SmartFlower Solar Review: The True Cost of a Solar Flower
SmartFlower Solar produces unique, ground-mounted solar panel systems that include a sun tracker and a number of other high-tech features. This ‘Smart’ solar panel system is an all-in-one, self-sustaining system that differs greatly from the traditional monocrystalline or polycrystalline rooftop panels.
But how exactly is it different, how much does it cost, and is it even worth buying?
In this post, we will go over everything you need to know about the SmartFlower solar panel system so that you can make the right decision when going solar.
How is SmartFlower different than rooftop solar?
The biggest difference between a rooftop solar system and the SmartFlower system is that the SmartFlower is ground-mounted. Ground-mounted systems are a great alternative to rooftop solar because you can avoid all of the potential limitations that come when installing a rooftop system.
Rooftop solar panel systems may need to be customized to account for several variables like roof type and space availability, but with the ground-mounted SmartFlower module, you have the freedom to install the system wherever there is sufficient exposure to sunlight. The unit itself is 194 square feet.
The next big difference between the SmartFlower system and a traditional solar panel system is that it includes a dual axis tracker so that it can follow the sun throughout the day and maximize its solar energy production. According to Smartflower’s website, this translates into a 40% increase in production over a similar sized rooftop solar panel system.
These features put the Smartflower solar panel system in the same category as many other non-roof based systems. So then, what makes the Smartflower better than any of the other ground-mounted, sun-tracking solar panel systems?
SmartFlower’s ‘Smart’ Features
The word ‘Smart’ has been thrown in front of thousands of products over the past decade to highlight a range of value. The SmartFlower solar panel system, however, definitely deserves this title.
The distinct design of the SmartFlower system directly influences the way it functions. The SmartFlower consists of 12 ‘petals’ which open up at the beginning of the day when the sun comes out. The solar cells are added to these petals and when the petals close at the end of the day, they also clean themselves through brushes that are added to the back of each panel.
This self-cleaning quality of the SmartFlower module is one of two unique features that separate it from other ground-mounted, sun-tracking solar panel systems.
The second feature that makes the SmartFlower special is that it is self-containing. This means that it contains all of the hardware and other components within itself so that it can be easily installed and disassembled. According to the company, installation takes just two or three hours, and it can similarly be uninstalled and moved to a new property in just as much time.
Rooftop solar panel systems, on the other hand, typically take half a day to an entire day to install because you have to prepare the rooftop, add racks, screw in and wire each panel, and then connect all of that to an inverter, which ultimately connects the system back into the electrical grid.
Some of the other features that the SmartFlower includes are:
- Smart Cooling – The system includes rear ventilation to keep the module up to 18°F cooler than it would be otherwise. This helps with the solar cell’s efficiency, as solar panels function differently in varying temperatures. For the SmartFlower, this means 5-10% more output on average.
- Smart Safety – This Smart solar panel system monitors weather conditions and takes that information into account when deciding when it should be open and when it should fold together for protection.
- Smart System – Think of the Smartflower as just another internet-connected device. You can access information about your system whenever you have access to the paired mobile app. You can also control the system with this app and engage in other features.
All of these features make this a unique system that sticks out from its competitors… but, that is just in terms of design. Now, let’s talk about the numbers.
How much does the SmartFlower cost?
Before applying for all incentives and tax credits, the SmartFlower solar panel system ranges in price from 25,000 to 30,000 with the average cost to install at 27,000. There are two models that you can choose from, and this is why the price can vary.
The upgraded SmartFlower Plus is exactly the same as the base version but includes a battery to store your solar energy. SmartFlower also has the SmartFlower EV designed to directly charge an electric vehicle with solar power.
After taking into account the 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit created by the Inflation Reduction Act and other state incentives, the cost comes closer to the 17,000 to 20,000 range. Now, let’s look at the specifications so we can see how it compares with a traditional rooftop solar panel system.
Important SmartFlower Considerations
One of the best ways to get an understanding of how the cost of a solar panel system compares with others is to break it down to the price per watt (PPW). This reflects how much you are paying based on the production capabilities of the solar panel system. We can use the price for each system before any tax credits or incentives.
The nominal output of the SmartFlower module is 2.5 kW. This means that when taking the base price of 25,000, the price per watt equates to 10.00. After accounting for the added production from the tracking and other ‘Smart’ features, the SmartFlower claims to be comparable to a 4 kW conventional system, bringing it down to 6.50 per watt.
