Solar is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. The solar industry in the United States alone has seen an average annual growth rate of 42%. Thanks to strong federal policies and ambitious climate goals, solar is quickly becoming a preferred method of energy production across the globe.
Competition in the solar industry is fierce. As of 2022, there are approximately 20,716 solar panel installation businesses in the United States. Amongst those 20,716 businesses, there are five that continue to lead the pack in innovation, quality, and affordability. The top five solar companies are Sunpro, Sunrun, Tesla, Solar Energy World, and Sunpower.
Ranked #2 in 2021 by Solar Power World’s Magazine as one of the top residential solar installers, Sunpro Solar is a subsidiary of ADT that boasts one of the most competitive protection plans in the industry. ADT is one of the leading home security companies, so it’s no surprise that their subsidiary offers an industry-leading 25-year warranty and satisfaction guarantee. Sunpro Solar is also known for their thorough consultations, effective designs, and efficient installation process.
Since 2007, Sunrun offers solar panels strictly through solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Solar leases and PPAs are a great way for customers to take full advantage of solar energy production without the high upfront costs associated with installation and purchasing. Sunrun is the self-proclaimed #1 residential solar panel installer in the United States. Unfortunately, as solar becomes more affordable, leasing and PPAs are becoming less desirable.
Most widely known for their success in the electric vehicle market, Tesla Energy was founded in April of 2015 and almost immediately acquired SolarCity in November of 2016. SolarCity was well-established in the solar industry and had been selling and installing solar energy generation systems since 2006. The acquisition paired with Tesla’s innovation quickly became a force to be reckoned in the solar industry.
Tesla boasts a price match guarantee that will save you on both installation costs as well as utility costs. The company offers sleek, low-profile, and durable designs. Its proprietary ‘solar roof’ technology combines roofing shingles with solar technology is one of the most aesthetically pleasing solar options on the market. In addition, Tesla offers one of the most efficient solar batteries on the market called the Tesla Powerwall which is included in every purchase.
SunPower is one of the oldest and most trusted solar energy system installers in the world. Operating since 1985, SunPower has paved the way for solar power innovation since they first started designing photovoltaic technology for NASA. Although expensive, SunPower offers the most efficient solar panels on the market and also offers an industry-leading 25-year warranty. In addition, SunPower is offered in all 50 states and is consistently ranked the top overall solar company in the nation.
Operating in only eight states in the eastern United States, Solar Energy World is a top-rated and award-winning regional solar panel installation company known best for their customer service and commercial overlap. Solar Energy World not only has a great reputation in the residential sector but also in the commercial sector. They offer great financing options, high-efficiency PV products, and go the extra mile to make sure that you receive all the tax incentives, rebates, and grants that you’re entitled to. Solar Energy World never uses subcontractors which guarantees a consistent and high-quality installation process.
As solar energy production continues to expand, more and more solar companies will emerge and try to capitalize on the market. Sunpro, Sunrun, Tesla, Solar Energy World, and SunPower are five of the top and trusted solar companies in the world amongst the competition. What company you choose to go with will ultimately depend on where you are located regionally as well as your expectations. Each company has its own unique sets of pros and cons for you to consider. If you have any other questions on Solar Energy, make sure to visit The Solar Whiz.
