Brio Energy Logo

Brio Energy

star star star star_border star_border

5.2

Overall Score

error This company may not service all states.
See states serviced
LAST UPDATED: January 15th, 2022
report_problem

Brio Energy is no longer in business. 

Brio Energy was absorbed by Avolta and is no longer in business. 

Brio Energy is a residential solar power provider that was founded in 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The company strives to provide clean, cost-efficient renewable energy to families while also helping them reduce their monthly energy bill.

Read on to discover The Good, The Bad, and The Bottom Line about Brio Energy, as well as view Brio Energy reviews from real customers.

Top Ranked Companies

thumb_up

The Good

  • Minimal Upfront Costs
  • Simple Solar Installation Process
  • Energy Efficient Home Audit
  • Competitor Price Matching
  • Several Warranties Available
  • Tax Credits and Rebates

Minimal Upfront Costs

Consumers have several options to choose from when it comes to buying a solar energy system through Brio Energy. The homeowner may purchase solar panels upfront with cash or credit card, or finance or lease the equipment to help minimize the upfront costs.

Brio Energy offers multiple loan options with terms ranging from 10, 12, and 20 years, which gives consumers flexibility in purchasing solar panels and other equipment. Plus, Brio Energy provides the first year of power for free to customers who finance with a loan. Both direct purchase and loan financing options qualify homeowners for the federal solar tax credit, currently worth 26 percent of the total upfront costs!

Simple Solar Installation Process

The entire process for residential solar installation projects is simple:

1. First, one of the company's trained energy consultants will look at the customer's energy needs and show them their projected savings while answering any other questions they may have.

2. Next, Brio Energy's service professionals will look at the customer's home and create a custom panel design to maximize savings while keeping the home beautiful.

3. After that, the company's service professionals will take care of all permits and paperwork that the customer's city and community require.

4. Once permitting is complete, Brio Energy's installers will come out to the home and install the rooftop solar system in 4 to 8 hours. Inspectors will then check and approve the installation.

Energy Efficient Home Audit

Brio Energy conducts an energy savings home audit along with the purchase of one if its solar systems. The audit includes a smart thermostat, as well as replacement of all lights with LED lights. These LED lights come with a 5-year warranty have a life expectancy of 20 years, which translates to huge power bill savings over time. Few solar companies offer this perk for homeowners.

Competitor Price Matching

Brio Energy will match a competitor's installation price estimate, but a copy of the competitor's quote must be provided.

Several Warranties Available

All solar energy systems installed by Brio Energy include a 25-year warranty on residential solar panels from the manufacturing company.

In addition to this, Brio Energy also offers a 25-year warranty on materials and labor to give homeowners confidence in their rooftop solar systems.

Tax Credits and Rebates

The federal government offers a tax credit that will pay for up to 26 percent of a solar energy system. That, combined with the state tax incentive, rebates, and other incentives, can help homeowners cover a large portion of the cost of their system. Residents in qualifying states could also receive net metering from their local utility company, which credits them for surplus solar energy.

Brio Energy can provide information on which incentives are available in a specific area, as well as how to apply for those incentive programs.

thumb_down

The Bad

  • Cancellation Fees
  • Short Time in Business

Cancellation Fees

If a customer chooses to pay for their solar power system with cash, the solar installer requires 50 percent of the cost to be paid at the time of the initial sale, while the rest is due on the installation date.

The company charges a cancellation fee on a case-by-case basis that may equate to $1,500 or more. Additional fees may also apply, depending on the products selected at the time of solar panel installation.

Short Time in Business

Brio Energy has only been in business for a few short years. Unlike many of its competitors, the company has not yet proven itself to be financially stable or trustworthy over an extended period of time. Some consumers may prefer to work with a more established solar company.

gavel

The Bottom Line

Brio Energy strives to give consumers the best solar energy systems for their individual needs. The company provides free in-home consultations and multiple financing options to reduce upfront costs along with the monthly utility bill.

However, Brio Energy charges steep cancellation fees and still needs time to prove itself as an established competitor in the solar industry.

View Best Solar Companies

Was this content helpful?
thumb_up Yes thumb_down No

Star Rating

info

3.1

star star star star_border star_border

78 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

50%

4 grade

1%

3 grade

3%

2 grade

1%

1 grade

45%

Sentiment Criteria

Value

star star star star_half star_border

Quality

star star star star_border star_border

Service

star star star star_border star_border

Trustworthiness

star star star star_border star_border
cancel

Filter by:

arrow_drop_down

Sort by:

arrow_drop_down
info
star star star star star

James Asheville, NC

We were a little hesitant after reading reviews, both good and bad, but the salesman assured us changes had been made to improve communication and processes and that he would personally ensure everything went smoothly. Ultimately, it did. There were a few hiccups, the installers forgot an item and had to come back the next day to finish everything up. And the final Duke inspection took a little while to actually happened, but we are now officially solar powered. Communication from Brio was excellent and everyone we worked with or talked to was professional and helpful. Definitely recommend Brio for your solar needs!