On the other hand, other ground-mounted solar panel systems of that size would cost closer to 15,000 (3.75/W), and rooftop systems of that size would be about 14,000 (3.50/W). Conventional system costs are even less if homeowners take advantage of competitive bidding platforms like Solar.com.
The SmartFlower solar panel system has a system warranty of 5 years and a module performance warranty of 25 years. This also differs from other solar panel systems that have 20 to 25-year warranties for both the system and performance. Even most ground-mounted systems with sun-tracking capability have 10-year system warranties. This should be a significant concern, considering a large number of moving structural components in the system design.
Lastly, the SmartFlower system has an annual energy output of 3,800-6,200 kWh. With the average US household using 10,800 kWh per year, you can only expect your SmartFlower system to provide you with around 40-60% of your energy needs.
SmartFlower Pros and Cons:
| PROS | CONS |
| Innovative design | High cost |
| ‘Smart’ features | Short warranty |
| Energy storage add-on | Limited output |
Is the SmartFlower worth it?
The answer to this question depends on what your goals are for your home’s solar energy system. If you care about design and ease of use more than cost-effectiveness, and also do not need to cover all of your energy needs with one system, then the SmartFlower solar panel system can be a good option for you.
Alternatively, a rooftop or traditional ground-mounted solar panel system will be much more affordable and practical for most consumers. You can go over all of these details and more with one of our personal energy advisors today!
Tesla Solar Roof: Everything you need to know
Tesla has begun letting customers pre-order its Solar Roof.
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Six months after announcing the eco-friendly product, the car-maker has finally shared all the details about Solar Roof, including how the roof’s solar tiles work, how much they cost, and what the Solar Roof experience includes. So, we’ve gathered all this information and explained it below, with the hopes of helping you decide whether this is the perfect home solar setup for you.
What is a Tesla Solar Roof?
Popping a solar panel on your roof is a great way to generate free, sustainable energy for your home, but there’s one major drawback: It is often unsightly. However, Tesla’s latest product, Solar Roof, would be approved of by anyone and everyone. It covers the entire top of a house, and yet you wouldn’t notice because each tile is a smaller solar panel. They’re made of tempered glass with a solar cell contained inside.
Tesla Solar Roof was announced during a special Tesla event last October. Keep in mind Tesla acquired Solar City last year. It’s a San Mateo, CA-based company that provides energy services, such as the designing, financing, and installing of solar power systems. Musk co-founded SolarCity. You can read more about SolarCity and why Tesla acquired the company in.lint’s guide here.
Integrated Powerwall
Solar Roof turns sunlight into electricity, obviously. But with an integrated Tesla Powerwall battery, the energy collected during the day can be stored and made available any time, effectively turning your home into a personal utility, Tesla said. That also means you can have access to uninterrupted electricity during grid outages. To learn more about the Powerwall 2, check out.lint’s guide here.
Tesla’s Solar Roof only connects to the Powerwall 2, the second-generation of its home battery, and it’s capable of storing 14kWh of energy, with a 5kW continuous power draw, and 7kW peak.
Solar tiles and non-solar tiles
Tesla actually offers two types of glass tile, solar tile and non-solar tile, and both appear the same from street level. You can customise the amount of solar tiles you need, and every solar tile is warrantied for the lifetime of your house. During a conference, Musk said that in some cases, depending on the roofs, customers will be able to have up to 70 per cent solar tiles, but in most cases, it will be about 40 per cent.
Tesla offers a calculator directly on its website so you can get an estimate of what you need. All the solar tiles are made with tempered glass and are supposed to be more than three times stronger than standard roofing tiles. They’re also printed in a way so that they aren’t visible from the road and should look opaque or even be mistaken for regular roofing tiles (unless you’re looking down on them from above).
Tesla said the tiles will not degrade over time, like regular asphalt or concrete tiles do. Here’s a video of a “hail cannonball” shattering into pieces when chucked against a solar tile in slow-motion:
Slo-mo hail cannonball impacting Tesla solar roof tile
A post shared by Elon Musk (@elonmusk) on May 10, 2017 at 12:32pm PDT
Tile styles
Although there are two types of tiles being offered by Tesla, solar and non-solar, there are actually four different style types: tuscan, slate, textured, and smooth. The first two tiles, smooth and textured, are going into production this summer. Tesla said it decided to go with those two styles first because they received the highest number of inquiries after being announced last autumn.
You can learn more about the different styles from Tesla’s website.
