners, but having access to leases and/or PPAs would also be nice, as they’re more accessible despite being less beneficial. I’ll briefly explain why this is the case below so that you can choose the option that works best for your situation.

With a cash purchase, you have to pay your entire system cost upfront, which means you’ll need an average of $25,200 saved up before you can even consider making the switch. This is the least accessible option, given the upfront cost, but it does include two important upsides. First, you’ll own your system immediately, avoid interest and see the highest possible savings over time — an average of $36,283 in Utah. Second, you’ll get access to the ITC, which holds an average potential value of over $7,500 in tax credits.

Going with a solar loan is much more accessible because you’ll only have to pay a small down payment upfront — usually a few thousand dollars as opposed to $25,000+ you’d pay with a cash purchase. Far more homeowners will be able to swing the down payment than would a full cash purchase. Paying with a solar loan still gives you access to the ITC, and you still own your panels once you pay them off. The savings are a bit lower due to the interest, but you can still expect to save an average of over $31,000 over the life of your system, and that’s after your panels pay for themselves.

I generally don’t recommend leases or PPAs because they’re less beneficial for customers. You never own your panels, so there’s no payoff period. That means you’ll save far less than you would going with a cash purchase or solar loan — usually around $5,000 total over the life of your system. Leases and PPAs also preclude you from taking advantage of the ITC, so you miss out on a potential average value of $5,000 with the ITC, too.

Smart Wave Solar did lose some points in our ratings for not accepting leases or PPAs because, while they’re less beneficial, they do help keep solar more accessible, which is a positive thing.

Smart Wave Solar Extra Services Offered

0/5

Smart Wave Solar might be a solid option for the basics, but if you’re looking for any system customization or add-on services, you’ll have to choose a different company.

First off, Smart Wave doesn’t handle roof repair or replacement. In some cases, you’ll need roof work done before it’s worthwhile to install solar, as you’ll want to avoid having to pay to remove your panels to carry out repairs shortly after your initial installation. Companies that handle roof work as well as solar installation can do both at the same time, which saves you time and money. If you need roof repairs and go with Smart Wave, you’ll have to coordinate with a third-party roofing company, which is just less convenient and leaves you with multiple players to hold responsible if something goes wrong.

Smart Wave Solar also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades. Some installers in Utah offer heat pumps, solar water heaters, insulation upgrades and other efficiency boosts to help you get the most efficient home possible and the most value out of your solar array. Smart Wave doesn’t offer anything in the way of efficiency beyond panels and solar batteries, so you’ll need to choose a different installer altogether or coordinate with other parties to get everything you need.

Smart Wave doesn’t install EV chargers, either. Utah isn’t the most progressive state when it comes to EV adoption, but the market is quite large and is expected to continue growing. The state also hasn’t implemented an EV mandate, but there’s a good chance it will in the future, so I generally prefer solar installers who are ahead of the curve and install chargers now.

Finally, Smart Wave doesn’t offer professional monitoring services for the systems it installs. Some companies give you access to the free monitoring app to track your system performance yourself, while others offer that and can also monitor your system remotely for you. This takes the pressure and responsibility off of you, making your life a little easier. With Smart Wave, you’ll have to handle your own system monitoring.

Smart Wave Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Converting your home to solar is one of the best things you can do to reduce your negative impact on the environment, but you can maximize your positive impact by choosing an installer and product manufacturer that do their parts to remain as sustainable as possible, too. That’s why I review the sustainability efforts of each installer I review, as well as the panel brands they choose to install.

Smart Wave doesn’t appear to make any charitable donations, and it doesn’t mention any specific sustainability efforts on its website, so I had to turn to the panel brands it works with to gauge sustainability.

Smart Wave Solar installs panels from REC, QCells, Panasonic and Silfab, all of which tie in our panel ratings in terms of sustainability. All of these manufacturers use recycled materials in production to reduce strain on the environment, they all have end-of-life (EoL) recycling programs to help keep spent panels out of landfills and none of them have a history of unsustainable or unethical business practices, like unfair pay, unsafe working conditions or forced labor. They all lose some points in our ratings for manufacturing mostly outside of the U.S., but overall, they’re considered sustainable brands.

Smart Wave Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability

17.9/25

Smart Wave scores reasonably well in our ratings when it comes to equipment quality and reliability, which involves a look at the panel specifications and warranty coverage you get with your system. I review panel brands based on 18 criteria, and I think 3 of those are particularly important to consider in a place like Utah. Those include the degradation rate, the temperature coefficient and the max snow load.

The degradation rate of a panel tells you how quickly your panels will lose efficiency as they age on your roof. All panels do degrade in terms of efficiency, but the brands that lose efficiency more slowly will serve you better and save you more money over time. Slow degradation rates are especially important in areas like Utah, where 1-to-1 net metering isn’t available, and you need all the energy production you can get to maximize savings. Most tier-1 panels guarantee that at least 85% of your panel efficiency will remain after 25 years. All of the brands from Smart Wave meet that standard and guarantee above 90%, with REC and Panasonic tying for the best rate in the industry and guaranteeing 92% will remain after 25 years. Ultimately, this should lead to greater long-term savings.

The temperature coefficient of a panel tells you how much efficiency your panels will lose for each degree above 25 degrees (C) the temperature rises. This is crucial in Utah, where hot summers and intense sunlight can quickly cause panel temperatures to rise. Ideally, you want a low temperature coefficient that can ensure you get maximum performance out of your panels, even in the hot summer temperatures. The average rating for tier-1 panels is -0.29% per degree. Silfab panels from Smart Wave fall well above this at -0.38%, but all of the other brands are better than average with ratings of -0.24% per degree.

Finally, the max snow load of a panel tells you how much downward force from accumulating snow your panels can withstand without sustaining permanent damage. Many areas throughout Utah see annual snowfall that’s well above the national average, and some areas see multiple times the average amount of snowfall, so the snow load rating can predict the longevity of your system. The average snow load rating among tier-1 panels is 5,870 Pascals (Pa). Silfab panels from Smart Wave Solar fall below this at 5,400 Pa, but the other options are well above that, at 7,000 or greater. QCells is the industry leader at 8,100 Pa and may be the best panel brand option from Smart Wave if you live in a particularly snow part of Utah.

Warranties and Guarantees

With average system costs in Utah totaling over $25,000 before incentives and credits, most residents will want to make sure their investment is protected with adequate warranty coverage. I look at 4 types of solar warranties to gauge what level of protection you’ll get for your system.

First is the equipment warranty. This comes from your manufacturer and ensures you won’t run into system problems related to manufacturer defects. A 25-year equipment warranty is average, and all of the panel brands that Smart Wave works with match that standard.

Second is the performance warranty, which also comes from your manufacturer. This coverage guarantees that you won’t see degradation rates beyond what the panel spec sheet states. Most tier-1 panel brands guarantee that between 85% and 92% of your starting efficiency will remain after 25 years. As I mentioned earlier, all of the brands Smart Wave installs meet that standard. Panasonic and REC are industry leaders with a guaranteed 92% efficiency remaining after 25 years. Notably, Silfab has a higher degradation rate but guarantees the degradation rate for 30 years, which is longer than the industry average.