5 years ago

star star star star star

Cassandra Willow Springs, NC

This is the best solar company around ! The staff came to my door and explained that they want a personal connection with each customer, they were very nice and extremely knowledgeable, installation was easy and there were no upfront cost ! I simply just got a cheaper electrical bill at a fixed flat rate. Also I got tax creds of 6,500$ and it increased my property value by 30,000$ , and duke even gave me a rebate of 3,000$ for signing up! Not only am I helping save the planet by using renewables , I’m saving hundreds on my electric bill! I would recommend to everyone in the world if I could !

5 years ago

star star star star star

JK San Antonio, TX

Brio Energy managed my solar photovoltaic (PV) system installation from start to finish. They kept in constant contact, advising me about every milestone of the process. Their efforts included generating detailed system pricing and electrical capacity information, providing system payment options, and arranging for optimum aesthetic and functional system design. They further worked hand-in-hand with the installation company, arranged all inspections, submitted rebate paperwork with the utility company, and set up final system activation, along with customer follow-up. Thanks to their keen attention to detail and impeccable customer support, Brio Energy made the entire process virtually effortless for me.

7 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Evalyn Jannette Springfield, MA

I was very nervous about choosing the best solar company to work with for our homes installation. After choosing Brio Energy, I couldn’t be happier with our decision. Brio’s team was helpful and always responsive to our questions and concerns. It was clear that they cared about us and providing quality work for my home’s installation. Would definitely recommend using Brio Energy if you are considering converting to solar.

2 years ago

star star star star star

Adrien Raine Phoenix, AZ

After much research we chose Brio Energy for our installation and we are so glad we did. Not only are they very professional but they also make you feel comfortable to ask any and all questions that come up so you feel completely confident during the process and after. Very happy with our experience with Brio Energy and highly recommend this company!

2 years ago Edited December 1, 2021

star star star star star

Troy Robison Orem, UT

I was not planning on having solar at my house, until I had one of Brio's sales show up on my door. I was really impressed with his presentation, the company, and the benefits of having solar. I have had a great experience with everyone I have met with, talked over the phone with, and have had any encounter with. I would recommend them to anyone interested and not even interested in getting solar at their house. Troy Robison

5 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

star star star star star

Al Soto Candler, NC

I recently decided to have solar panels installed on my home through Brio Energy. The sales process was smooth and both the sales reps and installers were very helpful in helping me understand the process. My favorite part about my new 8kWh system is that it didn't cost me anything out of pocket, I pay a small monthly bill that is less than what my utility bill was. No brainer.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Robin Gallons Pleasant Grove, UT

I was a little skeptical about solar to begin with but my wife convinced me to meet with a rep from Brio. After listening to the initial proposal I began to look more into it and found that solar really would save me money in the long run. My wife and I decided to go solar through Brio and the process has been great. We have had a few road bumps with permits and our HOA, but the people at Brio were very good at keeping us in the loop and walking us through the process. Our panels are up and running as of a few weeks ago and we are already saving money.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Jules E Charlotte, NC

I‘ve been very pleased with all of my dealings with Brio. I had a consultant come to my house and was impressed with the quality of information I received. From that point forward, everything went as planned, which was somewhat surprising to me, based on stories I have heard about solar installs from some friends who worked with other solar companies in the western US. As far as a local company in Charlotte, I think they are the best

5 years ago

star star star star star

Michael Gall Provo, UT

Brio installed a 5kWh system on my roof; the entire process took us about four months from the time they knocked on my door to having operational solar panels. I began seeing savings as soon as my panels were up and running.... before Brio I was paying around $150 a month, and now I pay nothing to the utility company and have a solar system. Brio is great, I would recommend them to anyone.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Adam Bailey Provo, UT

Brio was great! I've read a lot of other reviews here before I signed with Brio, and the problem, after talking to our solar consultant, was normally the city slowing the process down. So with that in mind, we signed up and called the city a few times to make sure the process went smoothly! We signed up earlier this year, the panels we're up on our roof within a few weeks! We're saving loads of money already on our electricity bill, and I'm excited to see what we start saving here in the hotter summer months!

5 years ago

Brio Energy Logo

Reply from Brio Energy

Thank you for sharing your experience! We appreciate your understanding of certain limitations on system finalization due to city inspections and requirements! We're happy to hear that you're panels are up and running and that you're saving money!

Jul. 12th, 2018

star star star star star

Jerom Ashford Provo, UT

Brio is pretty amazing. They are extremely competitive with product and price in an oversaturated market. They come out on top and have carved out a reputation for supreme customer service. They make everything easy for customer and employee. Cancellation is a breeze, and flexible. It's a safe and secure company to go for. They do such a good job at taking care of customer and employee alike it is amazing to see. Brio is the best company ever.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Justin R. Arvada, CO

I just meet with the guys from Brio, they are more professional then any other solar company I have had in my home. They answered all my questions and even some that I didn't know I had. I would strongly recommend them to everyone! Thanks Brio!

