Free tool
Find solar installers near you
How to use your results
The system size comes from your state's modeled solar output (PVWatts, for a south-facing roof at a 20° tilt) and either your bill or the state's average household use from EIA. If a quote is far larger than your use needs, ask why; if it is much smaller, ask what share of your bill it is meant to cover.
Then check the price. Divide the quote by the system size in watts to get a price per watt and compare it with the break-even figures on your state's page or in the solar panel calculator.
About this list
We list a small number of companies that sell residential solar in many states and had working websites when we last reviewed the list on October 15, 2026. We removed companies that have left the residential solar business or gone through bankruptcy. Nobody pays to appear here today; if that changes, paid listings will be marked "Sponsored".
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a solar installer?
Get at least three written quotes. Compare the price per watt (total price divided by system size in watts), the panel and inverter brands, the workmanship warranty, and who will actually do the installation. Check the company's license with your state, and look for installers with NABCEP-certified staff.
What is a fair price per watt for solar?
It varies by state, roof and equipment, so compare quotes against each other and against what solar is worth where you live. Each state page on Spark Powered shows the price per watt at which a system would pay for itself in 10 or 20 years if every kWh offset one bought at the average rate.
Should I lease or buy solar panels?
Buying usually saves the most over the system's life if you can pay cash or get a low-rate loan. Leases and power purchase agreements need little or no money up front, but the provider keeps the system and any tax benefits, and the contract can complicate selling your home. Read the escalator clause and transfer terms carefully.
Does this tool send my details to installers?
No. We do not collect your name, email or phone number. The ZIP code is used only to look up your state, and you contact any installer yourself through their website.
Estimates only. Your actual costs depend on your utility's rate plan, how and when you charge or use power, and local prices. This is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. See our disclaimer.
Sources
- PVWatts v8 solar model (National Laboratory of the Rockies, formerly NREL, run via its PySAM package) on NASA POWER hourly weather — 1 kW DC fixed roof mount, 20 degree tilt, facing south (180 degrees), standard module, 14% system losses, 96% inverter efficiency, DC/AC ratio 1.2 (PVWatts defaults except tilt). Checked against the PVWatts web API for eight states: within 8%, 3% on average.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, 2024 Average Monthly Bill- Residential — 2024 (annual)
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly, Tables 5.6.A and 5.6.B — July 2026 YTD (year to date); latest month July 2026
- NABCEP Professional Directory — certified solar professionals
State data updated October 15, 2026.