Third, I look at the labor warranty, which ensures that the installation is done properly and won’t lead to property damage or system issues. In most cases, this comes from your installer and not the manufacturer, and the average warranty length is 12 years. This is one area where Smart Wave shines compared to the competition, as it offers a lengthy 25-year labor warranty to keep your home protected.

Finally, I look to see if the installer offers a roof leak warranty. Most installers don’t, but this kind of coverage is particularly helpful in places like Utah, where above-average snowfall makes leaks more likely. Unfortunately, Smart Wave follows the norm here and doesn’t provide a roof leak guarantee.

Smart Wave Solar Company Reputation

17.5/25

Smart Wave Solar scores a little below average in our ratings when it comes to company reputation, but it does score perfectly in the sections related to customer ratings, which goes to show that your experience is almost certainly going to be positive.

First off, Smart Wave was founded in 2020, which means it has 5 years of experience under its belt. Unfortunately, the solar industry is home to a lot of less reputable installers that enter the industry, aim to turn a profit and then go out of business a few years later when they can’t keep up with demand or meet customer expectations. When this happens, your warranty coverage is typically voided. I prefer companies with a decade or more of experience and longevity to avoid this issue, but the 5 years that Smart Wave has is also decent.

I also look to see if a company is an SEIA member, as membership requires a financial investment and is another good way to confirm longevity in the industry. Smart Wave Solar isn’t an SEIA member, though, so it lost some additional points.

I also like to see companies using NABCEP-certified installers on their installation teams, as certification requires extensive and dedicated photovoltaic (PV) installation training. A NABCEP certified installer is less likely to make mistakes and more likely to leave you with a properly functioning system that will serve you for years to come. Unfortunately, Smart Wave doesn’t mention that it uses NABCEP-certified installers.

The company does, however, get full marks in our ratings when it comes to customer ratings. Most customers are pleased with the service they receive, as is evidenced by the company’s 3.96-star rating on the BBB and 4.7-star rating on Google Reviews. Smart Wave also has an A+ rating with the BBB, and all of these ratings suggest that you’re likely to have a good experience if you choose Smart Wave.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

Customer review scores are important, but I think it’s also important to dig a little deeper into why customers score a company like they do. That’s why I read through a few dozen customer reviews for Smart Wave Solar across multiple platforms. I looked for red flags like a lack of responses to warranty claims or damages done to properties during the installation, as well as positive trends in the service, like a high level of professionalism and an issue-free installation.

Many of the positive reviews for Smart Wave mention greater affordability compared to competitors, a hands-on approach that put the customer at ease and outstanding customer service from the very start of the process through the installation and beyond. Negative reviews mention some issues with follow through on service after the installation, including slow responses to warranty claims. Most customers are pleased, but the company lost some points in our ratings due to the somewhat frequent negative reviews it receives.

I’ll include a positive and negative review below that I believe paints a complete picture of the kind of service you can reasonably expect from Smart Wave.

“We had the privilege of working with Smart Wave Solar this year. We are very pleased with the performance of our system. The benefits of solar and the process of installation was explained in great detail in a way that was easy to understand. The installation went smoothly and quickly. I feel Smart Wave went above and beyond in everything they did for us. We had three other companies give us quotes and we had given up on the idea of going solar because it was either too expensive or we didn’t feel comfortable with the other companies. We called Smart Wave in one final attempt to get a quote for solar. We were blown away at the affordable price so we decided to go solar powered with Smart Wave and are very glad we made that decision. I highly recommend Smart Wave Solar.” — Alyssa A. via Google Reviews

“I chose SmartWave for my solar project due to their solid reviews and their unique approach of relying on referrals and scheduled consultations, rather than door-to-door sales. The installation itself was well-executed, and the quality of the system is great. However, post-installation support has been frustrating. Communication with project coordinators is inconsistent, and when they do respond, the information is often inaccurate. Additionally, since my install two months ago, both the project coordinator and management team have changed, indicating potential issues with their internal processes. Their text-only support system further complicates communication, making it difficult to get timely responses or accurate information. From my experience, SmartWave—and many other solar companies—may provide great installations, but if you need reliable product support afterward, be prepared for significant challenges. Based on reviews, it seems I’m not alone in encountering these support issues.” — Blake A. via Google Reviews

Smart Wave Solar Customer Service 

10/10

The last part of our company ratings includes an assessment of the customer service you’re likely to experience when choosing each provider. For this, I look at the specific things customers mention in their reviews, and I also call the company as a secret shopper to see what the initial interaction is like.

I gave Smart Wave full marks when it came to customer service, in large part because it has accrued hundreds of customer reviews and still maintained above-average scores. There are issues mentioned in some customer reviews, some of which are serious problems, but there doesn’t appear to be an ongoing pattern of these issues, based on the reviews I read. With mostly positive reviews, I have to assume that your experience will likely be positive.

My secret shopper call to Smart Wave went smoothly, too. The rep was helpful and knowledgeable, in addition to being professional and friendly. They were honest about the benefits and drawbacks of solar in Utah, and I didn’t get the sense that their main goal was to sell me the largest system possible. Based on that personal experience and the customer reviews I read through, I’d be comfortable using Smart Wave on my own home.

Why We Chose ES Solar

ES Solar is a relatively small solar installer that has a headquarters in Utah. It’s most notable for its stellar customer service ratings, including a near-perfect 4.83-star rating on the BBB and a 4.7-star rating on Google Reviews. The company also prides itself on a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, which is probably a big part of why customers are so overwhelmingly pleased with the products and service they get from this company.

ES Solar uses NABCEP-certified installation technicians, which means your equipment will be installed by highly-trained professionals. It also installs high-quality, tier-1 panel brands that meet the performance requirements I look for in Utah, specifically, where heavy snowfall, intensely hot summers and no access to 1-to-1 net metering all dictate what equipment will be most useful in the area.

ES Solar is a solid company overall, but it’s really only a good option if you just want panels and batteries installed, as it doesn’t offer any other add-on products or services, like efficiency upgrades or EV charger installations. Additionally, it has a solid lifetime warranty for parts and system components, but it doesn’t have a specific labor warranty to ensure your system is installed properly, nor does it offer a roof leak warranty.

What I Like About ES Solar

There are plenty of positive things to say about ES Solar, but one of the most appealing things is the lifetime equipment warranty that includes labor and shipping charges. Most manufacturers will guarantee their equipment but will only actually cover the parts for replacement, requiring you to pay out of pocket for the labor to replace the damaged components. ES Solar covers the labor for life, so any time you call on your manufacturer’s warranty, you won’t pay anything out of pocket for covered repairs and replacements.

What I Don’t Like About ES Solar

In contrast to the stellar equipment warranty, ES Solar doesn’t offer a true labor warranty. It covers the labor for equipment repairs and replacements, but only for issues stemming from manufacturer defects. The warranty information on the company’s site is a bit confusing, but it seems like you don’t get a warranty for the actual installation labor. There’s also no roof leak warranty, which is kind of a bummer in a place like Utah, where excessive snowfall makes the risk of roof leaks higher than normal.

ES Solar Installation Process and Timeline

ES Solar doesn’t have an estimated timeline for its solar projects, but I’d guess that you’d be looking at 6 to 8 weeks from start to finish, as this is about standard in the industry.

The process of going solar with ES is about what you’ll find from most competitors. You’ll first have an in-person inspection, during which a representative will assess your home for overall solar viability and take measurements of your roof. Next, the company will design a system for you and pull permits when you sign off on the design. The installation process will be the next step, and then ES Solar will schedule all final inspections that are necessary before activating your system.

