SolarCity
Is This Your Business?2.6
4.7
Overall Score
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Jimmy Walton
The sales and design and installation went smoothly. Took FOREVER for the electric company to approve the connection, SolarCity says it wasn't their fault. After purchase and installation, customer service was practically zero. Emails not responded to. Questions not answered. Very difficult to get someone to respond now.
But the system works, its just too small due to the 80% rule on my MP2 net metering company
6 years ago
RonF Tucson, AZ
Wow, did Solar City ever screw me over. I go through the entire process with them to design my system, and that part was fine. I live in the Tucson, AZ area, and net metering was going to be ended by the local utility on 2/24/17. In early February, my Solar City sales rep GUARANTEED that my paperwork had been submitted, and I was absolutely "grandfathered" in for net metering. I verified this with him not once, but twice! He even told me he spoke at the Arizona Corporation Commission rate setting meeting on behalf of Solar City! I also communicated with the customer service "concierge"numerous times, who also assured me my paperwork had been submitted - this was 2/9/17. They told me it would be about 16 week for all approvals, then we do the install. End of April comes, and I am contacted by someone at Solar City that is new to my project and doesn't know any of the details. He tells me the other sales rep is gone and....................they did not submit my paperwork in time for net metering. They lied to me, then basically said "too bad, so sad, you lose". My advice is run, don't walk away from these crooks. Typical corporate clown show, where one hand has no idea what the other is doing and they will tell you whatever you want to hear. Then, when they screw you, they won't do anything to make it right. You would be much better off with a smaller, local company that actually cares about their customers. Solar City may have good intentions, but their execution is a joke.
6 years ago
e Goldmeier Randallstown, MD
After 4 years of service an error message showed up. I called customer service as requested when I was home and did as asked to try to reset the system but the error message remained. I was told this was being escalated and I would hear back but not so. I emailed and called and finally reached someone who told me a part was ordered and "might" be in my area in 17 days. I asked to talk to a supervisor who said it could actually be longer and then started quoting from my contract. My system will be out of service for a least 30 days and all they could do was read me my contract. I have paid upfront so not a lot of options but one would thing they would want positive reviews to help future sales and would thus show a little more concern about trying to expedite the part order. On the contrary I think they would be Ok if it takes even longer to fix as their cost for the part likely far exceeds what they will owe me for production deficit.
7 years ago
Patrick
Their advertising is misleading. They use scare tactics re: the price of electricity going up , and up. etc etc Whoever heard of a contract you can't get out of , or one where the buyer of your home has to purchase the solar city contract that you entered into. They have multiple versions of contracts. Very complex. So much so that their reps can't really explain. Apparently in Calif there is no regulatory agency that monitors companies that provide Solar . That is what I was told when I filed a complaint with the CPUC. CPUC referred me to PGE who has a relationship with solar companies, however they told me the same thing. Basically there is no consumer advocate for this industry. I feel Solar City did not explain the contractual agreement adequately and failed to offer any options for our issues. We are paying more with solar than we did with PGE . Our system produces more electricity than we use because Solar City estimated our needs incorrectly and installed an inappropriate system . They would not remove panels and did not offer a solution. We were told that that excess electricity went "into a bank" where it would be withdrawn when those "not so sunny days" failed to produce enough. REALLY ! Give me a break. They were unable to explain how we could monitor this "bank" of excess KW hours. Before considering using this company check Watchdog.com. They have horror stories involving them. Oh, one more issue involving the contract. You can't sue them, you must use arbitration. The rather lengthy contract is all about protecting the company. Nothing relative to consumer rights.
7 years ago
Allan Gacquindo WA
I have been with solar city for over a year now I missed one payment and made that payment up but they send me a bill showing a past due amount of $ 687.00 . I called them and they could not figure it out but I have to pay it . I send my payment on the first of every month but they do not cash it until the end of the month . then say I never sent a check . I was ask to send them copies of the checks which I did and still they say They never received them . them just a few days ago I receive a letter from Edison telling me they show I have a high usage of electricity but my electric bill was only $1.58 . Then on my electric bill it shows I have a $ 486.00 IN Credits but the next month Edison sends me a bill for the same amount so they are billing me for what they should be paying me . I need a way out .
7 years ago
William Konz New Windsor, NY
Two years ago I signed up with SolarCity and felt comfortable since they provided a production guarantee. I soon noticed that the system was not producing as much as it was supposed to. I had a few equipment problems which added to the production problem, I am sure, but when I first asked for a review, customer support said that "it was a bad year for solar (2015). The next time they said that it was only slightly lower, but that I was still covered by the guarantee so not to worry. I expected more concern and explanation of how they were going to address the issue.
