Tesla Solar Panels Review
Known for its electric vehicle innovation, Tesla expanded its advanced technology to the solar industry. The Tesla Energy division offers high-quality residential panels. solar roofing, and battery solutions to help homeowners save on energy costs. In our in-depth review, we’ll explore Tesla’s solar products, warranties, and customer reviews to see how it stacks up to other top solar installers in the nation.
Important Note: Tesla makes solar panels and batteries but it doesn’t install them. Choose from one of the Tesla certified installers below to get your Tesla batteries or solar panels installed.
Our Take on Tesla Solar Panels
Tesla has developed innovative residential solar tech, including low-profile efficient panels, advanced solar roof tiles. and its exclusive Tesla Powerwall battery. We found navigating Tesla’s website for a sample quote easy. Its transparent pricing and streamlined ordering systems made it simple to shop for a new system without the help of a sales representative. The company offers long-term product and performance coverage for its systems, but its 10-year comprehensive warranty falls short of other providers. In addition, we learned that many customers were dissatisfied with the company’s poor customer service, waiting months for technical support and servicing.
Tesla Solar Overview
- BBB rating: A
- Year founded: 2015
- State availability: 50 (availability varies by ZIP code)
- Warranty: 10-year warranty for product, inverter, and roof leaks and 25-year performance guarantee
- Payment options: Full payment, solar loan (select areas)
Best Solar Companies of 2023
These are the best solar companies in Maine, according to our research and ranking methodology.
- Tesla: Best Solar Tech
- SunPower : Best High-Efficiency System
- ADT Solar : Best Solar Warranty
- Sunrun : Best Solar Panel Leasing
- Blue Raven Solar : Most Reputable
- Green Home Systems : Best Solar Roofs
- Elevation : Best Energy-Efficient Upgrades
- Palmetto Solar : Best Customer Support
Pros and Cons of Tesla Solar Panels
Pros 24/7 solar panel monitoring through its mobile app Instant online quotes available Solar panel price-match guarantee
Cons Long wait times for repairs, per customer reviews Shorter equipment warranty than other providers Third-party solar system installations only
Tesla Solar Services and Panel Options
Tesla uses its own solar panels for installations. Its all-black, minimalistic panels have no visible grid, a concealed edge, and a low profile. The panels interlock when installed, forming one solid solar panel array that blends with your home’s aesthetics. These monocrystalline (mono) solar panels have efficiency ratings between 19.3% and 20.6%, depending on the model. This type of panel offers excellent energy production and has the longest life span. Based on our research of other solar providers, we found that these panels are not the most efficient panels available. However, they offer above-average energy production levels, making them a solid investment. Tesla also includes in-house inverters for its solar systems. The inverter helps convert the direct current (DC) energy received from the sun into alternating current (AC) energy for your home. Its inverters operate at 97.5% efficiency, much higher than the average range of 93%–96%. Higher inverter efficiencies lead to better energy conversion for your home.
Other Solar Products Offered by Tesla
- Powerwall : The Tesla Powerwall solar battery has become a favorite among homeowners due to its excellent storage capacity, life span, and warranty. It comes in two models: the Powerwall 2 and the Powerwall. While they work best as an addition to existing solar systems, the Powerwall integrates into a new energy system well.
- Solar roof : The Tesla solar roof serves as an alternative to traditional rooftop panels. They offer the durability of traditional roofing material with the power of solar technology. These sleek, solar tiles blend into your home’s design, providing a less noticeable installation than traditional rooftop panels. The Tesla roof is an excellent option when building a new home or when replacing your current roof.
Tesla Solar Installation Process
Tesla does not offer in-house installations. The company uses third-party certified installers for its solar projects. Here’s how the installation process works:
- Site assessment: The Tesla installers survey your roof using remote aerial technology to measure its area and slope.
- Design: The installer designs your system to fit your home’s structure and energy needs.
- Permitting: Your installer ensures all necessary permits and inspections are completed before installation.
