With energy costs continuing to rise and more homeowners seeking energy independence, finding the right place to buy solar panels has become crucial for a successful solar installation. The solar panel marketplace in 2025 offers numerous purchasing options, from online retailers to local distributors, each with distinct advantages and potential drawbacks.
This comprehensive guide examines the best places to buy solar panels based on extensive testing of multiple purchasing channels, real-world shipping experiences, and analysis of pricing, quality, and customer service across different retailers. Whether you’re planning a DIY installation or working with a contractor, understanding where to buy solar panels can save you thousands of dollars while ensuring you receive quality products with proper warranty support.
We’ll cover everything from avoiding common shipping damage issues to finding the best regional distributors, helping you make an informed decision for your solar investment.
Quick Answer: Top 5 Places to Buy Solar Panels
Based on our testing and analysis, here are the top recommended places to buy solar panels in 2025:
- GoGreenSolar – Best for complete kits with expert support ($0.65-$0.85 per watt)
- A1 SolarStore – Best for wholesale pricing and multiple pickup locations ($0.22-$0.65 per watt)
- Greentech Renewables – Best for local pickup and professional support (contractor pricing)
- EcoDirect – Best for California residents with local pickup options ($0.40-$0.70 per watt)
- SunGoldPower – Best for complete off-grid systems ($0.35-$0.55 per watt)
Key factors for choosing where to buy:
- Total cost including shipping and potential damage replacement
- Local pickup availability to avoid shipping damage
- Warranty support and customer service quality
- Product selection and brand availability
- Technical support for system design
Price ranges by source type:
- Online retailers: $0.22-$0.85 per watt
- Big box stores: $0.60-$1.20 per watt
- Local distributors: Varies (often contractor pricing)
- Wholesale/pallets: $0.19-$0.35 per watt
- Installed systems: $2.56-$3.03 per watt (before incentives)
Types of Solar Panel Retailers
Online Solar Retailers
Online solar retailers have become the dominant channel for solar panel purchases, offering competitive pricing, extensive selection, and convenient ordering. However, they come with specific advantages and challenges.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing due to lower overhead costs
- Extensive product selection and brand variety
- Detailed product specifications and comparison tools
- Customer reviews and ratings
- Complete system kits with compatibility guarantees
- Technical support via phone and email
Cons:
- Shipping damage risk (up to 20% of shipments may contain damaged panels)
- No physical inspection before purchase
- Potential delays in damage resolution
- Shipping costs can add $0.05-$0.15 per watt
- Limited local support for installation issues
Best for: DIY installers, bulk purchases, customers in remote areas, and those seeking the widest product selection.
Local Solar Installers and Distributors
Local solar distributors and installers offer the advantage of personal relationships, immediate availability, and hands-on support, though often at higher prices.
Benefits of local purchasing:
- Physical inspection before purchase
- No shipping damage risk
- Immediate availability and pickup
- Local warranty support and service
- Professional relationships with installers
- Regional expertise and code knowledge
How to find reputable local dealers:
- Search for “solar distributors near me” or “solar equipment suppliers”
- Check with local solar installers for their suppliers
- Contact manufacturers for authorized dealer lists
- Visit trade shows and solar industry events
- Check Better Business Bureau ratings and reviews
Big Box Retailers
Home Depot and Lowe’s have expanded their solar offerings, providing convenient access for homeowners, though with limitations.
Home Depot and Lowe’s analysis:
- Limited selection compared to specialized retailers
- Higher prices ($0.60-$1.20 per watt typical)
- Convenient locations and familiar return policies
- Focus on smaller residential panels and portable units
- Limited technical support for system design
- Good for small projects and RV applications
Direct from Manufacturer
Purchasing directly from manufacturers can offer the best prices but typically requires large minimum orders and may not be practical for residential customers.
When this makes sense:
- Large commercial installations (100+ panels)
- Contractor purchases with established accounts
- Bulk purchases for multiple projects
- Specific requirements for custom specifications
Minimum order requirements: Most manufacturers require pallet quantities (25-34 panels) or container loads (400-1,000+ panels).
Wholesale and Commercial Suppliers
Wholesale suppliers offer the lowest prices but typically require contractor licenses or large quantity purchases.
Pallet and container purchasing:
- Pallet pricing: $0.19-$0.35 per watt
- Container pricing: $0.15-$0.25 per watt
- Typical pallet sizes: 25-34 panels depending on wattage
- Container loads: 400-1,000+ panels
Contractor requirements: Many wholesale suppliers require contractor licenses, tax ID numbers, or minimum annual purchase commitments.
