Frequently Asked Questions

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My Home and Solar

  • The sun rises every day. That's why solar power is a completely renewable, reliable and clean energy source. It reduces our reliance on dirty sources of power such as oil, coal and natural gas, which produce harmful emissions affecting our health and environment.

    Sunrun pioneered the "solar-as­-a­-service" model in 2007. Since then, we have been delivering on a vision to create a planet run by the sun and provide Americans with affordable, reliable and clean energy. Residential solar energy systems represent an investment in the future of the planet, conserving non-renewable energy sources and protecting the environment.

    In addition, solar panels and home batteries are becoming more affordable, accessible, resilient and efficient. They provide peace of mind and energy security for households when the power goes out or the next storm strikes. Unlike those from your utility, Sunrun customers pay predictable, affordable rates for 20 to 25 years. With home solar, you get to control your energy future.

  • A lot of things affect how well-suited your home is for solar, including where your home is, the angle of your roof, how much shade it gets throughout the day, and how old your home is.

    Our solar advisors can help you determine if your home is a good fit for solar at the moment. They’ll run a custom analysis of your home with our proprietary solar design technology, BrightPath,™ and they’ll get a sense for your energy needs.

  • Every household is different. When determining the number of solar panels your home needs, consider the following questions:

    How much power do I need? Check your electric bills to see how many kilowatt hours (kWhs) you use throughout the year. We’ll go over this with you in detail during your free solar consultation to figure out just how much power your panels will need to produce.

    What’s your climate like? The number of panels you need depends on how much sun reaches the ground where you are.

    How much direct sun hits your roof? Shading, which direction your roof faces, and any aesthetic preferences you have can impact how big your system needs to be.

    At Sunrun, we have proprietary solar design technology called BrightPath™ to help us create a customized system that maximizes energy production better and faster than if we did it by hand.

  • Your historical electricity usage allows us to design a custom solar system that is the right size for your home.

    Electricity usage varies from person to person and from season to season. That’s why we request a full year of your electricity bills so we can build a system that’s right for you.

    Your sales consultant is trained to review a year’s worth of usage data so we can get the full picture. Energy usage can change with the seasons so we look at 12-months of data to best understand your home’s usage patterns and needs.

  • We customize your home solar system by taking into account your past usage, the available roof space and your design preferences to make sure the system will work for you and your home.

    We start with your historical usage and design a solar system that will provide you with the right amount of power based on how much you normally use.

    Then we look at your roof via satellite imagery to see how many panels can fit on each roof plane, keeping in mind that south-facing roofs are the best for solar.

    We verify our measurements and system design with a site survey,a visit to your home to check the roof and your main electrical panel.

    Finally, we reconfirm our final design with you so you know exactly what it will look like and how much electricity you'll receive from solar.

    If you want to learn about the efficiency of your panels or review what the equipment will look like for your specific home, talk to your sales consultant.

  • After you switch to solar, you won’t notice a difference. Your lights, appliances, televisions and everything else that uses electricity will work exactly as they did before.

    The one key difference you will notice after switching to solar is in how you pay for your power. You will still receive a monthly bill from your utility company. If you have a monthly bill with Sunrun, you will have two separate bills.

    How much energy you end up having to buy from your utility depends on the size of your solar system and how much electricity you're actually using.

    Because of weather and seasonal changes, your utility bill will vary from month to month. But you’ll always know exactly what you owe Sunrun for the duration of our agreement.

  • See where Sunrun currently operates and what solar incentives may be available in your state. The most common solar incentives include state tax credits, net metering and rebates from your local utility. No matter what state you live in, you’ll also be eligible for the federal solar tax credit when you purchase your own solar system.

    The great thing about BrightSave Monthly is that any benefits you would get through rebates and tax credits come to you in the form of a lower monthly cost with Sunrun. You can avoid high upfront costs, and we'll take care of the paperwork.

  • Just like any upgrade, installing a home solar system can increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. A 2019 study showed that, on average, homes with solar panels sell for 4.1% more than homes without solar panels.

    (Source: https://www.zillow.com/research/solar-panels-house-sell-more-23798/)

  • From design and installation to a lifetime of service and care, Sunrun pairs you with the perfect person to guide you through it.

    Your sales consultant will work with our design team to customize your solar system and find the right payment plan for your needs. Then a project coordinator who is well-versed in your region will manage the rest of the process.

    After your system is up and running, our customer care team will be your go-to for any questions or concerns you have.

    There are a lot of people behind the scenes to make sure your solar panels are producing as much power from the sun as possible — now and in the future.
    Learn more about the Sunrun team.

  • Once we have finalized your system design and have all of the necessary approvals, it will be time to install the solar panels on your roof.

    Our local installation crews are experienced and efficient. A lot of times, they can complete installations in one day. Here's what a typical installation day looks like:

    Step 1 - Crew arrival and preparation
    First things first. We introduce ourselves and map out where we’ll be working and parking our vehicles.

    Step 2 - Review system design and equipment location
    Your foreman will review the plans with you and confirm the equipment and where it will go.

    Step 3 - System installation
    The crew will install the solar panels and wiring on your roof, while the foreman installs your inverter and other electrical equipment.

    Step 4 - Crew clean up
    We clean up as construction winds down to make sure we leave your property exactly as we found it.

    Step 5 - Final walk-through
    Once installation is complete, your foreman will explain how your new home solar system works and how to power it on.

  • Since Sunrun home solar systems are roof-mounted, we do drill holes in the roof to anchor the racking equipment for the panels during installation. All our roof penetrations are made watertight and are guaranteed by a workmanship warranty. 

    One little known benefit, once the solar panels are on your roof, they can protect the underlying sections from normal weathering and increase its longevity.

  • Each home is different, and the equipment we install can vary from house to house. In general, here’s what you can expect.

    1) Solar panels
    Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity (DC).

    2) Inverter
    Your inverter tells energy where to flow and converts it into alternating current electricity (AC), so it can be used in your home.

    3) Sunrun meter
    Solar production is measured and monitored by your Sunrun meter so we can make sure your system is producing as much energy as possible.

    There are also a few pieces of equipment that you already have at your home that are connected to the solar system.

    4) Main electrical panel
    Your electrical panel distributes AC electricity to your entire home. You probably know it by its other name, "Fuse Box."

    5) Utility meter
    When the sun is shining, you may get all of your energy from solar, but due to things like weather, winter and nighttime, you will still have to buy some energy the old-fashioned way. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • The process of having the solar system installed on your roof can be relatively quick — many Sunrun installations are completed in one day.

    Before our crew comes to your house, it takes several weeks to prepare your project so that you have the smoothest installation day possible. Whenever possible, we’ll do the work for you, and we’ll keep you updated along the way. Here’s what we’ll do:

    Conduct a site survey to look at your roof, attic and electrical panel
    Finalize your custom design
    Apply for permits and wait for approval
    Collect other necessary approvals and documentation that is specific to your neighborhood (such as HOA approval)

    When it comes time to install the system, we’ll let you know how long the construction process will take for your home and what you can do to prepare.

  • All homeowners associations (HOAs) are different. It’s a good idea to reach out to your HOA to find out about their solar approval process. Let your project coordinator know, and they’ll take care of as much of the paperwork as possible.

  • When you turn your solar system on, your home will officially be powered with energy from the sun, produced right on your roof.

    You will be able to monitor your solar energy production through mySunrun.com.

    For customers with a monthly bill, you will receive your first bill 30 days after you get the green light to turn on the system.

My Solar Options

  • A home solar system is made up of components that all work together to convert the power of sunlight into usable energy for your lights, appliances and devices.

    1. Solar panels
    Solar panels are made of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight to direct current electricity (DC electricity). As long as the sun ray’s are making contact with your roof, your panels are converting solar radiation into DC electricity. Even when it’s cloudy, you can still expect your panels to produce 10% to 25% of their normal output. But your electricity isn’t ready just yet. You’ll need an inverter to get the kind of power you need to turn the lights on.

    2. Inverter
    The inverter takes the DC electricity produced by your solar panels and turns it into alternating current electricity (AC electricity). It’s typically installed on an exterior wall of your house, or in the garage.

    3. Main electric service panel
    Solar electricity from your inverter flows to the electrical panel, and then into to your home where it powers your lights and appliances. If your panels generate more solar energy than you use, the excess power will flow to the utility grid. Even better? You might even earn energy credits from your local utility for the power you send.

    4. Sunrun meter
    Your Sunrun meter monitors your system production and sends the information to us through a wireless signal. Since it tracks your energy production 24/7, it will automatically alert Sunrun if it detects problems or irregularities. That way, we can make sure your solar system is in the very best shape without you ever having to lift a finger.

    5. Utility meter
    When your system produces more than you need, the excess energy is sold back to your utility and credited to your monthly electric bill. When you need more energy than your solar system can produce, your home will automatically pull the energy from your utility. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • Each home is different, and the equipment we install can vary from house to house. In general, here’s what you can expect.

    1) Solar Panels
    Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity (DC).

    2) Inverter
    Your inverter tells energy where to flow and converts it into alternating current electricity (AC), so it can be used in your home.

    3) Sunrun Meter
    Solar production is measured and monitored by your Sunrun meter so we can make sure your system is producing as much energy as possible.

    There are also a few pieces of equipment that you already have at your home that are connected to the solar system.

    4) Main Electrical Panel
    Your electrical panel distributes AC electricity to your entire home. You probably know it by its other name, "Fuse Box."

    5) Utility Meter
    When the sun is shining, you may get all of your energy from solar, but due to things like weather, winter, and nighttime, you will still have to buy some energy the old-fashioned way. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • We aren’t able to add solar panels to existing home solar systems. However, if you qualify, Sunrun can add a second home solar system under a second agreement. If you’re interested, please talk to a solar advisor or Customer Care.

  • At this time, Brightbox™ is only available to new Sunrun customers. We can’t install Brightbox if you already have an existing solar installation or if it isn’t offered in your area.
    If you’re still interested in Brightbox, please let us know. You’ll be the first to know when we’ve come up with a solution. We’re hard at work on optimizing our technology to provide a better customer experience.

  • Sunrun currently offers Brightbox battery service in Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, Texas and Vermont.

  • Brightbox is Sunrun’s solar battery service.

    Depending on where you live, the battery can be used for backup electricity in the event of a power outage or better control over your power costs.

    It is currently available in select states {link to https://www.sunrun.com/solar-battery-storage} for new Sunrun solar customers.

  • Each home is different, and the equipment we install can vary from house to house. In general, here’s what you can expect.

    1) Solar panels
    Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity (DC).

    2) Inverter
    Your inverter tells energy where to flow and converts it into alternating current electricity (AC), so it can be used in your home.

    3) Battery
    Your battery stores extra solar energy for later use, like during a power outage.

    4) Sunrun meter
    Solar production is measured and monitored by your Sunrun meter so we can make sure your system is producing as much energy as possible.

    5) Main electrical panel
    Your electrical panel, or more familiarly the "fuse box," distributes AC electricity to your entire home.

    6) Backup panel
    Your backup panel connects your battery to the breakers you chose to backup during installation.

    7) Utility meter
    When the sun is shining, you may get all of your energy from solar. But due to things like weather, winter, and nighttime, you will still have to buy some energy the old-fashioned way. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed-up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery lasts will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

    Remember, you can always check the charge of your battery to help you plan your usage and make sure you have power through the night.

    If you live in Hawaii, your backup solution may be slightly different. A quad outlet installed near your inverter will allow you to plug in up to four things during an outage if we are unable to back up your breakers directly.

  • During a power outage, Brightbox allows you to backup your kitchen (including the refridgerator), bedroom and bathroom lights, garage door opener and wifi for approximately 8 to 12 hours. When the sun rises again, your solar panels will recharge your Brightbox battery. The most important rooms and appliances in your home will be powered by your home battery until the grid is up and running again. Learn more about how home solar batteries work.

  • It's possible, depending on the type of generator.

    For standby generators, the answer is no. We will not install a battery if you have one, because a standby generator is likely to damage your Sunrun equipment.

