SunPower vs Tesla

Availability

SunPower solar equipment is currently available in 38 states, while Tesla solar solutions are available in all states.

SunPower systems are available in the following states:

Equipment and Customization

SunPower offers residential solar panel, energy storage, and EV charging solutions that are tailored to meet the unique solar needs and preferences of each customer. The company’s products are available in two different systems, each of which are available for installation by SunPower dealers/installers. SunPower’s solar systems include the following:

• SunPower Equinox® system — A comprehensive solar system that includes SunPower’s minimalist solar panels. The system is designed to generate more power in less space while also eliminating unnecessary hardware and utility boxes on your home’s exterior walls.
• SunVault® storage system — SunPower’s solar battery system that can be paired seamlessly with the Equinox system. The system uses excess generated energy to power essential home appliances during a power outage, while also reducing your peak-time electricity charges.

It’s worth noting that SunPower’s solar panels are some of the most efficient in the industry. The company’s M-Series (440W panel) offers up to 22.8 percent efficiency — the average efficiency range of most residential solar panels is 15 to 20 percent.

Tesla offers similar solar options to that of SunPower, including solar panels, solar batteries, and EV charging stations. However, Tesla sets itself apart in the industry with its Solar Roof and Powerwall products:

• Tesla Solar Roof — A roof shingle solution that is composed of glass and steel solar shingles that operate similarly to traditional solar panels. The Solar Roof can cover the entire roof of your home, maximizing surface coverage area for power generation. Compared to traditional solar panels the Solar Roof also offers a more durable and aesthetically pleasing solar solution.
• Powerwall — Tesla’s solar battery storage system that is compact and provides 24/7 energy security. The Powerwall system is available from a wide variety of solar installation companies and it can be easily paired with the Solar Roof.

It’s important to note that while Tesla’s Solar Roof product offers increased energy efficiency and a more aesthetically pleasing design, it’s a far more expensive option when compared to traditional solar panels. The average cost of installing solar panels ranges from $9,000 to $50,000, whereas the cost of installing a Solar Roof (including roof replacement and Powerwall products) is upwards of $150,000.

Warranties

SunPower provides various warranties to protect different components of your solar system. SunPower’s warranties include the following:

• 25-year Complete Confidence product warranty (equipment warranty)
• 25-year workmanship warranty
• 25-year performance warranty

Tesla provides the following warranty coverages:

• 25-year panel performance warranty
• 10-year comprehensive warranty

Installations and Monitoring

SunPower and Tesla solar products are primarily installed by dealers. In addition to installing solar products, dealers will also typically act as the customer care center for your solar system. 

Both SunPower and Tesla provide solar monitoring after installation through streamlined mobile apps — SunPower provides the mySunPower® app and Tesla provides the Tesla app. Both companies’ apps allow you to manage your home solar, storage, and electricity use directly on your phone, ensuring that you can keep an eye on your solar system’s productivity from anywhere.

Financing Options

SunPower offers increased flexibility in financing options for your solar system. You can purchase a SunPower solar system outright or you can finance your system with a solar loan, power purchase agreement (PPA), or a solar lease.

Similarly, you can purchase a Tesla solar system outright, but the only financing option the company provides is Tesla Financing, an option that allows you to purchase your solar energy system without paying all costs upfront.