5 years ago

star star star star_border star_border

Lawand Deese Waxhaw, NC

I had a Brio sales agent come and give a power point presentation of how Solar lighting is the best way to go for a cheaper electric bill. I listened to the presentation, then told the salesman that I wanted to do research before making such a costly decision. He tried to get me to sign up for an inspector to come out. I told him that nothing would be done until I did research. he then wanted to see if I qualified by pulling my credit. I again reminded him that I wanted to do research about this company and asked for the name of the company he worked for? He gave me a bogus name. I then looked his name up and saw that he had a profile on LinkedIn and that he worked for Brio. No card,brochures or anything. You have to do research before making a 50K dollar decision. Needless to say, if he could not be honest about the name of the company he worked for, he wasn't being honest about the numbers he crunched. The last offer (pitch) he gave me was his company would pay my power bill for 1 year but he had to call and see if he could get them to pay for 2 years if I agreed to install solar energy.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Corey Miller Provo, UT

Brio has really taken care of me. I had a little trouble in the beginning with some city inspectors, but after letting Brio know what was going on they did everything to make it right. Would highly recommend them to any friends of mine.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Michael

This is the best solar company in Denver! Their customer service and sales consultants were very helpful and knowledgeable! I'm glad I had the opportunity to work with them and not, well some of the other companies around here that don't give a crap about their customers!!??

7 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Aaron Helme Minneapolis, MN

We are extremely pleased with the work done by the entire Brio team. From start to finish, someone was always available to answer my questions and I can’t thank Brio enough for making this process so easy!

2 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Meryl Nothwood

It was so comforting to work with Brio’s rep who was so informed and kind throughout the entire process. We were never left questioning anything. Marc really put us at ease and we are so happy we chose Brio to work with!

2 years ago

star star star star star

Aaron Denver, CO

I went solar with Brio a couple months ago, and they were extremely professional and responsive to any questions I had throughout the process. I would highly recommend Brio to anyone looking to go solar.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Molly Denver, CO

They were very professional throughout the process, and answered any questions that I have, and I consider myself to be quite hands on when it comes to projects around the house.

4 years ago

star star star_border star_border star_border

Ted Gren Salt Lake City, UT

Brio are great, until you sign a contract! Once you sign a contract, they don't keep appointment's. I wasted an entire Saturday, waiting for them to show up, to map out where to install them! They finally showed up about 4 hours later, than they said. Then I wasted another Saturday waiting for them to show up to install them. They came and installed my neighbors and damaged their roof, during the installation. They are not happy, with Brio either! They finally showed up a week later, with no warning. I was in the shower and they banged on the door! Once installed, a tech had to come and install a new wall unit, because it wouldn't keep working. He made some calculation's with the numbers on the meter and told me that I needed at least one more panel and possibly two. So I called Brio, probably 15 times, but could never talk to anyone, but the phone answerer. Each time she promised that the right person would call to make an appointment to come and fix the problem. No-one has ever called! Their warranty is worthless! If you ever have a problem, they will never take care of it. I was promised a $9 power bill. That has happened a couple of times in the two plus years, since I bought the system. If you buy from Brio, you will be very disappointed, don't do it! If it isn't delivering, when it is new, it is very unlikely that it will even be doing as well twenty years from now? I wish, that I would have gone with a different company! I am very dissatisfied! Their financing sucks! After paying on them for more than two years, the principle has hardly gone down at all! I cashed out my 401K just to pay it off. There was no way, that it was going to be paid off in 20 years!

5 years ago

star star star star star

Charlotte Sanders Provo, UT

It's been great working with Brio so far. Got the panels back at the end of March. I've been saving money since I got the panels turned on. I've been recommending Brio to all my friends!

5 years ago

star star star star star

Jerry Merz Las Vegas, NV

Great customer service, awesome price on system. Great warranties, as well as the time to install was fast. Also we loved our energy consultant. Recommended them to my brother in law, and would recommend them to everyone.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Mikael Foster Phoenix, AZ

Brio’s team was nothing but professional. Their rep was amazing at laying out every detail of the process and the entire process was very efficient and seamless.

2 years ago Edited December 9, 2021

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Ken Magee Clover, SC

Brio Energy has only one tech in the state of SC, and that tech's main responsibility is inspecting new systems. Their secondary responsibility is service. My system ran for four months before failing on March 28, 2021. It is now May 21, 2021 and two incorrect diagnosis later, and a replacement inverter that just shipped from SolarEdge a week ago that cannot be installed yet because I am not a new install inspection, means I will remain down until the inspector has time for me. This is a God-awful company; dirt-poor customer service, and no response to tickets opened using their support portal until you file a BBB complaint to the Utah BBB, or constantly call them. Avoid them at all costs. Their name changed from Total Solar Solutions, to Bello Solar, and now to Brio Energy. Sound like a furniture company? Constantly having a going out of business sales and buy as-is with no service? That sums up Brio Energy. If you do not live in Utah, avoid this company at all costs.

2 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

John Wilson Pittsboro, NC

Stuck with 20yr loan that costs double the price of utility power We had a good start with Brio. Their friendly sales rep showed us how we would save because Brio's solar panels will cost the same as our current energy usage, loan terms were low, they'll do all our permit requests, even for our HOA, and help with securing tax rebates to offset some of the expense. After about 6 months of waiting for the various permit processing our solar panels finally arrived and were installed, and we were all happy. Or so we thought. Once Brio got our money and the loans started, things went pear-shaped. The panel array on our roof--supposed to cover our power needs--didn't even cover 30% of our needs. That power the panels generated also cost 2x the price than what we would've paid through our power utility. It took over a year of us repeatedly contacting Brio (most responses involved us needing to call a third party that was great in ignoring our pleas for help) before we got a defunct panel fixed. There is no contract where Brio lays out what our panels will produce--only a contract with a credit agency--so we're stuck with paying double the price of energy (once for the solar panel loan and again for the energy we have to purchase because the panels are insufficient despite claims they would meet our needs) for the next two decades!