    For portable generators, the answer is yes. It is not connected to your house’s wiring, so you should be able to plug in to your generator without hurting your Sunrun equipment.

  • Your Brightbox home solar and battery system is grid-connected when the power is up and running. However, Brightbox 'islands' from the grid during power outages, allowing people to keep the lights on and food fresh. As soon as the utility restores power, the home solar battery system is grid-connected once again.

  • Yes. We currently do not sell stand-alone batteries. At this time, Brightbox is only available from Sunrun as part of a new home solar system.

  • Just like solar panels, the size of your Brightbox solar battery is determined by your unique energy needs and habits. Factors such as the amount of electricity you use at home and the devices and appliances you want to back up will play a key role when selecting the right battery storage solution for you.

  • The Brightbox battery is about the size of a water heater and easily mounted on a wall — usually inside your garage or outside of your home. The clearance required for a Brightbox battery and its accompanying components is 6.5’ H x 10’ W.

  • Most residential batteries are installed and configured with baseline settings by your solar installer. Batteries last between 10 and 15 years, and manufacturers typically offer a 10-year warranty. Brightbox includes professional maintenance and monitoring for 25 years with select plans, two things that may prolong your battery's life.

  • Having a home solar battery service in Arizona will help save money by offsetting high time-of-use (TOU) rates while offering peace of mind when the power goes out. Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself. Sunrun has designed and programmed your system to optimize your utility rate offset, environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money!

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

    BRIGHTBOX PROTECTS YOU FROM PEAK UTILITY RATES

    Brightbox will power your home during peak rate times, and sell any extra energy back to the grid when rates are highest.

    If you aren't already on TOU rates, you can ask your utility to update your account.

    From there, it’s all automatic. We’ll program your battery to pay attention to how much your utility is charging for energy and take over when prices spike.


    WE WILL ALWAYS SAVE SOME POWER IN THE BATTERY IN CASE OF A POWER OUTAGE
    No matter how profitable it is to send energy into the grid, we always reserve 20% of your battery’s capacity for its primary function: keeping the lights on during a power outage.

  • One of Arizona’s best solar incentives is the state’s Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit, covering 25% or up to $1,000 of your system’s cost. Another major incentive is the federal solar tax credit, which gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax equal to 30% of the final cost of solar energy systems you install on your home. Starting in 2020, the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends.

    Other Arizona incentives include sales and property tax exemptions and Arizona Public Service’s Solar Export Plan (or net feed-in tariff). Learn more about Arizona solar incentives.

    For customers with our BrightSave Monthly and Prepaid products, Sunrun applies for these rebates and tax credits, and automatically includes the benefits from these rebates in the price we offer our customers.

  • For most households, one solar battery is sufficient to power your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup power. When the sun rises, your solar panels charge your battery so you can continue to back up your home until utility power is restored.

  • Think of it as energy surge pricing. Time-of-use (TOU) rates are electricity rates in which utilities charge for both how much and when you use energy. Under these rates, energy tends to cost more during peak demand times, such as late afternoon and evening when demand is highest.

    Brightbox helps manage TOU rates by optimizing your battery’s charge and discharge behavior to offset power when it is most expensive.

  • Having a home solar battery service in California will help save money by offsetting high time-of-use (TOU) rates while offering peace of mind when the power goes out. Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself. Sunrun has designed and programmed for optimum utility rate offset, environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money.

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

    BRIGHTBOX PROTECTS YOU FROM PEAK UTILITY RATES
    Brightbox will power your home during peak rate times, and sell any extra energy back to the grid when rates are highest.

    If you aren't already on TOU rates, you can ask your utility to update your account.

    From there, it’s all automatic. We’ll program your battery to pay attention to how much your utility is charging for energy and take over when prices spike.


    WE WILL ALWAYS SAVE SOME POWER IN THE BATTERY IN CASE OF A POWER OUTAGE
    No matter how profitable it is to send energy into the grid, we always reserve 20% of your battery’s capacity for its primary function: keeping the lights on during a power outage.

  • There are many reasons to go solar with battery storage in California, including a great incentive available to households that purchase home batteries. The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) incentivizes PG&E, SCE, SCG or SDG&E-powered households when they install a home solar battery to help defray costs for installing batteries. The incentive value will decrease as more households apply for it, so take advantage of it as soon as you can.

    Other California incentives include rebates from your local utility and the federal solar tax credit, a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax. The 30% tax credit applies as long as the home solar system is installed by December 31, 2019. Starting in 2020, the value of the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends. Get more information on California solar incentives. {Link to https://www.sunrun.com/solar-by-state/ca/california-solar-tax-credit]

    For customers with solar leases, Sunrun applies for these rebates and tax credits, and automatically includes the benefits in our pricing.

  • For most households, one solar battery is sufficient to power your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup power. When the sun rises, your solar panels charge your battery so you can continue to back up your home until utility power is restored.

  • Think of it as energy surge pricing. Time-of-use (TOU) rates are electricity rates in which utilities charge for both how much and when you use energy. Under these rates, energy tends to cost more during peak demand times, such as late afternoon and evening when demand is highest.

    Brightbox helps manage TOU rates by optimizing your battery’s charge and discharge behavior to offset power when it is most expensive.

  • Having a home solar battery service in Florida will help you power through blackouts, lock in low rates with flexible financing options, and get a clean alternative to loud and potentially dangerous diesel generators.

    Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself. Sunrun has designed and programmed your system to optimize your utility rate offset, environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money.

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

    BRIGHTBOX PROTECTS YOU FROM PEAK UTILITY RATES
    Brightbox will power your home during peak rate times, and sell any extra energy back to the grid when rates are highest.

    If you aren't already on TOU rates, you can ask your utility to update your account.

    From there, it’s all automatic. We’ll program your battery to pay attention to how much your utility is charging for energy and take over when prices spike.


    WE WILL ALWAYS SAVE SOME POWER IN THE BATTERY IN CASE OF A POWER OUTAGE
    No matter how profitable it is to send energy into the grid, we always reserve 20% of your battery’s capacity for its primary function: keeping the lights on during a power outage.

  • For most households, one solar battery is sufficient to power your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup power.

    When the sun rises, your solar panels charge your battery so you can continue to backup your home until utility power is restored.

  • Florida solar incentives like its Property Tax Exemption offers tax benefits at an average of $15,000. Another major incentive is the federal solar tax credit, which gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax. The 30% tax credit applies as long as the home solar system is installed by December 31, 2019. Starting in 2020, the value of the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends. Get more information on Florida solar incentives.

    For customers with solar leases, Sunrun applies for these rebates and tax credits, and automatically includes the benefits in our pricing.

  • In Hawaii, our home solar and storage service helps you make the most of your solar power. By storing power for later use, you maximize your solar production while minimizing your reliance on the grid.

    Brightbox offerings in Hawaii start at $0 down and come backed by the Sunrun Guarantee with coverage of monitoring and system maintenance for the lifetime of our agreement.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    BRIGHTBOX HELPS YOU MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SOLAR SYSTEM
    Every killowatt-hour you create is a killowatt-hour you don’t have to buy from your utility, so between the sun shining all day and your battery running at night, you can control your costs by not buying a whole lot of killowatt-hours from the utility.

    Here are a couple easy things you can do to save even more:

    Avoid using multiple energy-intensive appliances at once
    Do laundry and dishes during the day.
    Turn off the air conditioning at night.

    BRIGHTBOX PROVIDES YOU WITH EMERGENCY POWER
    During a power outage, you will be able to use power by plugging into the quad outlet that was installed with your system.

  • Hawaii has some great solar incentives in place, offering even more reasons to go solar in the Aloha State. One of its best incentives is the Renewable Energy Technologies Income Tax Credit, covering 35% or up to $5,000 of the cost of your solar system. Another major incentive is the federal solar tax credit, which gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax. The 30% tax credit applies as long as the home solar system is installed by December 31, 2019. Starting in 2020, the value of the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends.

    Get more information on Hawaii solar incentives.

  • Just like solar panels, the size of your Brightbox solar home batteries is determined by your unique energy needs and habits. Our solar advisors are here to help select the right home battery solution for you.

  • To maximize your solar production with Brightbox, aim to use more power during the day while the sun is shining brightest. That could mean running appliances like the dryer or dishwasher while you’re out at work. The more power you use when the sun’s up, the more effectively you can save with your Brightbox battery.

  • Having a home solar battery service in Massachusetts will help you power through blackouts and get a clean alternative to loud and potentially dangerous diesel generators.

    Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself. Sunrun has designed and programmed your system to maximize your environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money.

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

  • Massachusetts has several incentives for going solar. One of them is the Residential Renewable Energy Income Tax Credit, covering 15%—or up to $1,000—of your solar system’s installation cost. Another major incentive is the federal solar tax credit. The federal solar tax credit gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax. The 30% tax credit applies as long as the home solar system is installed by December 31, 2019. Starting in 2020, the value of the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends.

    Learn more about Massachusetts solar incentives.

  • For most households, one solar battery is sufficient to power your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup power.

    When the sun rises, your solar panels charge your battery so you can continue to backup your home until utility power is restored.

  • Having a home solar battery service in New Jersey will help you power through blackouts, lock in low rates with flexible financing options, and get a clean alternative to loud and potentially dangerous diesel generators.

    Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself. Sunrun has designed and programmed your system to maximize your environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money.

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

  • New Jersey’s biggest solar storage incentive is the federal solar tax credit. covering 30% of the total system cost when you purchase your own system. The 30% tax credit applies as long as the home solar system is installed by December 31, 2019. Starting in 2020, the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends.  We highly recommend you consult with a tax professional to get a full understanding of the credits you’re eligible for.

    Learn more about New Jersey solar incentives.

  • For most households, one solar battery is sufficient to backup your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup and powers your critical rooms and appliances when fully charged.

    When sun is back up, your solar panels will charge your battery so you can continue to backup your home until utility power is restored.

  • Having a home solar battery service in New York will help you power through blackouts, lock in low rates with flexible financing options, and get a clean alternative to loud and potentially dangerous diesel generators.

    Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself.  Sunrun has designed and programmed your system to maximize your environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money.

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

  • One of the best reasons to own a solar system in New York is its Megawatt Block Solar Incentive, where you’ll receive a rebate on your system based on where you live, your utility, and the size of your system. The best part? State-approved solar installers will automatically apply the rebate to your bill so you don’t have to lift a finger. Plus, there's the New York’s generous Solar Energy System Equipment Credit, which covers 25% or up to $5,000 of your system cost. Finally, you can take advantage of the federal solar tax credit, which gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax. The 30% tax credit applies as long as the home solar system is installed by December 31, 2019. Starting in 2020, the value of the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends.

    Learn more about New York solar incentives.

  • For most households, one solar battery is sufficient to backup your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup and powers your critical rooms and appliances when fully charged.

    When sun is back up, your solar panels will charge your battery so you can continue to backup your home until utility power is restored.

  • Having a home solar battery service in Texas will help you power through power outages, lock in low rates with flexible financing options, and get a clean alternative to loud and potentially dangerous diesel generators.

    Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself.  Sunrun has designed and programmed your system to maximize your environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money.

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

  • Texas’s biggest solar storage incentive is the federal solar tax credit. Currently, the federal solar tax credit gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax equal to 30% of the final cost of solar energy systems you install on your home. Starting in 2020, the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends.  We recommend you consult with a tax professional to get a full understanding of the credits you’re eligible for.

    Learn more about Texas solar incentives.

  • For most households, one battery is sufficient to backup your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup, powering your critical rooms and appliances when fully charged.

    When the sun is back up, your solar panels will charge your battery so you can continue to backup your home until power is restored.

  • Having a Vermont solar battery service will help you power through blackouts, lock in low rates with flexible financing options, and get a clean alternative to loud and potentially dangerous diesel generators.

    Your system is also covered by our Sunrun Guarantee, so we handle maintenance and repairs at no additional charge.

  • WITH BRIGHTBOX YOU ARE STILL ON THE GRID
    Sunrun does not offer “off the grid” systems. Even with a battery, you will still be connected to your utility. This ensures you still have power if your panels or battery ever stop working.

