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Dividend Solar

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6.3

Overall Score

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LAST UPDATED: June 29th, 2023

Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Dividend Solar is a relatively new company in the solar energy industry. Unlike many other solar energy businesses, however, Dividend Solar sets itself apart by specializing in solar financing and loans.

The solar power company stands by its decision to offer outright purchase and loan payment options to residential customers because there are certain advantages that come along with purchasing a system, such as tax credits and rebates.

Read on to discover the pros and cons about Dividend Solar, as well as view Dividend Solar reviews from real customers.

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The Good

  • $0 Down EmpowerLoan and Dividend PACE Loans
  • Certified Solar Installers
  • Lengthy Warranties
  • Real-Time Monitoring

$0 Down EmpowerLoan and Dividend PACE Loans

Possibly the most obvious advantage of working with Dividend Solar is that the company specializes in residential solar loans, so it's a great option for homeowners who would rather make an investment in solar panels than lease them.

Dividend Solar offers two types of loans: EmpowerLoan and PACE loans. Both options are $0 down; can be paid off early; and include certified installers, a performance guarantee, and a warranty.

In addition to these benefits, customers are also eligible for any available federal and state tax credits, rebates, and other renewable energy incentives.

Certified Solar Installers

It bodes well for customers that Dividend Solar requires its solar installation contractors to have professional licensing and certifications (NABCEP in particular).

Some customers might hesitate to work with a company that outsources work to third-party contractors, but the fact that Dividend Solar requires these qualifications increases the likelihood that customers will receive a high-quality installation and be satisfied with the work done on their home.

Lengthy Warranties

Dividend Solar offers a 25-year warranty that covers repairs and defects, performance, and maintenance services through its installation companies. The company also offers a 20-year workmanship warranty that covers labor.

Real-Time Monitoring

Consumers who purchase solar panels through Dividend Solar have the ability to monitor the progress and performance of their panels in real time. With this technology, customers can also see how much clean energy their system is producing, how much money the panels are saving them, and the effect that their solar PV system is having on the environment.

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The Bad

  • No Lease or PPA Options
  • Focus on Financing
  • Outsourced Installations
  • Limited Experience in the Industry

No Lease or PPA Options

Dividend Solar does not offer leases or PPAs. The company's EmpowerLoan is a great product, but a lease or PPA may be a better fit for consumers who want to make the switch to clean energy but would prefer not to take on the responsibility that comes along with solar ownership.

Focus on Financing

Dividend Solar places the majority of its focus on providing loans through its financial product, the EmpowerLoan. This means that the company has more experience helping customers get financing than actually installing solar PV systems on homes.

Outsourced Installations

Another potential drawback of Dividend Solar is that the company hires local contractors from its network to perform installations for solar PV systems. Despite the qualifications these contractors must meet, some customers prefer not to work with companies that outsource installations because this practice can sometimes result in miscommunication or lack of quality.

Limited Experience in the Industry

Dividend Solar was founded in 2013. While the solar industry as a whole is relatively new, many solar companies have been around for at least twice as long as Dividend Solar. This means Dividend Solar has had less time to gain experience and prove itself as a solid company within the industry.

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The Bottom Line

Dividend Solar has many advantages to offer customers who are interested in renewable energy and solar power as an investment. The company specializes in residential solar loans and PACE financing, is readily available for homeowners in the many states around the country, and assembled a great network of people who can provide financial support and reliable labor.

However, Dividend Solar is primarily a loan provider, so if you are looking for a lease or PPA, you won't have much luck with this company. Also, Dividend Solar does not install solar energy systems itself, so if you choose to work with this company, keep in mind that your solar installation will be outsourced to a third-party contractor.

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Star Rating

4.0

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293 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

58%

4 grade

17%

3 grade

5%

2 grade

5%

1 grade

15%

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Charles Berkley Jr Cranston, RI

The equipment itself is fine, but I did have some trouble with the people that came to install my solar panels. They damaged some of my gutters and it took almost a month and a half for everything to be done. In the end they said they got everything replaced for the cheapest price, so I think that was ok. I also had to keep calling them to get updates. Other than that, they have done what they said they would do. We've only had the panels for a few months, so it's hard to tell how much we're saving. The first month was not good at all, and the last one wasn't good either. I got a hundred and something dollars less in the second month, but it still wasn't what I had anticipated. I was told that with the batteries, everything should average out over a year, but it hasn't been uniform so far.

5 years ago

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Butch Minotola, NJ'

The install went quickly. The guys had the panels and everything done in less than three days. Getting the forms processed so we could get online took almost three months however. Our sales rep was in so close contact with us through the set up and install, we almost starting charging him rent. However, once the install was done, we almost never saw him again. We're still waiting to hear from him on an account snafu which happened a few weeks ago.