- Installation: You can choose an installation date that suits your schedule. Tesla says most installations are completed in one day, and you only need to be at the house during the first hour. If you order a Powerwall battery, it will be activated and configured to Self-Consumption Only mode. This means the Powerwall will produce just enough energy to power your home and charge itself.
- Inspection: The installers will work with your local building department to arrange an inspection after installation is completed.
- Energization and activation: Your installer works with your local utility company to receive your Tesla system’s Permission to Operate (PTO). The company states that depending on your location, this may take one to six weeks.
Tesla Quits Solar Installation Business?
Tesla Solar Roof Benefits
Longevity
Tesla Solar Roofs are long-lasting and durable. They don’t break down as quickly or easily as shingles. They will continue to protect your home against storm and water damage for years to come. plus Tesla offers a 25-year warranty.
Building Equity
You were probably advised to buy a home rather than rent because when you buy, you are building equity. When you rent, you’re just paying out money you’ll never get back. The difference between installing a Tesla Solar Roof and paying for electricity is similar.
Offsetting Electric Bills
A Tesla Solar Roof will soon pay for itself by offsetting your electric bill. Once the roof has paid for itself, you’ll be saving money each month. A home with a roof that saves you money each month is definitely valuable!
Self-Sustained Power
Self-sustained power is another huge advantage of installing a Tesla Solar Roof. Any extra electricity generated during the day is stored in a battery –the Powerwall– so you can use it at night. If the power grid goes down, you will still have electricity.
Tesla cares about the quality of your roof. Only an Authorized Installer can purchase and install Tesla roofs. Kelly Roofing is proud to be an authorized Tesla installer for Tesla Solar Roof, Tesla Solar, and Tesla Powerwalls.6
We Care About Your Opinion
“A A Quality Roofing receives my highest recommendation. I have worked with countless contractors in my industry and Al and his team are by far, the best!”
“Great job at a great price. Al was always very prompt to resopnd to questions and very helpful. Will definitely use again and recommend to friends.”
“Great crew with strong work ethic. Excellent quality and great attention to detail. Superb post project customer service. Highly recommend!
“The best roofing company around, hands down! Very professional company, fantastic quality product, fast and super efficient roofing installment team, price was very fair and the most fantastic clean-up I have ever seen!
“Excellent roofing work, outstanding job building two new porches and extended overhang. Kept excellent job site and left totally clean. Last but not least, very friendly and professional to work with.
“Very pleased with the gutters A A Quality Roofing put on our home. The employees were all very friendly professional. We had a request for the work to be done sooner than planned they were very quick to help accommodate to our needs.
“A A Quality Roofing receives my highest recommendation. I have worked with countless contractors in my industry and Al and his team are by far, the best!”
“Great job at a great price. Al was always very prompt to resopnd to questions and very helpful. Will definitely use again and recommend to friends.”
“Great crew with strong work ethic. Excellent quality and great attention to detail. Superb post project customer service. Highly recommend!
“The best roofing company around, hands down! Very professional company, fantastic quality product, fast and super efficient roofing installment team, price was very fair and the most fantastic clean-up I have ever seen!
“Excellent roofing work, outstanding job building two new porches and extended overhang. Kept excellent job site and left totally clean. Last but not least, very friendly and professional to work with.
“Very pleased with the gutters A A Quality Roofing put on our home. The employees were all very friendly professional. We had a request for the work to be done sooner than planned they were very quick to help accommodate to our needs.
How Does It Work?
Step 1: Estimate Tool
Request a free estimate for the price of a Solar Roof on your home. Our Sales Representatives will review your submission to ensure your estimate accurately reflects your project.
Step 2: Design
Based on the initial estimate, if you decide Solar Roof could be right for your home, you can move into the formal design phase. We work with you to more thoroughly evaluate your solar energy goals, project requirements, and production potential for different solar roof configurations.
Step 3: Order Install
Before the final installation, we prepare all the necessary permitting and documents to make sure your home, city, and electric company are ready for your Solar Roof.
Tesla Solar Roof FAQs
Our wait times to begin installing Tesla Solar Roofs are 2-3 months, depending on the project. Smaller, simpler projects may begin more quickly, while larger, more complex projects may take longer to begin. We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible so we can schedule your project and get to work!