    SUNRUN HAS OPTIMIZED YOUR BATTERY SETTINGS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS
    You will not be able to control when you are charging or discharging the battery yourself. Sunrun has designed and programmed your system to maximize your environmental impact and back-up benefit. Manually changing when your battery charges and discharges would only end up costing you money.

    YOUR BATTERY WILL KICK IN AUTOMATICALLY DURING A POWER OUTAGE
    Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery last will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

  • Vermont’s biggest solar energy storage incentive is the federal solar tax credit. Currently, the federal solar tax credit gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax equal to 30% of the final cost of solar energy systems you install on your home. Starting in 2020, the tax credit will step down to 26%, and then again to 22% in 2021. After 2021, the tax credit for residential solar ends. We recommend you consult with a tax professional to get a full understanding of the credits you’re eligible for.

    Learn more about Vermont solar incentives.

  • For most households, one battery is sufficient to backup your most important appliances. In the event of a blackout, your Brightbox battery provides approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup, powering your critical rooms and appliances when fully charged.

    When the sun is back up, your solar panels will charge your battery so you can continue to backup your home until power is restored.

  • Leasing and buying solar panels come with their own unique advantages.

    Purchasing solar generally requires upfront investment which can make it cost-prohibitive for many. That’s why Sunrun offers stress-free solar leasing so you can switch to solar for as little as $0 down. When you lease solar panels or pay for power through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), you are only responsible for a locked-in monthly payment. Since Sunrun owns the system when it is leased, we’ll also provide top-notch monitoring and maintenance during the length of your agreement, free of charge. That means clean, worry-free energy. And if it breaks, we’ll fix it.

    We also know that many people want to own their equipment which is why Sunrun also gives you the option to buy your solar panels. When you own your solar system, you own your production and all the benefits that come with solar investment. That means solar incentives like state solar rebates, net metering and the federal solar tax credit will go directly to you. However, you’ll be responsible for any repairs and maintenance your solar system needs outside the scope of your solar system’s warranty.

    To learn more about which solar plan is right for you, get connected with one of our solar advisors today at 1-844-321-6937

  • Knowing there had to be a more affordable way to bring clean energy to the people, we invented solar leasing and power purchase agreements, or PPAs. So instead of purchasing a system outright, we offer additional options that require little to zero upfront costs.

    The difference between a solar lease and solar PPA is simple: With a lease, you pay a fixed monthly “rent” in return for use of the system. With a PPA you pay a fixed price per kWh for power generated. We’ll help you decide which option is best for you. So now that you know what a solar lease and PPA is, you’re probably wondering why you shouldn’t just buy a home solar system outright. Here are a few reasons why:

    Get started for as little as $0 down.
    Skip the hassle of ownership. Sunrun will handle installation, maintenance, monitoring, and insurance for the life of the agreement.
    Rain or shine, we guarantee solar system performance. If the system doesn’t produce the electricity we promised - for any reason - you’ll receive a refund for the difference. If the system overproduces, you keep the excess power.
    Sell your home with ease. Sunrun has a team of service transfer experts and we guarantee a seamless agreement transfer to the new buyer.
    Sunrun’s BrightSave plans pass down the benefits of rebates, tax incentives, and credits in the form of a low, locked-in bill.
    Flexible financing options let you pay as you go, or you can receive the lowest possible rate with a prepaid option that eliminates monthly billing from Sunrun.
    Want more reasons to get a solar lease or PPA? Our top five reasons to lease your solar system will show you why it’s the smartest way to go solar.

  • Yes. Qualifying Sunrun customers can take control of their long-term electricity costs for as little as $0 down with BrightSave Monthly. The benefits of solar are rolled up into a low, predictable monthly rate for solar power that replaces all or some of the power you used to receive from the grid.

  • With a solar power purchase agreement, or PPA, you pay for the power, not the panels. The amount you pay is based on a per kilowatt-hour rate for the electricity produced by your solar panels, and is usually lower than what the local utility charges for electricity.

    With BrightSave Prepaid, you can go solar with just one, up front payment that covers 25 years worth of solar power. When you choose BrightSave Prepaid, we’ll also actively monitor and maintain your solar panels over the life of your agreement, so all you have to do is enjoy that glorious solar energy made right on your roof.

  • Leasing and buying solar panels come with their own unique advantages.

    Purchasing solar generally requires upfront investment which can make it cost-prohibitive for many. That’s why Sunrun offers stress-free solar leasing so you can go solar for as little as $0 down. When you lease solar panels or pay for power through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) you are only responsible for a locked-in monthly payment. Since Sunrun owns the system when it is leased, we’ll also provide top-notch monitoring and maintenance during the length of your agreement, free of charge. That means clean, worry-free energy. And if it breaks, we’ll fix it.

    We also know that many people want to own their equipment which is why Sunrun also gives you the option to buy your solar panels. When you own your solar system, you own your production and all the benefits that come with solar investment.That means solar incentives like state solar rebates, net metering and the federal solar tax credit will go directly to you. However, you’ll be responsible for any repairs and maintenance your solar system needs outside the scope of your solar system’s warranty.

    To learn more about which solar plan is right for you, get connected with one of our solar advisors today at 1-844-321-6937

  • Depending on the state, a home solar system can cost between $15,000 to $29,000 for system sizes ranging for 4kW to 8kW.* The more power your household uses, the more solar panels you’ll need, which will add to the cost of your solar system.

    Sound like a lot? The upfront cost of a solar system doesn’t have to keep you from going solar. Get in touch with a Sunrun solar advisor to see how you can go solar for as low as $0 with our flexible financing options.

    *Figures based on national averages: https://www.solar-estimate.org/

  • Studies have shown that owning home solar panels can significantly increase your property value.* Solar homes in California sell for $20,000 more on average, while solar homes in other states sell for about $15,000 more. With numbers like that, you can likely recoup the cost of your solar system when you sell your home. Not only will you enjoy clean, reliable energy, you’ll know you've made a smart investment.

    *Source:https://emp.lbl.gov/publications/selling-sun-price-premium-analysis

  • When you purchase a home solar system from Sunrun, you purchase the equipment and Sunrun takes care of everything related to the installation. When you buy your own system, you will directly receive the applicable federal and state solar incentives, tax credits and rebates.

    Sunrun offers two different ways to finance your solar purchase: BrightBuy and BrightAdvantage.

    BrightBuy is the full upfront purchase option where you would pay for the full price of the system at installation.

    BrightAdvantage allows you to finance your solar system purchase with low, fixed monthly payments, upon qualification, at a competitive interest for as little as $0 down.

    With either solar purchase option, you also have the option to add Protection Plus which is our service package that includes system monitoring and maintenance for the lifetime of the agreement.

  • With BrightAdvantage, you can enjoy the benefits of going solar like a lower electricity bill, tax credits, solar rebates and hassle-free financing without having to pay the full cost of a solar system up front. We partner with trusted loan providers to help you get fast approvals and low, fixed interest rates, hassle-free.

    By financing your system, you can enjoy the benefits of going solar at little to no up-front cost.

  • The interest on loans for solar panels are only tax deductible if they are secured loans, such as a home equity loan. BrightAdvantage is an unsecured loan through one of our trusted loan partners, so the interest on your loan will not be eligible for a tax deduction. However, you’ll be able to purchase a solar system for little to $0 down with the added benefit of low, fixed interest rates. You’ll also still be able to take advantage of incentives like the federal solar tax credit. To learn more, contact one of our solar advisors to see if you qualify.

     

  • Every home is different and your electricity demands are unique. Our experts are here to help you. Sunrun designs, installs, finances, insures, monitors and maintains solar home solar systems, while families receive predictable pricing for 20 years or more. As the nation’s largest residential solar, battery storage and energy services company, we provide families with industry-leading service, products and financing options to be able to meet different peoples’ needs. Our solar leases offer the financial value and flexibility you deserve.

    With Sunrun, you can take control of your own electricity, and not be left at the whims of your utility company with the next inevitable rate hike. Join the more than a quarter of a million American households who have gone solar with Sunrun.
    Hear from our customers about why Sunrun is the best choice for home solar.

  • You have a choice when it comes to solar providers. Since you’ll be working with your provider for the life of your system, you’ll want to choose an established one you can count on for the long haul. Most solar companies offer the bare minimum for what you need to put up a home solar system, while extra benefits like warranties, maintenance, and repairs can come at an extra cost. At Sunrun, we take all the guesswork out of going solar so that you don’t have to worry about the fine print or hidden fees.

    Here are some key things to look for in a home solar company:

    A high volume of positive ratings and a great track record of service before, during and after installation.
    Solar companies that take care of the paperwork, inspections, and working with the city.
    Flexible payment options including solar leases and PPAs.
    Lifetime maintenance on your system should be included, not an add-on.
    An honest provider won’t sell you solar if it can’t save you money—insist on a performance guarantee.
    Choose a provider with the most residential experience.
    We’ll just make this easy for you and tell you that yes, our products include these services, and then some. We’re here to make going solar worry-free. That means helping you with designing your home solar system and controlling your electricity costs, and taking care of the technical details like paperwork, approvals, and installation. And when you choose our BrightSave® solar lease or PPA plans, your solar system comes with 24/7 maintenance and performance guarantees.* Get a free quote today.

    *Sunrun direct sales PPA compared to SolarCity and Vivint Solar PPA, and SunPower and NRG lease. Claims based on contracts created in February, May, & July 2014

  • Our nationwide network of certified partners are the bedrock of our business because they allow us to provide stellar Sunrun service where you live.

    We only work with the best so you can rest easy knowing that whether Sunrun installs your system or one of our trusted partners does, you’ll have top-notch service as long as you’re a customer.

My Life with Solar

  • kWh stands for kilowatt hour, and a kilowatt is 1,000 watts. A kilowatt hour is the standard unit of measure for electricity. It represents the amount of energy required to power a 1 kilowatt appliance for one hour.

    The more power an appliance consumes, the faster it will use up 1 kWh. For example, a power-hungry, 500-watt vacuum cleaner will use up a kWh in two hours, whereas the same amount of energy will power a 100 watt light bulb for 10 hours.

    Your utility will track how many kWh your buy from them, as well as how many kWh you send into the grid.

    Sunrun will track how many kWh your solar panels produce.

  • Solar panels are capable of producing electricity in all types of weather all year round. You will notice that performance will vary from day to day. On a cloudy day a solar system typically performs at 10% to 25% of its capacity.

    When we design our systems and estimate their production, we take in to account the amount of sunlight that your specific region receives each year. This means that your system will be sized appropriately for the amount of sunny (or cloudy) days you receive each year.

  • Yes, your solar system will provide your home with power all year, though the amount of power that is produced does shift with the seasons.

    Summer is when solar production peaks with the longest days of the year and consistent sunshine. During winter, solar production is at its lowest due to short days and more variable weather.

    We design our systems with all four seasons in mind, and this seasonal fluctuation will be factored into your solar production estimate.

  • Solar panels need sunlight to create electricity--they’re dormant at night. However, you do still have power at night when you go solar through net metering or a home battery.

    Net Metering Makes the Most of Your Solar Production
    Connecting your solar installation to the grid enables net metering. When your solar panels produce excess energy, it's sent to the grid. The utility company then provides credit on your account. At night, you can apply those credits toward drawing electricity from the grid so your solar power never goes to waste. Net metering exists in some form in all of the markets that Sunrun operates in except for Hawaii.

    Solar Battery Storage Offers Energy Independence
    Since there is no Net Energy Metering available for new customers in Hawaii, we use battery storage to make use of solar power at night. Solar batteries maximize your panels’ daytime energy production and provide electricity for later use. So instead of sending your excess electricity to the grid, store it and use your own energy. You'll consume electricity from the battery first before drawing from the grid.

    A home battery or net metering enable your solar installation to access free or reduced-cost electricity at night. That’s how solar is a 24/7 affordable energy option. Sunrun solar panels and a Brightbox battery will have you covered both day and night.