Now that two years has passed, I am still waiting for my refund and explanation as to why my system is not performing. I will not suggest anyone to do business with SolarCity until this is properly resolved. Stay Away!
7 years ago
Edward Maccone Seaford, NY
i have several issues w/Solar City they told me i would get a 80% reduction in my electric bill (not true) , but there response was i signed the contract i should checked and i signed the document. Another big problem I had with them is ,i had called them to tell them there was a piece of equipment laying on the ground. To make a long story short I called them 3 times over 6 month period. Then I got a call from them several after my last phone call to them. They wanted to check something out and I told them make sure you knock on my door so know you are here. Well they finally came about 4 of them . I thought to myself this is not a simple little problem, so I asked them why so many people? They responded we have to out the panels, because there is a problem with a few of them. I said exactly how many? They would chk in office. I said i would like a full report. Two months later I recv'd a chk for $130.00???? 6 panels not working for how long???? P.S. Still waiting for the report for all i know the panels may not have been working for two years! Then recently I was told that I am responsible for cleaning snow off panels and I am 76 years old!!!!!!!! I could go on and on running out of space, terrible terrible company!
7 years ago
Ed Torres Pomona, CA
RUN!!!!! We had spent the last 3-4 months working with there sales person and customer Care, completing contacts and have all surveys completed. We are a Church and they had had 3-4 teams come out and evaluate our roof and location. We were told that they had our panels in the warehouse and then stated we were ready to go for installation. As of today, the sales person is gone and the Customer care WOULD NOT give me their corporate phone number. Now after all of this, the supervisor stated they cannot complete our job because we do not meet their requirements.
UNBELIEVABLE- They are NOT Interested in finding a solution of their errors from Day one when I spoke to their contact person in the Home Depot.
Everyone knew we were a Church and knew the size of the project. YET all they could say was sorry for the failure in every step of the process and we cannot complete the project.
They would NOT take responsibility or be accountable for any of their actions.
This company IS NOT #1 because if they were, SolarCity would find a solution and complete the installation for our Church.
They are unprofessional, not responsible and avoid dealing with the facts.
7 years ago
Sandra Tracy, CA
Solarcity is the worst company to do business with, it really sucks, since January I've been trying to have a supervisor or manager from customer care call me back and we are in the middle of February and no one has call me, after leaving several messages with a Ms D. I live in TRACY CA and it gets pretty windy here, a wiring box next to a panel, the cover came off and is hanging by a wire and when it gets windy it starts to bang on the roof, at night is hard to sleep. I do not know how this company is still in business. Do NOT make the mistake we did to get business with them, go with another solar company, you'll regret it if you do.
7 years ago
Jeffrey Jackson Phoenix, AZ
They come across as great at first but after working with ten other companies for quotes, in the end it was the least professional person/company to work for. Their quote system is un-detailed and slow. Thomas P was highly unprofessional in the end once he found out I received other quotes... this is a big investment so of course I'd do that. "Real quotes only go to those who are 150% on-board. We are not in the business of giving quotes." Verbatim. I'm a professional CPA and understand what professionalism is; this is the least professional experience I've ever been through. Also, the quality of their solar panels are a joke. Go with a local company or Sunrun if you want a better experience and a much higher performing system. Their quote was a print screen with no detail and came 4 days later while most companies reply within a couple days. A joke - stay away.
7 years ago
Jerry Stover Paso Robles, CA
I signed up with Solar City 2 months ago around Thanksgiving and my system was installed 3 weeks later on Dec 12. I was hoping to get into the lower rate NWM1 program. I signed the required paperwork and waited. December 20, I saw a newspaper blurb that the NEM1 program was full and new signups were required to be on a higher rate program. I called PG&E and asked about my application and was told that Solar City hadn't submitted my building permit and application. I called Solar City and was told that it was the utility's fault. On January 12 I received a new NEM2 agreement from PG&E and a notification from Solar City that it would only be a couple of days until power up. It is now Jan 24 and still no word. I called the Utility hot line and they can't find my application. Solar City has not helped me get on line after numerous calls to their customer care line. I purchased my system and thought I would get priority over leases. Our son went with Sunrun and was on line within 3 weeks.
7 years ago
Cynthia Miller Yorba Linda, CA
This COMPANY is a bunch of lies!! They send out sales rep to "sell" you the deal, making a bunch of promises they can't keep. They swiftly installed my system before my loan they sold me on even started moving. In the end, 8 months later, they never pushed my loan through to purchase the panels, never sent me a bill, and now they are telling me, the loan is NOT an option. That only PPA or Lease is my only choice at this point. They will end up billing me for the last 8 months. They promised me a NEST which I never received. Customer Service is the worst I've ever seen - they don't call you back in fact, I do more of the follow up with no answer. At this point, I am believing Solar City scams people into thinking they have a loan program to purchase the panels but, in fact, they don't and they let it fall through so Solar City can reap the tax credits from the government. I don't care how large this company is - if they can't deliver NOR have good customer service - DON'T GO WITH SOLAR CITY!! PSA - Your Welcome!!