Solar Roof experience
Tesla said that every customer who orders a Solar Roof will get the entire Solar Roof experience. from the removal of your existing roof through design, permitting, installation, operations and maintenance of the new Solar Roof.” The company estimated that the installation should take approximately the same time to install as a regular roof installation. In other words, about five to seven days.
How much does Tesla Solar Roof cost?
Here’s what Tesla says on its website:
The estimated cost of your Solar Roof includes materials, installation, and the removal of your old roof. Taxes, permit fees and additional construction costs such as significant structural upgrades, gutter replacement, or skylight replacements are not included. The Solar Roof cost is based on estimated roof square footage for your home, provided by Google Project Sunroof where available, and the portion of your roof covered with solar tiles.
According Tesla’s calculator, the average US customer can expect to pay 21.85 per square foot of solar panels. A Tesla Solar Roof for a two-story, 2,000-square-foot home in New York state should be around 50,000 to install after federal tax cuts. But it would generate 64,000 in energy savings over three decades, so Tesla said the upfront cost is more than offset by the value of energy the tiles produce.
Tesla includes an installed 14kWh Powerwall 2 in every quote. It can be removed, but Tesla thinks that most people will want to have the home battery pack for backup energy. Tesla also estimated that its non-solar tiles are cheaper than regular tiles.
Does Tesla offer financing?
Yes. Tesla will offer financing for Solar Roofs in the US in late 2017.
When will Tesla Solar Roof be available?
Tesla has started taking pre-orders for its Solar Roof. A 1,000 deposit is required when ordering online from Tesla. Homeowners outside of the US can also order, but apparently, they shouldn’t expect installation until 2018. We’ll keep you posted when learn the specifics of UK pricing.
Want to know more?
2018: Elyse began her career in journalism in 2006 as a reporter at several regional New York State newspapers and magazines, including the Press-Republican, North Country Scene, and Malone Telegram, where she covered a range of beats, from local politics to business. She graduated from The University of Massachusetts Amherst in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in multimedia journalism, and shortly after that, she moved to New York City and stumbled into tech journalism. She worked at both 9to5Mac and 9to5Google as a copy editor at first and then as a reporter. During this time, she also contributed to other news websites, such as the BBC, and she graduated with a Master of Fine Arts degree in writing from The New School in Manhattan. She joined.lint in 2013 and currently serves as a US-based contributing writer, focusing on tech news and features. She also works as an editor at CBS Interactive. When she isn’t working, she can be found renovating her 100-year-old country house in upstate New York with her husband, two Russian Blue cats, and a Husky.
Smart Solutions
Do you want to lower the carbon footprint of your home or business by adding a solar system to your roof but are worried about the return on investment? While you may think factors such as the size of your rooftop, your budget or neighboring trees make it impossible to add solar to your property, these are all challenges that can be overcome with Trina Solar Smart Solutions.
The Optimized Solution
Optimization Inside the Panel
Protect your system and save money
Trinaswitch uses power electronics to give you module level Rapid shutdown and module level monitoring. The module level Rapid shutdown is triggered by AC power loss, overheating or overvoltage, so your system is always operating safely. Module level monitoring lets you see how every module in your system is performing at all times, so you can quickly pinpoint and solve problems, minimizing the energy losses and allowing you to use your OM resource efficiently. Learn more
Give your system a ‘Smart’ edge
Trinasmart offers all of the functionality of Trinaswitch, while adding module level optimization and capped voltage to allow for longer strings. Trinasmart’s uses revolutionary impedance matching and Predictive IV technologies to optimize the performance of each module. This maximizes the energy produced by your solar PV system, while allowing for design into shade and at different roof orientations. Trinasmart’s Smart curve technology allows for up to 30% longer strings, reducing BOS costs. Trina also offers free real time monitoring so you always know how your system is performing. Learn more
Flexible with intelligent solutions
Trinaflex lets you selectively deploy Trinasmart modules in a string of Trinaswitch or standard Trina modules. You can choose exactly what functionality goes into each module at a fraction of the cost. Learn more
Take power optimization to the next level
Trinapeak is the first technology that takes optimization to the sub-module level. Each of the three cell-strings in the module is optimized individually. In addition to maximizing the power produced by each module, this also allows for greater design flexibility. You can have panels at different orientations and have uneven string lengths. You can reduce the spacing betweens rows of modules, as Trinapeak reduces the amount of power lost due to inter-row shading. Learn more
When The Oshman Family Jewish Community Center and Taube Koret Campus for Jewish Life in Palo Alto, California, decided to power its buildings with renewable energy, it encountered challenges. The layouts and surface conditions of the campus’ rooftops were not ideal for solar. By working with Trina, the campus was able to install a flexible solar system that now supplies 20 percent of the its energy needs and saves more than 1.5 million in energy costs
Smart Solutions
Do you want to lower the carbon footprint of your home or business by adding a solar system to your roof but are worried about the return on investment? While you may think factors such as the size of your rooftop, your budget or neighboring trees make it impossible to add solar to your property, these are all challenges that can be overcome with Trina Solar Smart Solutions.