  • During a power outage, Sunrun solar systems automatically turn off to protect utility workers that may be working on power lines. This means that the solar system will not provide power to the house during an outage. It will turn back on automatically when the utility restores power to the grid.

    The exception to this is home solar systems that have Brightbox, Sunrun’s solar battery service.

    Depending on where you live, Brightbox can be used for backup electricity in the event of a power outage or better control over your power usage.

    It is currently available in select states {link to https://www.sunrun.com/solar-battery-storage} for new Sunrun solar customers.

  • Shade on your solar panels decreases their efficiency. When we design your system we account for existing shade on your roof but changes in tree shape or height can increase shade and lead to decreased production over time. When you go solar, it is best to keep your trees trimmed so they do not block the sun from shining on your panels.

  • The solar panels on your roof should continue to produce electricity well past the 25 year mark but their efficiency will decrease slightly over time at an average rate of 0.5% per year.

    We design our solar agreements with the lifespan of our equipment in mind and have taken this expected decline in performance into account in our production estimates.

    This means that after 25 years, your system should still be operating at around 88% of its original capacity and providing your home with clean, renewable energy.

  • When your panels don't produce as much energy as you need you will then purchase any additional power from the grid.  This is not a sign that something is wrong, rather it is a very normal part of the seasonal shifts in solar energy production and your own personal energy consumption.

    When we’re designing your home solar system, we make sure it fits your household electricity needs, helping control your energy costs over time. We look at 12 months of past electricity usage to make sure your solar panels produce the the right amount of power for your home over the course of a full year.

    Keep in mind that there’s the chance you’ll have an unseasonably hot summer that requires you to run the air conditioning more than usual. If that’s the case, you may have to use some extra electricity from your local utility, resulting in a slightly higher energy bill for that month. Your solar panels would still be producing the amount of power they’re supposed to—your higher-than-average energy usage will just need an added boost from the grid to support it.

  • You will be able to log in to your Sunrun account to check your system's production. There you will be able to see how your production varies on a day to day basis and how it adds up over weeks and months.

    If you are leasing a system from us, purchasing electricity under a PPA, or own your system and have chosen the Protection Plus program, you also get the benefit of Sunrun's monitoring team who keep a close eye on the system to make sure it is producing as expected.

  • Sunrun covers all system maintenance and guarantees that you will receive a certain amount of power from your system when you sign up for a lease or PPA. There are also few things you can do as a solar homeowner to make sure you are gettting the most out of your solar system.

    Trim back trees.
    The more sun on your panels, the better. It's a good idea to keep nearby trees trimmed to allow the sunshine to reach your panels for as much of the day as possible.

    Spray dusty panels.
    Just a few rainy days a year is enough to clean your panels. If you live in a particularly dusty area, you may want to hose them off — just do it from the ground to be safe.

    Watch out for falling snow.
    It's normal for snow to stick to your panels. Please resist the urge to clean them. The snow will eventually slide off. Try to avoid parking in the landing zone.

  • As a Sunrun customer, you have a team of experts that are ready to help whenever questions come up.

    Throughout the installation process, your project coordinator will be your main point of contact should you have any questions or concerns. Our project coordination team is based out of Denver but specialize in managing projects within a specific region. Their contact information can be found on mysunrun.com.

    You will also have an installation coordinator that will help you with the logistics around your installation day. They are local to your area and work directly with the install team and local building inspectors to manage the on-site work. You’ll receive their contact information when you schedule your installation.

    Once your system is activated, the customer care team is your long-term support system. They are dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring, and are available during the office hours below to help you find a solution to any kind of problem.

    If you ever have any issues or questions, reach out to the Customer Care team at 855-478-6786.

  • Yes! We have an entire team dedicated to keeping an eye on your system, the Monitoring Team, and they’re watching all the time. This is how it works:

    1 – We Record Production (in Real-Time)
    Among the various components of your solar system is the Sunrun Meter. It counts your kilowatts as they’re produced.

    2 – We Collect Your Production Data (Every Six Hours)
    Four times a day, your Sunrun Meter sends your production data to our Denver, CO based Monitoring Team, where all production data is collected, stored and analyzed.

    3 – We Evaluate Your Production (Every Day)
    We compare your production to the estimates included in your contract to confirm that your system is working as expected. We also check the weather and other systems in your neighborhood to make sure you’re harvesting just as much sunshine as your neighbors.

    4 – We Fix What Needs Fixing (If Necessary)
    If your system isn’t working as expected, we will dive deeper to identify the issue and rectify the situation. If we cannot fix your system with remote troubleshooting, we may need to send a technician to take a look at your system in person.

  • Sunrun takes complete care of your solar system, which includes making any necessary repairs or replacements to the equipment over the course of your agreement.

    If you have reason to believe the solar system is damaged or not working as expected, please let us know right away by contacting our Customer Care team at (855) 478-6786, ext. 2 or customercare@sunrun.com.

  • Yes, all of our solar equipment is backed by robust warranties. When you choose BrightSave, your solar system will also come with 24/7 monitoring and maintenance. So if it breaks? We’ll fix it, free of charge.

  • When you go solar with Sunrun, you're getting more than just panels on your roof. You're signing up for 25 years of service and support.
    We carefully choose our equipment with durability in mind, but something is bound to come up during our agreement. If anything on your system breaks or isn't working as it should, we take care of it.

    Furthermore, if a system issue causes you to produce less then what we guaranteed, we refund you for the difference. At your two-year anniversary with Sunrun, we will compare how much energy your panels produced to the production promised in your agreement. If your panels didn't produce as much as we expected, we'll issue a refund to make up for the difference.

  • Solar systems generally operate without the need for much care and maintenance but there are a few things you can do as a solar homeowner to make sure you are gettting the most out of your solar system.

    Trim back trees.
    The more sun on your panels, the better. It's a good idea to keep nearby trees trimmed to allow the sunshine to reach your panels for as much of the day as possible.

    Spray dusty panels.
    Just a few rainy days a year is enough to clean your panels. If you live in a particularly dusty area, you may want to hose them off — just do it from the ground to be safe.

    Watch out for falling snow.
    It's normal for snow to stick to your panels. Please resist the urge to clean them. The snow will slide off when it's ready. Try to avoid parking in the landing zone.

  • As a Sunrun customer, you have a team of experts that are ready to help whenever questions come up.

    Throughout the installation process, your project coordinator will be your main point of contact should you have any questions or concerns. Our project coordination team is based out of Denver but specialize in managing projects within a specific region. Their contact information can be found on mysunrun.com.

    You will also have an installation coordinator that will help you with the logistics around your installation day. They are local to your area and work directly with the install team and local building inspectors to manage the on-site work. You’ll receive their contact information when you schedule your installation.

    Once your system is activated, the customer care team is your long-term support system. They are dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring, and are available during the office hours below to help you find a solution to any kind of problem.

    If you ever have any issues or questions, reach out to the Customer Care team at 855-478-6786.

  • If you have reason to believe the solar system is damaged or not working as expected, please let us know right away by contacting our Customer Care team at (855) 478-6786, ext. 2 or customercare@sunrun.com.

  • Yes, all of our solar equipment is backed by robust warranties. We only choose best-in-class equipment, including solar panels and batteries, with the highest quality workmanship, backed by 20 years of residential solar experience.

My Bills

  • When you go solar, the way that you pay for your power also changes.

    Whether you choose to purchase your solar system or pay monthly, you will still receive a utility bill as you will now receive power from two sources, your solar system and the gird.

    The payment you make to Sunrun, whether upfront or on a monthly basis is for your solar. Your utility bill will then be for any extra power that you need that month that the solar system does not produce. How much energy you end up having to buy from your utility depends on the size of your solar system and how much energy you're actually using. With weather and seasonal changes, your utility bill will vary. For this reason, it helps to think about your energy costs on an annual basis.

  • You still receive a bill from the utility when you have solar because you remain connected to the grid. Even in months where your solar system provides all of the electricity you need, you can expect to pay standard utility connection fees.

    Being connected to the grid is a good thing. It allows you to have power when your are producing less than you need, like on a cloudy day, during the winter or when you're running your air conditioning. It also allows you to take advantage of net metering so your solar power never goes to waste.

  • Utility rate increases are unpredictable, and they’re only expected to get worse. When you replace utility power with solar power, you take control of your costs with a predictable, locked-in rate.

    The more your utility increases its rates, the greater the benefit you can see from solar.

  • When you sign up for afree quote, our in-house Solar Advisors will work with you to determine how much you can expect to save on your monthly energy bill. This relies on factors like your utility, how much electricity you use and how much sunlight your home gets. We’ll only recommend solar if it’s the right fit for your home energy needs and profile.

My Community & Utility

  • Installing home solar and a battery as backup electricity supply is a smart wasy to prepare for rolling blackouts. Unpredictable outages emphasize the value of having solar for your household's energy security and peace of mind.

    Utility companies are increasingly implementing rolling blackouts, known as a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), to reduce risks during extreme weather conditions and wildfires.The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) authorizes companies to de-energize the electric grid as a preventative measure to protect public safety and maintain the grid's viability.

    Blackouts now disrupt power to millions of Californians each year and, of course, extreme weather and power outages are not exclusive to the Golden State. Whether you are looking to power through a planned outage, winter storm or a hurricane, traditional fuel-powered generators are not a dependable solution for your emergency plan. A Sunrun solar system and Brightbox battery can safely and reliably power your home through an outage.

  • Net metering means that your utility will keep track of the solar power that you send into the grid when you are producing more than you’re using. In some months, you may run a credit for this extra power while in others you will need to buy grid power to meet the energy demands of your home.

  • You receive energy credits from your utility company for power you produce and don't immediately use.* Your energy credits count towards any energy you get from the utility.

    Most of the energy your panels produce is used right away. This energy does not appear on your utility bill because it never went to the grid. If you have a battery, the energy that it stores also does not appear on your utility bill.

    *In Hawaii, energy that solar homeowners produce is not sent to the grid so utility customers do not receive energy credits.

  • Yes, your system will be grid tied and you'll get credits from your utility when you're a Sunrun customer whether you choose to own your system or go solar through a lease or PPA. These energy credits come from a billing system called Net Energy Metering (NEM). Net metering means that your utility will keep track of the solar power that you send into the grid when you are producing more than you’re using. In some months, you may run a credit for this extra power while in others you will need to buy grid power to meet the energy demands of your home. The only exception to this is in Hawaii where net metering isn't available.

  • Tiered utility rates are a structure in which the more electricity you use, the higher your rate gets. You are allowed a certain amount of power (kilowatt hours) in each tier. Once you've exceeded the amount in the tier, you move into the next highest tier. The lower tier rates are affordable and the higher tier rates are very expensive.

    When we customize your home solar system, we assess your energy needs to determine the number of solar panels you’ll need for your home. You’ll still be connected to the grid in case you need to source any extra energy. The goal with a solar system design will be to keep you in the lower tiers so you are only replacing the most expensive power with solar.

    Not all utilities are created equal, and not all utilities have tiered utility rates. Contact one of our expert solar consultants to learn more about your utility rate structure and how solar can help you avoid paying for power when it is at its most expensive.

  • Time of Use (TOU) electricity rates are set by your local utility. They vary by time of day: more expensive during periods of peak demand and less expensive during low demand periods. For instance, TOU rates would be higher during hot summer afternoons or nights when people tend to use their air conditioning more. Conversely, TOU rates would be lower during low-demand periods like the hours during your workday when you’re not home.

    One way to minimize your costs is to adjust your electricity usage to cheaper times. But there’s an easier way. With Brightbox, your own home backup energy management system, you can avoid the most expensive rates under a TOU rate structure.

    Brightbox is programmed to store energy from the sun when your grid power is cheapest and then kick in to power your home when it is most expensive. It's an easy way to get even more out of your home solar system and the power that it generates.

  • There are many different ways that you can measure the positive environmental impact of your Sunrun home solar system. Here are just a few:

    It takes just 10 months of solar production for a Sunrun home solar system to offset the carbon emissions associated with its manufacture.

    Over its lifetime, the average Sunrun solar home will prevent harmful carbon emissions equal to driving 498,778 miles in an average car, which is more than enough to drive to the moon and back.