7 years ago
Susan Bouchard
This company is horrible and does not deliver at all what you are told by the sales rep or what your contract says. First of all we were told that our solar would cover 100% of our electricity. Not true! We received a bill from PG&E just before Christmas for $1500.00. We were told that monthly payments would go up 2.9% each year. Again, not true. Our monthly payment just went from $75.00 a month to $181.00. When you call customer service you are kept on hold forever then told "Sorry, we cannot help you". This is the worst company ever. I am right now looking for a group of people to organize to sue this company for false representation. Horrible, horrible company!!!!!!!
7 years ago
Dennis Blough Los Angeles, CA
I was told I MUST sign a purchase contract prior to Solar City staff coming to my home to verify installation needs.
Contract I was required to sign clearly stated I was accepting a "PRICE SUBJECT TO CHANGE" AFTER THEY INSPECTED MY PROPERTY AND MY ONLY RECOURSE WOULD BE THE THREE DAY RIGHT OF RECISION LAW IN CA.
I NEVER HEARD OF ANY COMPANY WHO WOULD NOT PROVIDE A FIRM PRICE ALLOWING CUSTOMERS TO MAKE A DECISION BASED ON ACTUAL FACTS AND NOT ESTIMATES. THEIR ESTIMATE FOR MY SYSTEM WAS OVER $100k SO CHANGES COULD BE ADDITIONAL THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS EASILY.
Initially I was told it was due to insurance requirements and then told by a supervisor it was simply company policy.
7 years ago
Ron Rhodes Riverside, CA
Very unhappy with Solar City, wanted solar for over ten years, learned all about kilowatts & how to cut back on usage. Finally able to afford a system, did not want a lease, so I waited to buy. Was told the system would produce enough power plus a little extra, so I should never incur a bill from my power company for usage. I knew the system was too small from the very start, but they told me I didn't know what I was talking about & needed to wait a full year to read usage. I was told the system would produce enough power & I could also buy a battery for the extra power it was to make. I went without air conditioning last summer, cut my pool pump back severely, unplugged my spare refrigerator in the garage & always turned lights out when not used to try to stay at net zero, which is what I was told the system would do, I feel I cut back ridiculously stupid. I feel no one would buy a solar system for their house to live this way. Now I'm told by an area sales rep. some solar is better than no solar. I was insulted by this remark. They have offered no help at all at this point. Very, Very bad experience.
7 years ago
S. Ebe Mt Meadows Area, CA
Back in 2012 when I lived in another residence nearby, I contacted several solar installation companies to get proposals for installing a PV system. One company was Solar City. I live in the Redding, CA area and the nearest office at the time for Solar City was out of Chico, CA. They sent a woman representative and it turned out she knew absolutely nothing about PV systems or the installation of them. I'm a civil engineer with 32 years experience in the consulting engineering business. I understand a little about electrical installations as a result of my work over the years as well as what I have read. Each time I asked her a question that was a bit technical, she said she didn't know the answer and would immediately try to call her boss on her cell phone. He was not available to talk with her at the time. Finally, I asked her what her background was before coming to Solar City. She said she had only been with them about a month and prior to that she sold vacuum cleaners. After hearing that, I told her that I didn't feel she could help me at all and asked her to leave to save us both some time. I'm very glad I didn't go any farther with them.
7 years ago
Edwin Rue
Everything went Great' when our VERY picky roofer said to bring it up to his standards we needed to do some repairs, Solarcity cut us a check in a few days. We Love our Electric Bill being cut to better than Half.
