Sunrun is a prominent player in the residential solar energy market, aiming to make solar power accessible and affordable for homeowners across the United States. With its extensive reach and various offerings, Sunrun has garnered a lot of attention from customers and industry experts alike. In this article, we will delve into what Sunrun offers, and review the pros and cons of becoming a member based on real feedback from customers, online reviews, and expert opinions.
What Is Sunrun?
Founded in 2007, Sunrun is a solar energy company that provides solar panel installation and maintenance services. The company operates on a business model that includes leasing solar panels to customers, offering solar power purchase agreements (PPAs), and providing various financing options for purchasing solar systems outright. Sunrun’s mission is to make solar energy more accessible, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering electricity bills for homeowners.
Key Offerings
- Solar Panel Installation: Sunrun offers a range of solar panel systems tailored to different needs and budgets. They handle the entire installation process, from site assessment to the final setup.
- Leasing and Financing: Sunrun provides several ways to pay for solar panels, including leasing options, solar PPAs, and cash purchases. This flexibility allows homeowners to choose the plan that best suits their financial situation.
- Solar Battery Storage: To complement their solar panels, Sunrun offers battery storage solutions like the Brightbox system. This allows customers to store excess solar energy for use during outages or peak demand times.
- Maintenance and Support: Sunrun includes maintenance and support in their service offerings, ensuring that any issues with the solar system are addressed promptly.
Pros of Choosing Sunrun
- Flexible Payment Options: One of the most frequently praised aspects of Sunrun is their variety of financing options. According to a review on SolarReviews, "Sunrun’s lease and PPA options provide flexibility for homeowners who want to install solar with little to no upfront costs."
- Customer Service: Many users have highlighted Sunrun’s responsive customer service. A customer testimonial on Yelp notes, "The support team was always available to answer my questions and guide me through the process."
- Comprehensive Warranty: Sunrun offers a 10-year warranty on their solar panels, which covers both the equipment and the installation. This peace of mind is a significant advantage, as mentioned in a review on Angie's List, "The warranty coverage was a big selling point for me. I feel secure knowing any issues will be taken care of."
- Energy Savings: Numerous customers report substantial savings on their electricity bills. As stated in a review on Trustpilot, "I’ve seen my electricity bill drop by 40% since switching to Sunrun. It’s a great investment for my home."
Cons of Choosing Sunrun
- Long-Term Contracts: Some customers find the length of contracts, especially for leases and PPAs, to be a drawback. A review on Consumer Affairs points out, "The 20-year contract seemed a bit long. I wish there was more flexibility to adjust or exit the agreement."
- Installation Delays: Several reviews mention delays in installation times. One customer shared on Reddit, "The installation took longer than expected due to scheduling issues. It was frustrating, but the end result was worth it."
- Costs: While the no-upfront-cost options are attractive, some customers have noted that the overall cost might be higher compared to purchasing a system outright. According to a review on SolarReviews, "The lease payments seemed high compared to other companies. It’s important to calculate the total cost over the life of the lease."
- Regional Availability: Sunrun’s services are not available in every state, which can be a limitation for some potential customers. A comment on a local forum mentions, "I was interested in Sunrun but found out they don’t operate in my state, which was disappointing."
Final Thoughts
Sunrun offers a range of solar solutions designed to make solar energy accessible to a broad audience. Their flexible payment options, strong customer service, and comprehensive warranty make them a popular choice among homeowners. However, potential customers should be mindful of long-term contracts, potential installation delays, and regional availability.
As with any significant investment, it’s essential to do thorough research and consider your personal needs and circumstances. Reading customer reviews, comparing options, and consulting with a Sunrun representative can help you make an informed decision about whether Sunrun is the right fit for your solar energy needs.