The Optimized Solution
Optimization Inside the Panel
Protect your system and save money
Trinaswitch uses power electronics to give you module level Rapid shutdown and module level monitoring. The module level Rapid shutdown is triggered by AC power loss, overheating or overvoltage, so your system is always operating safely. Module level monitoring lets you see how every module in your system is performing at all times, so you can quickly pinpoint and solve problems, minimizing the energy losses and allowing you to use your OM resource efficiently. Learn more
Give your system a ‘Smart’ edge
Trinasmart offers all of the functionality of Trinaswitch, while adding module level optimization and capped voltage to allow for longer strings. Trinasmart’s uses revolutionary impedance matching and Predictive IV technologies to optimize the performance of each module. This maximizes the energy produced by your solar PV system, while allowing for design into shade and at different roof orientations. Trinasmart’s Smart curve technology allows for up to 30% longer strings, reducing BOS costs. Trina also offers free real time monitoring so you always know how your system is performing. Learn more
Flexible with intelligent solutions
Trinaflex lets you selectively deploy Trinasmart modules in a string of Trinaswitch or standard Trina modules. You can choose exactly what functionality goes into each module at a fraction of the cost. Learn more
Take power optimization to the next level
Trinapeak is the first technology that takes optimization to the sub-module level. Each of the three cell-strings in the module is optimized individually. In addition to maximizing the power produced by each module, this also allows for greater design flexibility. You can have panels at different orientations and have uneven string lengths. You can reduce the spacing betweens rows of modules, as Trinapeak reduces the amount of power lost due to inter-row shading. Learn more
When The Oshman Family Jewish Community Center and Taube Koret Campus for Jewish Life in Palo Alto, California, decided to power its buildings with renewable energy, it encountered challenges. The layouts and surface conditions of the campus’ rooftops were not ideal for solar. By working with Trina, the campus was able to install a flexible solar system that now supplies 20 percent of the its energy needs and saves more than 1.5 million in energy costs
Tesla Solar Panels Review (2023 Costs Services)
Each product and or company featured here has been independently selected by the writer. You can learn more about our review methodology here. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Written by Kristina Zagame
Kristina Zagame is a journalist, editor and content writer with expertise in solar and other energy-related topics. Before joining EcoWatch, Kristina was a TV news reporter and producer, covering a wide variety of topics including West Coast wildfires and hurricane relief efforts. Kristina’s reporting has taken her all over the U.S., as well as to Puerto Rico and Chile. Learn About This Person
Reviewed by Karsten Neumeister
Karsten is an editor and energy specialist focused on environmental, social and cultural development. His work has been shared by sources including NPR, the World Economic Forum, Marketwatch and the SEIA, and he is certified in ESG with the CFA Institute. Before joining EcoWatch, Karsten worked in the solar energy sector, studying energy policy, climate tech and environmental education. A lover of music and the outdoors, Karsten might be found rock climbing, canoeing or writing songs when away from the workplace. Learn About This Person
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- Our Take on Tesla Solar
- Tesla Solar Panels Review
- Does Tesla Offer Any Other Solar Products?
- How Much Do Tesla Solar Panels Cost?
- How Can You Save Money with Tesla Solar?
- How Does Tesla Solar’s Installation Process Work?
- Does Tesla Solar Offer a Warranty?
- Where Is Tesla Solar Available?
- Tesla Solar Customer Reviews
- Tesla Solar vs Other Providers
- Bottom Line: Will Tesla Solar Systems Work for You?
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Find the best price from solar installers in your area.
Elon Musk has long been known for his electric vehicles, but Tesla does more than just make energy-efficient cars. Tesla Energy has revolutionized the solar industry with its advanced solar panels, home batteries and solar roof tiles. With these systems, you can save on energy costs in style.
Tesla solar panels have similar specifications as its competitors, but to see how it stacks up against the best solar panels for homes and to see if Tesla is right for you, read this comprehensive Tesla solar review.