Detailed Retailer Reviews and Recommendations
GoGreenSolar: Complete Kits with Expert Support
Pricing competitiveness: Mid-range pricing at $0.65-$0.85 per watt, but includes comprehensive system design and support.
Product selection and brands: Curated selection focusing on quality brands including Solar4America, ZNshine, and Qcells. Emphasis on complete system compatibility.
Shipping and damage policies: Professional packaging with freight shipping for larger orders. Damage replacement typically handled within 5-7 business days.
Customer service quality: Industry-leading phone and email support with system design assistance. Nearly 20 years of experience in solar system design.
Warranty support: Acts as intermediary for warranty claims and provides ongoing technical support throughout system life.
Best use cases: First-time solar buyers, customers wanting complete system design, and those prioritizing ongoing support over lowest price.
A1 SolarStore: Wholesale Pricing with Multiple Locations
Pricing competitiveness: Excellent pricing range from $0.22 per watt for wholesale quantities to $0.65 per watt for individual panels.
Product selection and brands: Extensive selection including Canadian Solar, JA Solar, Trina, Panasonic, and many others. Over 125 different panel models available.
Shipping and damage policies: Multiple fulfillment centers across the US reduce shipping costs and damage risk. Local pickup available in many markets.
Customer service quality: Solid technical support with detailed product specifications and comparison tools online.
Warranty support: Facilitates manufacturer warranty claims and maintains relationships with major brands.
Best use cases: Price-conscious buyers, customers near fulfillment centers, and those wanting maximum product selection.
EcoDirect: California-Based with Local Pickup
Pricing competitiveness: Competitive pricing at $0.40-$0.70 per watt with additional savings for local pickup customers.
Product selection and brands: Focus on quality brands including Mission Solar, Qcells, Silfab, and Trina. Strong selection of both residential and commercial panels.
Shipping and damage policies: Located near San Diego with will-call options for Southern California customers, eliminating shipping damage risk.
Customer service quality: Personalized service with solar experts available for system sizing and technical questions.
Warranty support: Direct manufacturer relationships ensure smooth warranty claim processing.
Best use cases: Southern California residents, customers preferring local pickup, and those wanting personalized service.
SunGoldPower: Complete Systems Focus
Pricing competitiveness: Good value at $0.35-$0.55 per watt, especially for complete off-grid systems.
Product selection and brands: Focus on complete system packages with their own brand panels, inverters, and batteries. Limited individual component sales.
Shipping and damage policies: System-focused shipping with components packaged together. Mixed reviews on packaging quality.
Customer service quality: Adequate support for their systems but limited technical assistance for custom configurations.
Warranty support: Direct manufacturer warranty support for their branded components.
Best use cases: Off-grid applications, customers wanting complete pre-designed systems, and those prioritizing simplicity over customization.
Regional Buying Guide
Finding Local Solar Distributors
Greentech Renewables locations and benefits:
Greentech Renewables operates over 100 locations across the United States, making them one of the largest solar distributors. They offer:
- Professional contractor pricing and support
- Local pickup to avoid shipping damage
- Technical training and education programs
- Extensive inventory of major brands
- Same-day availability for common products
Regional distributor networks:
- West Coast: Strong presence of distributors in California, Oregon, and Washington
- Southwest: Growing network in Arizona, Nevada, and Texas
- Southeast: Expanding coverage in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas
- Northeast: Established distributors in New York, Pennsylvania, and New England
Local solar installer partnerships:
Many local installers have preferred distributor relationships that can benefit customers:
- Volume pricing passed through to customers
- Coordinated delivery and installation scheduling
- Streamlined warranty support
- Technical expertise for system design
State-by-State Considerations
Local incentives affecting purchase decisions:
- California: SGIP battery incentives favor certain manufacturers
- New York: NY-Sun incentives require specific certifications
- Massachusetts: SMART program has performance requirements
- Texas: Local utility rebates may specify approved equipment lists
Shipping costs and logistics by region:
- West Coast: Lower shipping costs due to port proximity
- Mountain States: Higher shipping costs, consider local pickup