ES Solar Standard Services & Financing

20/25

ES Solar scores well in our ratings when it comes to the core services we look for, although it does lose some points for not accepting all of the financing options we like to see.

First, it gets full marks for using exclusively in-house installers. I personally prefer this over companies that outsource the installation labor to third-party companies because it means you have a single entity to hold responsible if something goes wrong. Additionally, there’s less of a risk of miscommunication and unexpected delays due to there being a single company responsible for everything.

ES Solar offers battery installations in addition to solar panels, which I think is a great option to have in Utah. The state has a less-than-ideal net metering policy that credits you at much less than the retail rate for every kWh you overproduce and send to the grid. That makes it harder to eliminate your electric bill because you have to overproduce quite a lot to cover consumption at night or on cloudy days. Adding a solar battery can help you reach a $0 electric bill in Utah because it effectively gives you access to 1-to-1 net metering.

All installations from ES Solar include access to a free mobile app that lets you monitor your system right from your phone or tablet. You can track performance over time and call for repairs if you notice any major abnormalities, which could help you avoid a loss of savings in the long run. Most companies offer this, but I still think it’s worth mentioning.

Cost and Financing Options

ES Solar accepts cash and solar loans in Utah. It also accepts PPAs, but only in California. The financing option you choose has a major impact on your upfront costs and long-term savings, so choosing the right one for your specific circumstances is crucial.

If you have enough money saved up to cover the cost of your entire system, I strongly recommend a cash purchase — and I’m pleased to see that ES Solar prioritizes this option, as well. It’s the most expensive and least accessible way to pay, but it also provides the highest long-term savings and greatest benefits over time. You’ll instantly own your panels, you’ll avoid interest, you’ll save an average of over $36,000 after your panels pay for themselves and you’ll get access to the ITC, which holds an average potential value of over $7,500 in Utah.

A solar loan is the next most beneficial option, and it comes with the benefit of being much more accessible, as you only have to have a few thousand dollars available for a down payment. You’ll pay interest over time that adds up to an average of $5,000, but you’ll still see net savings of around $31,000 over the life of your system. You’ll also still get access to the ITC.

PPAs and solar leases are more affordable options upfront, which means they’re more accessible, but they deliver the fewest benefits over time. First, your net savings will likely total between $4,000 and $5,000, which means you save between $26,000 and $31,000 less than with a solar loan or cash payment, respectively.  These options also prevent you from taking the ITC, so you miss out on an average potentially of $7,500 in tax credits. We did deduct some points from ES Solar in our ratings for not accepting these options in Utah because they help keep services and PV equipment accessible, but I don’t recommend them anyway.

ES Solar Extra Services Offered 

0/5

While ES Solar scores reasonably well in terms of the core services it offers, it really falls short of our expectations when it comes to add-on products and services.

First off, it doesn’t provide any roofing services. I’m a fan of solar installers that also tackle roof repair and replacement because they can ensure your project is safe to move forward with and won’t require unnecessary costs in the near future to remove the panels to carry out roof repair. If you choose ES Solar and need roof work, your process will have to involve finding, vetting and coordinating with a third-party roofer. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it does make a little more work for you.

ES Solar doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades aside from solar installation. I love to see solar installers also providing access to things like new windows and doors, insulation upgrades and other energy efficiency products, like solar water heaters. Not only does it show that an installer gets the big picture of solar, but it can mean greater savings for you over time. ES Solar probably isn’t the right company for you if you’re looking to couple your panels with other efficiency upgrades.

ES Solar also doesn’t install EV chargers. EV adoption in Utah has been only slightly above the national average, so it’s not that surprising to see solar companies that don’t offer charging stations. However, I expect EV adoption to continue to grow, at which point chargers will be all but necessary for most solar customers. I’d love to see ES Solar add EV chargers to their offerings now to get a head start on providing that capability.

Finally, ES Solar won’t monitor your system for you. Some companies have professionals who track your system performance and schedule repairs preemptively so that you don’t have to. You’ll get access to the app to monitor your system, but that does mean a bit more work required from you.

ES Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Installing a solar array on your home will almost always have a net positive impact on the environment, but manufacturing panels and batteries still takes its toll on the ecosystem. That’s why, as a part of our company review process, I assess each installer and the brands it works with in terms of their own sustainability efforts.

ES Solar doesn’t appear to contribute to charitable organizations, and it makes no mention of any effort to maintain a high level of sustainability. However, I was able to assess the panel manufacturers it works with based on sustainability efforts.

ES Solar mostly installs panels from REC and QCells, both of which tie for first place in our panel ratings for manufacturer sustainability. They both lose some points for not conducting the bulk of their manufacturing in the U.S., where environmental regulations are more strict, but they do use recycled raw materials, have recycling programs for old panels and don’t have a history of unfair or unsafe business practices that makes them socially unsustainable.

ES Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability

15.9/25

ES Solar scores well below average when it comes to system reliability, mostly because it lacks a few key types of warranty coverages we look for in an ideal installer. However, the panels themselves are considered high-quality and should last you a minimum of 25 years. I look at 18 specifications when comparing panel brands for quality in different areas, and 3, in particular, stand out as being important in Utah: panel degradation rate, temperature coefficient and max snow load.

The degradation rate of a panel tells you how quickly your equipment will lose efficiency in real world conditions. A low degradation rate means your panels will generate a higher level of power over a longer period, which is crucial for continuing to offset energy consumption in Utah, especially because of the lack of 1-to-1 net metering. Most tier-1 panels guarantee between 85% and 92% of your panels’ efficiency will remain after 25 years, and both of the brands ES Solar works with most meet this standard. In fact, REC panels tie for the best in the industry in terms of degradation, with a guarantee that 92% will remain at the 25-year mark.

Since Utah sees intense summer heat, I think the temperature coefficient of your panels is also an important consideration to make. A panel’s temperature coefficient tells you what percentage of its efficiency it will temporarily lose for each degree above 25 degrees (C) — 77 degrees (F) — the temperature rises. The lower the number, the more power your panels will generate in the hot Utah summers, and the more money you’ll save. The average temperature coefficient is -0.29%. Both REC and QCells panels guarantee a loss of just 0.24%, which is better than the industry average.

Finally, the max snow load rating of a panel gives you an idea of how much snow accumulation you panels can withstand without getting damaged. This is, of course, an important thing to consider if you live in Utah, as some areas of the state see more than 10 times the national average snowfall. The average max snow load rating is 5,870 Pascals (Pa). QCells is the industry leader in this regard, with a rating of 8,100 Pa, and REC panels are also well above average, with a rating of 7,000 Pa.

Warranties and Guarantees

Panel specifications are great to have an understanding of, but there’s more to the story than stated performance specs. Warranty coverages are another crucial piece of the puzzle, and they’re what actually keep you protected from an underperforming system or poor installation technique. I look at 4 types of warranty coverage to see how protected your home and your system really are.

First, I check the equipment warranty. This comes from your manufacturer in most cases, and it covers manufacturer defects and the issues they cause. In many cases, the shipping and labor costs for replacement parts covered under this warranty aren’t covered, so you’d typically need to pay for them out of pocket. ES Solar goes above and beyond to cover those expenses in-house for life, so regardless of the manufacturer you end up going with, your equipment warranty is going to be quite a bit better than it would from another installer.