    When you look at cumulative impact of all 233,000 Sunrun homes, we have had the same impact as recycling 2.6 trillion pounds of waste, which is like recycling 128 Eiffel Towers.

    As more people like you join the solar movement, the amount of impact we are able to have becomes all the more significant.

  • Going solar means that you have adopted a clean source of electricity for your home. Instead of using power that was generated at a plant using fossil fuels, you get your power from the sun with zero emissions. This home grown power doesn't just help contribute to cleaner air, it also helps take strain off the grid during peak demand periods, which is safer for everyone.

  • Sunrun believes in giving back to the communities where our customers and employees live, work and play. Here are a few examples of the work we've done, made possible by our customers.

    Illuminating low-income homes. We partnered with GRID Alternatives to bring solar energy to 1,000 low-income families, providing over $25 million in lifetime savings and preventing as much pollution as 11,890 cars emit in a year.

    Powering Puerto Rico's recovery. When hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, we rushed to equip eight blackout-stricken fire stations with solar and battery systems to power their urgent emergency aid work.

    Training for jobs of the future. We partnered with the NAACP’s Solar Equity Initiative to bring job training and solar installations to low-income families across the United States.

My Financing & Agreement Options

  • Once you have solar panels installed on your home, you cannot make a change to your agreement type.

    You may have weighed a few different agreement options when you signed up. If you’re reconsidering or need clarity on your options, reach out to your sales consultant or project coordinator.

    We understand everyone has different situations and needs. Our experts are well-versed in the benefits associated with our options. We are here to help you figure out what’s best for you.

  • Not necessarily. Depending on where you live, there may be state regulations that require you to insure the system. When this is the case, we will make sure that you are aware of the regulations but you will be responsible for working with your insurance company.

    In states where insurance is not required, we still recommend that you tell your insurance company that you are getting a home solar system. It is likely already covered under your current policy, and may not include any additional fees for coverage.

  • The availability of solar tax credits is dependent on the region you live in and the solar product that you invested in.

    The federal solar tax credit gives you a dollar-for-dollar reduction against your federal income tax. The 26% tax credit applies as long as the home solar system is installed by December 31, 2022. Starting in 2023, the value of the tax credit will step down to 22%. After 2023, the tax credit for residential solar ends.

    State or utility tax incentives vary depending on the region you reside in. To learn more about policies and incentives in your region, check out the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency website.

  • When you reach the end of your Sunrun agreement, you have three options:

    1. You can purchase the solar system at the fair market value (excluding New York homeowners).
    2. You can renew your lease with us on an annual basis.
    3. Sunrun can remove the system at no cost to you.
    When you reach the end of your agreement, Customer Care will help you move forward.

  • Sunrun makes it easy to transfer your solar lease agreement to the new homeowners. Our service transfer specialists handle everything from educating realtors and potential buyers to working with escrow officers, title agents, home inspectors, and anyone else who might need to know about your system or solar lease agreement. When you decide to move, contact us at 855.478.6786 ext 3 or servicetransfers@sunrun.com and we will get started on facilitating the transfer process. Learn More.

My Solar System

  • A home solar system is made up of components that all work together to convert the power of sunlight into usable energy for your lights, appliances and devices.

    1. Solar panels
    Solar panels are made of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight to direct current electricity (DC electricity). As long as the sun ray’s are making contact with your roof, your panels are converting solar radiation into DC electricity. Even when it’s cloudy, you can still expect your panels to produce 10% to 25% of their normal output. But your electricity isn’t ready just yet. You’ll need an inverter to get the kind of power you need to turn the lights on.

    2. Inverter
    The inverter takes the DC electricity produced by your solar panels and turns it into alternating current electricity (AC electricity). It’s typically installed on an exterior wall of your house, or in the garage.

    3. Main electric service panel
    Solar electricity from your inverter flows to the electrical panel, and then into to your home where it powers your lights and appliances. If your panels generate more solar energy than you use, the excess power will flow to the utility grid. Even better? You might even earn energy credits from your local utility for the power you send.

    4. Sunrun meter
    Your Sunrun meter monitors your system production and sends the information to us through a wireless signal. Since it tracks your energy production 24/7, it will automatically alert Sunrun if it detects problems or irregularities. That way, we can make sure your solar system is in the very best shape without you ever having to lift a finger.

    5. Utility meter
    When your system produces more than you need, the excess energy is sold back to your utility and credited to your monthly electric bill. When you need more energy than your solar system can produce, your home will automatically pull the energy from your utility. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • You can turn on your solar system when we are granted permission to operate (PTO) from your utility. This typically occurs a few weeks after the system is installed.

    Your installation is complete when all the equipment is installed on your home, and the city inspector has signed off on the final electrical building permit. At this point, Sunrun submits the final documents to your utility company for interconnection, and the utility will come out to install a new net meter on your home. You will receive a letter or email from your utility company when it has granted you permission to operate, which means you can turn on your solar system.

  • Each home is different, and the equipment we install can vary from house to house. In general, here’s what you can expect.

    1) Solar Panels
    Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity (DC).

    2) Inverter
    Your inverter tells energy where to flow and converts it into alternating current electricity (AC), so it can be used in your home.

    3) Sunrun Meter
    Solar production is measured and monitored by your Sunrun meter so we can make sure your system is producing as much energy as possible.

    There are also a few pieces of equipment that you already have at your home that are connected to the solar system.

    4) Main Electrical Panel
    Your electrical panel distributes AC electricity to your entire home. You probably know it by its other name, "Fuse Box."

    5) Utility Meter
    When the sun is shining, you may get all of your energy from solar, but due to things like weather, winter, and nighttime, you will still have to buy some energy the old-fashioned way. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • Permission to Operate (PTO) is when your utility grants you permission to connect your system to their grid. We cannot turn on your system without it.

    To get it, Sunrun submits paperwork to the utility to request we be granted PTO. This is your application for interconnection. Inspection must be completed and permits must be approved by your local jurisdiction before the application can be approved.

    The entire process can take two to six weeks.

  • From design and installation to a lifetime of service and care, Sunrunx pairs you with the perfect person to guide you through it.

    Your sales consultant will work with our design team to customize your solar system and find the right payment plan for your needs. Then a project coordinator who is well-versed in your region will manage the rest of the process.

    After your system is up and running, our customer care team will be your go-to for any questions or concerns you have.

    There are a lot of people behind the scenes to make sure your solar panels are producing as much power from the sun as possible — now and in the future.
    Learn more about the Sunrun team.

  • Once we have finalized your system design and have all of the necessary approvals, it will be time to install the solar panels on your roof.

    Our local installation crews are experienced and efficient. A lot of times, they can complete installations in one day. Here's what a typical installation day looks like:

    Step 1 - Crew arrival and preparation
    First things first. We introduce ourselves and map out where we’ll be working and parking our vehicles.

    Step 2 - Review system design and equipment location
    Your foreman will review the plans with you and confirm the equipment and where it will go.

    Step 3 - System installation
    The crew will install the solar panels and wiring on your roof, while the foreman installs your inverter and other electrical equipment.

    Step 4 - Crew clean up
    We clean up as construction winds down to make sure we leave your property exactly as we found it.

    Step 5 - Final walk-through
    Once installation is complete, your foreman will explain how your new home solar system works and how to power it on.

  • Since Sunrun home solar systems are roof-mounted, we do drill holes in the roof to anchor the racking equipment for the panels during installation. All our roof penetrations are made watertight and are guaranteed by a workmanship warranty.

    One little known benefit, once the solar panels are on your roof, they can protect the underlying sections from normal weathering and increase its longevity.

  • Each home is different, and the equipment we install can vary from house to house. In general, here’s what you can expect.

    1) Solar panels
    Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity (DC).

    2) Inverter
    Your inverter tells energy where to flow and converts it into alternating current electricity (AC), so it can be used in your home.

    3) Sunrun meter
    Solar production is measured and monitored by your Sunrun meter so we can make sure your system is producing as much energy as possible.

    There are also a few pieces of equipment that you already have at your home that are connected to the solar system.

    4) Main electrical panel
    Your electrical panel distributes AC electricity to your entire home. You probably know it by its other name, "Fuse Box."

    5) Utility meter
    When the sun is shining, you may get all of your energy from solar, but due to things like weather, winter and nighttime, you will still have to buy some energy the old-fashioned way. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • The process of having the solar system installed on your roof can be relatively quick — many Sunrun installations are completed in one day.

    Before our crew comes to your house, it takes several weeks to prepare your project so that you have the smoothest installation day possible. Whenever possible, we’ll do the work for you, and we’ll keep you updated along the way. Here’s what we’ll do:

    Conduct a site survey to look at your roof, attic and electrical panel
    Finalize your custom design
    Apply for permits and wait for approval
    Collect other necessary approvals and documentation that is specific to your neighborhood (such as HOA approval)

    When it comes time to install the system, we’ll let you know how long the construction process will take for your home and what you can do to prepare.

  • All homeowners associations (HOAs) are different. It’s a good idea to reach out to your HOA to find out about their solar approval process. Let your project coordinator know, and they’ll take care of as much of the paperwork as possible.

  • When you turn your solar system on, your home will officially be powered with energy from the sun, produced right on your roof.

    You will be able to monitor your solar energy production through mySunrun.com.

    For customers with a monthly bill, you will receive your first bill 30 days after you get the green light to turn on the system.

  • kWh stands for kilowatt hour, and a kilowatt is 1,000 watts. A kilowatt hour is the standard unit of measure for electricity. It represents the amount of energy required to power a 1 kilowatt appliance for one hour.

    The more power an appliance consumes, the faster it will use up 1 kWh. For example, a power-hungry, 500-watt vacuum cleaner will use up a kWh in two hours, whereas the same amount of energy will power a 100 watt light bulb for 10 hours.

    Your utility will track how many kWh your buy from them, as well as how many kWh you send into the grid.

    Sunrun will track how many kWh your solar panels produce.

  • Solar panels are capable of producing electricity in all types of weather all year round. You will notice that performance will vary from day to day. On a cloudy day a solar system typically performs at 10% to 25% of its capacity.

    When we design our systems and estimate their production, we take in to account the amount of sunlight that your specific region receives each year. This means that your system will be sized appropriately for the amount of sunny (or cloudy) days you receive each year.

  • Yes, your solar system will provide your home with power all year, though the amount of power that is produced does shift with the seasons.

    Summer is when solar production peaks with the longest days of the year and consistent sunshine. During winter, solar production is at its lowest due to short days and more variable weather.

    We design our systems with all four seasons in mind, and this seasonal fluctuation will be factored into your solar production estimate.

  • Solar panels need sunlight to create electricity--they’re dormant at night. However, you do still have power at night when you go solar through net metering or a home battery.

    Net Metering Makes the Most of Your Solar Production
    Connecting your solar installation to the grid enables net metering. When your solar panels produce excess energy, it's sent to the grid. The utility company then provides credit on your account. At night, you can apply those credits toward drawing electricity from the grid so your solar power never goes to waste. Net metering exists in some form in all of the markets that Sunrun operates in except for Hawaii.

    Solar Battery Storage Offers Energy Independence
    Since there is no Net Energy Metering available for new customers in Hawaii, we use battery storage to make use of solar power at night. Solar batteries maximize your panels’ daytime energy production and provide electricity for later use. So instead of sending your excess electricity to the grid, store it and use your own energy. You'll consume electricity from the battery first before drawing from the grid.

    A home battery or net metering enable your solar installation to access free or reduced-cost electricity at night. That’s how solar is a 24/7 affordable energy option. Sunrun solar panels and a Brightbox battery will have you covered both day and night.

  • During a power outage, Sunrun solar systems automatically turn off to protect utility workers that may be working on power lines. This means that the solar system will not provide power to the house during an outage. It will turn back on automatically when the utility restores power to the grid.

    The exception to this is home solar systems that have Brightbox, Sunrun’s solar battery service.

    Depending on where you live, Brightbox can be used for backup electricity in the event of a power outage or better control over your power usage.

