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Author: Kaitlyn Short

LAST UPDATED: December 17th, 2020

As one of Solar Power World Magazine’s “Top 500 Solar Contractors” six years running, 3D Solar has been serving the residential and commercial solar markets of Central Florida since 2013. Inc. Magazine named the company one of its 5,000 fastest growing companies in both 2018 and 2019, and the Tampa Bay Business Journal mentioned 3D Solar on three of its “Florida Fast 100” lists, and two of its “Florida Fast 50” lists. In short, 3D Solar has covered a lot of ground in a short time.

Top Ranked Companies

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The Good

  • Quality Solar Equipment
  • 25-Year Warranties
  • NABCEP Certified
  • “Top 500 Solar Contractor” 2015–2020

Quality Solar Equipment

3D Solar employs some of the best equipment in the industry for its solar energy systems. Though customers can select from an array of options depending on budget, 3D Solar primarily uses premiere solar panels from Silfab Solar, one of the top solar panel manufacturers in the world. Silfab Solar panels range from 17.6 to 19.4 percent energy efficiency, making it one of the top five energy-efficient modules available.

In addition to panels from Silfab, 3D Solar also uses inverter models from both Enphase and SolarEdge, both widely considered to be the top two micro inverter manufacturers around. Not only do they convert solar energy to usable home electricity at a high rate, but they also provide continuous consumption monitoring, and some models even come with a smart functionality that adjusts according to the household’s energy needs.

25-Year Warranties

3D Solar also offers some competitive warranties. On top of the 25-year equipment warranties from the manufacturers, which protects the system against problems caused by defective components, 3D Solar provides its own 25-year warranty that covers the following areas for the lifetime of the system:

  • Performance — 3D Solar guarantees its solar panel installations will perform at peak efficiency for at least 25 years, meaning the system’s panels will not degrade at an undue rate.
  • Workmanship — Every solar installation from 3D Solar is also covered for 25 years against problems brought on by installation errors.
  • Leakage — Roof-mounted systems are given additional protection in the form of leakage protection in the event that the racking equipment has in someway compromised the integrity of the roof’s flashing, shingles, or other components.

NABCEP Certified

3D Solar is also NABCEP certified. The NABCEP, or North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, sponsors some of the most advanced and rigorous certification programs in the solar industry. Companies with this certification demonstrate an expert knowledge of the standards and best practiced in solar installation, as well as the latest developments in solar technology.

“Top 500 Solar Contractor” 2015–2020

As mentioned above, 3D Solar has made Solar Power World’s “Top 500 Solar Contractors” list every year since 2015. This coveted spot is given to solar providers and installers that have installed noteworthy amounts of solar energy throughout their communities and service areas. In 3D Solar’s case, the company has installed more than 8 megawatts of clean renewable energy for both home and business owners across Florida. For context, a typical solar panel system in Florida requires about 5 kilowatts (1,000 kilowatts = 1 megawatt) of energy.

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The Bad

  • No Lease or PPA Option
  • Limited to Florida

No Lease or PPA Option

Unfortunately, 3D Solar does not appear to offer customers the option to go solar through a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA). Both of these options are cost-effective, low-risk methods that can help save on the utility bill without requiring a substantial upfront investment. That said, the company does provide direct purchase and solar loan financing for customers with a bit more to spend and would like to own their solar energy system outright.

Limited to Florida

3D Solar serves communities in the following Florida cities: Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, Pinellas, Orlando, Lakeland, Sarasota, Central Florida, Ft. Meyers, and Naples.

Based on 3D Solar’s Solar Power World profile, the company is in no shortage of qualified clientele; clearly 3D Solar has developed a positive reputation in its local community. But serving only a local market can put companies like 3D Solar at a disadvantage against nationally recognized solar providers. Promoting verified 3D Solar reviews from satisfied customers can be an effective way for the company to reach potential customers in its area who are still considering other options.

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The Bottom Line

Overall, 3D Solar bears several of the hallmarks of an experienced, quality solar provider. The company uses excellent equipment and offers customers literally “water-tight” warranties to protect their homes, solar panel systems, and wallets. Providing additional financing options like solar leases and PPAs would help elevate 3D Solar to be on the same level as leading solar providers, but their absence should not stop Florida residents from obtaining a free quote from this company.

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