Best Solar Companies of 2026: National vs Local Installers

The national players

Sunrun is the largest residential installer (900,000+ homes, 22+ states, ~$2.4B revenue in 2025) — best for leases/PPAs but priced 10–15% above average. Tesla is the low-price leader ($2.20–$2.60/W) with an online-first model and Powerwall integration. Momentum covers 11 states with in-house crews.

The cautionary note

The industry consolidated hard: SunPower filed Chapter 11 in August 2024 (Maxeon brand continues), Sunnova filed in June 2025, and Freedom Forever in April 2026. A workmanship warranty is only worth the company behind it — check current financial health and licensed dealer status.

Local installers often win on price

Local installers typically undercut national brands on $/W and provide faster service, but warranties vary widely (5–15 years). The best approach: get quotes from both a national brand and 2–3 local installers, and compare on the full package.

Who is the best solar company in 2026?

Sunrun for financing flexibility and leases, Tesla for the lowest price and Powerwall integration, local installers for the best $/W. Compare 3–5 quotes regardless.

Are SunPower solar panels still good?

SunPower filed Chapter 11 in 2024; high-efficiency panels continue under the Maxeon brand. Verify current warranty support and dealer status before buying older inventory.

Are national or local solar installers better?

National brands offer scale and financing; local installers usually beat them on price and service. A workmanship warranty is only as good as the company behind it.