Freedom Solar Power Review (2024)
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Freedom Solar Power is a popular choice for solar panel installation in a number of states for typical residential and off-grid purposes. Going off-grid requires careful planning. Not all solar installation companies are experienced with these types of designs, but Freedom Solar offers specialized services to help you build an off-grid system. Our review covers these services and Freedom Solar’s other offerings to help you determine if it’s the right installer for your project.
Our Quick Thoughts About Freedom Solar Power
Freedom Solar Power is a full-service solar installation company that provides high-quality solar products. We like that it’s a SunPower Master Dealer and Tesla Powerwall installer, as these are two of the most respected brands in the solar industry. We also like that the company offers specialized services for off-grid systems.
Compare Freedom Solar Power to Competitors
What Options Does Freedom Solar Power Offer?
Freedom Solar partners with SunPower to offer Maxeon solar panels, some of the most efficient solar panels available. The company is SunPower’s largest Master Dealer. Master Dealers are chosen by SunPower to represent the brand. This is a signal that Freedom Solar can be trusted for quality work and customer service.
Freedom Solar installs grid-tied solar panel systems but specializes in off-grid options, such as ground-mounted solar energy systems and solar carports.
Freedom Solar also installs solar batteries like the Tesla Powerwall and SunPower SunVault. Solar batteries are important for both grid-tied and off-grid systems, as they provide backup power during power outages and make you less reliant on your electric company.
Freedom Solar also offers home generators, such as Kohler generators, to provide more energy independence. Generators convert your home’s natural gas or liquid propane system into usable energy for your home during outages or low sunlight hours until you can generate electricity again. Unlike solar batteries, they do not store renewable energy and are primarily used for emergencies.
What Do Customers Say About Freedom Solar Power?
Freedom Solar is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has an A+ rating on the site. Many customers praise the company’s quality installations and helpful staff. Other reviews mention long wait times for installation and part replacements.
Here are some Freedom Solar reviews we evaluated during our research:
Positive Reviews
“I consider myself fairly knowledgeable about solar and specifically wanted SunPower panels. You get what you pay for[,] and this is something I have learned, quality makes a difference. My solar took about 5 months from contract signing to installation due to permitting which was OK…Installation looks clean, and I[‘]ve been overproducing ever since my system has gone live.” — Cathie C. via BBB
“We started out with several issues and delays. Signed a contract in May 2022. Every crew that was on our property was courteous and professional. We have a totally functional system as of Apr[il] 2023. Owner of company was able to compensate me for all delays to my satisfaction.” — Beverly M. via BBB.
Negative Reviews
“Every step in the process took extremely long to complete. I signed the contract around April of 22. They finally installed the panels in Feb of 23. They said the city inspector would come on a certain date in Feb in a certain time window. I waited all day[,] and no one showed up. When I called they said the inspector had already come. So, I figured he came and went without letting me know. I called Freedom Solar on 3/23/23 and was told the inspector had never come[,] and they had to schedule a different inspection and that they only scheduled that yesterday (3/22/23).” — Anu K. via BBB.
“We entered a contract with Freedom Solar Power over a year ago, with many delays [and] scheduling issues. We still do not have a fully functioning system producing power, as a result we do not have anything to show for our investment thus far.” — Olivia N. via BBB
Our Experience With Freedom Solar
Our team member chose Freedom Solar as his home solar provider and shared his experience with us. He said the sales rep was knowledgeable and helpful throughout the planning process and did not push him into unnecessary upgrades. He chose a system that provides 85% energy offset and includes two Tesla Powerwall batteries.
Our team member said he received updates throughout the installation process and was informed of installation delays. These delays were due to inclement weather and local permitting approvals, not caused by the company directly. He said 80% of the status upgrades came from the company, and 20% were after he initiated contact. His project was estimated to take six months but was completed in less than five, however, he felt he wasn’t informed of all the installation steps during his consultation.
Overall, he was pleased with Freedom Solar, its team, and the system. His 12-kilowatt (kW) system generates about 11 kW of energy during the day. Based on his current output, he’ll save about 76% on his monthly energy bill, including additional savings from his utility company’s net-metering program. He said that although the system cost was higher, he wanted to invest in a reputable company that would do the job properly.