Second, I look at the performance warranty, which is the coverage that guarantees your panels won’t lose more than their expected degradation. As I mentioned earlier, most manufacturers guarantee your panels will retain between 85% and 92% of their efficiency over a period of 25 years. REC and QCells panels from ES Solar both meet that standard and sit toward the upper end of the range.

Third, I look for a labor warranty. Normally, this covers any property or system damage that results from the installation labor. The average labor warranty lasts for 12 years. Unfortunately, ES Solar doesn’t actually offer a proper labor warranty. It does cover labor related to equipment malfunction, but there doesn’t appear to be anything that specifically covers the installation labor. As such, the company lost some points in our ratings.

Finally, I look to see if a company offers a roof leak warranty, which protects you specifically from water damage and related issues that stem from poor panel installation. This is helpful coverage to have for peace of mind in Utah, where above-average snowfall makes roof leaks more of an issue. Most installers don’t offer this coverage, and ES Solar, unfortunately,  is one that doesn’t.

ES Solar Company Reputation 

22.5/25

The solar industry has a lot of disreputable players in it, which is expected in an industry with such high demand. That’s why the EcoWatch team puts quite a bit of emphasis on recommending companies with a good reputation. ES Solar scores above-average in this regard, which is a big reason why we feel comfortable suggesting it.

First off, ES Solar was founded in 2009, so it has over 15 years of experience behind it. A lot of the time when we see companies going out of business and voiding customers’ warranty packages in the process, it’s a company that has only been around for a few years. We prioritize installers with at least a decade of experience, and 15+ years like ES Solar has ranks even higher in our company ratings.

Another way we confirm that a company is here to stay and keep your warranty intact is to look for SEIA membership. This requires a financial investment into the local solar industry, so while it doesn’t guarantee that you’re getting a reputable installer, it does suggest that you’re getting one that’s successful, which helps solidify its place in the market.

ES Solar also uses NABCEP-certified installers to install your equipment. NABCEP certification requires extensive training above and beyond what the State of Utah requires, which means you’re more likely to get a skilled professional tackling your project.

Finally, I look at customer review ratings on multiple platforms, including the BBB, TrustPilot and Google Reviews. These help establish a company’s likelihood of providing above-average customer service and care. ES Solar doesn’t have any reviews posted to TrustPilot, but it does maintain an A+ rating and an incredible 4.83-star customer review rating on the BBB, as well as a 4.7-star rating on Google Reviews. These are unusually high ratings, even for a small, local company, and they give me confidence that the company puts customers first, as it should.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

In addition to looking at aggregate customer review scores, I also read through a few dozen customer reviews to see specifically what each installer does well and where it could stand to improve. Many positive reviews for ES Solar mention a high level of customer service, honest salespeople, outstanding communication and professionalism that made the entire conversion process pleasant. Negative reviews mention some issues with communication and promptness after the installation, as well as what appear to be one-off mistakes with the installation process.

I’ll include a positive and negative ES Solar review below to give you an idea of what you can expect in a best- and worst-case scenario.

“They made the whole process from start to finish so so easy, including contracts, financing, installation, coordination with Rocky Mountain Power, and system start- up and tracking. Their customer service and all other personnel I have dealt with have been so helpful and informative. They have taken great care of me throughout the process and made it so simple. Great company. I am super happy with the service and products and would recommend them to anyone.” — Trista M. via Google Reviews

“6 months ago I left a 5 star rating. Leading up to install tons of communication. Since install, they have all but vanished. Unless I blow up their phone. We have had issues from day 1 of install.  Everything from power outage that the batteries did not do their job and power my house, to waiting 6 months for start up relays they knew had to be installed from day one. I made several phone calls about when it was going to happen. Always kept getting pushed off. Finally after threats of going over there head and exposing them it got scheduled. They also can’t explain why our power bill has increased. THE MAIN REASON WE GOT BATTERIES, WAS TO OFFSET WINTER POWER BILLS. To make matters worse, our summer bills are higher with batteries, then it was without. Still no answer as to why.” — Roland A. via Google Reviews

ES Solar Customer Service 

10/10

The last part of our company rating process involves a look at the overall customer service it provides. I assign this score myself after reading through a few dozen positive and negative customer reviews and calling the company as a secret shopper.

First off, there are some serious issues mentioned in negative reviews for this company, but given that there are over 3,000 total reviews on Google and only a small number of negative reviews, I have to assume that the negative comments come from issues that slipped through cracks and and don’t suggest a pattern of poor customer service from the company. Most of the reviews are positive and touch on things like honest salesmanship, good communication and professional installation services, all of which are solid things to see in reviews.

I also called ES Solar as a secret shopper and was impressed with the experience. The representative spent several minutes answering questions I had about the benefits of solar in Utah and the process of converting. They were professional and friendly, super knowledgeable and didn’t seem overly focused on making a sale.

Based on the mostly positive comments in customer reviews and my own experience interacting with the company, I think this is a solid choice if you’re looking for a positive customer experience.

Why We Chose Creative Energies Solar

Creative Energies Solar has one of the cleanest reputations I’ve seen in the entire industry. Not only does it maintain near-perfect customer review ratings, but it’s also a Certified B Corp and makes charitable donations — currently to the Honnold Foundation’s solar grant program — for every single installation it completes.

Plus, Creative Energies uses NABCEP-certified installers and has 25 years of experience installing solar technology. This is the kind of company you can feel good about supporting while also ensuring you’re getting top-notch customer service and a professional installation that’s all but guaranteed to provide you with an issue-free system for many years to come.

While I think Creative Energies is a stellar company, there are some downsides to think about before putting them on your installer shortlist. First off, the company mostly just offers the basics, including panel and battery installation. It does install EV chargers, but you’ll have to look elsewhere if you want to customize beyond those core components. Additionally, the company doesn’t accept leases or PPAs. I don’t recommend those options anyway, but it does mean there’s no no-money-down option when going solar with Creative Energies. 

What I Like About Creative Energies Solar

I think the best thing about going solar with Creative Energies is that you’re getting highly skilled, well-trained professionals working on your system. The company has 25 years of experience, uses NABCEP-certified installers and out of more than 90 reviews on Google, only a single one has a 1-star rating. Three others have a 4-star rating, and the rest are all 5 stars. That alone indicates that you’re signing up for outstanding customer service and a company that is willing to go above and beyond to ensure you’re pleased with your solar array.

I’m also a fan of Creative Energies’ warranty coverage. You won’t get a roof leak warranty, which is kind of a let down, but you do get a 25-year labor warranty to protect you from installation mistakes. That’s more than double the industry average, and it’s in addition to solid equipment and performance warranties, too.

What I Don’t Like About Creative Energies Solar

I think the biggest downside to Creative Energies is the lack of system customization options and add-ons. You can get an EV charger installed, but the company doesn’t handle roof work to make converting with a damaged roof more convenient, it doesn’t offer professional monitoring services for your system and it doesn’t provide access to any other energy efficiency upgrades. Solar is a major upgrade itself, but I’d really love to see the provider coupling panels with other efficiency bumps to maximize savings and further reduce customers’ contribution to pollution and global warming.

