4.5
6.5
Overall Score
Semper Solaris is a solar energy contractor and residential roofing company based in San Diego, California. Founded in 2012 by former United States Marine Kelly Shawhan and construction specialist John Almond, Semper Solaris has created a niche by hiring ex-Marines and U.S. military members.
The solar installation company boasts that it can perform any necessary roof repairs or even put on a whole new energy-efficient roof if needed. In addition to solar panels, Semper Solaris also offers battery backup options for solar energy systems, including the Tesla Powerwall.
The solar power company currently serves Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Palm Springs, Laguna Hills, El Cajon, the Inland Empire, and the Bay Area of California as well as parts of Arizona, Texas, and Florida.
Read on to discover The Good, The Bad, and The Bottom Line about this solar company, as well as view Semper Solaris reviews from real customers.
Semper Solaris' use of American-made solar panels, specifically Silfab and Qcells brands, showcases the company’s dedication to supporting domestic manufacturing and promoting sustainable energy practices within the United States. By prioritizing American-made products, it contributes to the growth of the local economy while ensuring the use of high-quality solar panels known for their efficiency and durability.
Semper Solaris installs Tesla Powerwall home energy storage units, which are highly regarded for their cutting-edge technology and ability to store excess solar energy. This feature allows homeowners to maximize their energy usage and minimize reliance on the grid, enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of their solar system.
In addition to solar installations, Semper Solaris also provides roof replacement, heating, and air conditioning services. This comprehensive approach allows customers to address multiple home improvement needs simultaneously, saving time and effort.
By offering a range of services, Semper Solaris positions itself as a one-stop solution for homeowners, simplifying the process of transitioning to solar energy and improving the overall energy efficiency of their homes.
Regarding roofing specifically, the company has partnered with Owens Corning and is one of the few Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractors nationwide for all roofing projects. So if a customer needs to have their roof replaced before the solar panel installation, Semper Solaris can take care of it all in-house, which is a benefit few solar energy installers can provide.
Moreover, Semper Solaris proudly emphasizes its veteran-owned status, drawing inspiration from the Marine Corps motto, "Semper Fidelis," which means "always faithful." This military discipline and attention to detail are ideally reflected in the company’s projects, providing customers with peace of mind and confidence in the quality of their work.
Customer reviews are key to determining if a company’s product and service measure up to its promises. In the solar industry specifically, prospective customers should study reviews to gauge a solar installer’s transparency, efficiency, and communication when things don’t go according to plan.
Of the 400+ Semper Solaris reviews below, 86 percent are 5 stars. However, all of the reviews left in the past couple of years are 1-star reviews. This indicates that while the company has met customer expectations in the past, it has struggled to do so more recently.
We’ve noticed that the company does take the time to respond to reviewers and attempt to right any wrongs expressed within negative reviews.
Semper Solaris promotes various discounts and offers, such as the current $500 promotional coupon, which can be applied toward solar installations. While promotions may be appealing, it's essential for customers to carefully review the terms and conditions to ensure they fully understand the eligibility criteria, limitations, and potential exclusions associated with these offers.
Additionally, while Semper Solaris offers a 50-year platinum protection limited warranty for its roofing installations, it's crucial for customers to thoroughly read and understand the fine print to determine the extent of coverage. Clarifying the warranty terms will help ensure that homeowners have a clear understanding of what is included and any potential limitations or exclusions that may exist.
While Semper Solaris does provide outright purchase and financing options like a solar loan to help the customer pay for his or her solar project, the company does not appear to offer solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPA).
Although these latter two options preclude the customer from taking advantage of solar incentives and the federal tax credit, they significantly reduce the upfront and ongoing costs of going solar while still meeting the customer's energy needs. So while customers benefit financially from owning a solar system, they can still benefit energy-wise from solar with a lease or PPA.
Semper Solaris’ installation of Tesla Powerwall units, comprehensive range of services, veteran-owned status, and commitment to American-made solar panels demonstrate their dedication to quality and sustainability. It also sets itself apart from solar-only-companies by offering roofing services and covers its workmanship with a surprisingly-extensive roof warranty.
