2024 was one of the most significant years for solar in the U.S., with 50 GW of new solar capacity installed, representing a 21% increase from 2023. Now, solar installations represent 66% of all new U.S. generating capacity. As you can see from these statistics, more and more people consider the installation of solar panel systems as a valuable option for generating clean energy for the household.
We want to help you find the best solar installation services on the market, so we use rankings from SolarPowerSystems and other reputable sources to help you find the best options.
How To Choose Solar Installers: 5 Characteristics To Look For
Solar technology is booming around the world. Even the UK, with its cloudy weather, gets an impressive 23.53% CAGR and 15.1 GW of cumulative solar capacity.
Meanwhile, the U.S has better weather for green electricity generation, and choosing the right installer is just as crucial as selecting your panels. There are five key characteristics to distinguish reputable renewable energy companies from the crowd:
- Experience and track record
- Panel, inverter, and battery options
- Financing flexibility
- Warranties and service plans
- Local reviews
Experience & Track Record
Look for solar panel providers with at least three years of uninterrupted experience. Ensure that they can create weather-proof designs, undertake the process of getting permissions, install panels, and provide craftsmanship warranties.
Panel, Inverter & Battery Options
Quality installers offer more than just selling you an average solar panel. Choose teams that explain how exactly selecting specific brands can benefit you. Look for installer certifications (such as NABCEP PV Installation Professional) and product certifications like UL-listed panels, CEC ratings, and ENERGY STAR verification.
Financing Flexibility
Keep in mind that the best solar installers should adapt to you, not the other way around. Leading installers offer multiple financing options:
- Direct purchase (cash)
- Loans
- Leases
- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
The key to success is to choose local solar installers that have transparent terms. Ask to see full contract details before signing.
Warranties and Service Plans
Since solar panel systems are a long-term investment, you need to have excellent protection. Most panels and solar inverters include 25-year coverage for defects and performance issues. Look for comprehensive performance guarantees, since quality systems should provide at least ≥ 80% output by year 25.
Local Reviews
Check the reputation of the chosen team by checking reviews of solar installers on Reddit, specialized platforms, or by contacting past customers. It will be great if the installer team has profiles on social media.
10 Best Solar Installers in the U.S. for 2025
There are hundreds of installer teams in the U.S. alone. It may take a week to decide whom to trust. To save you time, we’ve examined the modern market to determine the best installer teams.
1. Sunrun
Sunrun is currently the largest residential solar installer in the United States, holding approximately 10% of the market and having installed more than 7.5 Gigawatts of solar power. The company’s size and experience make it one of the most trusted commercial solar installers in the U.S.
Here, you can purchase, lease, or sign a power purchase agreement (PPA), making it easier for customers to find a suitable plan. Customers also appreciate Sunrun’s strong support network and easy-to-use monitoring tools.
2. Freedom Forever
Freedom Forever has quickly risen to become one of the top residential solar installers in the United States. They have a clear price policy, so you can easily determine what configuration suits you most.
Freedom Forever also uses regionally focused installation teams, which enables better service quality and faster response times in the areas they serve. While they began as a regional player, they became one of the top solar installers across the U.S., bringing competitive pricing and reliable solar setups to more households.
3. Tesla Solar
Tesla Solar blends cutting-edge technology with sleek, modern design, making it a standout for homeowners who value both performance and aesthetics. Tesla has made a significant impact in the residential solar panel market thanks to its innovative offerings, including the Tesla Solar Roof, Tesla Inverter, and Powerwall battery.
Their solar panel systems create a seamless experience that’s especially attractive to Tesla’s car owners or people who want to create a tech ecosystem in their home from a single brand.
4. SunPower
SunPower is recognized for its highly effective photovoltaic (PV) panels, which achieve a 22.8% efficiency, making it a top choice for people looking to generate as much clean electricity as possible.
Their systems are typically installed through a network of certified local dealers. While the upfront cost of their systems may be quite high, the long-term returns of their home solar panels make SunPower a solid investment.
5. Trinity Solar
They are one of the most well-known solar installers on the East Coast, with over 100,000 installations under their belt. As one of the largest family-owned solar companies in the U.S., they bring a community-focused approach to clean energy.
Their reputation is built on a combination of affordability, local service, and personalized customer care. While they may not have nationwide coverage, they are well-suited for people who live on the East Coast, as they are aware of regional needs and weather specifics.
6. NextEra Energy
This company is recognized as one of the world’s largest generators of renewable energy, with a staggering 64 Gigawatts of capacity. While they don’t cater to residential customers, they offer custom systems to businesses.
NextEra leads major innovations in grid infrastructure and clean energy reliability, creating solar farms that power entire communities and corporate operations.
7. Cypress Creek Renewables
Cypress Creek Renewables is another large-scale business that develops and installs commercial solar panel systems. These solar installers are recognized for enabling community solar models that enable residents and small businesses to benefit from green energy without the need to install panels on their own properties.
8. ENGIE North America
ENGIE North America is a powerhouse in blending solar energy with broader infrastructure solutions. As part of the global ENGIE Group, they’re recognized among PF Nexus’s Top 10 developers in North America, and for good reason.
They integrate green power into complex systems for cities, universities, hospitals, and industrial campuses. Their commercial solar solutions often combine solar energy with energy efficiency upgrades, smart grid technology, and thermal energy systems.
9. Lightsource BP (U.S.)
Lightsource BP earns its place among the top solar developers thanks to its powerful combination of global expertise and the financial might of BP. With a clear focus on utility-scale and large commercial solar installations, these solar installers deliver high-capacity projects.
Their ability to secure long-term corporate Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) makes them a go-to partner for Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions, and utilities seeking large-scale renewable energy with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) credentials.
10. REC Group
REC Group, founded in Norway and now part of ChemChina, is widely respected for producing high-efficiency, durable solar panels. While traditionally they were more like a solar panel systems manufacturer rather than an installer, REC earns its spot thanks to its growing network of certified solar professionals across the U.S. and its push into the premium residential and commercial markets.
Final Thoughts
There is no best “solar panel system” as each household or business has different needs. Choose the one that perfectly meets your requirements. Ensure that the chosen installer will answer all your questions and provide ongoing support.