Creative Energies Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Creative Energies doesn’t include a proposed or average timeline for its installations on its website. However, given the positive comments about the timeline in customer reviews, I expect a typical wait of 6 to 8 weeks from the consultation to the day of the installation. Your timeline could be shorter or longer depending on many factors, including how long it takes for your building department to approve permits.

The process Creative Energies follows is typical. You’ll start with an in-person consultation and property inspection so that a representative can confirm that solar is a good fit for your home. Next, the company will design a system and have you approve the design. The representatives will then pull all necessary permits and schedule the installation once they’re approved. The actual installation should only take 1 to 2 days, and then you may need to wait for system activation depending on how backed up your utility company is with requests. Creative Energies will schedule all final inspections for you.

Creative Energies Solar Standard Services & Financing

20/25

Creative Energies provides access to all of the basics, so it scores very well when it comes to its standard services and financing options.

First, it gets some bonus points for tackling all of the installation labor in-house. Many larger companies outsource the actual installation to third parties, which isn’t always a bad thing, but it can create issues and cause delays if anything goes wrong. I prefer installers that use in-house technicians, as you have a single entity to hold responsible and coordinate with through the installation.

Creative Energies installs solar batteries to create emergency back-up systems and fully off-grid systems. Batteries are especially useful in Utah, as the state uses net billing instead of offering 1-to-1 net metering. Basically, that means you effectively lose a good portion of every kWh you expert to the grid, so you need to overproduce quite a bit to eliminate your electric bills. A battery gives you access to effective 1-to-1 net metering, so I recommend them for most homeowners to maximize savings. The fact that Creative Energies installs them means you get everything done at once and wrap the battery cost into your federal tax credit amount.

Creative Energies also provides each customer with access to a mobile app that lets them monitor their solar production and energy consumption. This is great for identifying dips in production and inconsistencies that could indicate problems with the equipment. Access to that information can help you get repairs underway more quickly to minimize how much production you miss out on.

Cost and Financing Options

Creative Energies loses just a few points in terms of financing because it only accepts cash purchases and solar loans. I don’t recommend leases or PPAs to most customers, so to understand why this is a drawback, you need to know how each of the financing options works.

Paying in cash means you’re responsible for your entire system costs upfront. In Utah, that means you need a little over $25,000 saved up before getting started. This makes paying in cash the least accessible option, but it’s also the most beneficial over time. You won’t pay any interest on a loan, and you’ll have access to the ITC, which holds an average potential value of $7,560 in Utah. You’ll also see the highest savings possible, with an average lifetime net savings of over $36,000.

A solar loan is slightly less beneficial because you’ll have to pay interest on the amount you finance. Over time, that interest reduces your long-term savings by around $5,000. You’ll still save an average of around $31,000, but it’s not quite as good as if you paid in cash. Loans still let you take the ITC, though, and they have the major benefit of just requiring a small down payment. Creative Energies recommends financing through Credit Human, which offers interest-free financing for a year. If you can swing a 12-month loan period, this is an even better option than paying with cash.

Leases and PPAs don’t let you take the ITC, so you miss out on a potential of over $7,500, and since you never break even and own your panels, your long-term savings will be reduced to just $5,000, on average. The only reason leases and PPAs are good options to have is because they require no money down, so they’re the most accessible options. I don’t recommend these options, but I like when companies accept them because it helps make solar affordable for far more customers.

Creative Energies Solar Extra Services Offered 

1/5

As I mentioned above, Creative Energies really falls short when it comes to the add-on services it makes available to customers, so it loses quite a few points in this arena.

Creative Energies doesn’t handle any roof work, which is standard in the industry, but I really like to see solar installers also offering roof repairs and replacements. Before you go solar, you’ll have to make sure your roof has a minimum of 5 to 10 years of life left in it to avoid unnecessary expenses down the road to remove your panels and carry out a repair. Installers that also offer roofing services can get everything done for you without you having to vet another company and put your faith in another professional. It’s really a matter of convenience, but it would be nice if Creative Energies tackled roofing services in addition to solar installations.

Creative Energies also doesn’t offer any energy efficiency add-ons, like insulation upgrades, window and door replacements and solar heat pump installations. Again, this doesn’t mean Creative Energies isn’t worth going with, but I personally would like to have access to some efficiency upgrades in addition to panels and batteries to get the most out of my new system. These would be particularly welcome in a place like Utah, where cold windows and hot summers mean efficiency would be beneficial year-round.

The company also gives you access to a self-monitoring app, but it doesn’t offer professional monitoring services, which would be nice. Companies that provide this take the burden of monitoring your system off of you and puts it in the hands of trained professionals who are more likely to be able to find, report and carry out a solution for production issues.

The one add-on Creative Energies does offer is the option of an EV charger. Utah has been relatively slow to adopt electric vehicles, and there’s currently no mandate in effect to ensure zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption. However, customers who are planning ahead and upgrading to ZEVs or full EVs will have access to at-home charging through Creative Energies. This is a nice perk, as you can apply the ITC to the cost of the EV charger, as well, and effectively save up to 30% on the cost.

Creative Energies Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices

7.5/10

Converting to solar is one of the best things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and do right by the environment. Solar panels significantly reduce your reliance on fossil fuels — especially if you charge an EV with your solar electricity — and make your home more eco-friendly. While any brand of solar panels will achieve this, you can get the most bang for your buck by choosing a manufacturer and installer who take their own sustainability efforts. That’s why I assess each installer and the brands they work with based on their overall sustainability.

Creative Energies doesn’t publish a sustainability report or make mention of its efforts to reduce its negative impact on the environment. However, it does donate to charitable organizations, and it’s a Certified B Corp, so it puts company values above profit.

The installer works with REC and QCells panels, both of which tie for first place in our solar panel ratings when it comes to sustainability. Neither company has a history of unsustainable business practices, like unfair pay, forced labor or child labor. Both manufacturers also use recycled materials during production to reduce strain on the environment, and they both have end-of-life (EoL) recycling programs for spent panels. They just lose a few points because neither is predominantly manufactured in the U.S.

Creative Energies Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

16.9/25

Since going solar in Utah requires a significant investment averaging around $25,000 before incentives, most homeowners will want to know that they’re investing in high quality equipment that’s backed by solid warranty coverage. Creative Energies doesn’t score particularly well in this arena, but I do think the equipment is mostly a good fit for use in Utah. I assess panels based on 18 criteria, and the brands Creative Energies offers score very well in the 3 areas I think are most important for Utah solar arrays: panel degradation rate, temperature coefficient and max snow load ratings.

A panel’s spec sheet has information about how it will lose efficiency as it ages. All panels lose efficiency over time, and the rate at which they do is called the degradation rate. In areas without 1-to-1 net metering, homeowners need all of the efficiency they can get to maximize production and offset the electricity they need to pull from the grid to supplement. Utah lacks 1-to-1 net metering, so a slow degradation rate will help ensure your system continues to serve you well and save you money over the long run. Most tier-1 panel brands guarantee that at least 85% of a panel’s efficiency will remain after 25 years. REC is the industry leader in that regard and guarantees 92%, and QCells is also above average, guaranteeing 90.58% remaining after 25 years.

The temperature coefficient of a panel tells you about temporary efficiency loss in high temperatures. All panels lose efficiency as the temperature increases, and most guarantee a loss of no more than 0.29% per degree above 25 degrees (C) your panels reach. In the hot, intensely sunny Utah summers, panel temperatures — which tend to be much higher than ambient temperatures — can reach well beyond that, so a low temperature coefficient will help you make the most of the abundant summer sun for savings. REC and QCells both have a better-than-average temperature coefficient of -0.24% per degree.

