Power Trip Energy
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Author: Kaitlyn Short
Founded in 2002 on the idea of creating sustainable communities across the Olympic and Kitsap Peninsulas of Washington State, Power Trip Energy has made good on that mission in the ensuing years by installing more than 4 megawatts of clean, renewable energy for more than 725 homes. The company specializes in grid-tied solar PV systems in the residential market as well as keeping solar customers informed on the latest developments in solar technology and policy. Power Trip Energy employs NABCEP-certified installers and is exclusive to communities in Washington State.
Top Ranked Companies
The Good
- NABCEP Certified Company
- SunPower Installer
NABCEP Certified Company
Power Trip Energy employs at least two solar experts who have been certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This means that Power Trip Energy has undergone extensive training from one of the top programs in the solar industry. Companies with this designation indicate to potential customers that their solar installation teams are as up-to-date as possible on the standards and best installation practices in the solar industry.
SunPower Installer
Power Trip Energy installs solar panels from a variety of different manufacturers, but primarily installs panels from SunPower. SunPower is widely regarded to be the top solar equipment manufacturer in the world; and while other manufacturers can build solar panel and inverter technology at near comparable levels, SunPower remains the best in terms of quality of construction, energy efficiency, durability, and warranty protection.
The Bad
- Limited Workmanship Warranty
- Only Available in Washington
- No Lease or PPA Options
Limited Workmanship Warranty
Although the majority of Power Trip Energy’s equipment comes with an equipment warranty of 25 years (from the manufacturer), the company attaches a workmanship warranty of only 10 years to its solar installation projects. Leading companies like SunPower guarantee their solar energy systems against installation errors for up to 25 years, essentially the projected lifetime of the system. In other words, if customers discover system performance has been negatively affected by, or the house itself has been damaged as a direct result of poor installation at any time after the first 10 years of operation, they will be financially responsible for the repairing or replacing damaged components.
Only Available in Washington
Power Trip Energy is only available in Washington State; and though the company has been around since 2002 — considerably longer than most solar providers — this narrow service area may set it at a disadvantage against larger solar providers with a more nationally known presence. Promoting verified Power Trip Energy reviews can be an effective way for the company to stand out from the crowd.
No Lease or PPA Options
Power Trip Energy keeps customers apprised of available financing options as they related to solar loans or home-equity lines of credit (HELOC); but the company has not disclosed whether other, more cost-effective options like solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPA) are available.
The Bottom Line
Power Trip Energy looks like a solid option for solar customers in Washington State. With an NABCEP certification and nearly two decades of experience under its belt, the company has a long track record of expertise and commitment to helping people make the switch to clean energy. If you’re looking for a company that provides a lifetime warranty on its installations or don’t want to foot the bills (often tens of thousands of dollars) to pay for the solar energy system yourself, Power Trip Energy may not be right for; otherwise, the company is worth obtaining a free quote from.