3 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Boulware family Durham, NC

The following is the exact representation of our experience with Brio that we described to the BBB: To sum it up; the problems with Brio is a lack of communication, follow up, and failure to complete contractual task (either at all or in a respectable time). Brendan W was the sales consultant we spoke with in early August and after reviewing options we elected to go solar with Brio to represent our installation. After the first few weeks to request permits; we heard from Brio regularly. Other than having to resend documents/info several times (I.E. HOA contact etc.) we did not have many issues with Brio. Permits where approved and we had to repeatedly contact Brio to start installation. They advised that installation would be done in 48 hrs. and it took over 3 weeks. The process was delayed at this point because Brio had to offer us an alternate brand of panels because they had an issue getting the ones accepted on the contract. They began at the end of October 2018 and their crew left half way through and did not return for another 2 weeks (leaving material spread through the backyard). After the installation of the solar panels; an interconnection request is needed for the Energy company (Duke Energy) to conduct their approval of the site and to approve activation of the system. I have the request form that I electronically signed 11/18/2018 and this wasn't finalized until 12/28/2018, because Brio was not sending the appropriate information in a timely manner to the necessary representatives. At this point we had taken the responsibility that the installer (Brio) said they would handle, as it appeared that our project was no longer their concern. So finally, the interconnection request was approved and in February 2019 our system was prepared to be turned on; 6 months after the agreement. During this time we had to research and complete the process for the Duke rebate (Brio said they would handle and did not), we had to get them to correct the error of the Brio bonus that they offered (they initially only gave us a partial bonus amount), and also work our way through the tax incentive; whereas we received misinformation and little assistance. The system seemed to be working as we gave it two full energy cycles to ensure solar production. March and April production was satisfactory and then we started to notice a decline in May, continuing into June. By August 2019 there was no longer any solar energy being transferred to the grid. I began calling Brio and sending e-mails with no response whatsoever. Calls go straight to an unmonitored voicemail and it wasn't until I contacted Brendan W (consultant) that he gave us another contact, He is no longer affiliated with Brio, but was more helpful than anyone from this unprofessional company, Last week, Brio finally sent a contractor to replace the inverter (that was set to be done two weeks ago, but the inverter was sent to S.C. instead of Raleigh). However; we were not notified that the contractor was scheduled to come that day. I heard loud banging and went outside surprised to find someone working on it. Relieved, I continued my work inside patiently waiting for the solar completion. After 2 hours I went back outside to find the contractor gone and some manuals on the inverter. They replaced the inverter, but did not turn the system on. After contacting the equipment manufacturer Solar Edge, they set me up an installer account so I can go through the process of turning on the system. I should not be having to do these steps and be responsible for activating the system, but since at this point Brio is utterly unreliable, we have no choice. So to this day we are paying the loan for the solar panels and HIGH energy bills. Based on the product presented to us and the expected performance illustrated on the contract; the solar production should cover 97% of our energy consumption. If a class action law suit is initiated then I would gladly be apart of it!

4 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Brandi Noyce Ogden, UT

Brio was great to work with in the beginning. Almost felt like they would bend over backwards to help customers!! After having solar installed for almost a year we noticed a leak in our roof. We had a bubble from water that was a 4×3 spot. Tried calling them to get someone to come help fix the water damage to our roof. I was told they sold our contract, without any notice or information, to another company. I then tried calling the new company and they have no records of out solar install. Its been 6+ months of constant phone calls, mostly with no responses from anyone at Brio Energy. Be careful doing business with this company. Its been nothing but a nightmare after they finished our install and got our money.

4 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Carl Austin, TX

Brio Energy gave us a detailed presentation on what solar energy could do for us and how the City of Austin incentives and Federal tax refunds would make the price almost nothing. As it turned out, Brio Energy would not do the planning & installation themselves but were representing Centrair. We paid the up front fee required and were to have the installation start in about 2 months. We received the plans and diagrams within the 2 months, but not the panels. Brio Energy gave us excuses for the delays - new in the area & needed to complete a job, City of Austin would only let them do 2 jobs at a time, and other excuses. Then we received a letter from the City of Austin that Centrair had been removed as a provider for the incentive program. We tried to contact Centrair and their telephone was not answered. We then contacted Brio Energy and found out our representative was no longer with the company. I talked to 3 different representatives at 3 different times and was told they were working to get a replacement or to work with Centrair. None of the 3 ever got back to me. In fact I told the 3rd rep that Centrair's address in NV (main office) was not valid - registered mail returned to me after being forwarded to a new address - and she had no knowledge of it. Brio Energy was supposed to be assisting me with Centrair or a replacement company and avoided me completely. Don't expect to have a completion when scheduled or support when there is an issue. Still don't have Solar. I did not pay Brio Energy, but they were paid by Centrair.