- East Coast: Multiple fulfillment centers reduce shipping times
- Rural Areas: Limited freight options may increase costs
Climate-specific panel recommendations:
- Hot Climates: Lower temperature coefficient panels perform better
- Snowy Regions: Higher voltage panels reduce snow impact
- Coastal Areas: Corrosion-resistant frames and certifications
- High Wind Areas: Structural load ratings and mounting considerations
Buying Considerations and Decision Framework
Panel Specifications to Compare
Wattage, efficiency, and cell type:
- Wattage: Ranges from 300W to 700W+ for residential panels
- Efficiency: 18-22% for most quality panels in 2025, with premium panels reaching up to 24%
- Cell types: Monocrystalline (most common), bifacial (growing), and thin-film (specialty applications)
- Half-cut cells: Improved performance in partial shade conditions
Warranty terms and manufacturer reputation:
- Product warranty: 10-25 years for materials and workmanship
- Performance warranty: 25-30 years with 80-90% power output guarantee
- Tier 1 manufacturers: Bloomberg New Energy Finance classification for financial stability
- Bankability: Lender acceptance for financing projects
Size and weight considerations:
- Standard residential: 65″ x 39″ (108-cell) or 77″ x 43″ (132-cell)
- Weight: 40-50 lbs for most residential panels
- Roof compatibility: Structural load and space requirements
- Handling requirements: Two-person lift for most panels
Total Cost Analysis
Panel cost vs. shipping vs. potential damage:
- Shipping costs: $0.05-$0.15 per watt depending on distance
- Damage risk: Up to 20% of shipments may experience some damage
- Replacement costs: Time delays and additional shipping charges
- Local pickup savings: $50-$200 per order plus damage risk elimination
Complete system component needs:
- Inverters: String inverters ($0.15-$0.25/W) or microinverters ($0.30-$0.50/W)
- Racking: $0.10-$0.20 per watt for roof mount systems
- Electrical components: DC/AC disconnects, monitoring, safety equipment
- Permits and inspections: $500-$2,000 depending on location
Before making your final purchase decision, consider using a solar savings calculator to determine the optimal system size for your energy needs and budget. This will help ensure you purchase the right quantity of panels while maximizing your long-term savings potential.
Installation considerations:
- DIY installation: Requires electrical knowledge and permits
- Professional installation: $0.50-$1.50 per watt labor costs
- Roof work: Additional costs for structural upgrades or repairs
- Electrical upgrades: Panel upgrades or service increases
For those considering DIY installation, it’s essential to understand the complexity involved. Beyond purchasing panels, you’ll need to consider solar financing options that can help spread costs over time while maintaining cash flow for other project expenses.
Quality and Reliability Factors
Tier 1 manufacturer importance:
Tier 1 manufacturers, as classified by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, offer:
- Financial stability and longevity
- Consistent quality control processes
- Global warranty support networks
- Bankable products for financing
- Research and development investments
Certifications and testing standards:
- UL 1703: Safety standard for flat-plate PV modules
- IEC 61215: International design qualification standard
- IEC 61730: Safety qualification requirements
- Salt mist testing: Important for coastal installations
- Ammonia testing: Critical for agricultural applications
Real-world performance data:
- Independent testing results from NREL and other laboratories
- Field performance data from installed systems
- Degradation rates over time
- Performance in various climate conditions
- Comparative efficiency in real-world conditions
Avoiding Common Buying Mistakes
Shipping Damage Prevention and Handling
Prevention strategies:
- Choose retailers with professional packaging standards
- Opt for freight shipping over parcel delivery for multiple panels
- Schedule delivery when you can inspect immediately
- Consider local pickup when available
- Purchase insurance for high-value shipments
Inspection upon delivery:
- Inspect packaging for damage before signing
- Document any visible damage with photos
- Note damage on delivery receipt
- Unpack and inspect panels within 24-48 hours
- Test panels electrically if possible
Warranty Claim Processes and Support
Understanding warranty types:
- Product warranty: Covers manufacturing defects and materials
- Performance warranty: Guarantees power output over time
- Workmanship warranty: Covers installation-related issues
- Retailer warranty: Additional coverage beyond manufacturer warranty
When evaluating retailers, consider their track record for ongoing maintenance and warranty support. A retailer’s ability to facilitate warranty claims and provide long-term service can be just as important as the initial purchase price.