7 years ago
John Pesente
I have already had a good deal of problems with solar city although I have only been a customer for 1 year. it started with the way the system and its net metering worked and I was misinformed by 2 managers and the sales team as far as what net metering is and what it does. I was told over production would be given as a kwh for kwh basis not a dollar amount and now the more serious issue although we asked many specific questions regarding the roof itself and alot of what if something goes wrong , what happens if it needs to be reroofed and every answer i got was we do a roof inspection and if it is deemed that you need or might need any repairs solar city would not install the panels. then i was directed to the 2 million dollar roof umbrella which before signing and even to this day if you ask there sales team the roof is covered against all defects after they inspect it and deem its ok to put the panels on , this is so far from the truth we are one year in and we have a leak solar city came out and is saying they are not resposible and it is so far from what I was told there roof warranty is limited to there direct punctures and that is it and secondly there roof inspection is anything but they only take measurements which is done by an auditor not an inspector and they are only checking to see if it will hold the weight of the system . They doi not care about you having to make repairs because they profit everytime you do , there is a 500$ charge to move panels if I need to make repairs. then also there is such a large turnover rate I dont thiunk anyone who sold me my system still works with the company so i cant even prove that is what they told me. I tracked down the original manager on my deal and he backed everything i said but since he doesnt work for them anymore again it is not there responsability. I have sent 8 people to SUNRUN since my instal and uust wish that I did more research and or had a lawyer review my contract before signing it. I STRONGLY SUGGEST ANYONE WHO WORKS WITH SOLAR CITY HAS A LAWYER REVIEW THERE CONTRACT BEFORE SIGNING. Now the fun part , even the crew that came out to find the source of the leak told me that they had to ditch most of there sales staf due to high pressure sales tactics and misinformation. So I am working with the samre person who i have already spent months going back and forth with about the net metering which at this point i wish i never brought up because I feel like they are taking my roof leaking less seriously because i already had a claim from install when they broke two of my tables and then complaints about the net metering so in under a year i have had to submit tickets for production going offline , broken personal property and misinformation about the net metering and now the most severe which is a leak which they are not responsible for and to fix a 50 flange I will be looking at the original cost plus 500 dollars to move the panels. If there are others having issues similiar please contact me power in numbers and maybe we can stand up against the misinformation given .
7 years ago
bradley olman Red Bank, NJ
It took a long time for NJPL to accept the billing. Not Solar City fault, but who knows if they could have helped expedite it. I do love the online site that lets you look at daily and monthly usage.
7 years ago
Suzanne Los Banos, CA
We were told our inverter was down and they would not be able to come fix it for an entire week. When asked if this means we needed to pay PG&E and the representative said yes. I explained that it is going to be well over 90 degrees and all we get is an apology. I had to explain three separate times why I was upset. The customer service manager talked over me throughout the entire conversation. This is what happens when companies don't have service department staffing to keep up with sales and they get greedy. Customer service is crucial to companies and can make or break them. It is ridiculous to make customers wait this long for repairs. Now we need to pay both PG&E as well as Solar City. I will NEVER recommend this company to anyone. Go the extra mile, do your homework and have solar installed by a company that has excellent customer service qualities, keeps their promises and actually hires people that are qualified in their jobs.
7 years ago
Kevin WIlson Yuma, AZ
As far as coming here to our residence to install the solor system on our roof. Okay yea they installed the system back on July 16 they came here and installed the system which is a simple system to install except for the Electricity tying back into APS power supply. Well if. The Electrician looked over the plans that where supported and corrected twice for the electrician to install a Junction Box 12"X12"X4" URL approved well sense July 16 of 2016 the plans stated for the electrician to install the box so that APS for those who don't know its Arizona Public Service APS. Well the electrician has been trying to do a Supply Line Tap without the box that's been the hold up why we havnt had our system hooked up.If I had the money I would of done it VIA Battery Sttorage and not tapping directly back into the supplied A/C current only if I had the money. So we are still in a system hold because of the Electrician performing a Supply Line Tap W/Junction Box. So as far as the communication with he solar company SolarCity everything has gone okay with them but not their subcontractor the Electrician. So I give them a big fat fatty 2 for the connection which should be a big fat ZERO but what do i know.
7 years ago
Charles carino Bronx, NY
I am very unhappy about the service you don't provide as I am a customer just wanted to get one of your service guys out here to check out the inverter and the panels to make sure all the panels are working and not defected,when I called a supervisor she told me no that as far as she was concern everything is fine,but not going to please me as a customer to make sure my panels are all working so I told her that I'm going to get channel 12 out here and have an interview about your comp.that I wil not recommend solar city to anyone I guest that's ok with her and also told her I was going to fort to c if I can do something about no service she said I'll send you your contract just love it how I was taken care of as a customer I also put it on Facebook to let everyone know not to go with solar city....
7 years ago
Bruce MacKinnon Woodbridge, VA
Bait and switch tactics! It was only AFTER the system was installed (in late May) that I was told they needed to "find an investor" for my system before they would file their certificate of completion with my power company. No mention of this step in the contract or their website.
So it's September and the system that could have been generating solar energy since late May has never been turned on.
To make matters worse, I will have to wait ANOTHER 6-8 weeks AFTER they (finally) inform my power company that the system is ready, while the power company schedules the new meter installation.