    It is currently available in select states {link to https://www.sunrun.com/solar-battery-storage} for new Sunrun solar customers.

  • Shade on your solar panels decreases their efficiency. When we design your system we account for existing shade on your roof but changes in tree shape or height can increase shade and lead to decreased production over time. When you go solar, it is best to keep your trees trimmed so they do not block the sun from shining on your panels.

  • The solar panels on your roof should continue to produce electricity well past the 25 year mark but their efficiency will decrease slightly over time at an average rate of 0.5% per year.

    We design our solar agreements with the lifespan of our equipment in mind and have taken this expected decline in performance into account in our production estimates.

    This means that after 25 years, your system should still be operating at around 88% of its original capacity and providing your home with clean, renewable energy.

  • When your panels don't produce as much energy as you need you will then purchase any additional power from the grid.  This is not a sign that something is wrong, rather it is a very normal part of the seasonal shifts in solar energy production and your own personal energy consumption.

    When we’re designing your home solar system, we make sure it fits your household electricity needs, helping control your energy costs over time. We look at 12 months of past electricity usage to make sure your solar panels produce the the right amount of power for your home over the course of a full year.

    Keep in mind that there’s the chance you’ll have an unseasonably hot summer that requires you to run the air conditioning more than usual. If that’s the case, you may have to use some extra electricity from your local utility, resulting in a slightly higher energy bill for that month. Your solar panels would still be producing the amount of power they’re supposed to—your higher-than-average energy usage will just need an added boost from the grid to support it.

  • You will be able to log in to your Sunrun account to check your system's production. There you will be able to see how your production varies on a day to day basis and how it adds up over weeks and months.

    If you are leasing a system from us, purchasing electricity under a PPA, or own your system and have chosen the Protection Plus program, you also get the benefit of Sunrun's monitoring team who keep a close eye on the system to make sure it is producing as expected.

  • Sunrun covers all system maintenance and guarantees that you will receive a certain amount of power from your system when you sign up for a lease or PPA. There are also few things you can do as a solar homeowner to make sure you are gettting the most out of your solar system.

    Trim back trees.
    The more sun on your panels, the better. It's a good idea to keep nearby trees trimmed to allow the sunshine to reach your panels for as much of the day as possible.

    Spray dusty panels.
    Just a few rainy days a year is enough to clean your panels. If you live in a particularly dusty area, you may want to hose them off — just do it from the ground to be safe.

    Watch out for falling snow.
    It's normal for snow to stick to your panels. Please resist the urge to clean them. The snow will eventually slide off. Try to avoid parking in the landing zone.

  • As a Sunrun customer, you have a team of experts that are ready to help whenever questions come up.

    Throughout the installation process, your project coordinator will be your main point of contact should you have any questions or concerns. Our project coordination team is based out of Denver but specialize in managing projects within a specific region. Their contact information can be found on mysunrun.com.

    You will also have an installation coordinator that will help you with the logistics around your installation day. They are local to your area and work directly with the install team and local building inspectors to manage the on-site work. You’ll receive their contact information when you schedule your installation.

    Once your system is activated, the customer care team is your long-term support system. They are dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring, and are available during the office hours below to help you find a solution to any kind of problem.

    If you ever have any issues or questions, reach out to the Customer Care team at 855-478-6786.

  • Yes! We have an entire team dedicated to keeping an eye on your system, the Monitoring Team, and they’re watching all the time. This is how it works:

    1 – We Record Production (in Real-Time)
    Among the various components of your solar system is the Sunrun Meter. It counts your kilowatts as they’re produced.

    2 – We Collect Your Production Data (Every Six Hours)
    Four times a day, your Sunrun Meter sends your production data to our Denver, CO based Monitoring Team, where all production data is collected, stored and analyzed.

    3 – We Evaluate Your Production (Every Day)
    We compare your production to the estimates included in your contract to confirm that your system is working as expected. We also check the weather and other systems in your neighborhood to make sure you’re harvesting just as much sunshine as your neighbors.

    4 – We Fix What Needs Fixing (If Necessary)
    If your system isn’t working as expected, we will dive deeper to identify the issue and rectify the situation. If we cannot fix your system with remote troubleshooting, we may need to send a technician to take a look at your system in person.

  • Sunrun takes complete care of your solar system, which includes making any necessary repairs or replacements to the equipment over the course of your agreement.

    If you have reason to believe the solar system is damaged or not working as expected, please let us know right away by contacting our Customer Care team at (855) 478-6786, ext. 2 or customercare@sunrun.com.

  • Yes, all of our solar equipment is backed by robust warranties. When you choose BrightSave, your solar system will also come with 24/7 monitoring and maintenance. So if it breaks? We’ll fix it, free of charge.

  • When you go solar with Sunrun, you're getting more than just panels on your roof. You're signing up for 25 years of service and support.
    We carefully choose our equipment with durability in mind, but something is bound to come up during our agreement. If anything on your system breaks or isn't working as it should, we take care of it.

    Furthermore, if a system issue causes you to produce less then what we guaranteed, we refund you for the difference. At your two-year anniversary with Sunrun, we will compare how much energy your panels produced to the production promised in your agreement. If your panels didn't produce as much as we expected, we'll issue a refund to make up for the difference.

  • Solar systems generally operate without the need for much care and maintenance but there are a few things you can do as a solar homeowner to make sure you are gettting the most out of your solar system.

    Trim back trees.
    The more sun on your panels, the better. It's a good idea to keep nearby trees trimmed to allow the sunshine to reach your panels for as much of the day as possible.

    Spray dusty panels.
    Just a few rainy days a year is enough to clean your panels. If you live in a particularly dusty area, you may want to hose them off — just do it from the ground to be safe.

    Watch out for falling snow.
    It's normal for snow to stick to your panels. Please resist the urge to clean them. The snow will slide off when it's ready. Try to avoid parking in the landing zone.

  • As a Sunrun customer, you have a team of experts that are ready to help whenever questions come up.

    Throughout the installation process, your project coordinator will be your main point of contact should you have any questions or concerns. Our project coordination team is based out of Denver but specialize in managing projects within a specific region. Their contact information can be found on mysunrun.com.

    You will also have an installation coordinator that will help you with the logistics around your installation day. They are local to your area and work directly with the install team and local building inspectors to manage the on-site work. You’ll receive their contact information when you schedule your installation.

    Once your system is activated, the customer care team is your long-term support system. They are dedicated, knowledgeable, and caring, and are available during the office hours below to help you find a solution to any kind of problem.

    If you ever have any issues or questions, reach out to the Customer Care team at 855-478-6786.

  • If you have reason to believe the solar system is damaged or not working as expected, please let us know right away by contacting our Customer Care team at (855) 478-6786, ext. 2 or customercare@sunrun.com.

  • Yes, all of our solar equipment is backed by robust warranties. We only choose best-in-class equipment, including solar panels and batteries, with the highest quality workmanship, backed by 20 years of residential solar experience.

  • Though system issues do happen, if mySunrun is showing zero kWh of electricity production for a recent day or several days, it is much more likely that there’s a gap in data communication rather than system operation.

    We receive production data from systems via cellular signal. Sometimes those signals don't make it to us on a given day, so they’ll register as zero kWh of production. When this happens, the system is still operational and when we next receive communication from the system, all of the energy production data will be populated at once.

  • It can take up to 24 hours for the energy production data on mySunrun to reflect the readings on the meter. The lag will not affect your billing statement or the amount of power you are receiving

  • The inverter is converts the direct current (DC) electricity from the panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home.

    Your inverter will have a light on it that indicates if it’s working correctly:

    Green: The system is producing electricity and there are no errors.
    Red: The system is not producing electricity (At night, the system will power down and show a red light or no light. It will automatically turn back on when there’s enough sun to produce electricity. If you see a red light when the sun is shining, there may be an issue.).
    Orange: The AC disconnect or breaker switch is off.

    Error Codes

    The inverter will also have a screen which may show an error message if the equipment is not working correctly. These are some of the most common error codes:

    Fac-Bfr: Ground Fault
    State 207

    To troubleshoot:
    1) Locate and reset your breaker switch

    This small switch should be in your main service panel with the rest of the breaker switches to your home, usually located at the very bottom or top of the panel. It should be labeled solar, photovoltaic, PV or Sunrun.
    Make sure this switch is in the on position.

    2) Reset the AC disconnect

    Generally, this small box is located right near your inverter, the bigger box.
    The AC disconnect is a smaller 1’ x 1.5’ box with a large, lever switch on the right side.
    To turn this switch on, flip the switch into the upward position.

    3) Reset the inverter*

    The inverter is normally on the side of your home or in your garage.
    It’s the large 1.5’ x 3’ box with a circular dial switch on the bottom.
    If you cannot see the switch, it may be behind a door on the bottom third of the inverter.
    To turn this switch on, turn it a quarter turn clockwise until it is facing upward.

    *Some Sunrun systems have microinverters on each panel. These systems do not have a large inverter or a switch to turn.

    4) Check the inverter for continuing errors.

    Check the screen to see whether error codes return.
    Check the light on the face of the inverter to see whether it turns green, yellow or red.
    If the inverter error persists or a yellow or red light comes back, please make a note of any error codes and contact Customer Care.

  • Your Sunrun meter measures solar energy production and sends the data to Sunrun. We use that data to monitor your system and populate what you see in mySunrun.

    If your solar electricity production data doesn’t show up on mySunrun for over five days, there could be an issue. The display screen cycles through five pieces of information:
    A screen test where the display shows all eights.
    The total amount of electricity produced in kWh
    The current date
    The current time in 24-hour Pacific Time.
    An SSI code, which is a five-digit number following the letters “SSI”

    SSI Codes
    The SSI code can tell you whether the meter is working correctly. If there are five digits in the SSI code:
    The last two digits show the signal strength. Zero is the weakest signal and 99 is the strongest.
    The second and fourth digits show the meter state codes.
    The first digit shows the coverage status code.

    If there are six digits, the first digit is a warning code. If you see an error code, you can reset your system.


    Resetting Your System
    If you notice any error codes, reset the meter using the breaker switch labeled solar, PV, or photovoltaic.
    Shut this switch off for at least five minutes. Then switch it back on.

  • We aren’t able to add solar panels to existing home solar systems. However, if you qualify, Sunrun can add a second home solar system under a second agreement. If you’re interested, please talk to a solar advisor or Customer Care.

  • At this time, Brightbox™ is only available to new Sunrun customers. We can’t install Brightbox if you already have an existing solar installation or if it isn’t offered in your area.
    If you’re still interested in Brightbox, please let us know. You’ll be the first to know when we’ve come up with a solution. We’re hard at work on optimizing our technology to provide a better customer experience.

  • If it’s time to replace your roof, we’ll temporarily remove your solar panels. Our local Sunrun branches are available to remove and later reinstall the panels for a fee. To get started, please reach out to Customer Care for a quote. Once you’ve approved the quote, our local branch will reach out to find the best time. If possible, we ask for 45 days notice for this kind of project.

  • Solar panels sometimes provide an attractive place for pigeons or squirrels to nest. In many instances, a critter guard can be installed to alleviate this problem. These guards are thin screens, which restrict wildlife from accessing the areas underneath the panels.

    If you are interested in having critter guards installed on the solar panels, please contact Customer Care at 855-478-6786

  • In general, we don’t recommend installing snow guards. Snow guards may negatively impact your solar production, and they don't necessarily prevent snow from sliding off of your roof. In the event of snow accumulation, please avoid walking under your system, and avoid parking or keeping other valuables below the roof's edge.

    If you'd like to learn more about snow guards, Customer Care can connect you with a local partner for additional information. Most of our partners can handle installation within two to three weeks of your approval.

  • Sunrun makes it easy to transfer your solar lease agreement to the new homeowners. Our service transfer specialists handle everything from educating realtors and potential buyers to working with escrow officers, title agents, home inspectors, and anyone else who might need to know about your system or solar lease agreement. When you decide to move, contact us at 855.478.6786 ext 3 or servicetransfers@sunrun.com and we will get started on facilitating the transfer process. Learn More.

My Brightbox Battery

  • Each home is different, and the equipment we install can vary from house to house. In general, here’s what you can expect.