4 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

K Anderson Sandy, UT

Panels have been live for 3 months now. Our contract says we would get a system that covers 100% of our power bill. The first two power bills we received after the system was turned on were over $350 each. Lorenzo who has been our contact has stopped responding to us. It’s been 9 days since we last emailed him with two follow up messages. Nothing. Aside from them being non responsive to us now, we told Brio that we wanted to wait until we finished our addition before installing the panels and explained that we did not want any electrical conduit on the outside of the house. We asked them if they needed to install any wiring prior to drywall in order to accomplish this. They said no. Once the addition was complete we called Brio to schedule the install. When the installers came they said they knew nothing about our request to not have any exposed conduit on the side of the house. So of course to not have any conduit, they have to cut drywall throughout the house to feed all the wires through the walls and ceilings. The installers, who were Brio subcontractors, were fair to work with but complained about working for Brio. Unless Lorenzo or someone else addresses our issues with why we have had two $350/month power bills, I cannot recommend this company and would actually say to avoid them. If they do address our concerns satisfactorily, then we will modify our review accordingly.

5 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Haley Jacobson Orem, UT

Signed up for panels in May 2017, there was not any communication on their part right from the get go! The panels did end up being installed on my roof at the end of summer, and then once again, no communication from them. Lots of dodging my calls, giving me the run around, and absolutely no information on why my panels were not turned on. I ended up having to make all their appointments for them, with Rocky Mountain Power, the city, etc. I am not sure why a paying customer had to do their jobs for them. It took me until December 31, to get someone out to my residence to turn the panels on! Side note: the tax credit, we signed up knowing we would receive at least 10k, back on our taxes to put towards our loan. Surprise, surprise, they did not tell us the full truth once again! We not only didn't get the tax credit, but no one at Brio could tell me why! Now the panels are not working like they promised, and our power bill has only gone down $20 instead of the full amount like promised! Paying the loan amount and our regular power bill has definitely not saved us any money!!!! And now no one will return my calls or emails, to get this issue taken care of! Don't waste your time with Brio, they are terrible communicators, and will swindle you out of money too!!!

5 years ago

Brio Energy Logo

Reply from Brio Energy

Haley, I'm sorry you've had a hard time contacting us. We've recently changed our customer service e-mail. Please e-mail us at and we'll be sure to respond!

Jun. 6th, 2018

star star star star star

Becca Lexington, SC

The people with Brio Energy were very nice to work with they were so understanding and helped me and my husband make a wonderful decision for ourself by going SOLAR!!

5 years ago

Brio Energy Logo

Reply from Brio Energy

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! Enjoy your panels!

May. 23rd, 2018

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Heath Johns Island, SC

Using Brio Energy for this solar panel deal has been the worst decision of my life . Their sales pitch is amazing . They will truly lead you to believe you will save tons of money and eliminate your electric bill. Well I'm telling you first hand this is not the case . I was proposed and sold a system that would be 100% efficient. My system last month did not even produce half of my usage . So lets go back to the beginning . They started the install in October of 2017 two months has went by and they still haven't finished installing them . I haven't heard from them once . By then I started receiving my payments from Greensky , so I contacted Greensky and refused to pay for this until it was working . That didn't happen so now I am paying a electric bill and Solar panel payment for another 2 months . They finally got them working at the end of January . February of 2018 was the first month they have been on for a full month . My system produced less then half of my usage . So its very clear my system is insufficient . I will always have a Electric bill along with a very expensive solar panel payment, hundreds and hundreds of dollars more then what I been paying for electric . The tax incentives they sell you are lies. They are stretched out over several of years not the first two . When you call with complaints you will talk to different people every time all giving you a good song and dance. When ask to speak to managers they are usually out to lunch. Dont expect a call back . Since these Solar Panels have touched my property they have done nothing but been extremely costly and stressful . This company is a fraud !! I am currently working with attorneys . I will also be in contact with news investigation teams and the Better Business Bureau.

6 years ago Edited September 14, 2021

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Hans Peterson Roy, UT

I never take the time to leave a review but in this case I felt it necessary to do so. Our experience started with a salesperson Scotty coming to our property and going over all the deductions and refunds we would have on our taxes. We were presented a price (around 90k) for all 4 of our apartment units. We qualified for 63k and 15 minutes later the price was now 63k. I was shocked that they originally tried to mark up everything that much that they had the room to go from 90k to 63k without batting an eye. I should have stopped there, but we were told that all the incentives were going away in 2018, so we needed to get it now to claim the rebates. We scheduled everything and were promised it would be installed before 2018 to get the rebates for 2017 tax returns. This was in October. A month went by and nothing much happened, but we had our loan. After calling them to make sure we were still on schedule they said they were waiting on an engineer but that they would be done by the end of year. A guy came out and looked at our roof and said they would call later that day to schedule some things with us. A few days went by and we didn't hear anything so we called in again. We were told they should have called but somehow didn't. And he said they were making sure our roof worked still but I would get a call later that day to confirm we were good. A few more days went by with no call back so we called in again. They said they were waiting on our roof to get looked at by engineering. I said they had already done that, I was told I would get a call back later that day to confirm that. No surprise, no call. I called a couple days later and was told the same thing. We were now getting closer to the end of the year and I called and said we were promised that it would be done by year end so we could claim the credit for taxes. We were told this probably wouldn't happen.... and that they dont guarantee the tax credits or the amounts. I told him Scotty went over all of them with us and told us the amounts for each unit. I was then told during that phone call that they were going to have to do only 1 power inverter box instead of 4 because of cost. I told him that would decrease our rebate by 75% and i would no longer be interested if that was the case.The guy said Scotty no longer works for us for issues like this. I then said I wanted clarification on the rebates because of the 4 unit property. After not being able to get a straight answer I was told a supervisor would call me right back. I then said we wanted to cancel . I was then told I would get a call later that day. Surprise, no call. I called Scotty our sales person and he said he would call me back with what was going on. No call back. Called him again and he said if we didn't cancel they would bump us up and have it done in time. Otherwise we would owe 1,000 to cancel. I said let's do it if it will for sure be done and the 4 units had inverters for the rebates. He said it would. Another week went by and nothing had changed, I called in and the guy said they were waiting on permits from the city. I called a week later after hearing nothing and the guy said they submitted permits a couple days ago and were waiting on the city. When I said I was told over a week ago that they they already been submitted and that he us now waiting they barely submitted them he claimed that it was a miscommunication. It was now almost the end of December at this point and I was now told again that it would probably not be done in December but I could just claim rebates next year. I told them of my frustration with the terrible communication and lies and back and forth and inconsistencies with what I was being told and that again i wanted to cancel. I was told I owed 15 percent of the loan amount (60k). I said I was told 2 weeks earlier that Scotty told us it would be 1000. He said Scotty shouldn't have said that and that he no longer does sales because of lots of complaints like that. I said I wanted to talk to a manager I was placed on hold and now told I owed them 3200 to cancel.BEWARE!

