SunPower vs ADT, which is the right choice? As the world increasingly turns towards renewable energy, more and more people are investing in solar systems to power their homes. Solar energy is clean and sustainable, and it provides significant cost savings on energy bills in the long run.
But with so many solar system providers out there, it’s important for homeowners to thoroughly research and understand their options before choosing a long-term partner for their renewable energy needs.
In this article, we compare two of the most prominent players in the residential solar market: SunPower vs ADT Solar. We explore their respective strengths and weaknesses to help homeowners make an informed decision about which provider might be right for them.
First, let’s take a close look at each player.
At a Glance: ADT Solar
ADT Solar, formerly known as Sunpro Solar, is a well-established solar provider that has been serving customers since 2008. The company was recently acquired by ADT, a trusted and reputable name in home security with a 148-year history of protecting over 6 million customers. This acquisition has allowed ADT Solar to expand its services and offer even more comprehensive support to its customers.
ADT Solar offers a range of services, including solar panel installation and battery backup. Its team of experienced professionals works closely with homeowners to design and install a solar system that meets their unique energy needs and budget.
The company is undoubtedly a strong player in the residential solar market, offering reliable and high-quality services to homeowners looking to invest in solar energy. With its commitment to customer support and its affiliation with ADT, a leader in home security, ADT Solar is a name that homeowners can trust.
At a Glance: SunPower
SunPower is a well-established player in the residential solar market, with decades of experience in the industry. The company was founded in 1985 and has since expanded its operations to cover the entirety of the United States.
The company’s focus is on residential solar panel installation. The company has recently shifted its manufacturing duties to its sister company, Maxeon Solar. It is now concentrating its efforts on providing high-quality solar panels and installation services to homeowners.
With its decades of experience in the industry, focus on high-quality products, and commitment to sustainability, SunPower is a name that homeowners can trust when looking to adopt solar systems.
SunPower vs ADT Solar: Head-to-Head Comparison
Coverage
At the time of writing, SunPower has national coverage, serving customers in all 50 states in the US.
On the other hand, ADT Solar currently serves customers in 23 states and will soon be expanding to five more states.
BBB Rating
SunPower has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, indicating its commitment to customer satisfaction and quality service.
ADT Solar has an A- rating, which is still excellent.
Price
While both companies offer competitive pricing, SunPower is a bit more expensive than ADT Solar. This may be because of SunPower’s reputation for providing the most efficient solar panels on the market.
Solar Panel Efficiency
ADT Solar uses LG solar panels, which have an efficiency rating of 22.3% and an expected lifespan of 25 to 40 years. The company has also partnered with solar panel brands such as Silfab, Qcells, and Panasonic—all very well-regarded manufacturers.
SunPower solar panels are made with Maxeon solar cells (its sister firm) and are known to be the most efficient panels available today.
Widely Regarded Pros and Cons
SunPower’s high-quality panels and long-held reputation for sustainability make it an attractive option for homeowners who want to invest in solar energy. However, the higher price point and variability in customer service (owing to local dealers) may be a concern for some.
ADT Solar’s industry-leading warranty coverage and expansive service area are ideal for homeowners who want the security of a strong guarantee from a reputable company. However, some customers have reported communication issues with customer service personnel.
Additionally, ADT Solar does not offer flexible payment options like leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs).
Solar System
SunPower and ADT Solar undoubtedly provide high-quality solar systems that can help homeowners save money on their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. However, their approaches to delivering complete solutions differ.
SunPower’s Equinox® is an all-in-one solar system designed and manufactured by SunPower. It allows for greater quality control and maximum efficiency from the brand.
In contrast, ADT Solar offers Enphase Energy’s solar system solution, which includes the Enphase app, microinverters, and battery. This partnership with a third party allows for greater flexibility in terms of product offerings. However, there is the potential for compatibility issues or slower development times because of the delineation between the two brands.
Warranty
SunPower and ADT Solar offer comprehensive warranty coverage for their solar systems.
SunPower’s warranty is known to be one of the best in the industry. The company offers an all-inclusive, 25-year warranty that covers equipment, workmanship, and power output.
All of SunPower’s warranties (products, labor, and performance) are under the same umbrella, which means customers will have a simple and hassle-free warranty process.
In contrast, ADT Solar’s 25-Year Limited Workmanship Warranty and 25-Year Panel Manufacturer Warranties are distinct. There are different warranties for each element of the solar system, which may lead to confusion and difficulties in resolving warranty claims.
Power Protection Guarantee
ADT Solar guarantees that its solar panel systems will generate at least 95% of the annual estimated production for each 12-month period, after accounting for degradation at the rate of .33% per year, for 25 consecutive years.
SunPower’s power production guarantee covers the system’s energy output and ensures that the panels will produce at least 92% of the rated power output after 25 years of use.
SunPower’s all-inclusive warranty and straightforward claiming process may be more attractive to customers looking for a hassle-free solar experience for the next two decades.
Customer Reviews
Going by publicly listed customer reviews, the positive aspects of SunPower and ADT Solar is that they are reputable and professional companies, with straightforward timelines for installation and excellent follow-up customer service.
That said, negative comments about SunPower pertain to complaints about incomplete installations and unresolved issues. For ADT Solar, customers have pointed out communication issues and the lack of solar power purchase agreements as flexible payment options.
Our Pick: SunPower
SunPower and ADT Solar each have their strengths and weaknesses, and it’s difficult to say which one is definitively better.
Based on SunPower’s extensive experience in the solar industry, its broad national coverage, renowned solar panel quality, and all-under-one-roof service modality, it may be slightly preferable.
In addition, SunPower’s Design Studio is a unique solution that the company brings to the table. It is purpose-built to help homeowners visualize their homes with solar panels and decide on the best placement and design for optimal energy production. It is indeed a big differentiator for those who value exterior design and an enhanced customer experience.
Ultimately, deciding which solar company to choose will come down to individual preferences, priorities, and budget. It’s essential to research and compare both companies thoroughly before you decide which one to partner with.
Check out our comparison of SunPower vs Sunrun.
Authored by Ryan Douglas
NRG Clean Power's resident writer and solar enthusiast, Ryan Douglas covers all things related to the clean energy industry.