Claim process best practices:
- Keep all purchase documentation and receipts
- Register products with manufacturers when required
- Document performance issues with data and photos
- Contact retailer first for fastest resolution
- Follow up regularly on claim status
Compatibility Issues and System Integration
Common compatibility problems:
- Voltage mismatches with inverter specifications
- Physical size constraints for roof installations
- Grounding requirements for different panel types
- Rapid shutdown compliance for safety codes
- Monitoring system compatibility
Sizing and quantity calculation errors:
- Underestimating system size for energy needs
- Not accounting for future energy growth
- Ignoring shading and orientation impacts
- Miscalculating roof space and constraints
- Forgetting spare panels for future repairs
Expert Recommendations by Use Case
Best Sources for Residential Rooftop Systems
Recommended approach:
- First choice: Local distributors with pickup options (Greentech Renewables, regional distributors)
- Second choice: Established online retailers with good shipping practices (GoGreenSolar, A1 SolarStore)
- Budget option: Wholesale pallets if you need 25+ panels (A1 SolarStore wholesale)
Key considerations:
- Prioritize local pickup to avoid shipping damage
- Choose Tier 1 manufacturers for long-term reliability
- Ensure compatibility with local electrical codes
- Consider future expansion when sizing systems
Off-Grid and RV Solar Panel Buying
Specialized requirements:
- Lower voltage panels (12V/24V systems)
- Flexible panels for curved surfaces
- Portable and foldable options
- Marine-grade certifications for boats
- Lightweight options for RV roof load limits
Best sources:
- Renogy: Specializes in RV and off-grid applications
- GoGreenSolar: Complete off-grid system kits
- Home Depot/Lowe’s: Convenient for smaller portable panels
- SunGoldPower: Complete off-grid system packages
Commercial and Large-Scale Purchases
Volume purchasing strategies:
- Direct manufacturer relationships for 1MW+ projects
- Container purchases for 100kW+ systems
- Regional distributors for mid-size commercial projects
- Financing considerations for large purchases
Best sources:
- A1 SolarStore: Container and pallet pricing
- Greentech Renewables: Commercial project support
- Direct manufacturers: For utility-scale projects
- Regional distributors: Local commercial project support
DIY vs. Professional Installation Considerations
DIY installation requirements:
- Electrical knowledge and licensing
- Permit acquisition and inspection scheduling
- Safety equipment and procedures
- Structural assessment capabilities
- Time and physical capability
If you’re considering DIY installation, start by reading our comprehensive guide on preparing your home for solar installation. This resource covers essential preparation steps, safety considerations, and regulatory requirements that can help you determine if DIY is the right approach for your project.
When to choose professional installation:
- Complex roof configurations
- Structural concerns or upgrades needed
- Local code complexity
- Warranty requirements
- Time constraints
2025 Market Trends and Future Outlook
Pricing Trends and Market Predictions
Current market conditions:
- Panel prices stabilized after 2022-2023 volatility
- Increased domestic manufacturing capacity
- Supply chain improvements reducing lead times
- Competition driving innovation and efficiency gains
2025 predictions:
- Continued price stability with gradual decreases
- Higher efficiency panels becoming standard
- Increased availability of US-made panels
- Growing bifacial panel market share
New Technologies and Availability
Emerging technologies:
- Perovskite tandem cells: Promising 30%+ efficiency
- Heterojunction technology: Higher efficiency and better temperature performance
- Bifacial panels: 10-20% additional energy from rear-side generation
- Flexible and lightweight panels: New applications and installation methods
Supply chain considerations:
- Increased domestic manufacturing reducing import dependence
- Improved logistics and packaging reducing damage rates
- Regional distribution centers expanding coverage
- Better inventory management reducing lead times
Conclusion and Action Steps
Choosing where to buy solar panels requires balancing price, quality, service, and convenience factors. Based on our comprehensive analysis, the best approach depends on your specific situation:
For most residential customers: Start by checking for local distributors like Greentech Renewables for pickup options. If not available, GoGreenSolar offers the best combination of quality products, system design support, and customer service.
For price-conscious buyers: A1 SolarStore provides excellent wholesale pricing with multiple fulfillment centers, reducing shipping costs and damage risk.
For California residents: EcoDirect offers competitive pricing with local pickup options, eliminating shipping damage concerns.
For off-grid applications: SunGoldPower specializes in complete off-grid systems with good value pricing.
Next steps for readers:
- Calculate your system size and energy needs
- Research local distributors and pickup options
- Compare pricing from 2-3 retailers including shipping costs
- Verify manufacturer warranties and retailer support policies
- Consider purchasing extra panels for future expansion or replacements
- Plan for complete system components beyond just panels
Additional resources:
- Solar panel calculator tools for system sizing
- Local installer directories for professional installation
- Permit and inspection guidance for your area
- Financing options and incentive programs
- System monitoring and maintenance best practices
Remember that solar panels are a long-term investment, so prioritizing quality, warranty support, and reliable retailers over the lowest price will provide better value over the 25+ year system life. Take time to research your options thoroughly and don’t hesitate to contact retailers directly with questions about their products and services.