However, the need for careful scrutiny of promotions and warranty terms should be considered. Conducting thorough research and seeking clarification on any uncertainties will help potential customers make an informed decision when choosing Semper Solaris as their solar provider.
Additionally, recent Semper Solaris complaints left in our repository indicate that recent customers are unhappy with the company’s approach to the installation process and, specifically, communication overall.
That being said, not even the best solar installer is perfect. As with any solar company, weigh positive and negative verified customer reviews as you consider the company you want to work with.
Filter by:
Sort by:
Paul Morgan San Diego, CA
1 month ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Aug. 17th, 2023
MR. aguilar Mission Viejo, CA
1 month ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Aug. 14th, 2023
beng caturay
5 months ago Edited April 4, 2023
Reply from Semper Solaris
Apr. 3rd, 2023
Tom ONeill Long Beach, CA
2 months ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jun. 23rd, 2023
Christina Gray San Bernardino, CA
4 months ago Edited May 22, 2023
Reply from Semper Solaris
May. 22nd, 2023
Andrew Padilla San Marcos, CA
8 months ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jan. 3rd, 2023
Review Source
Sylvia Whittier, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jun. 20th, 2022
Review Source
Wendy Moreno Lancaster, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jun. 20th, 2022
Review Source
Judi Dolan Thousand Oaks, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Apr. 6th, 2022
Jim Bailey Seal Beach, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Apr. 7th, 2022
Lauren McNamara San Diego, CA
1 year ago
Review Source
Wes C Los Angeles, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Mar. 23rd, 2022
Review Source
GGarzon Canyon Country, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Mar. 15th, 2022
Robert Alva Bakersfield, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Mar. 14th, 2022
Glen Gordon Bakersfield, CA
1 year ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Mar. 14th, 2022
darryl ford Bakersfield, CA
1 year ago
Heather Barrett Moorpark, CA
1 year ago
John Sprung Reseda, CA
1 year ago
Review Source
Mark Simi Valley, CA
1 year ago
semper solaris tesla powerwall San Dimas, CA
1 year ago
Marshall S. Colton, CA
1 year ago
Michelle Johnstone San Diego, CA
1 year ago
Davis Johnstone Chino, CA
1 year ago
Review Source
Lowell Snyder San Marcos, CA
1 year ago
Review Source
michelle seda San Diego, CA
2 years ago
Beth W
2 years ago
Velma Clayter Lancaster, CA
2 years ago
Vickie L Egeler Camarillo, CA
2 years ago
Eric G. Santa Clarita, CA
2 years ago
tyler molhook San Diego, CA
2 years ago
Bennydub9 CA
2 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
May. 13th, 2021
maurice nolet Roseville, CA
2 years ago
Mike Mike Scottsdale, AZ
2 years ago
Dawn Carifi ,
2 years ago
ANISSA BURNS El Cajon, CA
2 years ago
Lorrbal Sacramento, CA
2 years ago Edited January 19, 2022
Gregory Smith San Diego, CA
2 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Nov. 25th, 2020
Jennipher Lorber San Marcos, CA
2 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Oct. 20th, 2020
MikeC San Diego, CA
2 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Oct. 16th, 2020
Chris Golden Carlsbad, CA
3 years ago
Kyle Burson Oceanside, CA
3 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jun. 15th, 2020
Matthew Brink Las Vegas, NV
3 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jun. 16th, 2020
John E Evans Oceanside, CA
3 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Apr. 3rd, 2020
Charles Brown La Jolla, CA
3 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Dec. 20th, 2019
Robert F. Chula Vista, CA
4 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Aug. 16th, 2019
Steve B Oceanside, CA
4 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Aug. 1st, 2019
Rick Abend
4 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Aug. 1st, 2019
S. Steingraber Borrego Springs, CA
4 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jul. 22nd, 2019
Scott P Lancaster, CA
4 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
Jul. 8th, 2019
Sean H. San Marcos, CA
4 years ago
Reply from Semper Solaris
May. 24th, 2019
We're on a mission to empower consumers to make the best decisions and connect confidently with companies that deserve their business.
© 2023 BestCompany.com LLC - All rights reserved Privacy Policy | Terms | Do Not Sell My Personal Information