    1) Solar panels
    Solar panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity (DC).

    2) Inverter
    Your inverter tells energy where to flow and converts it into alternating current electricity (AC), so it can be used in your home.

    3) Battery
    Your battery stores extra solar energy for later use, like during a power outage.

    4) Sunrun meter
    Solar production is measured and monitored by your Sunrun meter so we can make sure your system is producing as much energy as possible.

    5) Main electrical panel
    Your electrical panel, or more familiarly the "fuse box," distributes AC electricity to your entire home.

    6) Backup panel
    Your backup panel connects your battery to the breakers you chose to backup during installation.

    7) Utility meter
    When the sun is shining, you may get all of your energy from solar. But due to things like weather, winter, and nighttime, you will still have to buy some energy the old-fashioned way. Your utility meter measures how much energy comes from and goes to the grid.

  • Sunrun’s batteries can back up four breakers. During installation, we will help you decide what to back up. Many customers choose to back up their refrigerator, lights, wifi and a garage door.

    If there is a power outage, your battery will take over sending power to your backed-up breakers within a few seconds and will continue to do so until power is restored or the battery runs out of energy. How long the battery lasts will depend on how much energy you use.

    Your system is designed to supply approximately 8 to 12 hours of backup energy, plus whatever the sun provides during the day. But that can vary based a variety of factors:

    Whether the outage happens during the day or at night
    What season it is
    What you’re backing up
    How much energy you use

    The battery will recharge when the sun comes up, so you will be able to power through multi-day outages should they ever occur.

    Remember, you can always check the charge of your battery to help you plan your usage and make sure you have power through the night.

    If you live in Hawaii, your backup solution may be slightly different. A quad outlet installed near your inverter will allow you to plug in up to four things during an outage if we are unable to back up your breakers directly.

  • During a power outage, Brightbox allows you to backup your kitchen (including the refridgerator), bedroom and bathroom lights, garage door opener and wifi for approximately 8 to 12 hours. When the sun rises again, your solar panels will recharge your Brightbox battery. The most important rooms and appliances in your home will be powered by your home battery until the grid is up and running again. Learn more about how home solar batteries work.

  • It's possible, depending on the type of generator.

    For standby generators, the answer is no. We will not install a battery if you have one, because a standby generator is likely to damage your Sunrun equipment.

    For portable generators, the answer is yes. It is not connected to your house’s wiring, so you should be able to plug in to your generator without hurting your Sunrun equipment.

  • Your Brightbox home solar and battery system is grid-connected when the power is up and running. However, Brightbox 'islands' from the grid during power outages, allowing people to keep the lights on and food fresh. As soon as the utility restores power, the home solar battery system is grid-connected once again.

  • Just like solar panels, the size of your Brightbox solar battery is determined by your unique energy needs and habits. Factors such as the amount of electricity you use at home and the devices and appliances you want to back up will play a key role when selecting the right battery storage solution for you.

  • The Brightbox battery is about the size of a water heater and easily mounted on a wall — usually inside your garage or outside of your home. The clearance required for a Brightbox battery and its accompanying components is 6.5’ H x 10’ W.

  • Most residential batteries are installed and configured with baseline settings by your solar installer. Batteries last between 10 and 15 years, and manufacturers typically offer a 10-year warranty. Brightbox includes professional maintenance and monitoring for 25 years with select plans, two things that may prolong your battery's life.

  • You can monitor your Brightbox battery’s performance on mySunrun. We also manage the battery remotely to make sure it’s running as it should, and we automatically update your battery’s settings.

  • We control your settings to help maximize your battery’s benefits. We designed and programmed your system with utility rate offset, environmental impact and backup benefit in mind. Manual changes to when your battery charges and discharges could cause you to be without battery power when you need it most.

    To learn more about how your battery works throughout the day, visit education.sunrun.com/getting-started-brightbox

     

My Bills

  • If you didn’t pay for your solar system or electricity upfront, you’ll receive a monthly bill or invoice from Sunrun, either via email or in the mail. The invoice that you receive each month will list the amount due.

    In general, the amount of energy your home solar system produces each month will vary based on the weather, seasons and more. If your home uses more electricity than your panels produce, you’ll use some electricity from your utility. Your utility will bill you separately.

  • Signing up for autopay allows you to avoid paying a monthly processing fee, and it frees you from the hassle of remembering to pay manually each month. Your monthly payment is automatically withdrawn from your bank account on the last business day before your due date. If your due date falls on a Saturday, the payment will be deducted on the Friday before.

    To sign up for autopay, log in to your mySunrun.com account. Once you are logged in, look for the billing section on the account page.

    Unfortunately, we don’t accept credit cards for monthly payments at this time.

    You can cancel autopay in four quick steps:
    Click on the account tab
    Click on the billing tab
    Click on the green banner that reads “You are signed up for autopay. Click here to view your settings.”
    Scroll down and click on the discontinue autopay link. Follow the instructions provided.

    We don’t recommend canceling autopay as you may have to pay an ACH non-compliance fee. Before canceling autopay, you may want to check your contract to find out whether you’ll have to pay the fee or not.

  • This charge indicates that you are not signed up for autopay, also known as ACH. To avoid this charge in the future, simply enroll in autopay. To sign up for autopay, log in to your mySunrun.com account. Once you are logged in, look for the billing section on the account page.

  • Some agreements include what’s called an “annual escalator.” Once a year, you’ll see a small increase.

    By choosing a payment plan with an annual increase, you locked in the lowest possible starting rate. You can find more details about the annual escalator in your Sunrun agreement.

  • There are four ways to pay your monthly Sunrun bill:

    1. Enroll in autopay.

    The easiest way to make a monthly payment is to sign up for automatic payments using a checking or savings account. You can enroll by logging in to mySunrun.com.

    2. Pay online.

    You can make a one-time payment online using a checking or savings account or debit card. Simply log in to mySunrun, click on account, then click make a payment. Then enter your bank account and routing information.

    3. Pay by mail.

    Mail checks (U.S. bank accounts only) or money orders to:
    Sunrun, Inc
    PO Box 511612
    Los Angeles, CA 90051-8167

    Please be sure to enclose the check/money order deposit form with each payment and write your customer/proposal ID number in the memo line of your check. The form can be found at the end of your Sunrun agreement and the ID number is listed at the bottom of each page of your agreement. The agreement ID number is also your account number and can be found on your Sunrun bill.

    4. Pay by phone.

    Call Sunrun Customer Care at 855-478­-6786, ext. 2 to make a one-time payment using your checking or savings account or credit or debit card.

  • You can check your current outstanding balance by logging in to mySunrun and clicking on the account tab. From there, click on the billing tab. You will see your current balance due along with the due date and additional information. This information is also available on your monthly bill.

  • To change your billing preference, please reach out to Customer Care at (855) 478­-6786, ext. 2 or CustomerCare@sunrun.com.

  • To prepay the remaining balance of your contract, call Customer Care at 855-478­-6786, ext. 2.

  • You have three options to make a one-time payment:

    1. Pay online.
    You can make payments online using a checking or savings account. Log into your mySunrun account, navigate to the account section, click on make a payment.

    2. Pay by mail.

    Mail a check (U.S. bank accounts only) or money order to:

    Sunrun, Inc
    PO Box 511612
    Los Angeles, CA 90051-8167

    *If paying by mail, please 1) enclose the check/money order deposit form with your payment and 2) include your customer/proposal ID number in the memo line of your check. The form can be found at the end of your Sunrun agreement and the ID number is listed at the bottom of each page of your agreement.The agreement ID number is also your account number and can be found on your Sunrun bill.

    3. Pay by phone.
    Call Customer Care at 855-478­-6786, ext. 2 to make a one-time payment using your U.S. checking or savings account.

  • Payments for a full system purchase are due upon receipt of the invoice, typically on the first day you turn your system on.

  • Since your home is still connected to the grid, you will still receive a bill from your utility company. For months where your solar panels cover 100% or more of your home’s electricity usage, you will only receive a bill from your utility company for the taxes and fees associated with being connected to their grid. For months where your solar panels cover less than 100% of your home’s electricity usage, you will purchase the remaining electricity from your utility. Your utility will track how much power your home took from the grid and compare that to how much power your solar panels sent back to the grid, and it will charge you for the difference. This is known as net metering.

  • When the sun is shining, you may get all of your energy from solar, but due to things like weather, winter and nighttime, you will still have to buy some energy from the utility. As a result, you will still receive a utility bill, but it will be a little different from before.

    Your utility bill will now include energy that you sent back into the grid, as well as a billing credit as compensation. This credit will be debited from your total. If the credit is larger than what you owe for the energy you purchased, it will carry over to next month’s bill.

    Remember, this billing credit is only for the excess energy you sold back into the grid. It does not represent your full solar production. Most of the energy you produce is used right away. You will not see it on your utility bill because it never touched the grid, so your utility cannot see it.

  • The answer is simple but can make understanding your energy consumption a little more difficult. Your utility cannot see what your solar system is doing, and Sunrun cannot see what your utility is doing. As a result, your full energy portfolio is not as easy to see as we would like.

    Your energy falls into three different buckets.

    1 – Solar energy you use.

    2 – Solar energy you send to the grid.

    3 – Utility energy you bought from the grid.

    Sunrun can only see 1 and 2, but it cannot tell the difference between the two. This is your full solar production.

    Your utility can only see 2 and 3, but 2 only represents a small piece of your full solar production, because the majority of your solar production is used right away.

    As a result, your solar production at mySunrun.com and the data on your utility bill do not match. But don’t worry, they’re not supposed to!

  • There are a few reasons why your utility bills might be higher than you expected.

    Electricity usage - most people end up using more electricity after they go solar. Keep in mind that using more electricity than your panels produce means you’ll be buying more electricity from your utility company. If your utility bills have gone up, think about any lifestyle changes that may have impacted your home’s usage: a new addition to your household, new appliances, lowering the AC, etc. You can check to see if your home is using more electricity by looking at how many kWhs you received from your utility and comparing it to how many combined kWhs you received from Sunrun (this is equivalent to how many kWhs your panels produced, as shown on your mySunrun dashboard) plus the kWhs you received from your utility company (look for your “net usage” on your utility bill).

    Seasonality - no matter where you live, your solar panels will produce more electricity in the summer and less in the winter because days are shorter in the winter and the sun is lower on the horizon. Because of this, you may be drawing more electricity from your utility in the winter. This is completely normal, and your solar production will increase once winter is over. We recommend you look at your electricity costs on an annual basis to account for this seasonality.

    Solar production - if there is an issue with your solar panels, that will cause you to get more of your electricity from your utility company. Rest assured, if there’s an issue with your solar panels, we’ll let you know.

    While most high utility bills are caused by the above reasons, system issues do sometimes affect your solar energy production. If your contract includes remote monitoring, we monitor your system 24/7 and alert you if we suspect an issue. If you suspect a performance issue, first read your inverter display to see if you can troubleshoot the issue. You can always call 1-855-4SUNRUN to report an issue and get help.

  • There are a few reasons why your utility bills might be higher than you expected.

    Electricity usage
    Most people end up using more electricity after they go solar. Keep in mind that using more electricity than your panels produce means you’ll be buying more electricity from your utility company. If your utility bills have gone up, think about any lifestyle changes that may have impacted your home’s usage: a new addition to your household, new appliances, lowering the AC, etc. You can check to see if your home is using more electricity by looking at how many kWhs you received from your utility and comparing it to how many combined kWhs you received from your panels (this is equal to how many kWhs your panels produced, as shown on your mySunrun dashboard) plus the kWhs you received from your utility company (look for your “net usage” on your utility bill).

    Seasons
    No matter where you live, your solar panels will produce more electricity in summer and less in winter because days are shorter and the sun is lower in the sky in winter. Because of this, you may use more electricity from your utility in winter. This is completely normal, and your solar production will increase once winter is over. We recommend you look at your electricity costs on an annual basis to account for this seasonality.

    Solar production
    If there is an issue with your solar panels, you will have to use more electricity from your utility company. Rest assured, if there’s an issue with your solar panels, we’ll let you know.