Our Take on Tesla Solar
Tesla panels have an efficiency rate that is within the average range but are not the most efficient panels on the market. That is why these solar panels are a great choice for homeowners who live in sunny states like California and Florida. But what Tesla panels lack in efficiency they make up for in appearance, cost and inverter efficiency. To learn more about Tesla solar panels, read on.
What We Like About Tesla Solar
Tesla’s solar panels stand out in more ways than one. Not only are they more affordable per watt than the average panel but their sleek appearances have transformed the solar industry. Traditional solar panels are often seen as an eyesore, but Tesla’s modern and low-profile design adds aesthetic appeal to your home.
The average solar panel cost is 2.94 per watt, but Tesla solar panels cost around 2.30 per watt. If you are looking to save costs on your panel system, the Tesla system is a Smart choice. Tesla will also price match a competitor quote to the same dollar per watt. As long as you email the quote to Tesla within 14 days of receiving it, you’ll be able to benefit from these cost savings. You’ll be able to send your email in Tesla’s Question Center though your Tesla Account.
Tesla’s inverter is among the most efficient on the market, which means it can convert solar energy to usable electricity better than its competitors. The 97.5% efficiency makes it so that nearly all the energy your panels absorb will be used to power your home.
What We Don’t Like About Tesla Solar
Tesla seems like a cost-effective option, but you only have four system sizes to choose from, which can make your Tesla system more expensive than competitors’ and result in a higher cost per watt if you need to buy a larger system than your home requires. With many solar providers, you can design a solar system that perfectly matches your home’s energy needs. However, that is not the case with Tesla.
In addition, the wait times for a Tesla solar system are incredibly long. The average wait time for solar installation is about two to six months. But with Tesla, you may wait up to a year to have your panels installed. You will get your panels eventually, but this long wait can be frustrating.
Finally, as we stated earlier, there are more efficient solar panels on the market than Tesla offers. The most efficient solar panels have an efficiency of 22.8%, but Tesla’s panels have an average efficiency of 19.3% to 20.6%. This means that Tesla panels are better suited for regions that get an abundance of sunlight and may not make sense if you live in a state that experiences more Cloud cover on average and fewer days of full sunshine.
Tesla Solar Panels Review
Tesla offers four solar power systems sizes: 4.8kW, 9.6kW, 14.4kW, and 19.2kW. This means that you may not be able to get the perfect-sized solar panel system for your home, but should still be able to install enough panels to meet your energy needs.
With an efficiency rating between 19.3% and 20.6%, Tesla’s panels are not the most efficient solar panels available. However, these panels are on the higher end of the average efficiency range, so they are perfect if you live in an area that gets a lot of sunshine year-round.
Something that definitely sets Tesla apart from other solar panel companies is its inverter efficiency. Whereas most inverters operate at 93% to 96%, Tesla inverters have an efficiency of 97.5%. The inverter efficiency tells you how well it converts direct current (DC) electricity that is gathered from the solar panels into alternating current (AC) energy that can be used in your home. The higher the efficiency of your inverter, the more solar energy you can convert into usable electricity for your home.
Black solar cells and backsheet
Does Tesla Offer Any Other Solar Products?
Tesla itself is a leader in innovative technologies, so it’s no surprise that it offers several solar solar products, including solar panels, solar batteries, solar roofs, and a mobile tracking app. We’ll discuss each of these products in detail below.
Tesla Solar Roof
Moving beyond the conventional solar panels that are associated with household solar power, Tesla has made waves with its Tesla Solar Roof. This system takes the solar panel to a new level, in both aesthetics and durability. But at 45,000 to 90,000, this solar system is pricey.
While customers may have an untold number of solar panel providers to choose from when going the traditional route, Tesla is among the only companies offering solar shingles today.
Tesla’s solar shingles can be installed as a new roof or on top of existing asphalt shingles, integrating with the look of your existing roof while generating energy to power your home.
The Tesla Solar Roof brings with it a host of benefits that makes it more appealing than standard solar panels, however, there are also some downsides that could turn you away. Check out our full review of the Tesla Solar Roof to learn more about whether this is a better solar solution for you than Tesla Solar Panels.
Tesla Powerwall
The Tesla Powerwall battery has an energy storage capacity of 13.5 kWh, a long 20-year lifespan, and a comprehensive 10-year warranty that makes it one of the best solar battery storage systems on the market. By adding a battery to your home solar system, you can use solar energy even when the sun isn’t shining (like at night or on cloudy days) and have power stored up in case of a utility outage.