6 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Eddy Bennion Ogden, UT

First, the salesman was very kind a patient in answering all of my questions but the quote was inflated and misleading. Quote issues - Quoted potential yearly energy production of 9,963 kWh. I am a mechanical engineer and have taken courses on solar energy so I did the math. With a 4.48 kW system (which was quoted), based on Utah solar data, the maximum potential power production from this system would be roughly 8,000 kWh. This is assuming a perfect system with no losses. If you account for realistic losses it puts the number closer to 6,700 kWh. You might think that this could be my error in calculating, but I have received four additional quotes from four different solar companies with similar sized set ups that show power production numbers confirming my calculations. - The quote showed that my current electric bill is $215 per month. I calculated my bill afterwards and called Rocky Mountain power to set up equal pay. My actually average bill is $175 over the last 12 months. The quote calculation may have just used the average of the three highest, but either way, I can't help but feel that is was a dishonest portrayal to make the quote look better. - The offset percentages in the quote seem off as well. The utility bill should be offset by a higher percentage than the energy consumption because you eliminate the higher tiers from rocky mountain. This was opposite in the quote. Other issues - The tax incentive was falsely presented. The amount was correct, but I asked directly if I could expect to get that amount back in my next years taxes and was told yes. This is incorrect. The credit only goes against your tax liability. It does carry over, so eventually you get it all back, but it could be spread out over several years, and in my case up to 4 or 5 years. - I was told that Brio guarantees the energy production quoted to within 0.5%. However, on page 9 of the quote it states "All numbers and figures presented here are estimates based on current trends and weather patterns. This document presents them as an estimate and should be treated as such." Which again, I can''t help but feel that I was mislead, and a verbal statement doesn''t hold up against what is written. - Lastly, I did not like the push to get me to sign up for the discount. Any company that has their customers best interest at heart would be willing to give them time to figure out what is best for them without having the price change. In all of the quotes I have received Brio has also been the highest price. In some cases by as much as $5,000 and that was for a better rated system that still had the same warranties. There are several good solar companies out there and I still plan to go solar, but I highly recommend steering clear of brio.

6 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Kerry Dixon Ogden, UT

Beware! Our criteria for deciding to go with solar energy was that the monthly cost would be offset by the savings in our power bill. There initial quote was great! It saved us over $50 per month. Who wouldn't go with that? Before signing the emailed docu-sign document, I went through the calculations and determined that they had miscalculated our yearly energy by 15%! Obviously I didn't sign and it took them over a month to re-calculate the the correct energy requirements and provide a new quote. Was this initial quote a "mistake" or was it intended so it would meet our criteria? The new monthly cost of the new quote was about $20 more than our average power bill. That was the first red flag and I should have pulled the plug then. I didn't and signed. The "simple" 1 day install took over a week. The city inspector requires them to fix several items. That was 10 days ago. I called today to see when they were scheduled to fix these items and they don't even have a date schediuled! We just received our GreenSky statement and found that they submitted and received payment after the installation. I did not authorize this and now have NO leverage to have them complete the project. $35,000 dollars worth of panels and equipment and I have no idea if and when they will ever be functional. What I have learned: 1) Verify your energy needs yourself. Don't trust these guys! 2) Have them guarantee an installation date. Ours went on for nearly 3 months. 3) Modify the contract to allow payment only after the panels are functioning. Not once installed. 4) Go with another company.

6 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Jason Salt Lake City, UT

A Duane Minnis came to our door in Farmington. I was at work but got to hear from my very frustrated wife how this slick sales guy bamboozled his way into my home, ignored my wife's repeated statements that we were not interested and that now was not a good time, awkwardly forced Rocky Mountain Power into giving him information on our home, and wasted 20 mins of my wife's time while she was in the middle of trying to feed and take care of our three month old baby and a toddler at home. I agree with a previous review. This may be the best solar company in the word (in terms of their actual product--though I doubt it for how pushy they are with their sales team) but I will never be a customer because of how their representative treated my wife. Be warned and stay away from these guys. Pushy, slick, rude, and forceful sales tactics are a sign of a company that will not last and is only in it for a "fast buck."