5 years ago

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Lofton Alley Tampa, FL

Originally, it was the only option we were given when it came to getting solar, but it has been very easy, quick, and efficient to deal with them. Customer service is well organized and set up, they have made everything very smooth and easy. The panels that we got are medium-high quality, so they are not necessarily the absolute best, but I have no complains. They have been working fine and the auxiliary equipment and web interface of the inverter can be very helpful. We've been perfectly satisfied.

5 years ago

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Mauro Panchame

The representative that I talked to was the best, so I decided to go with them. I've only had it for about 3 months, but it has been good. Every time I call them, they answer the phone and give me the information that I need whenever I have a problem. The only problem we have was with the inspection, it took too long. They should get a better city inspector to keep that from happening.

5 years ago

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Anonymous Charleston, SC

The sales team was very helpful and the installation was pretty straight forward. It took them a day and a half to set them all up. They left no stray wires and everything was very professional. They have been very responsive to all my questions too.

5 years ago

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Brian Gerace Attleboro, MA

A local broker here in Metro Boston came by and explained it to us in kind of idiot speak. They were very concise and explanatory. The contractor that came and did the installation went above and beyond with the installation.

5 years ago

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John Messina Peoria, AZ

They helped me get everything that I needed to get approved for solar. Installation was quick and easy, no one would've done they did it. I've only had it for a few months but it works great. I haven't paid much from my electric bill and I expect to pay none when I'm done. The price is also pretty reasonable.

5 years ago

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John Sylvestre Pawtucket, RI

When the representative came over here, we just ended up going with them. For the most part, whenever I call them with questions, they answer me. On a couple of times, I tried to get a hold of them but received no call back. The installation itself was awesome, it was all quick and they did a great job.

5 years ago

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Anonymous Springfield, MA

The customer service representative was very good. Any concerns that I had were immediately addressed and any questions I had were immediately answered. Installing the panels was really smooth, and the panels seem to be working adequately. My usage has tremendously increased though, I'm not seeing the saving I initially anticipated.

5 years ago

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Eric Lake Worth, FL'

Their referral program was slow to send me my referral rewards after friendsyatem was up and running. I had to call them to request my check. Not cool. Quick to take your money but slow to send you what you agreed to.

5 years ago

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Michael Stolz Peoria, AZ

I got it after meeting with a salesman. They have pretty much taken care of everything so far, it just took a while. Installation was fine but they were somewhat slow with that.

5 years ago

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Lisa Houston

We went with them since the financing company that was helping us out said they were the only choice. There were a couple of glitches here and there during the installation, but overall it went okay.

5 years ago

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Meredith Skidmore Columbia, CA

We like the equipment, we installed it 3 months ago and it hasn't kicked in quite yet , but I'm finally starting to see a decrease in my regular electricity bill. I was expecting that to happen sooner.

5 years ago

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Justin Frederick Casa Grande, AZ

I'm very happy with the equipment, but there were a couple of questions that took quite a while to get answered. There were also maybe one or two questions that never got an answer.

5 years ago

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Karen Jackson Ramona, CA

I got it since they fit just what I needed. We've had no trouble so far, and the people we've interacted with have been very positive. The installation people did a really good job.

5 years ago

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Todd Strauss Somerville, MA

There were issues with my town when I first applied w/ Dividend, and my first monthly payment was delayed by quite a few months. However, Dividend kept me posted on what they were doing to get the problem resolved behind the scenes. I didn't have to worry about anything! Plus, because of the delay, they understood I did not have a fully functioning system, and refused to begin the repayment process until the issue was resolved. There was no expectation of a preliminary lump sum for that first month either. They've done a fantastic job of making my life easier and making solar energy affordable!

7 years ago

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Robert Faust Escondido, CA

Installation was fine, they were quick, good, and got me all the information I needed as far as any follow up goes. I was very happy with how it went. It was super.

5 years ago

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Brett Myers Wildomar, CA

We picked them because of the price and availability. So far we've only had it for about 3 months, but so far we haven't had any issues. Installation also went well.

5 years ago

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Gretchen McNees Salt Lake City, UT

Dividend Solar started out with a very personable salesman who was easy to relate too and was personable. They were able to get back to me with the process and the installation. Everything went very smoothly and was done when they predicted it would happen. I look forward to seeing how this will help my bills and how the energy will save us money in the long run.

7 years ago

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Michael Martin Palm Beach Gardens

We had to go with it because it was the only choice that was offered to me. Installation was average but I was satisfied.

