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Solar
Average Cost: $15,000 - $40,000
Here’s an in-depth review of Sunrun, one of the largest residential solar companies in the United States. This guide covers Sunrun’s services, pricing, customer experiences, and how the company compares to other solar providers.
Our Verdict: Sunrun is a strong option for homeowners looking for flexible solar financing and long-term service support. However, those seeking system ownership at the lowest upfront cost may want to compare other providers.
Sunrun, founded in 2007, is a pioneer in the residential solar industry with a mission to make clean, affordable energy accessible to all. With innovative financing models and a full-service approach, Sunrun has installed systems in hundreds of thousands of homes across the U.S. The company operates in over 20 states, including California, Texas, Florida, and New York.
Sunrun’s core services include solar panel installation, energy storage solutions through its Brightbox battery, and 24/7 system monitoring. Homeowners can choose from multiple financing options such as leases, loans, and outright purchases, making it easier to adopt solar regardless of budget.
| Best For | Top Product | Cost Installed | Standout Feature | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flexible Financing Options & Full-Service Solar | Brightbox Energy Storage System | ~$30,000 (before incentives) for a 7.5 kW system | 25-Year System Warranty & Roof Penetration Guarantee | 25-Year System + 10-Year Roof Warranty |
At Modernize, we appreciate that Sunrun offers homeowners a complete solar solution — from financing to installation and ongoing system monitoring. Their flexibility in how customers can go solar makes the transition to clean energy more accessible.
We also value Sunrun’s long-term approach. Their 25-year warranty, roof protection, and maintenance support give homeowners confidence in their investment. For those new to solar or hesitant about system ownership, Sunrun offers a hands-off approach that still delivers meaningful energy savings.
Given its unique ownership model, Sunrun is a solar power solution that has pros and cons depending on what you’re looking for in a clean energy arrangement for your home.
Sunrun provides a range of solar services tailored to meet diverse homeowner needs:
Sunrun offers several solar plans to accommodate different financial preferences:
1. Monthly Lease (BrightSave Monthly):
2. Full Lease (BrightSave Prepaid):
3. Monthly Loan (BrightAdvantage):
4. Full Purchase (BrightBuy):
Customer feedback about Sunrun varies by region and service type. While many homeowners report a smooth process and long-term satisfaction, others highlight frustrations with delays or communication gaps.
Modernize recommends reviewing verified testimonials and checking local installer reputations before committing. Here’s a selection of recent Sunrun customer experiences:
“The cost benefit analysis was explained very clearly, and any and all questions we asked were answered without any hint of duplicity.” — Modernize Reviewer
“We wanted to cut down our electricity bill, which was crucial for us as senior citizens on a fixed income. We had explored a few solar energy companies years ago and found Sunrun to be the most suitable choice for our needs. When we lived in Oakhurst, transitioning to solar energy with them greatly reduced our electricity bills, which significantly helped us manage our expenses. I found their services quite satisfactory. We’ve recommended Sunrun to several friends, leading some of them to make the switch themselves.” — Verified Review
The average cost of a Sunrun solar system is approximately $30,000 before tax incentives for a 7.5 kW system. However, the final price can vary significantly based on your location, system size, and financing choice.
| Plan Name | Ownership | Upfront Cost | Monthly Payments | Eligible for Tax Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BrightSave Monthly | No | Low or $0 | Yes | No |
| BrightSave Prepaid | No | High (one-time) | No | No |
| BrightAdvantage | Yes | Low to Medium | Yes | Yes* |
| BrightBuy | Yes | High | No | Yes* |
Note: Federal solar tax credits only apply to systems installed and operational by December 31, 2025. Be sure to confirm eligibility based on your project timeline.
Sunrun supports a range of payment plans:
Sunrun offers a comprehensive warranty known as the Sunrun Guarantee, which includes:
Sunrun’s process for obtaining a quote and installation involves several steps:
Sunrun competes with several major solar brands, each with distinct features. While SunPower is known for high-efficiency panels and Tesla for sleek design, Sunrun’s strength lies in flexible financing and comprehensive service.
Read Our Blue Raven Solar Review
Read Our Momentum Solar Review
Read Our Palmetto Solar Review
When choosing a solar provider, many homeowners have questions about warranties, system maintenance, financing, and what happens if they move. This section addresses the most common concerns about going solar with Sunrun so you can make an informed decision.
Sunrun provides solar leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar loans, and outright purchases. This allows homeowners to choose a plan that fits their budget and goals.
Sunrun offers a 25-year system warranty with free repairs, equipment replacement, and a 10-year roof penetration warranty.
No hidden fees are typical, but it’s essential to review your proposal carefully. Some customers report unexpected charges related to permitting or upgrades.
Sunrun systems are designed to be low-maintenance. For leased systems, Sunrun handles all upkeep, monitoring, and repairs. For owned systems, minimal routine cleaning is typically sufficient, and maintenance is only needed if performance issues arise.
If you lease your system, Sunrun offers options to transfer the lease to the new homeowner or move the system to your new property. For owned systems, the solar panels typically add value to your home and can be sold with it.
Sunrun solar panels are built to last 25 years or more. The 25-year warranty ensures coverage during the system’s expected lifespan, with ongoing monitoring to help maintain optimal performance.
Sunrun stands out as one of the most flexible and supportive solar providers in the U.S. With its full-service model, long-term warranties, and energy storage options, Sunrun is well-suited for homeowners who want peace of mind and a simplified solar experience.
While Sunrun’s costs can be higher than some competitors, its value lies in service, support, and ease of adoption. It’s a top pick for those who prioritize convenience and long-term protection over the lowest possible price.
Read real homeowner reviews, explore qualifications, and view promotions. Modernize makes it easy to browse professionals and find one that will be perfect for your project.
