We compared panel efficiency, warranties, payment options, and thousands of verified customer reviews to find the top solar companies homeowners can actually trust.
⭐ Editor’s Top Picks
Sunlux sells panels, inverters, and batteries with full-service installation, 24/7 monitoring, and a comprehensive 25-year warranty covering parts, labor, and repairs. The breadth of their service package — especially the all-in warranty — is what earns them the top overall spot.
Currently available in California and Texas. Offers purchase, finance, lease, and energy prepay options.
Freedom Solar Power offers end-to-end solar services for residential and commercial properties with 24/7 performance monitoring. As a SunPower Master Dealer with certified Tesla Powerwall installation, they bring some of the highest panel efficiency available at 22.8%.
Customers consistently highlight the quality of communication during the installation process.
Project Solar is recognized for the most transparent pricing in the industry — upfront costs without surprise fees. With a 4.4-star rating and broad nationwide availability, it’s a strong option for budget-conscious homeowners who want to know exactly what they’re paying before signing.
With over 3,600 verified reviews and 18 years in business, Sunrun is the largest dedicated residential solar company in the US. They offer the most flexible payment structures including cash, loan, and lease, with consultants who customize systems to each household’s energy needs.
Side by Side
| Company | Rating | Our Pick For | Max Efficiency | Warranty | Payment Options | Founded | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunlux | ★★★☆☆ 580 reviews |
Best Overall | 19.7% | 25 years | Cash, Loan, Lease | 2012 | CA & TX |
| Freedom Solar Power | ★★★★☆ 336 reviews |
Customer Service | 22.8% | 25 years | Cash, Loan | 2007 | TX, CO, FL |
| Project Solar | ★★★★☆ 87 reviews |
Best Value | 20.9% | 25 years | Cash, Loan | 2016 | Most states |
| Sunrun | ★★★★☆ 3,629 reviews |
Payment Options | 22% | Varies | Cash, Loan, Lease | 2007 | 17+ states |
💰 Pricing
| System Size | 5 kW | 6 kW | 7 kW | 8 kW | 9 kW | 10 kW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost (before incentives) | $13,962 | $16,745 | $19,547 | $22,339 | $25,132 | $27,924 |
Most installers price by the system’s wattage. The average is $2.78/W in 2026, with a typical range of $2.00–$3.50/W. Always confirm your quote includes installation, permits, and grid hookup — and ask specifically about monitoring or service fees that may not be in the base price.
| State | Avg. Install Cost | Cost/Watt | Payback Period | 25-Year Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $17,208 | $2.39/W | 5.63 years | $116,253 |
| Texas | $15,194 | $2.14/W | 6.96 years | $88,319 |
| Florida | $31,448 | $2.19/W | 8.78 years | $67,130 |
| New York | $19,251 | $2.79/W | 8.55 years | $58,988 |
| New Jersey | $21,300 | $2.84/W | 5.89 years | $84,640 |
| Massachusetts | $22,630 | $3.10/W | 5.49 years | $184,053 |
| Arizona | $14,490 | $2.07/W | 9.67 years | $44,486 |
| Colorado | $14,014 | $2.86/W | 11.93 years | $33,314 |
| Washington D.C. | $18,060 | $3.01/W | 4.02 years | $102,449 |
| Illinois | $20,878 | $2.86/W | 8.21 years | $45,514 |
| Nevada | $16,056 | $2.23/W | 9.33 years | $51,532 |
| Pennsylvania | $20,670 | $2.65/W | 8.05 years | $74,448 |
| Georgia | $15,498 | $2.46/W | 13.39 years | $27,888 |
| North Carolina | $16,590 | $2.37/W | 12.4 years | $30,415 |
| Ohio | $19,656 | $2.73/W | 9.69 years | $56,496 |
Based on a standard 7 kW system. Payback period and savings vary based on local electricity rates, system size, and available incentives.
🔍 Buyer’s Guide
Check your utility bill for kWh used. The average US household needs a 7.5 kW system to offset energy needs. Get at least 3 quotes and confirm the system size is based on your actual usage — not a generic estimate.
Read verified reviews from real customers. Watch for red flags: high-pressure sales tactics, vague pricing, poor post-install support, and contractors who can’t provide USDOT/license verification. Companies with consistent complaints about broken promises should be avoided.
Get at least 3–4 estimates before deciding. Prices vary significantly between installers. The average cost is $2.78/W but can range from $2.00 to $3.50/W. Make sure every quote includes installation, permits, and grid hookup — not just equipment.
Solar installers need electrical licenses in most states. Look for companies associated with NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) or certified by SRCC. These certifications indicate trained, accountable installers.
Most solar panels carry a 25-year warranty. But inverters and batteries may have different terms. If you add battery storage, confirm the battery’s warranty length — some state incentive programs require minimum warranty periods to qualify for rebates.
Cash purchase gives you the best long-term savings and full ownership. Solar loans let you own the system with monthly payments. Leases and PPAs mean the company owns the panels — you pay a monthly fee but may not qualify for tax credits. Confirm whether your loan payment is less than your current electricity bill before signing.
Upgrade old appliances with energy-efficient models before going solar. The less electricity you use, the fewer panels you need — which makes the entire system more cost-effective and lowers your upfront investment.
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Questions
All reviews displayed on ConsumersVerified are real customer reviews sourced and aggregated from third-party platforms including Google, Trustpilot, BBB, and other verified consumer review sources. Costs, ratings, and data are based on publicly available information and may change over time. ConsumersVerified is not a solar installer and does not provide installation services.