6 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Kristine Franke Hill San Antonio, TX

We were promised, by the Brio salesman, that we would not have to pay any out of pocket costs for the solar panels, that our local energy company would take care of that payment and we would pay the electric company (CPS) directly. Our electric bill would carry a $75 monthly fee that would go to pay for the panels. For one year we did not have to make any payments, but now GreenSky is demanding $107 a month payment for the panels. When we called Brio they denied ever making such a promise. We are very upset as we made it clear we could not afford another bill payment and were assured we would not have to have one. Thinking of looking at legal action against Brio.

6 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

S.L. Salt Lake City, UT

I don't know much about Brio Energy, but I do know that their salesman, Mike S, is terrible and therefore I want nothing to do with Brio Energy. Mike showed up at 8pm a few Tuesdays ago to meet with my husband and I. Mike started in on his sales pitch. He barely looked at me at beginning of the conversation until he realized, based on my husband's behavior, that I was the primary decision-maker in the family. At that point, he focused on me. He had a power point presentation that he flipped through. The frustrating thing to me was that what he was talking about often didn't match what was on the screen. He also didn't allow us time to read what was on the screen because he continued talking without giving any pauses to read. I took a few pictures of the power point so I could refer back to it later. One slide of the presentation stated the type of panel that would be used on the house. The slide advertised a German-made solar panel and explained all the benefits of that particular panel. However, when Mike was showing us the specs for our home, the type of panel he had listed wasn't the German-made panel that had been advertised in his presentation. I asked him why that was, but he didn't really provide an answer. At one point he stated that our electric bill was about $80 per month. I can only guess that he got that number from the ONE bill I'd shown the guy who scheduled the initial appointment. Before Mike had come to my home, I calculated my average electric bill and found it to be $49. I told him so. He didn't believe me, so I showed him the screenshot I'd taken on my phone. He said, "Well, I can try to work with that" and then continued on in his presentation. Later, when he was showing us why solar would save us money, he said, "Well, since Rocky Mountain Power rates are going up, instead of using your average of $49, let's just use $70 to compare to what you'd be paying in solar". I laughed at this and told him, "No, we should compare it to $49 because that's what I'm currently paying." He then said, "Okay, how about $60." I told him fine, but even then, it was still cheaper than solar power. And instead of taking only 3 years to pay off, he said it'd take 7-8 years. Honestly, we aren't even sure if we'll still be in that home for 7-8 years, so that didn't really persuade us either. There were several unanswered questions. I already mentioned one. But another one was this. The quote he gave us was for 14 panels. It was obvious we didn't need that maney so we asked about getting fewer panels. He said that he could maybe talked someone into doing only 12 panels. I asked him why there was a minimum amount of panels, why they couldn't give 8 or 10 instead. He couldn't/wouldn't answer this VERY simple question. I was honestly just curious why. One slide in his presentation stated that the better business bureau gave Brio an A+. Mike pointed this out and said we should base our information on that. However, when I checked the BBB, I found they have a B+, not an A+ as Mike stated. The most frustrating part of the evening was when we were just about finished. When Mike had first arrived, before we even got started, my husband told Mike, "We aren't the kind of people who make major decisions spontaneously and that we wouldn't make any decisions regarding solar until at least one night's sleep." We wanted to let him know this so he wouldn't try to pressure us to sign anything that night. Well, he was going over our quote and then started listing perks we'd receive if we signed up that day. I wanted to interrupt him to remind him of what my husband had told him earlier, but decided to let him finish his spiel. He finished telling the same-day signing perks and then we reminded him that we needed time to decide. He said, "Well, we can at least have you sign some preliminary paperwork and get the guys scheduled to come out and measure and then you can have time to decide." I asked him, "Will this paperwork cause you to check our credit?" His answer, "Yes". So we told him again, we want time to talk and decide. At that point, his entire demeanor changed. It was as if he were throwing his hands up in the air and saying, "I just wasted my time with you." What he actually said was, "No one EVER calls back later and decides to get it. NO ONE!" My husband and I were both a bit taken back by such a negative reponse. I then asked him if I could have a copy of the spreadsheet that had our quote on it. In reply to my question, he said, "It's all worthless now!" WOW! I could not believe how rude he was being. In summary, Mike S did not address all of our questions, he gave misleading information, he tried using inaccurate information in order to show that solar power would save us money when it in fact would not and to top it all off, as soon as we told him we needed time to decide, he became a complete jerk. Unfortunately he also works for Vivint Solar (according to him, he works for several solar companies) so even if we were still interested, we wouldn't know where to go that would avoid supporting the business in which he works.

6 years ago

star star star star star

robert mccurdy

They gave me lots of great options and turns out I found the perfect deal for me. The install was attractive and I'm savings all kinds of money over my previous energy bill.