When I called to ask why I wasn't told about the "..find an investor" requirement BEFORE the installation, they had no answer. And, of course, the contract cannot be canceled once the installation is done.
Like I said,... bait and switch. Makes me wonder how many other surprises are coming. "We're sorry, but your investor doesn't cover the repair or replacement of panels...." .
7 years ago
Kristen Welch Sierra Vista, AZ
We bought the house this May and signed to change the contract over to us at the closing table on May 27, 2016. When I didn't hear from Solar City in June, we called. We emailed. We called. We emailed. No bill and again and again: "We are going to have your account updated in 24-48 hours." We finally got a paper bill. I objected to paying $7.50 for not paying by ach so I went online to pay that way. And guess what? As of August 26th--MONTHS later--no bill. I call the billing department. "Oh, so sorry. I don't see your bill at all. I still see the old homeowner's on the bill." I thought: Those poor people. They did all the right things and this lousy company is still trying to collect even though we have been calling and emailing to get things on track. My advice? If you want solar, don't rent. Buy. This company doesn't do what they say they will do. If the customer service is this lousy now, imagine how it will be in 20 years?
7 years ago
Andy Brooklyn, NY
I started working with Solar City in March, I had one requirement - a viable battery backup, this I was assured was possible with the Tesla Power Wall. I put a down payment in for the battery, in late May I was told that the Tesla battery was not available and I that they were offering an LG battery for the same price. I signed the paperwork for the switch, July I am told that the LG battery is not available and that there is a smaller Tesla battery for $500 less. The cost of the original batteries was $3000 and could handle 12+ circuits the new one would be $2500 and handle up to 4 circuits. Not quite a bate and switch but completely unsatisfactory. Order cancelled and looking for a new provider now.
7 years ago
lisa San Diego, CA
The hard sold me, hustled me, lied, made promises of all kinds. When it is all said and done, I have a contract that goes up every year 2.9% and they oversold me panels and put 50% of them on the north shade side and refuse to move them after battling with them for 8 months. I have only made more energy than I consume 2 out of 8 months so they screwed me on both sides...huge system and inefficient and I cannot get out of contract. They sent me a pic of where the panels would go and then put them in wrong side of house. Cant sue. I cant even put in the subzero frig or radiant heat and I am paying more now and locked in. Do not use this company. They will try to dazzle you with Elon Muck and Tesla and google etc. It is all a huge scheme and the sales teams doesnt even really fathom how corrupt the company is..or maybe they do. Everyone I know who is using them has a hard luck story or is ignorant. Do the math. Run from solar. It is a hustle.
7 years ago
Jeff Levin Brooklyn, NY
Very Disappointed with Solar City sales team and reading the reviews below I am glad I never had to deal with the customer service or billing departments. I spoke with 4 other solar providers that provided all options (PPA, Lease, and Purchase). Solar City rates were higher than all for every option. I forwarded my Lease proposal from another provider and while they would only meet the price (not beat it), and they could not guarantee a system that would produce 100% of my energy needs. Their equipment is not the best technology out there, and they could not guarantee the equipment I would be receiving.
READ THE CONTRACT before signing. Their performance agreement is for every 2 years compared to annual for all other companies, and the customers have to "keep the panels clean" per a maintenance guide that the customer receives at the time of installation. Customer has to adhere to it or it voids the warranty and they are not responsible for any loss in production. No other companies had this requirement and I am not getting on the roof to clean panels.
They also would not confirm the system production until I signed the agreement and they performed a site inspection. Sales rep missed multiple calls. One of which was due to a power failure in their building. Ironic that a power company lost power.
Do your homework before signing with any solar company. Read the contracts and the negative online reviews of all providers. There will always be people who are unhappy, but understand what you are agreeing to before making a decision. I would not agree to a 20 year contract with requirements they provide only after the system is installed.
7 years ago
Denise Trone Tehachapi, CA
I have been with Solar City for over two years now. This company advertises an average $516 in yearly savings, and according to my calculations, my savings were only $222 the first year, and if I look at the second year, vs. the year before with SCE, I paid out an extra $263. That means had I stayed with SCE, I would have been $41.00 to the good. This is unacceptable in the name of what you advertise! I think it's time to take the CFO's of Solar City, who make millions of dollars in salary, turn around and give some of it up to give to the people they sucked into their vortex, the true electrical savings they lied about!