    While most high utility bills are caused by the above reasons, system issues do sometimes affect your solar energy production. If your contract includes remote monitoring, we monitor your system 24/7 and alert you if we suspect an issue. If you suspect a performance issue, first read your inverter display to see if you can troubleshoot the issue. You can always call 855-478­-6786, ext. 2 to report an issue and get help.

  • California utilities now bill solar households only once a year. Instead of monthly bills, they send you a monthly statement so you can track your energy use. You'll only get an actual bill (called a true-up statement) once a year.

    Even though your overall energy costs are likely to be lower after you go solar, the annual bill will be for an entire year of energy use at once. Make sure you've budgeted accordingly.

    If you’d prefer to pay your utility monthly, most still give you this option if you give them a call.

    Utilities adopted the annual true-up because they anticipate that solar energy producers will use considerably less utility energy overall. However, they recognize that you will produce much more energy some months than others, so:

    You receive energy credits from the utility for energy you produce and don't immediately use.
    Unused energy credits roll over from month to month. Once a year, you and the utility will settle up.

My Sunrun

  • You can sign into the new My Sunrun with either the email address or mobile phone you have on file with Sunrun.

    To protect your privacy, we will send you a 6-digit verification code via email or text, depending on how you sign in. Enter the code, and you’re in!

  • Verification codes can take a few minutes to arrive.

    Before we resend it, make sure you are using the email address or mobile phone number associated with your Sunrun account, and check for typos.

    If everything looks right but you still haven’t received your code, repeat the initial steps. If you still have not recieved a code, you can contact Sunrun Customer Care at (855) 478-6786 for assistance.

  • Look for “Documents” in the main navigation. Click on it.

    You should now see a list that includes your contract, design plans and other documents. Click on any of them to see the full document. From there, you can download the file using the save button in the upper right.

  • Look for “Account” in the main navigation. Click on it.

    You should see a summary of your account. At the bottom, there are icons for Solar Panels, Battery and Inverter. Click on each to learn more about the equipment in your system.

    You can also find this information by going to “System Info” under “Energy System” in the main navigation.

  • My Sunrun keeps track of how much energy you produce. To see your production data, go to the main navigation and click “Energy System.” You should now see a bar chart with a snapshot of your production data from the last week.

    For more details, look for the “View this Month” button below the chart. Click it.

    You should now see a bar chart of energy produced in the last month. To see your data from an individual day, hover over or press on the bar for the day. This will reveal that day’s data.

    To change the timeframe, adjust the dropdown menu below the title of the chart.

    Besides solar production, you can also view charts of your “Total Energy Used” as well as how much surplus solar energy you sent “To Grid.” To see that data, click on the large house or power line icons near the top of the screen.

    After you click, you will notice that the new data is added to the chart. This is so you can compare. “Total Energy Used,” “Produced,” and “To Grid” all toggle on and off, so feel free to mix and match as you explore your data.

  • Your solar production data updates every 24-36 hours.

    If you are a Brightbox customer, your battery system sends us data every 4-6 hours. Data will update as soon as it becomes available.
     

  • Of course! You can export the data from any chart. Look for the “Export” button below the chart on the left. It has a downward pointing arrow icon.

    Data export depends on the graph shown on the screen. Including date range.

  • Your system tracks its battery activity, and reports it back to My Sunrun every 4-6 hours.

    To see what your battery’s been up to, go to the main navigation and click “Energy System.” You should now see a bar chart with a snapshot of your production data from the last week. Right above it you should see a battery icon with a percentage. That percentage is how full your battery is right now. Click on the battery icon.

    You should now see a snapshot of your battery activity from the past week.

    Note that your battery never reaches 0%. That is because we always save enough emergency backup power to get through a blackout.

    For more details, click on the “Yesterday’s Battery Activity” button below the chart. This will take you to a larger hourly chart of yesterday’s battery level.

  • To find out how much you owe, go to the main navigation, and click on “Billing.” You should now see your current balance as well as the due date.

  • To pay your bill, go to the main navigation, and click on “Billing.” You should see your total balance, a due date, and a big green button that says “Pay Now.” Click it.

    You can pay with either a bank account or a credit card. We currently only accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Select your payment method and click “Next” in the lower right corner.

    Paying with a new bank account:
    To add a new bank account, we need your routing and account numbers. If you don’t know them, look for a paper check. We can find both numbers there. Once you have them, enter the numbers and click “Next.”

    Paying with a new credit card:
    To add a new credit card, we need the usual details: number, name, expiration and CVV. The CVV is the 3-digit number on the back of your card. If you’re using American Express, the CVV is 4-digits. When you’re done, click “Next.”

    Now, we select how much to pay. We of course recommend paying the full account balance, but you can input another amount if you choose. Once you’ve selected how much to pay, click “Review.”

    Take a look at your payment details to make sure everything is correct. If it is, click “Confirm & Pay.”

    This should take you to a confirmation page. It may take a few seconds.

  • To set up Autopay, go to the main navigation, and look for “Billing.” Under “Billing” you should see “Payment Options.” Click on that.

    To turn on Autopay, we need to have a bank account on file.

    Using an existing account:
    If you already have a bank account on file, you should see it here. Click on your bank account, and you will find a checkbox that says “Make this my Autopay account.” Make sure that is selected, and click “Next” in the lower right corner.

    Using a new account:
    If you don’t already have one a bank account on file, click on “Add a payment method and activate autopay.”

    To add a bank account, we need your account and routing numbers. If you don’t know them, look for a paper check. We can find both numbers there. Once you have them, enter the numbers and click “Next” in the lower right corner.

    Take a look at your autopay details to make sure everything is correct. If it is, click “Confirm.”

    You should now see “Autopay On” next to your bank account. It may take a few seconds.

  • To view your transaction history, go to the main navigation, and look for “Billing.” Under “Billing” you will find “Billing History.” Click on that.

    You should now see a list of payments, invoices and other transactions. Click on a transaction to see any related documents. To download a document, look in the upper right for the “Save” button with a downward facing arrow icon.

  • Go to the main navigation, and click on “Preferences.” Look for “Paperless Billing” under “Billing Preferences,” and click on it.

    Here you can choose to receive your bill to your home address or to your email. Select your email, and you’re all set. It will save automatically.

Costco Members

  • You can reset your password by visiting this page and following the instructions. You’ll receive an email with a verification code. Sometimes our emails go to SPAM or junk folders, so please check those folders if you do not see the verification code email in your inbox.

    If you haven’t activated your mySunrun account, follow the first-time user instructions. You’ll receive an email with a verification code. Sometimes our emails go to SPAM or junk folders, so please check those folders if you do not see the verification code email in your inbox.

    How do I update or change my contact information?
    You can update most of your contact information by logging into mySunrun and going to the account section. From there, go to the Contact Information section and click to edit.

    If you need to make changes to other information, please contact Customer Care at 1-855-478-6786 or CustomerCare@sunrun.com.

  • You’ll still receive a bill from your utility each month. Now that you’ve switched to solar, your utility bill will look a little different. It will include monthly taxes and fees. It will tell you how much electricity you used from the utility, and how much electricity your solar system sent to the utility.

    Once a year, you’ll receive a true-up bill. It’s how you and the utility settle up — both how much you owe them for the grid power you used, and how much they owe you for your billing credits. You’ll pay a lump sum for the year.

    Your true-up bill usually comes soon after the anniversary of when you turned your system on.

    What is net metering and how does it work?
    Net metering is an arrangement between solar households and utilities. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home is using, extra energy is sent to the grid. In exchange, the utility gives you billing credit.

    When your home uses more electricity than your panels are producing, you’ll use electricity from the utility. Billing credits will help cover the cost of utility electricity before you begin to pay for power.

  • The Costco Cash Card amount is based on the pre-tax price of the solar equipment (including the modules, racking, inverter and battery, if you bought one) used for your system. Your Costco Cash Card will arrive four to six weeks after completion of the installation and signing the purchase order.

    If it has been over six weeks since your system was installed and you signed off on your purchase order, please contact Costco’s call center at 844-765-0251.

  • Why doesn't my production data match the readings on my meter or inverter?
    It can take up to 24 hours for the energy production data on mySunrun to reflect the readings on the meter. The lag will not affect your billing statement or the amount of power you are receiving.

    Can I add more panels?
    In most cases, we cannot add panels to an existing solar system. We’re happy to review your situation and see if more panels or a second system are possible. Please email membercare@sunrun.com, and include 12 months’ of utility bills that you’ve received since you’ve had solar power.

    Do I need to clean my panels?
    It’s normal for a little dust and dirt to build up on your panels. It won’t significantly impact your energy production, and a few rainy days a year are enough to clean your panels. If a lot of smoke, ash, or dust have dirtied your panels, they can be cleaned from the ground by pointing a hose up the roof. Avoid using metal objects or harsh abrasive products.


    How do I keep pigeons from roosting under my solar system?
    Solar panels sometimes provide an attractive place for pigeons to roost. In many instances, a critter guard can be installed to prevent animals from getting under the panels. If you are interested in critter guards, please contact Customer Care. We’ll provide a quote and help arrange the service for you.

    How do I read my Sunrun meter display? How can I troubleshoot my meter?

    Your Sunrun meter measures solar energy production and sends the data to Sunrun. We use that data to monitor your system and populate what you see in mySunrun.

    If your solar electricity production data doesn’t show up on mySunrun for over five days, there could be an issue. The display screen cycles through five pieces of information:
    A screen test where the display shows all eights.
    The total amount of electricity produced in kWh
    The current date
    The current time in 24-hour Pacific Time.
    An SSI code, which is a five-digit number following the letters “SSI”

    SSI Codes
    The SSI code can tell you whether the meter is working correctly. If there are five digits in the SSI code:
    The last two digits show the signal strength. Zero is the weakest signal and 99 is the strongest.
    The second and fourth digits show the meter state codes.
    The first digit shows the coverage status code.

    If there are six digits, the first digit is a warning code. If you see an error code, you can reset your system.


    Resetting Your System
    If you notice any error codes, reset the meter using the breaker switch labeled solar, PV, or photovoltaic.
    Shut this switch off for at least five minutes. Then switch it back on.

    How do I read my inverter display? How can I troubleshoot my inverter?
    The inverter is converts the direct current (DC) electricity from the panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home.

    Your inverter will have a light on it that indicates if it’s working correctly:

    Green: The system is producing electricity and there are no errors.
    Red: The system is not producing electricity (At night, the system will power down and show a red light or no light. It will automatically turn back on when there’s enough sun to produce electricity. If you see a red light when the sun is shining, there may be an issue.).
    Orange: The AC disconnect or breaker switch is off.

    Error Codes

    The inverter will also have a screen which may show an error message if the equipment is not working correctly. These are some of the most common error codes:

    Fac-Bfr: Ground Fault
    State 207
    Try the troubleshooting steps below if you happen to see one of these codes:

    1) Locate and reset your breaker switch

    This small switch should be in your main service panel with the rest of the breaker switches to your home, usually located at the very bottom or top of the panel. It should be labeled solar, photovoltaic, PV or Sunrun.
    Make sure this switch is in the on position.

    2) Reset the AC disconnect

    Generally this small box is located right near your inverter, the bigger box.
    The AC disconnect is a smaller 1’ x 1.5’ box with a large, lever switch on the right side.
    To turn this switch on, flip the switch into the upward position.

    3) Reset the inverter*

    The inverter is normally on the side of your home or in your garage.
    It’s the large 1.5’ x 3’ box with a circular dial switch on the bottom.
    If you cannot see the switch, it may be behind a door on the bottom third of the inverter.
    To turn this switch on, turn it a quarter turn clockwise until it is facing upward.

    *Some Sunrun systems have microinverters on each panel. These systems do not have a large inverter or a switch to turn.

    4) Check the inverter for continuing errors.
    Check the screen to see whether error codes return.
    Check the light on the face of the inverter to see whether it turns green, yellow or red.
    If the inverter error persists or a yellow or red light comes back, please make a note of any error codes and contact Customer care.