5 years ago

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David Carpenter Corona, CA

My installer company recommended them so I went with it. The installation was perfect, and the equipment is working well.

5 years ago

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Erin Mckay Los Angeles, CA

We got it because it was the best price. Installation was great. They seem pretty committed to making sure that everything works smoothly.

5 years ago

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Laura San Jacinto, CA

It was too impersonal. Would have preferred working with an individual instead of doing everything digitally. The personal touch was missing and I don't like putting personal information on line. Otherwise we were fine with everything else, thank you.

3 years ago

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Reply from Dividend Solar

Thank you for your review and feedback Laura. We are sorry that you felt it was a bit too impersonal, but please know that we are only a phone call away should you have any further questions or concerns.

Nov. 15th, 2019

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Anthony Vasquez Haines City, FL

It's good but I think the only problem is it takes too long to get everything started most people don't like waiting so long to better their lifestyle. Me I'm fine waiting because at the end I know what I'm getting but I think dividend needs to make the prossess a lot faster .

5 years ago

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Jim Witt Elmhurst, IL

I really have not dealt with Dividend Solar much because they were in the background doing all the hard work while I relax & enjoy the delivery, installation & electrical production. It was so easy for me, wish they did home mortgages.

7 years ago

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Steve Schaugaard Midvale, UT

It is nice to get a person to talk to each time I have called. We are new to the solar thing and have had no issues so I only can say that the customer service so far is great but I have not had any problems yet. I hope I don't ever have any.

7 years ago

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Lisa M Morris Payson, UT

We are very pleased with the set up/financing for our new solar panels. We are pleased that we can make payments during this first year of the loan that will help lower our overall price. So far, the folks on the phone have been helpful with our questions. l

7 years ago

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Anonymous West Warwick, RI

Overall delivered what was promised, had a couple of equipment issues within the first couple of months

5 years ago

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Mark Petersen Grapevine, TX

I have enjoyed so far having solar. I am enjoying the low electric bills already! I'm very impressed. I'm hoping it continues! Also hoping the government won't start taxing those with solar with a high tax!

7 years ago

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Pat and Ronnie Roberts Conway, SC

Getting this system was so important to us and Dividend was great. They were fast, efficient and professional. I highly recommend them to future buyers.

4 years ago

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Anonymous Palisade, CO

It seemed like it had the best in rates. Installation happened in just one day.

5 years ago

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Chris Gould Spring, TX

This thing was the right thing to get. Everything has been going great so far.

5 years ago

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Thomas Delacruz San Antonio, TX

They did a great job installing the panels, and it has been working very well.

5 years ago

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Anonymous Bluffton, SC

The installation process was fine, and so far it has all been positive.

5 years ago

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Anthony St Cloud, FL

The sale person made me feel at ease with making my investment. He was very knowledgable and the price couldn't be match by others.

5 years ago

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Eric Kothe TX

Very efficient and easy to complete. Was very satisfied with experience. Made it easy to get my solar experience started. Very happy

7 years ago

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James B nelson Las Vegas, NV

i like these guys very much. They are financing and they have good deals. I have dealt with them and find that they are very honest and they try to provide excellent value.

5 years ago

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Rasaq Alabede Providence, RI

Installation went great.

5 years ago

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ed ferguson Denver, CO

installers were very informative Office kept up with installation timeline and kept me informed all the way

5 years ago

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DONNA FURMAN Ash Grove, MO

Install was quick & proffesional. Appearance is very nice !!! Producing power through nature is awesome !!

5 years ago

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Cesar o rodriguez TX

Took a long to get service up and running. The panels were installed quickly, but to get the service took a long time.

7 years ago

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Dan Hoffart Schertz, TX

This has been a very good experience and I have already seen the savings that Comes with going solar.

7 years ago

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Dave Pine Grove, CA

Dividend was such a pleasure to work with. It was an easy process and good rates.

4 years ago

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Gregg Dubit Durango, CO

Dividend has awesome, live human support, which is easily and readily available.

6 years ago

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Ruben Alamo, TX

They are good, they are easy to work with and they give a good interest rate

4 years ago

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Dan Buckeye, AZ

Rates were higher than others, arrived thru the solar company we used

5 years ago

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Matt 95691

Honest and understood what needed to happen from start to finish

5 years ago

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Corey Ventura 92210

Excellent job and follow up. We are completely satisfied thus far.

5 years ago

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Graylin Myrtle Beach, SC

Very helpful and professional. Easy to do business with.

4 years ago

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Peter Corrao Diamond Bar, CA

Courtesy manner, prompt response to my request.

5 years ago