7 years ago
Ralph Cortlandt Manor, NY
I sat with the Solar City representative and was given certain information. One of the pieces of information was that any net metering funds would go to me. When I read I read the contract it stated exactly the opposite, that net metering funds go to the company. I was assured by three different people in the company that that would never happen. I asked that a rider I wrote be added to the contract which would put that in writing. It had a couple of other things in it as well. They said the contract would not be changed for anyone. I said good-bye. I subsequently received another call from them and was told that now they had a sales program in addition to the lease program. I asked them to send me the contract. Clause 3 of the contract stated that if the roof proved to be insufficient for the panels, they would not be responsible for the damage since that was my responsibility. I wrote to them that I was not an engineer and that they had someone come out and check my roof for suitability for panels and that they proved to be sufficient. If they subsequently proved not to be sufficient I would hold them responsible. When I spoke to them about that it was pointed out that a clause in the addendum says they would be responsible for damage to the roof up to 2 million dollars. I pointed out that the two clauses contradicted each other or at least one limited the liability of the other. Again they said they don't change the contract for anyone. Again I said good-bye. I conclude this by saying the contract is about 30+ pages long. READ IT!!! If you have problems understanding it get help. I'm a real estate attorney, I write and read contracts for a living. If I advised a client to listen to what was told to them verbally when it goes against what is written in the contract, I would be committing malpractice.
7 years ago
Espe Pelayo Corona, CA
Called on pigeon block around the panels and was quoted $450.00 but excuse me. They knew we had pigeon problems in our area but did nothing to inform us about what we might need, plus we are a Two Story home so how do you clean the panels pay someone Three hundred to go up and clean them every six months. The power we were given is not enough so they said they'll put more panels up at no cost but raise our monthly fees and put up the pigeon block? Something wrong with this picture. We had a panel wire go off so it sent our electricity flying. They did nothing to compensate for that problem, on top of that they broke 17 roof titles and said nothing until I looked on my roof and seen for myself. I called and they replaced them. But if I didn't check out my roof what would happen when it rains. Where is the trust in letting these people on your roof. Where is the customer satisfaction. How are people to clean these panels surely not with a hose or claim up there. We are leasing these panels the up keep should be on them as well as customer satisfaction. Sad I wish they would just take them back! And repair my roof. They failed my family.
7 years ago
Brett Powell Sacramento, CA
This company is great at installing good equipment but if you think you're going to save big bucks, think again. I had a system installed at the end of 2014 on my Sacramento,CA home and my total electric bill was $1327.63 with all but a month or two coming from SMUD. In 2015 my combined total from SMUD and Solar City was $1426.43. The most disappointing thing is that my representative told me my Solar City part would likely never exceed $40/month since I don't use any Tier 2 power. I auto pay my bill so will admit I don't watch the bill real close. Imagine my shock when I find I've had bills as high as $200. You'll also have to pay your main utility company a solar surcharge that is in the fine print and doesn't appear on your bill if paying electronically. Should you fail to remember or notice that ,you'll be hit with an accumulated fee near the end of the year!
I'd look into a stand alone system because the utilities are gonna get their $$$ in the end.
7 years ago
John Offenhartz San Francisco, CA
Great, transparent process for what it'll cost and produce (along with a guarantee)
One point off a perfect score for the slow install and connect process, some of which was the fault of the local utility (PG&E)
7 years ago
Carlos Antonio Jesurun NM
I have the Solar PPA agreement. Solar production of electricity was what they said it would be. Professional installation. Billing rather slow. Bills to electric company reduced.
7 years ago
Nancy HW Lodi, CA
Great and personable customer service. Job well done. Have been very pleased with how the use of the solar panels has reduced our electric bills. Very happy with this company.
7 years ago
Albert CA
Only reason it's a 2 is because I'm saving a little bit of money (otherwise, it would be a -2). I'm set up for auto pay but I've received 2 statements showing my payments as delinquent. I called Customer Service and the rep told me I owed this and after going back and forth for 10 mins, I think she finally understood that I'm set up for auto pay so she puts me on hold and, after 3 mins, she tells me that "because of a major upgrade" to their system, it's not billing me automatically. She told me that it would get fixed within 2 weeks and everything will be back to normal. Like other customers here, I called back because I received another bill so I called them and had to explain over again with no resolution (they're still going through a system change). Customer Service is horrible because it sounds like they don't know what they're doing or have no knowledge of their "system"
I emailed and called my salesperson about this but he's been unresponsive. Val stinks and so does Solar City. I'm close to going back to PG&E and pay a little more.
7 years ago
Brett Allen
One of the worst companies I have ever dealt with. The communication was thee worst I have ever came across to date. I would call and leave a message only to get a call back days later and sometimes not at all. Every time I would speak to someone different I would have to explain my situation all over again. I would only find out critical info when they were calling me to schedule the install. When I eventually spoke to a manager they were more concerned about installing the system rather than my concerns and customer service. Eventually I got to a higher up manager just to have him call me once and never returned my phone call or even the email I sent them. There are a number of solar companies out there do not waste your time with this company they only care about the bottom line and not their customers.