Tesla Powerwalls are not cheap at about 14,200 per battery, and are more expensive than other solar batteries. However, this higher cost is worth it because of the higher storage capacity, technology and ability to have power during a power outage.
When considering Tesla solar energy storage for a new or existing solar system, customers will come across both the Tesla Powerwall and the Tesla Powerwall. The Powerwall comes with additional benefits, such as more continuous battery power and backup power. The key differences between these two options include the following:
| CATEGORY | TESLA POWERWALL 2 | TESLA POWERWALL |
| Energy Capacity | 13.5 kWh | 13.5 kWh |
| On-Grid Power | 5.8 kW continuous | 7.6 kW / 5.6 kW continuous |
| Backup Power | 10 kW peak | 9.6 kW / 7 kW continuous 22 kW / 10 kW peak |
| Size | 45.3″ x 29.6″ x 5.75″ 251.3 lbs | 62.8″ x 29.7″ x 6.3″ 343.9 lbs |
| Warranty | 10 years | 10 years |
If your solar panels generate more energy than your home can consume, a Powerwall is one of the best investments you can make. This system helps you get the most out of your solar panels and has settings that can save you even more money on energy bills.
For example, you can set your Tesla Powerwall to Time-Based Control mode. Then your battery stores energy when energy costs are lowest and uses solar energy when costs are highest.
Tesla Solar App
Tesla’s solar technology comes with all the bells and whistles — including a sleek app that can act as the hub for your home’s clean energy system. The app can be used for an entire system of renewable energy products including your solar panels, Powerwall and EV charger. Here’s a quick look at the benefits of the app:
- Monitor your solar system’s live performance and historical production
- When you use it with a Powerwall, you can manage your home’s energy even during an outage
- Track the amount of electricity you send back to the grid
The goal of the Tesla app is to help its customers take control of their home’s energy use and increase their energy independence. The app is capable of a lot, so be sure to ask your solar installer how to best utilize it. Typically, your installer will help you set it up during the commissioning of your system.
Read Review
How Much Do Tesla Solar Panels Cost?
The all-in price of a Tesla solar system (including equipment and installation) can vary from 11,840 for 9.6 kW of standard solar panels to 22,200 for 14.4 kW after the 30% federal solar tax incentive is applied. Starting at about 2.30 per watt on average, the Tesla solar panels cost less than the national average of 2.94 per watt. This is good news for homeowners, as this lower cost makes Tesla a more affordable option.
A Tesla Solar Roof will have a higher price tag, typically in the ballpark of 45,000 to 90,000. A Tesla Powerwall (for backup power) will be about around 14,200 per 13.5 kWh battery.
Tesla Solar Financing Options
There are two main ways to pay for your Tesla solar system: Cash payment or solar loan. If you choose to pay cash, you immediately own your system and pay the full purchase cost. If you have the option to pay cash, we recommend doing so because it’ll save you the most money each month. You save immediately and don’t have to worry about monthly payments.
If you take out a loan, you still own your solar system, but you can pay for it in monthly installments. Even though you may pay more over time due to loan interest, the loan option is the best choice for many homeowners and is recommended if you can’t afford to pay the full amount for your solar system.
The loan option keeps more money in your bank account, and you still save on energy costs each month. According to the Tesla website, the monthly loan payment for solar is often lower than your monthly electric bill, so you can start seeing savings right away.
Here’s what each financing option includes at a quick glance:
| CASH PURCHASE | SOLAR LOAN | |
| System Ownership | ✓ | ✓ |
| Maintenance Included | 10-year comprehensive and 25-year panel performance warranties | 10-year comprehensive and 25-year panel performance warranties |
| Upfront Cost | ✓ | ✓ |
| Added Property Value | ✓ | ✓ |
| Eligible for Tax Credit | ✓ | ✓ |
| Payment Due to | Solar Installer | Loan Provider |
If you’re wondering what’s the best way to pay, check out our solar financing guide. It’s full of information on solar payment options and recommendations tailored to your needs.
How Can You Save Money with Tesla Solar?
Tesla solar panels are expensive, and like many homeowners, you’re probably wondering how you can save the most money on your purchase. There aren’t typically any sales in the solar industry, but you can use any of the following options to save money on your solar panel system:
Solar Incentives
Solar incentives are complicated — and although every American can qualify for the federal solar tax credit on a solar array, they won’t necessarily cover any Tesla solar product. For instance, solar batteries are only eligible for the solar tax credit if installed along with solar panels.