Finally, the max snow load rating tells you how much force your panels can take from the top side before they get damaged, which is important for estimating how well suited they are for the heavy snow accumulation that Utah sees annually. Some parts of the state see many times the national average amount of snowfall, so this is an important metric to consider for panel longevity. The average snow load rating among tier-1 panels is 5,870 Pascals (Pa). REC and QCells are the two industry leaders in terms of snow resilience, with ratings of 7,000 and 8,100 Pa, respectively.

Warranties and Guarantees

I also think it’s super important to consider the warranty coverage that backs those specifications and the installation labor up with guarantees. I look at 4 types of solar warranties to see how well protected your system will be.

First is the equipment warranty, which insulates you from issues related to manufacturer defects. Most panel manufacturers insure their panels for 25 years, and both REC and QCells panels from Creative Energies match that standard.

Second is the performance warranty, which guarantees a certain level of power production from your panels. This is crucial in an area like Utah because a higher level of guaranteed performance is more likely to offset a higher percentage of your electric bill in the absence of a 1-to-1 net metering policy. Most tier-1 panels guarantee that between 85% and 92% of your panels’ starting efficiency will remain after 25 years. REC is an industry leader, guaranteeing the full 92%, and QCells is above average, as well, and guarantees 90.58%.

Third, I look at the labor warranty, which is the first of the bunch that typically comes from your installer rather than your panel manufacturer. This protects you from damages related to poor installation technique, and it usually lasts for 12 years. Creative Energies is a certified REC and QCells installer, so you get a 25-year labor warranty through the manufacturers for the labor. This is more than double the industry average and speaks volumes about the expertise you’re getting when you go with Creative Energies.

Finally, I look for roof leak warranties. These are similar to labor, but they specifically cover roof leaks and the damages they cause. Most companies don’t offer these, and I’m sorry to report that Creative Energies is one such company. Roof leak coverage would be ideal in Utah because the above-average snowfall makes roof leaks more of a risk than it would be in many other states, so it’s a shame that you don’t get one from Creative Energies.

Creative Energies Solar Company Reputation 

22.5/25

Creative Energies has one of the best company reputations I’ve seen in the entire solar industry, let alone specifically in Utah. It scores well above average in our ratings for its reputation, and I’d be more than comfortable having Creative Energies handle my own solar installation as a result.

First off, it was founded in 2000, so it has 25 years of success and experience behind it. The solar industry is one of constant change, high demand and immense competition. I see a lot of companies entering the space and going out of business just a year or two later because they can’t keep up with the high speed business. When a company does go out of business, your warranty usually gets voided. Going with a well-established company like Creative Energies is a great way to ensure your installer is here to stay and your warranty coverage isn’t going anywhere.

I also look for SEIA membership to establish a high level of success among installers, which can also suggest longevity in the industry. Creative Energies Solar isn’t an SEIA membership, but I think the quarter of a century of company experience more than speaks for itself in that regard.

Creative Energies has NABCEP-certified installers on-staff, too. NABCEP certification requires extensive specialized training in PV installations, so you can rest assured that your solar install is being handled by true professionals when you choose Creative Energies.

As if all of that wasn’t enough, Creative Energies is also a Certified B Corp, and it maintains near-perfect customer reviews on the BBB — with a 4.56-star review rating — and Google Reviews — with an incredible 4.9-star review rating.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I think total customer review ratings are a good indication of how likely you are to be pleased with a company’s service, but I also read through a few dozen reviews to see what, specifically, customers like and dislike about a company. As I mentioned earlier, ​​Creative Energies has over 90 reviews on Google, and only a single one of them is under 4 stars. That review mentions some complaints about slow response times to an initial inquiry, which I think is much less serious of an offense than something like delayed responses to warranty claims or an installation that results in damages and headaches just a few months later.

Positive reviews for Creative Energies rave about the high-quality customer service, the hands-on and education-first approach the company takes to sales and installations and, most importantly, the fact that systems are issue-free and provide the savings customers expect.

I’ll include a positive and negative review below to give you a sense of what to expect from Creative Energies in the best and worst cases.

“Creative Energies Solar went above and beyond to fix some repairs at my father’s house that a previous, now-closed company had mishandled. Annie & Emily were incredibly helpful, not only with the repairs but also in helping me clear permits with the state. Their communication was top-notch—clear, professional, and supportive every step of the way. The team’s work was efficient and thorough. Highly recommend Creative Energies Solar for anyone seeking reliable and honest solar services!” — Raul H. via Google Reviews

“If you want a company that seems to be polite but will not respond, these are your people. I called and spoke to Hayley. Traded a few emails with both Hayley and Kellen. They always said they were busy and would get back soon. Soon to them meant usually a week.  I emailed Kellen and asked him specifically to let me know if they were too busy to help me with my solar issues and got no response. I am not in your system because you never gave me a chance to be a customer.” — Ben T. via Google Reviews

Creative Energies Solar Customer Service

10/10

Unsurprisingly, I gave Creative Energies Solar a perfect score when it came to customer service. I base this score on the customer reviews I read through, as well as a call I make to the company as a secret shopper, and Creative Energies knocked it out of the park in both regards.

First off, 89 of the company’s 93 reviews on Google are 5-star reviews and rave about the quality of customer service and care. There’s only a single 1-star review, which mentioned some delays in getting an initial consultation set up, which is an issue, but it’s a comparatively minor one.

I also called the company as a secret shopper and was met with nothing by professionalism. The rep was friendly and extremely knowledgeable about solar, the benefits of renewable energy and even local incentive programs in Utah. They weren’t aggressively trying to sell to me, and it was clear that the company took an education-based approach to sales, which I believe is ideal. Based on the reviews and my own experience, I’d be very comfortable having Creative Energies install a solar array on my home.

Why We Chose Intermountain Wind and Solar

Intermountain Wind and Solar is the company I’d personally go with in Utah if I was specifically looking to support a smaller, local company. This provider only serves Utah, Idaho, Wyoming and Oregon, so it’s one of the smallest companies that made our list. It has over 15 years of experience, and yet it still maintains stellar customer reviews, including a 4.5-star review on Google, despite having close to 400 reviews. That alone should indicate that you’re going to have a positive experience if you choose this provider.

I’m also a fan of Intermountain’s add-on services, which include EV chargers and roof repair and replacement, the latter of which almost no other installer in the area provides access to. Intermountain also uses NABCEP-certified installers and an assortment of high-quality panel brands that should stand up well to the climate in Utah.

Intermountain is a solid company overall, but there are some things I’m not thrilled about. Most importantly, it doesn’t offer any formal workmanship warranty or roof leak warranty. I think the company’s expertise, NABCEP certification and customer reviews suggest that you won’t have issues, but the risk is always there without a written warranty.

What I Like About Intermountain Wind and Solar

There are a lot of positive things I have to say about Intermountain, but the thing that stands out the most is the quality of service you’ll receive. The company has mostly positive reviews online, and when I called the provider as a secret shopper, I was met with professionalism and knowledgeability that left me impressed. The reps seem to take an education-first approach to solar sales, which is more likely to leave you with a system that saves you money rather than one that ends up costing you more. I can’t overstate how big of a deal that is.