7 years ago
Susan Guenette Bakersfield, California
Love the company.. we gor solar 6 years ago. It took a whille for the PGE to com=nnect but solar city gave us 1000 to cover what we paid in electric... have been saving ever since...
7 years ago
Charlie Bubenheim Stallion Springs, California
We love our SolarCity -wish I'd done it sooner ! Have had them for 1 1/2 years . Professional installation - no radios blaring, no singing, no yelling ! Highly recommended !
7 years ago
Peter Syku Monroe, CT
Solar city it is not a trustworthy company
They installed my panels in the roof after one year from the day I sign the contract
It took them 4 months to bring the inspectors to inspect the job after that I thought the problems where over but I was mistaken. My roof has been leaking from October 2015 until now and has not been fixed
Every time they send a technician out he can't even spell roof.
They ask me if I know any contracts so they can blame their mistakes on me. Their customer service has no clue what is going on.
Over all if you love your house don't hire solarcity as their crew and costumer service are totally unprofessional and don't get me started on Sales representatives. They are lying just to make a sale and you will never see them again.
I'm taking them to court as I will suggest any one who has or had problem with there work do the same
This company gives solar a bad name.
7 years ago
Xuan Chen Bell, CA
Solarcity been great with following up on my Solar Production. I'm so happy that the panels they have are producing at a high efficiency. Best decision ever made.
7 years ago
Georgia Gardner and Marianne Hewitt Owings Mills, MD
Two months ago Eric Anthony, a SolarCity salesman left two phone messages about my Saturday appointment. Saturday he showed up at my house ringing the doorbell, which I denied him access because I have never spoken to anyone at SolarCity, nor asked for a quote, and especially didn't schedule an appointment because I AM NOT INTERESTED IN SOLAR PANELS, PERIOD! I called him back and left him the above message. Today he left another phone message that since I was sick and couldn't make my appointment he's calling to reschedule it. I left him the above message again, and also that I don't know what kind of crap he's trying to pull, but I don't know how many ways I can say I'M NOT INTERESTED IN SOLAR PANELS! DON'T EVER CALL ME AGAIN!.
Beware of SolarCity if this is how they conduct business to drums of sales!
7 years ago
wk Altadena, CA
Signed with this company 2014. BEWARE!!! no matter what they tell you that you will be saving $$$, you won't. This company will show you like you will be saving thousands of dollars but in short you will be SPENDING MORE!!!
Their customer service SUCKS big time. I am still getting call from their company representative asking if I am still interested going solar even I am with the company for more than a year. Now why would someone from Solar City call me selling their product if I am their customer? JUST ONE GOOD REASON HOW THEY ARE CLUELESS!
Just to mention that the owner of this company is the same owner of Tesla motors. Do you know how many issues Tesla had?
If only I can return the equipment and void the contract. I don't mind spending money fixing the holes on my roof because it will be only 1 time expense and I still will save money in the long run rather than staying with this company. Don't be fooled like I am. Go with another company, AVOID Solar City.
7 years ago
Jim Sceurman Atlantic City, NJ
Here is my review of Solar City, I will say from day one Ashlee was a great help and one of the best customer service reps I had dealt with. In the past month the communication has broken down and my fiance and I have not been able to get a call back as to where we were in the process. A manager of the company named Mitch contacted me to speak with me and I was not able to get the cal and have called back twice and left messages which neither have been returned as well as at least 4 emails now. You couldn't pay me at this point to use solar city or refer them to a friend. From the beginning we have provided everything necessary to move this process along. Now no communication. if you are looking for solar shop around there are much better companies out there
8 years ago
Nayereh Khankhanian Beverly Hills, CA
I signed with Solar City in 2014, after about 6 months that took them to take the city permit and line up the project to install the panels, my solar service started. Initially I was quoted to have about 30-40% saving and I may get additional rebate at the end of the year from Edison our power company. That is why I opted to do this project. Year came to end and to cut the story short, not only I did not save any, I am paying more than b4 I got solar installed. After several months of tug of war, back and fort calls and emails and sending the bills back and forth for their reviews, they could not calculate any substantial saving. May be a 10.00 a month! which I was not sure was accurate. Who in the right mind let them mutilate your roof and use your property to save 10 bucks a month, if any? and they reap the profit by using your roof and generating so much power, selling to others, but not sharing with U.? DO NOT GET FOOLED and do not sign up with them. It is not worth it!!!
nkkmd
8 years ago Edited September 14, 2021
Rochele Silberman Spring Valley, NY
This company is beyond non-trustworthy. I have tried working with them for the past 9 months and signed two contracts. First I was told I would get 28 panels, then it was 45 panels and now I am told I would get only 10 panels. After trying to reach Catherine, my first contact person with SolarCity , I have spent days calling and talking to Simone, Roland and Sia, all supposedly concierge people and all promising to call back...never received a callback. I would like an explanation for the run around. If they are not interested in installing my solar panels, have the courtesy to call back and say so. I do not believe this is an honorable company and my next step is BBB.