That being said, there are usually some incentives available to the average consumer. Here’s what you can expect:
- Federal solar tax credit: All solar photovoltaic (PV) installations, regardless of state, are eligible for the solar investment tax credit (ITC) of 30%.
- State tax credits: There are around 10 states that offer some form of solar tax credit that can be used in addition to the federal credit. These mostly appear in states supporting renewable energy like New York, Oregon, Arizona and Maryland.
- Net metering: Depending on your utility provider, your solar installation may be eligible for net metering (NEM). NEM is an incentive through which your utility credits you for the excess energy your home solar system returns to the grid.
- Local solar incentives: Your local city, state or utility company may provide additional incentives in the form of additional tax credits, rebates or even direct payments.
Consulting with a local solar installation company will be the best way to know for sure what type of incentives you may be eligible to receive.
Pay in Cash
One of the easiest ways to save money is to pay for your entire solar system upfront. Although this may seem backwards, it is the cheapest option compared to the solar loan.
When you take out a loan to pay for your Tesla panels, you can pay anywhere from 6% to 36% in interest. Considering the average solar panel cost is 20,580 for a 10-kW system, you could pay an extra 14,800 to 127,000 if you choose a solar loan.
Even if you can’t pay for your entire solar system upfront, you should try to put as much money down as possible. Every dollar you put toward your down payment counts and could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Combine Solar Purchases
If you already know you want a Tesla Powerwall and a full solar system, you should have them installed together. Even though it may seem like a good idea to purchase the Powerwall and solar system separately, you may end up paying more.
Each time you need a crew to come to your home to install solar equipment, you’ll pay for labor. But if you have them both installed at the same time, you may save on labor costs.
How Does Tesla Solar’s Installation Process Work?
When you buy a solar panel module from Tesla Solar, you’re a part of the installation process. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from your Tesla Solar panel installation:
Step 1: Order online
On its website, Tesla Solar says it will recommend the right solar panel size for your home based on your electricity usage and your address.
Step 2: Virtual home assessment
As part of Tesla’s solar panel installation process, homeowners send in photos of their equipment and system spaces rather than having a crew come out to inspect these areas before installation (which helps bring total costs below the national average). Then, Tesla Solar representatives will create a solar design for your home, while you remain part of the process.
The exact nature of the installation chosen for your home will be customized based on your rooftop, power needs, geography, budget and more.
Step 3: Installation
Tesla Solar states on its website that most solar installations are finished the same day, and you only need to be at your house for the first hour. The crew will need access to a few basic things, like Wi-Fi. Use this opportunity to ask the crew how to use your Tesla mobile app.
After installation is complete, Tesla will work with your local building department to schedule an inspection. Tesla will then need to work with your utility company to receive permission to operate your system.
Step 4: Permission to Operate (PTO)
Your utility company will send permission to operate (PTO), usually via email, once you pass your inspection. This gives you the thumbs-up to power on your Tesla energy products and start generating your own electricity.
What’s cool about Tesla is that you can monitor your solar system’s energy production through the Tesla app, so you can monitor your energy usage, know exactly how much energy you’re generating, and ultimately stay on top of how cost-effective your panels are.
Watch Below: See for yourself what the Tesla solar panel installation process looks like
Does Tesla Solar Offer a Warranty?
Your Tesla solar panels should have a lifespan of at least 25 years. However, if you take care of your panels, maintain them regularly and use them as directed, they can last up to 30 years. Tesla offers two warranties that protect the parts and performance of your solar panels.
This means that in the event of an unexpected failure, you may not have to pay for repair costs. Since solar panels can cost hundreds of dollars to repair, this warranty is essential to owning them.
Tesla Solar equipment comes with a 10-year comprehensive warranty and a 25-year panel performance warranty. These warranties are comparable to the industry standard warranty, and you can expect the following to be covered under each:
- Comprehensive warranty: Your Tesla solar system is covered by a 10-year warranty. That means for the first decade after your solar panel installation, Tesla should perform any maintenance or labor request related to your solar system at no cost. It covers issues related to roof mounting and leaks, your Tesla solar inverter and/or your Powerwall.
- Panel performance warranty: Your solar panels are protected by what Tesla calls a “panel performance warranty” for at least 25 years following installation. Under it, your solar panels are guaranteed at least 80% of nameplate power capacity. Tesla should process any claims and perform any related labor at no cost.
Where Is Tesla Solar Available?
Tesla solar panels are available in all 50 states, so regardless of where you live, you can get Tesla solar products installed on your home. After you order your solar panel system online, a certified Tesla installer will come to your home to complete the installation.