Intermountain also offers quite a few add-on services, including batteries, EV chargers and roof repair and replacement. Plus, it carries and installs 5 tier-1 panel brands, whereas most competitors just offer 1 or 2, so you have some more room to customize your system than you normally would.

What I Don’t Like About Intermountain Wind and Solar

As I mentioned above, the biggest downside to working with Intermountain Wind and Solar is the lack of a workmanship warranty and roof leak warranty. The lack of roof leak coverage is a big deal, in my opinion, as the above-average snowfall in Utah means roof leaks are more of a risk than they are in many other states. Intermountain mentions on its site that it will work with customers to carry out repairs, but I have to imagine that the cost will fall on you.

I should also mention that Intermountain has a 1-star customer rating on the BBB. I don’t think this is a good indication of the service you’ll receive, as there’s only a single review on there, while it maintains a 4.5-star rating on Google with nearly 400 reviews, but it’s still worth mentioning.

Intermountain Wind and Solar Installation Process and Timeline

Intermountain Wind and Solar doesn’t provide an estimated timeline for its installations, but it does explain that certain steps, like waiting for permits to be approved and waiting for final inspections to be done before applying for permission to operate (PTO) can take weeks. I’d expect that you’d have to wait the standard 6 to 8 weeks from start to finish, with some variance for those steps that are out of the company’s control.

The process Intermountain follows is standard. First, a representative will come to your home to complete an inspection and gauge if solar is a good fit for you. They’ll take roof measurements and then design a system to fit on your roof and offset your electricity consumption. Once you sign off on the design and the price, Intermountain’s representatives will pull all necessary permits for the work and then schedule the installation once they’re approved. The installation should take just a day or 2, after which Intermountain will schedule final inspections and then file for PTO for you.

Intermountain Wind and Solar Standard Services & Financing 

20/25

Intermountain Wind and Solar provides all of the standard services we look for in a solar installer, and it just loses some points in our ratings for not accepting all of the common financing options. More on that in a bit.

First, it gets maximum points in our ratings for completing all of its own installations. Some companies — usually larger regional or national companies — secure your business and oversee everything but then outsource the actual installation to another company. This isn’t always a bad thing, but I prefer companies that handle everything in-house. It makes for a smoother transition into renewable energy, in my opinion, and it reduces the risk of miscommunication.

Intermountain installs solar batteries in addition to panels, which is good news for Utah residents. The State of Utah has a less-than-ideal net metering policy that credits you at the avoided cost rate for all exported energy. Basically, in order to offset a kWh later, you need to export more than a kWh, so you’re constantly playing catch-up and are unlikely to be able to eliminate your electric bill. That is, unless you install batteries. Batteries let you store power on-site and get the retail value for every kWh you store, so you can much more easily reduce your electric bill to $0 a month if you install batteries.

Every system that Intermountain installs comes with free access to a mobile monitoring app that lets you keep track of your system’s performance. If you’re diligent about checking production levels, you can potentially identify problems with your system and get repairs underway before the issues cut significantly into your solar savings. Most installers will include access to an app like this, as the inverter, panel and battery manufacturers typically provide them, but it’s still worth mentioning as an added perk.

Cost and Financing Options

Intermountain Wind and Solar only accepts cash purchases and solar loans, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, these are the only options I recommend, as they’re the most beneficial to you as the homeowner. However, leases and PPAs do help more people afford solar, so Intermountain loses some points for not accepting those no-money-down options. Choosing the best payment method is crucial, so I’ll explain how each of them works briefly and why I recommend cash or a loan.

Paying in cash is the least realistic option because you need to pay your entire system cost upfront. In Utah, that means you need to have an average of over $25,000 saved. Paying in cash does mean you won’t pay interest on a loan, so your savings will be as high as they possibly can be — averaging around $36,283 in Utah. Cash payments also let you take the ITC, so you get access to an average potential value of over $7,500.

Paying with a loan is more accessible because you only need to save for a down payment, which could be less than $2,000 in some cases. You’ll still own your panels, so you can still access the ITC. The downside is that loans, of course, come with interest, and that interest will reduce your savings by around $5,000, bringing them down from $36,200 to about $31,200.

Leases and PPAs don’t lead to panel ownership, so you miss out on the average potential credit value of $7,500 from the ITC. You also never see a breakeven point, so your long-term savings will only come out to around $5,000, which is more than $30,000 less than if you paid in cash. The only reason we deducted points from Intermountain for not accepting these options is because they’re the most affordable, and they make solar more accessible. They require no down payment and lead to instant savings, so while I don’t recommend them, I do like to see companies offering them as a backup option.

Intermountain Wind and Solar Extra Services Offered 

3/5

Intermountain Wind and Solar scores higher than most competitors when it comes to the add-on services it offers, so it’s generally a good option for system customization.

First off, it’s one of the few solar providers in Utah that handles roof repair and replacement. If you need roof work done before it’s safe and worthwhile to install solar panels, you can have Intermountain handle everything at once. Not only does this save you the time and frustration of having to vet a separate roofer, but you’ll also have one company to hold responsible for any issues rather than 2 companies that may try to push blame on each other, ultimately leaving you to cover the repair costs.

Intermountain doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades aside from solar and battery installation, so if you’re looking to couple your panels with insulation upgrades, new windows and doors or a solar water heater to save even more money on utility bills, you’ll have to choose a different provider or get those services done after going solar.

The company does install EV chargers, so if you have an EV or plug-in hybrid, you can get at-home charging capability through Intermountain and save up to 30% on the cost by coupling it with your expenses when you take the ITC. As I mentioned above, Utah doesn’t have a ZEV mandate yet, but it does have a higher EV adoption rate than most states, so having access to EV chargers is a nice perk.

Finally, Intermountain Wind and Solar provides access to a self-monitoring app, but unlike some other companies, it doesn’t offer professional monitoring services. Professional monitoring is a nice option to take the burden of identifying system performance issues off of you, so it’s kind of a shame that Intermountain doesn’t offer this service.

Intermountain Wind and Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices 

7.5/10

Converting your home to solar is the best thing you can do as a homeowner to reduce your carbon footprint. The average Utah resident uses 769 kWh of electricity per month. Using the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) CO2 emissions calculator, that comes out to over a half ton of CO2 production per month. That means that installing a solar array that entirely offsets your electricity consumption would avoid over 167 tons of CO2 being pumped into the atmosphere, based on a panel lifespan of 25 years. That’s a huge deal, but you can take your sustainability one step further by choosing a panel brand that also takes sustainability seriously.

Intermountain installs panels from Maxeon, REC, Canadian Solar, Silfab and Panasonic. All of these brands tie for first in our solar panel ratings in terms of manufacturer sustainability. They all use recycled materials in the production process, they all have recycling programs for panels at the end of their lives and none of them have a history of unsustainable business practices, like forced labor or unsafe working conditions.

Intermountain Wind and Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability 

19/25

Intermountain scores a little below average when it comes to equipment quality and reliability, mostly because of the lack of warranty coverage it offers. The actual panels are extremely high quality and should perform very well in Utah. I look at 18 factors when comparing panel brands, but I think 3 are especially important in Utah. Those include the panel degradation rate, the temperature coefficient and the max snow load.