Tesla Solar Roof can easily power most homes. AA Quality Roofing will consider several factors to make sure that your solar roof can provide adequate power to your home. Many of those factors include:
Kilowatt Production
We’ll make sure that your solar roof is capable of the kilowatt production (or electricity generation) your home needs. For large homes that have several power hungry appliances, like hot tubs and large HVAC systems, your kilowatt needs will be larger. Smaller homes with fewer appliances will need less kilowatt production.
AA Quality Roofing will perform an energy audit during the design phase of your Solar Roof, so we’ll know exactly how much kilowatt production your home will need.
Roof Design
Not all roofs are capable of the same solar capture. Complicated roofs may need more photovoltaic tiles capable of solar capture compared to simple, flat roofs. Our design experts will make sure we know how many photovoltaic tiles are needed, and even if your roof design works with Solar Roof.
Energy Independence
Many of our solar product customers want to be as independent from the electric grid as possible. While not all municipalities allow for true independence, we’ll make sure you maximize your solar capture and energy production.
Our design experts may recommend Powerwall, a home battery, to store excess electric production for when solar capture is low, like at night.
Solar products in general, including Solar Roof, can increase the value of your home. The reason for that is:
- Carbon footprint reduction
- Energy Independence
- Selling energy to the grid (depending on where you live)
Tesla Solar Roof also offers unique benefits not found with other solar products, like:
- A sleek, modern aesthetic
- A premium, durable roof
- Compatibility with products like Powerwall to aid in energy independence
Getting a Tesla Solar Roof is a great investment into your home. Not only will you get a cutting-edge solar product, you’re also receiving a premium roof.
Can you go off-grid with a Powerwall and Tesla Solar Roof?
It is possible to go off-grid with a Powerwall and a Tesla Solar Roof, but going off-grid requires more than just having these two products. If you want to be completely off-grid, you’ll need to have all of the following:
Sufficient Kilowatt Production (or Solar Capture)
If your roof isn’t capable of capturing enough sunlight for your electric needs, then you won’t be able to go off-grid. AA Quality Roofing will perform an energy audit of how much energy you currently use. Depending on the layout of your roof, it may not be possible to be completely off-grid, though our technicians will be able to determine this during your free consultation.
Living in a Municipality or Having a Utility That Allows You to Be Off-Grid
Unfortunately, even if you have the hardware and kilowatt production required to be off-grid, sometimes it’s simply not allowed. Local municipalities and utility companies often require you to be connected to the energy grid. Some will even cap how many kilowatts your roof is allowed to produce.
If you aren’t sure whether you’re allowed to go off-grid, our Certified Installers will let you know about energy regulations specific to your location and electric utility.
Do I get a tax credit with Tesla Solar Roof?
In 2022, your Tesla Solar Roof will be eligible for a tax credit equal to 26% of the total cost of the project. This includes the material costs and the installation costs. We guarantee we’ll get you the best tax credit available for your solar project.
How much energy can Tesla Solar Roof generate?
A Tesla Solar Roof can generate an enormous range of energy, starting from very low production for small homes to large production for larger homes or businesses. The lowest kilowatt roof we have installed was a 4KW roof, while the highest we have installed is a 51KW roof. Those aren’t lower and upper limits, it’s just the range of what our customers have needed!
How much kilowatts your Solar Roof can produce is largely based on the photovoltaic tiles (or PV tiles) used to build your roof. Each tile produces 72W of energy, but your roof will also have basic tempered glass tiles that can’t produce energy. Our Solar Roof experts will determine how many PV tiles are needed to satisfy your energy needs.
Modern Aesthetic Roof
Tesla Roofs are modern and beautiful. Unlike traditional solar panels, which are typically mounted on the roof or garage, Tesla Solar Roofs are integrated into your home’s architectural design. They also have no visible mounting hardware and weather-resistant materials so they can stand up to the elements.
Understanding Solar Power Conversion
Tesla Solar Roofs are designed to capture the sun’s energy and turn it into direct current (DC) electricity. The DC electricity is then converted into alternating current (AC) electricity, which powers your home.