Click on your state below to connect with a local solar installer in your area:
Tesla Solar Customer Reviews
We’ve covered the basics of what Tesla Solar has to offer in terms of products, services and financing, so now let’s dive into what its customers have to say about the experience.
As mentioned previously, a lot of Tesla Solar customers have complained about the provider’s spotty customer service. While poor customer service is not uncommon in the solar industry, there are some companies that take care of their customers regardless of which stage of installation they are in. Tesla Solar also has hundreds of happy customers who rave about the quality of Tesla’s solar installation and products, which is what we would expect from such a prominent installer.
Before we dive into some perspectives, we’d like to mention that, because Tesla is a national company, your experience may vary depending on the installation companies in your area. Further, you may have a different experience if you choose Powerwall Direct instead of using a certified third-party solar installer.
Positive Reviews of Tesla Solar
Many Tesla solar customers have raved about their good experiences with their solar installers on customer review sites. When their Tesla solar panels are installed correctly, customers report no problems with system functionality and impressive energy savings of 30% or more. Some reviews we have seen even mention that they switched to Tesla Solar after consulting with other solar companies and were so grateful that they chose Tesla instead.
Satisfied Tesla customers report friendly and respectful installation teams that efficiently install Tesla panels. The appearance of the panels is also highlighted in some reviews, and customers are surprised at how clean and modern they look after installation.
Negative Reviews of Tesla Solar
Negative reviews of Tesla solar systems typically mention Tesla’s spotty customer service and failure to follow up when something goes wrong after payment and installation. This lack of technical support is particularly concerning, as several customers have reported receiving no support when they encountered a problem that was covered under warranty.
In addition to poor customer service, some customers also complain about unnecessarily long wait times. While it’s not uncommon for customers to wait up to a year or more for some Tesla products like the Powerwall, solar panel customers have waited four to five months between steps in the installation process. In one case, a customer waited several months for Tesla to redesign their solar system, five months for an on-site inspection to be performed, and then another few months for repairs to be made after installation.
Tesla Solar vs Other Providers
Tesla is one of the top solar providers in the nation, and one of the few companies to offer solar roof tiles, not to mention solar batteries, EV charging stations, and electric vehicles. Most providers offer solar panels installation, but few have the additional services provided by Tesla. In addition, Tesla offers solar panels in all 50 states, which we can’t say about every provider.
See how Tesla rates compared to some of our top solar panel companies in the table below.
| TESLA SOLAR | SUNPOWER | BLUE RAVEN SOLAR | SUNRUN | MOMENTUM SOLAR | |
| EcoWatch Rating | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 |
| Year Started | 2003 | 1985 | 2014 | 2007 | 2009 |
| Services Offered | Solar panel, solar battery, solar roof shingles and EV charger installations | Solar panel, solar battery and EV charger installations | Solar panel installations (batteries coming soon) | Solar panel installation, battery installation, monitoring, maintenance | Solar panel and solar battery installations |
| Service Areas | All 50 states | All 50 states | 17 states including CO, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MO, NC, NV, OH, OR, SC, TX, UT, VA | 22 states, including AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, HI, IL, MD, MA, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, PA, RI, SC, TX, VT, WI, Puerto Rico and Washington D.C. | 11 states, including AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, MA, NV, NJ, NY, PA, TX |
| Better Business Bureau Rating | N/A | A | A | B | A |
| Payment Options | Cash payments, loans | Cash, loan, lease, PPA | Cash, loan, lease | Cash, loan, lease, PPA | Cash, loan, lease, PPA |
| Read Provider Review | Current Provider | Read our review of Sunpower | Read our review of Blue Raven Solar | Read our review of Sunrun | Read our review of Momentum Solar |
Bottom Line: Will Tesla Solar Systems Work for You?
It’s important to understand that Tesla’s strengths lie more in its technology than its customer service. If you order a solar system directly through Tesla, your representative will outsource the installation to a subcontractor in your area. This will involve a third party which can cause delays and miscommunication.
We firmly advocate for Tesla’s products — specifically the Powerwall and Solar Roof, but we recommend that you hire a local company to design your system and carry out your installation of Tesla’s products. This way, you get to choose exactly who will be doing the work on your home.
There are a large number of companies certified to install Tesla products that can provide you with reliable customer service, maintenance and backend support. In fact, the majority of the solar companies we recommend can procure and install Tesla products.
If you’re ready to connect with a vetted company in your area for either Tesla Solar or one of its competitors, enter your zip code below to get started.