8 years ago
Lenny Bakersfield, CA
I have to admit that if I had to rate the workmen that set up my roof to accept the system, the electrician that upgraded my home to accommodate the system, and the workman who made the necessary repairs I'd rate them a 12!!
When it comes to the sales department, their so-called concierge service, or service department I'd rate them no higher than a 1. Their lack of follow up, customer service, and total disrespect is appalling. When dealing with the concierge service nothing was acted on until I finally threatened them. The system was on my roof for over 2 months inactive waiting for "funding" before it could be turned on. I finally told them to come take the system off my roof, amazingly the "funding" mysteriously came through!
8 years ago
Liz Corona, CA
Solar City has the WORST customer service!
Buyer be ware cause Solar City will not work with you if there are ANY issues/problems. In January 2016, California had heavy rain. The installers did a bad job of installing a portion of my roof which cause water leaks. It's now March 10, 2016 and the problem is still unresolved. Myself and my husband have called and emailed their customer service dept, to try to resolve this problem but, they refuse to work with us, not even a return curiosity call. Finally I had to inform them after many attempts to work with them and them refusing, I would now hire a contractor to fix the problem and see them in small claims court. A couple hours after informing them of my decision to handle the matter, they finally called to schedule a contractor to fix the problem. If I would of known Solor City was this terrible in customer service, I would of never bought my Solar panels from THEM! During this time, my husband contacted the sales person who sold us the Solar system. He informed my husband that he no longer works for Solar City and could no longer help us but, good luck trying to resolve our issues. When asked why he no longer works for Solar City, he said, let's just say, I need to move on to a better future for himself and family.
8 years ago
Scott DeLeeuw Denver, CO
I did some math as it didn't seem SolarCity was working as well as I expected, or as I've seen in other reviews. I have 6 years worth of my electricity data and compared that to my year on SolarCity. Basically I saved a whopping $20.50 TOTAL having SolarCity for 12 months. Not worth all the pain I went through to get it, or of the stress it will create if I ever need something done to my roof.
8 years ago
Gary Head Arvada, CO
SolarCity is NOT the money saving deal they want you to believe it is. Costs skyrocket in the winter months because according to the company here in Colorado, where we average about 294 days of sunshine, the sunshine hours are less so the panels don't generate as much power. My Excell bill for Dec. was over $90 dollars. Couple that with a lease amount to SolarCity of $80 dollars and my electric bill was $170 dollars. Way more than my bill ever was to Excell alone. Summer Excell bills run about $10 dollars. Again, couple that with the lease payment to SolarCity of $80 dollars and once again my summer bill is was more than Excell alone. It's NOT a bargain .
When I first got the panels installed I refered several new customers to the company. Trying to get SolarCity to pay me the referal money was an absolute nightmare. It took me over 6 months to get paid. The company used every trick in the book not to live up to their end of the agreement. And they used every reason up to but not quite accusing me of cashing the checks and trying to get paid a second time. They went as far as calling the people I refered, who happened to be my neighbors, asking if they knew me and did they give SolarCity my name as a refering party. They really suck you in with the 20 year contract.
I could not nor will I ever refer any new business their way. SolarCity is a MAJOR DISAPPOINTMENT. Sorrry I ever heard of them. They definitely don't play fair.
8 years ago
Mike El Cajon, CA
Solar City almost burned my house down. I had a 100 amp panel on my house and asked if they needed to upgrade my panel (which they should have did!). They said no due to time lines of permits and cost. They jumped wires in my panel since there was no room for another circuit breaker that they needed. The connectors they use shorted out and cause a major short in my panel which burned the insullation off most of the wires in the box. They sent another company, thank God, to put bandaids on all the bare wires. They have promised a new panel but nothing yet. You cannot talk to people who are suppose to be taking care of you because you can't get past their "customer relations people". They try to contact the person and relay messages instead of transferring you. I have emailed the person incharge of my case and have not had a reply in 2 weeks. I asked if he was there and they said yes and he will be looking into it. Buyer Beware,all they want is the sale then VERY POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE AFTER YOU SIGN ON THE DOTTED LINE!
8 years ago
