As more homeowners consider going solar in 2025, they’re faced with a growing number of options — and a lot of noise. Among the hottest names in the solar space today are Project Solar and Monalee, two fast-growing, tech-enabled providers that promise simplicity, savings, and smarter solar.
But which one is actually right for you?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know: pricing, platforms, service quality, equipment, and real pros and cons. And if you’re wondering whether a local installer might be a better fit — especially in California — we’ll explain why that might be your smartest long-term choice.
⚠️Disclaimer: The information in this article — including pricing, equipment options, warranties, and service details — is based on publicly available data as of early 2025. Solar offerings change frequently depending on your location, utility provider, incentives, and company policies. We strongly recommend doing your own research and requesting a personalized quote before making any decisions.
🔎 What Is Monalee Solar?
Monalee is a newer solar company that combines modern design and concierge-style service with a sleek digital platform. It operates a bit like a solar matchmaker — connecting homeowners with local, vetted installers while offering a smooth quoting and design process through its app.

Monalee’s Process:
- Get a Quick Online Quote
- Talk to a Solar Advisor
- Receive a Custom Design
- Get Matched with an Installer
- Track Your Project in the Dashboard
This high-touch approach is designed for homeowners who want human help along the way — especially first-timers who aren’t ready to go fully DIY.
✅ Pros of Monalee
- Dedicated solar advisors from start to finish
- Tesla Powerwall integration and premium equipment
- User-friendly platform and text updates
- Strong emphasis on customer satisfaction
❌ Cons of Monalee
- Limited availability (only in select states)
- Slightly higher pricing ($2.80–$3.20/W on average)
- Smaller company with fewer online reviews and public data
🔎 What Is Project Solar?
Project Solar is a tech-first disruptor that has shaken up the industry by offering some of the lowest pricing in the U.S. — often 30–50% lower than traditional installers. How? By cutting sales commissions, automating the design process, and shifting some steps (like submitting paperwork) to the homeowner.
Project Solar’s Process:
- Upload Your Utility Bill
- Get an Instant Online Quote
- Approve Your Design
- Schedule Installation
- Use the App to Monitor Progress
This process favors those who are comfortable navigating a web portal and don’t need as much hand-holding.
✅ Pros of Project Solar
- Ultra-low pricing (~$2.20/W average)
- Transparent online quote builder
- High-quality equipment (Qcells, Enphase, REC)
- Nationwide availability
❌ Cons of Project Solar
- Limited human support — expect delays in response
- Post-install service is mostly self-managed
- May use third-party contractors with variable quality
- Some homeowners find the DIY-style confusing
Monalee vs. Project Solar: Platform & Quote Experience
Here’s how their quoting platforms and processes compare:
Feature | Monalee | Project Solar |
---|---|---|
Instant Online Quote | ✅ | ✅ |
Live Rep Access | ✅ Dedicated advisor | 🚫 Only if you ask |
Custom Design | ✅ Hand-built by designers | ✅ Auto-generated + reviewed |
Quote Transparency | Medium | Very High |
Financing Options | Loan, Lease, Cash | Loan, Lease, Cash |
Change Orders | Managed for you | You must handle |
Monitoring App | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Equipment, Warranties & Installation
Both companies use solid hardware, but there are differences in approach.
Category | Project Solar | Monalee |
---|---|---|
Panel Brands | Qcells, REC | Tesla, Qcells |
Inverter | Enphase IQ8 | Enphase, Tesla |
Battery Option | Enphase IQ Battery | Tesla Powerwall, Enphase |
Warranty | 25-year equipment + production | 25-year equipment, labor varies |
Installer Type | Mix of in-house + contractors | Local curated partners |
App Monitoring | ✅ | ✅ |
Real Customer Reviews (2024–2025 Highlights)
- Project Solar: Praised for low pricing and efficiency. Some complaints about delays and lack of communication after install. Reddit users mention solid panels but “radio silence” once the system is live.
- Monalee: Harder to find reviews (they’re newer), but customers tend to highlight the helpful reps and smoother design/install experience—higher NPS in local markets.
Who Should Choose Monalee?
Choose Monalee if:
- You want a solar advisor to walk you through everything
- You’re open to paying a little more for white-glove service
- You prefer Tesla Powerwall over other battery options
- You value clear communication and responsiveness
Who Should Choose Project Solar?
Choose Project Solar if:
- You want the lowest possible price
- You’re comfortable uploading documents and managing your portal
- You value transparent pricing and instant quotes
- You’re in a state with strong solar incentives
Honest Downsides You Should Know
No company is perfect. Here are the hidden pain points:
Monalee’s Drawbacks:
- Not available in most states
- Premium pricing for premium service
- Fewer public reviews, so harder to assess installer quality
Project Solar’s Drawbacks:
- Self-managed process isn’t ideal for all homeowners
- Delayed responses from customer service
- Installers may vary in quality depending on your region
A Better Alternative: Work with a Local Solar Expert
Project Solar and Monalee do a lot of things right. But if you live in a state like California, you might be better off working with a trusted local installer who knows the utility landscape, NEM rules, and local permitting inside and out.
That’s where we come in.
At NRG Clean Power, we offer:
- Transparent, fixed pricing — no pressure or sales games
- In-house installation teams across California and Texas
- Top-tier equipment like Enphase, Qcells, and Tesla Powerwall
- 25-year warranties on parts and labor
- Local expertise to maximize your ROI and rebates
If you’re wondering whether solar is still worth it post–NEM 3.0, we broke it all down here:
👉 Is Solar in California Worth It?
Try a Quick Quote — No Sales Call Needed
We make it easy to get started. No forms that lock you in. No annoying phone spam. Just clean, clear numbers from people who know your zip code and utility bill.
👉 Get Your Quick Solar Quote Now
Final Verdict: Monalee vs. Project Solar vs. NRG Clean Power
Category | Project Solar | Monalee | NRG Clean Power |
---|---|---|---|
Best Pricing | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
Local Experts | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Tesla Powerwall | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Personal Support | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
Transparent Quote | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Warranty Coverage | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
TL;DR:
- Want the lowest cost and don’t need much help? → Project Solar
- Want concierge service and don’t mind paying extra? → Monalee
- Want the best of both worlds — local service, great pricing, expert support? → NRG Clean Power