With the Tesla Powerwall, you can enjoy your home just as if you were still connected to the grid. Whether it’s after sunset or if a power outage occurs, stored power from your Powerwall will be pulled to begin generating electricity. In fact, most backup generators take up to 10 minutes to start producing energy, but the Tesla Powerwall starts almost instantly – meaning that you can rely on it anytime of day.
Why Choose A Tesla Solar Roof?
Tesla Solar Roofs are a game changer for the industry. They are the first and only solar photovoltaic array system that is also a roof system. Tesla backs their Tesla Solar Roofs with a 25-year warranty that covers all of the roofing components, including the glass tiles and active cooling heat transfer fluid.
Durability of a Tesla Solar Roof
Tesla Solar Roof tiles are engineered for all-weather protection and are more than three times stronger than standard roofing tiles. They can endure extreme heat and cold, hail impacts, wind driven rain, and even solar radiation caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Tesla Solar 2023. Pros and Cons. my experience as a Customer. Honest Review. Solar and Powerwall
The cost of a Tesla Solar Roof is based on:
- The size of the roof
- The number of Powerwalls chosen
- The size of the PV array
Use Tesla’s online calculator for base pricing!
KPost Company is a Tesla Solar Roof installer and we can help you determine whether or not you’re ready to take the next step and purchase one of these unique roofs. We are dedicated to making sure your investment pays off, as well as ensuring that your house will get maximum efficiency when it comes to energy consumption.
Tesla Solar Roof
Tesla Solar Roof offers superior efficiency compared to traditional solar panels. With a design optimized for maximum energy capture from the sun, these roofs deliver a reliable source of clean energy for your home or business. over, Tesla Solar Roofs boast low maintenance requirements and a sleek, attractive appearance that enhances the look of your property. Not only are they more efficient, but they also offer cost savings over traditional solar panels. At Sustainable Living Builders, we’re passionate about helping our customers lead a more sustainable lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you reduce your energy costs and embrace a greener future.
Solar energy is a sustainable and renewable source that not only helps lower your energy expenses but also minimizes your carbon footprint. over, it adds value to your property and provides you with the opportunity to generate your own electricity, reducing your dependence on the traditional power grid. Invest in solar energy today and reap the long-term financial benefits of decreased energy bills.
Tesla Solar Roof in the North Bay
Empower your home with affordable and reliable solar solutions from Sustainable Living Builders covering Sonoma, Marin, and Napa counties. Our commitment is to assist homeowners in reducing their energy expenses and environmental impact through the provision of efficient and cost-effective home solar services. Trust us to bring sustainability to your doorstep.
Built to Last
Experience durability and efficient energy generation with Tesla Solar Roof. Tesla’s high-output solar panels provide the same electricity generation as traditional roof tiles while eliminating the risk of leaks and animal intrusion common in rack-mounted systems. Tesla roof tiles are composed of durable tempered glass that are specifically designed to capture the sun’s energy more efficiently and are less susceptible to damage from inclement weather conditions.
When it comes to investing in solar panels, homeowners are often concerned about their property’s aesthetic appeal. However, with the introduction of Tesla Solar Roof, that concern is a thing of the past. Tesla Solar Roofs are a sleek and attractive roofing option that can generate power while enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Upgrade your property’s aesthetic appeal by choosing our sleek and integrated solution, outperforming unsightly rack-mounted options. Invest in a long-lasting and efficient solar solution today.
Why Choose Us
Reduce your energy costs with the help of Sustainable Living Builders. As energy continue to rise, it’s crucial to find ways to cut expenses. That’s why we offer a range of cost-effective solar solutions to meet your specific energy needs. From solar panels to energy storage options, our team of experts can help you save money on your energy bills.
If you’re considering investing in solar energy for your home, a Tesla Solar Roof may be the perfect solution. Not only will you be generating clean energy, but you’ll also be adding value to your home with a sleek and attractive roofing option that’s built to last. Take the first step towards a more sustainable future and contact us today to learn more about our home solar services.