A panel’s degradation rate is the rate at which it naturally loses efficiency over time. All panels lose efficiency as they age, but slower degradation rates mean greater savings and are particularly important in areas like Utah, where a below-average net metering policy means limited savings to begin with. Most tier-1 panels guarantee that 85% or more of your panel’s starting efficiency will remain after 25 years. All of the panel brands available from Intermountain sit above that, with Maxeon, Panasonic and REC panels being industry leaders and guaranteeing 92% in that time frame.

The temperature coefficient of a panel tells you how much temporary efficiency your panels will lose when the temperature rises above 25 degrees (C). This is important because Utah experiences hot summers, and while ambient temperatures may not rise well above that, solar panel temperature will, as they’re in direct sunlight and designed specifically to absorb sunlight. The lower the temperature coefficient, the more likely your panels are to help you offset your electric bills, especially in the summer. The average temperature coefficient among tier-1 panels is -0.29%. Silfab is the only brand from Intermountain that sits above that, and Panasonic and REC are the best of the bunch with a temperature coefficient of just -0.24%.

Finally, the max snow load rating of a panel gives you a good idea of how likely your panels are to stand up to the sometimes excessive snow accumulation in Utah. The average snow load rating among tier-1 panels is 5,870 Pascals (Pa). Maxeon, Silfab and Canadian Solar all sit slightly below that at 5,400 Pa. REC and Panasonic are the best options from Intermountain to stand up to heavy snowfall, with a rating of 7,000 Pa each.

Warranties and Guarantees

I also look at the warranty coverage that each installer offers, as panel specifications are great, but they don’t mean much without formal warranties behind them. I consider 4 different types of solar warranties to gauge the overall coverage you get.

First, I look at the equipment warranty, which comes from the panel manufacturer and guarantees that you won’t run into system issues as a result of manufacturer defects. The average equipment warranty lasts for 25 years, and all of the brands from Intermountain provide at least that. Maxeon is the industry leader when it comes to equipment warranties, as it covers its panels for an incredible 40 years.

Second, I look at the performance warranty. This is the formal coverage that guarantees that your panels won’t lose more than the specified amount of efficiency over the warranty period. As I mentioned above, the average performance warranty guarantees that at least 85% of your starting efficiency will remain after 25 years. All of the options from Intermountain meet that standard, although Maxeon, REC and Panasonic are the best in the industry with a guarantee of 92% remaining after 25 years. Maxeon also goes above and beyond and provides 40 years of coverage for performance, which is the best in the industry.

Next, I look for a labor warranty, also called a workmanship warranty. This comes from your installer and guarantees that you won’t run into problems as a result of installation mistakes on the part of the installer. The average labor warranty lasts for 12 years. Unfortunately, Intermountain doesn’t have a formal workmanship warranty, so it loses some points in our ratings, accordingly.

Finally, I look to see if the installer offers a roof leak warranty. Roof leaks are one of the most commonly reported issues with rooftop solar systems, and they’re more of a risk in states like Utah, where precipitation levels are well above average. Most installers don’t offer a roof leak warranty, and Intermountain is among those that don’t.

Intermountain Wind and Solar Company Reputation 

18.5/25

Intermountain Wind and Solar has a good reputation in the local solar market in Utah, and while it scores a bit below some direct competitors in our ratings, I should say that that’s partially due to just a single review on the BBB’s website that happens to be negative. Most of our rating categories are based on hard data, so I didn’t adjust for that, but a more accurate rating would be 23.5 based on the majority of customer ratings. I’ll explain more about that in a bit.

Intermountain was founded in 2008, which means it has over 15 years of experience. The solar industry is full of companies that enter the market and go out of business just a few years later when they can’t keep up with demand or the intense competition. Unfortunately, they often void your warranty coverage when that happens. For that reason, I try to promote companies that have a decade or more of experience, and Intermountain has significantly more than that.

SEIA membership is another good way to verify a company’s longevity in the industry, as membership requires a financial investment into the industry. For the most part, only well-established companies make that investment, so SEIA membership is a good sign of future longevity. Intermountain isn’t an SEIA member, but I do think that the 15+ years of experience and success it has are good enough to suggest that they’ll be sticking around for the foreseeable future.

I’m pleased to note that Intermountain Wind and Solar has NABCEP-certified installers on its in-house installation team. NABCEP certification requires specialized training in PV installations, so certified installers are more likely to provide a professional connection with fewer issues.

Finally, I look at customer review ratings across multiple platforms, including the BBB, TrustPilot and Google Reviews. Intermountain has an A rating with the BBB but only a 1-star customer review rating. As I mentioned above, there’s only a single review on the BBB, so I don’t think the 1-star rating is a good indication of the kind of service you’ll receive. It doesn’t have any reviews on TrustPilot, but it does have just under 400 on Google Reviews and maintains a much more promising 4.5-star rating there. Overall, these reviews suggest that you’ll be pleased with the quality of service you’ll receive from Intermountain.

Consumer Reviews and Testimonials

I go beyond the customer rating when evaluating solar installers because a 1-star rating could result from a minor issue, like slow communication or scheduling issues, or from a major problem like a company not standing behind its warranty coverage or misleading customers to install a more expensive system than they need. I read through a few dozen customer reviews for Intermountain to see what customers liked and took issue with.

Most of the positive reviews mention professional, friendly and helpful representatives that go above and beyond to ensure customers are happy. Some reviews even mention that the company stepped in to fix issues after the installation despite there not being a formal labor warranty. A lot of the negative reviews mention aggressive marketing tactics, which is undoubtedly not a good look for the company, but it’s not as serious of an issue as neglecting warranty claims or misrepresenting credits and savings to make a sale. Some other negative reviews mention issues with communication even after the installation begins, but thankfully, the positive reviews praising the company for good communication are far more plentiful.

I’ll include 1 positive and 1 negative Intermountain Wind and Solar review below to paint a complete picture of the service you could get from this installer.

“I have done business with Intermountain Wind & Solar for the past 10 years. I have been extremely happy with the installation of solar panels and a solar battery. When it came to dealing with tax credits they were fantastic. They provided all the information on a flash drive for my tax person to use. I have had one panel replaced under the warranty too. They helped me get the information from the solar panels to my computer too.” — Lurlene W. via Google Reviews

“​​Obnoxious company that will call multiple times a day for YEARS. Go ahead, block their number. Tell them you’re not interested. They’ll just use a different number and call again and again. Must be a pretty bad company if they’re that desperate for a sale.” — Jessica K. via Google Reviews

Intermountain Wind and Solar Customer Service 

10/10

The last portion of our company rating includes an assessment of the customer service it’s likely to provide. This is the only portion of our ratings that includes subjective scores, which I personally assign based on the reviews I read through and a call I make to the company as a secret shopper.

As I mentioned above, the large majority of the reviews for Intermountain are positive, and while there are some legitimate issues mentioned in the negative reviews, most of them don’t discuss major red flags that would make me knock the company out of consideration. For the most part, customers are satisfied and even impressed by the communication, service and professionalism of the company, and that, to me, speaks volumes about its commitment to customer service.

I witnessed something similar when I called the company as a secret shopper. The representative absolutely knew what they were talking about, discussed the benefits of batteries in Utah and specific local solar incentives, and wasn’t overly pushy to get me to schedule an in-person consultation. I have faith that this company would deliver on its promises and provide a positive customer experience overall.