6 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Doug Chapman

I purchase a solar panel system from Brio Energy in July of 2016. It took until March of 2017 to get it up and running. I was told well past the 10 day cancellation period that the system could not be installed with our existing electrical panel and that an upgraded panel would need to be installed. I could either cancel the contract and accept the cancellation fee or for about the same amount of the cancellation fee upgrade the panel and proceed. Why this wasn't communicated during or shortly after the site audit to us has never been answered. It felt very much like a bait and switch scam to us. The system was suppose to be installed by October 2016. The communication at times was non-existent relying solely on the subcontractor installer who only blamed the delays on city ordinances that they were unfamiliar with since they're located in Utah and I live in Colorado. At one point they had to remove the panels from the roof for an inspection of the mounts. Did they take them with them and secure them in a warehouse. Nope they stacked them along the side of my house without informing me they were doing so and my kids had to tell me they were there. Save yourself the headache and look elsewhere for solar panels.

6 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Jennifer Smith

I was introduced to Brio through door to door sales. I wanted solar and set up an appointment to meet with a sales rep. The sales rep Tarek was good that night and we signed up. The installation through altaray went well although they called 10 minutes before their arrival to install, and that was our only notice. When I had questions, I called Tarek who said he would get back to me. Never did. I called customer service and they told me to call the other company to answer questions. During the process, be sure you are aware that it takes awhile (several months) and you will be paying for solar and your regular power bill. Brio customer service said they would get back to be shortly on the connection and inspection process, but they did not do so. I would not recommend using Brio for your solar needs. There are other companies out there to help with the solar process. Solar is a great energy option, but Brio is not.

7 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Craig Meiners

A Brio salesman came to my door and I agreed to listen to him because I was somewhat interested in learning about solar energy. After his pitch, I only agreed to a site survey on my roof, but told him specifically that I did not want to purchase at that time. They did the site survey and I never heard anything more for 3 weeks. Then I suddenly get a bill for a $3K loan in the mail from a loan company I never heard of. Brio set up a loan without my knowledge or permission. I tried to complain to Brio and they said I did agree and e-sign for a loan. That's not true. I called my sales guy and he assured me that he would take care of it. A week later I heard nothing from him and he is now not answering his phone or email. Brio sent me a bill saying that to cancel the loan I have to pay $950. I am currently talking to the loan company. They put the loan on dispute, but Brio and some contract company are not answering. This is complete fraud and I will not pay them anything.d Do not let Brio into your home. The salesman lied to me about a lot of things. They make solar sound so great, but I talked to my nieghbor who did purchase a system from Brio and he is not happy at all. He says that they broke a lot of promises and he thinks they installed a cheap system and they won't take his calls. Another solar power company talked to me a week later and they were much more honest than Brio. They also had a much better price and a much better loan with a much better rate. Don't go through Brio. They are not reputable. They just want to suck to you and then screw you.

7 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Berti Cordiner Ashburn, VA

I cannot say one negative word about Brio Energy! If you are interested in converting to solar then look no further. Brio was a great decision.

2 years ago

check_circle

Review Source

star star star star star

Rupert Gooch San José, SJ

This company was so easy to work with. Their customer service was great and very responsive. My wife and I are very happy with using Brio.

2 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Susan Sievert Messersmith Summerville, SC

Sales people promised things we never received and promised lower energy bills, but in fact we pay more. Customer service with follow up was non existent. Eventually the entire system stopped working and now we have finance payments for a system that they haven't repaired. Going to stop making payments and demand they remove the system. Only one tech for the whole state (who is very nice) but the company is a horrible company and I advise steering clear. They keep re-branding to stay ahead of their bad reviews. BAD NEWS.

2 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Becky Dorsey Westminster, CO

We had a rep sell us on a system two months ago. The rep was great and helpful, but as soon as we got passed off to installers and project managers thats when the positive experience ended. We had the installation team cancelled on us for the 5th time today. At least with this cancellation they called to tell me. The other 4 times they just never showed up. I’ve had neighbors work with other companies and wish I would’ve went another route. This is just terrible service and we regret going with Brio, also goes by Bello.

3 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Patty Sopko Benson, NC

I liked the 3 installers. that is the only reason this got one star. Detested the unreliable, lying, failure to follow through salesmen. Double check all your energy figures yourself. Don't let them lower your rebate. Make them paint all pipes outside to match your house. Inspect their work - holes in walls, dangerous materials left around, crack in ceiling, buckled siding. No one gets back to you including the CEO and owner. I would never recommend this company which was to be a huge benefit.

3 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

James Rochester Waynesville, NC

We are very disappointed in the operation and service of our solar panels. We were told that we could expect to pay the minimum monthly payment to our service provider. Our monthly bills are averaging over $100.00. On top of that, we pay for the solar panels. Our costs are much higher than expected - even higher than the electricity without the solar panels. We have had the panels for seven moths and so far I do not recommend them to anyone. The savings are not there and the costs are more than we expected. James R

4 years ago

star star_border star_border star_border star_border

Reva Charleston, SC

I am floored by reading these comments. We have the exact same scenario as many on here. Currently we are paying for these panels and have no way of turning them on. We have reset them via YouTube, contacted other solar companies, even spoke to another company who once partnered with Brio out in Utah who was helpful but still to no avail..... our panels are not working. They took forever to even get on and installed in the first place worked a few months and since August have done nothing. As many on here have stated, I am 100% ready for being a part of a lawsuit. This is ridiculous.

4 years ago