What Are the Available Payment Options?
Freedom Solar only offers two solar panel financing options, whereas other companies offer up to four. However, they’re the two most cost-effective options. Here’s an overview of both:
- Cash purchase: Cash payments involve paying for the system outright with cash or credit cards. This option offers the quickest return on investment (ROI) and maximizes savings. You also own your system, qualify for cost-saving solar incentives, and increase your home value.
- Solar loan: Solan loans allow you to own solar panels without making a significant up-front investment. Instead, you make monthly loan payments over a fixed period. You still qualify for solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to interest rates.
Freedom Solar Power Installation Process
Freedom Solar follows a standard five-step installation process outlined below.
- Consultation: Freedom offers a free consultation either virtually or in-person. A salesperson will evaluate your home’s energy needs and existing electrical system to provide a quote. Your quote will include your projected energy savings and general system details. You may need to provide your recent electric bills. You can also ask questions about your system or Freedom Solar’s installation process.
- Survey: Next, one of Freedom Solar’s specialists will measure your roof to design a solar system customized to your home’s specifications.
- Design: After finalizing the details, Freedom Solar will provide a contract with your preferred financing option, system specifications, and other terms of the agreement. This contract should include any additional pricing for solar accessories or upgrades.
- Installation: Freedom Solar works with you to schedule an installation date and handles the necessary permits and paperwork. The installation crew can most likely complete the job within a day or two.
- Final approval and activation: After your system is installed, you’ll need to wait for the final city permits and approval. Freedom Solar will work with your local utility company for a final follow-up inspection to secure these. The company will activate your system once your local municipality grants permission to operate (PTO).
Is Solar Worth it?
Residential solar energy can be worth it for homeowners who are looking to save money on their electric bills in the long run. Solar panels help you reduce your carbon footprint and generate clean, renewable energy. They also make you less dependent on costly fossil fuels, saving you money on your utility bills because you’re using a less expensive resource. Solar panel systems also increase your home’s value by roughly 15%, and you’ll qualify for additional monetary benefits from your local utility company, state government, and federal government.
What Are the Available Solar Incentives and Rebates?
Freedom Solar works with homeowners to help them obtain various solar tax incentives and rebates. Available incentives vary by your state and ZIP code. For example, Texas’ solar incentives include a net-metering program for the whole state and a $2,500 credit for Austin residents.
Every homeowner in the United States that goes solar has access to the federal solar tax credit (ITC), so long as they legally own their system. This incentive provides a deduction on your federal taxes equal to 30% of your solar panel installation costs.
Use our tool below to discover what solar incentives are available for your address.
Should You Consider Freedom Solar Power?
We recommend Freedom Solar Power to homeowners within its limited service area interested in an off-grid solar energy system. Not every solar installer is equipped to design and install off-grid systems, and this is an excellent way to pair regional service with high-quality SunPower products. We recommend considering a different company if you’re interested in other solar products, such as solar shingles, or financing options such as solar leasing.
We also recommend requesting at least three quotes from different companies to compare your options accurately. Enter your ZIP code in our tool below to start the process.
FAQ About Freedom Solar
Is Freedom Solar the same as SunPower?
Freedom Solar is not the same company as SunPower. Instead, Freedom Solar installs SunPower solar panels and batteries. The company operates as a separate entity from SunPower.
Which type of solar panel is best for home use?
The most popular and efficient type of solar panels is monocrystalline. These panels are made of individual pure silicon crystals and can generate between 300 and 400 watts of power each.
How long has Freedom Solar been around?
Freedom Solar has been in business since 2007.
Our Rating Methodology
We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews to our readers. After over a thousand hours of research on solar companies, interviews with experts, and common customer needs, we’ve created a detailed rating system for solar providers based on six factors:
- Solar equipment, installation, and services (25%)
- Warranty and performance guarantees (25%)
- Brand reputation and certifications (15%)
- Financing options (15%)
- Experience (10%)
- Availability (10%)
Total scores are divided by 20 for a final 5-point rating scale.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.