Services: Residential solar panels, Battery backup systems, Solar pool heating, +4 more
The 30-Second Verdict
Sunrun is the largest residential solar company in the US with the most Florida installers and the broadest battery storage option (Brightbox). Sunnova focuses on financing flexibility and longer warranty coverage. For Floridians who want battery backup for hurricane season, Sunrun's Brightbox (using LG or Tesla Powerwall) is better tested in real storms. Sunnova's loan products are competitive if you're buying rather than leasing. Both are solid — your local installer quality and roof type matter more than the brand.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Sunrun
Pros
- Largest US residential solar company — most Florida service locations
- Brightbox battery storage (LG Chem / Tesla Powerwall) proven through multiple FL hurricanes
- 25-year comprehensive service agreement — Sunrun owns and maintains the system on leases
- Strong net metering expertise across Florida utilities (FPL, Duke, TECO)
- Broad product range: lease, PPA, loan, and cash purchase options
Cons
- Solar lease / PPA complicates Florida home sales — buyer must assume agreement
- Pricing is on the higher end — less competitive on cash purchases vs local installers
- Sales process can be high-pressure; multiple follow-up calls are common
- Third-party installation in some Florida markets — quality varies by subcontractor
Sunnova
Pros
- Sunnova+ battery storage with 10-year system warranty (longer than most competitors)
- Flexible loan products including no-dealer-fee options in some markets
- 25-year power production guarantee — Sunnova compensates if output falls short
- Strong presence in Central Florida and Space Coast markets
- Service agreement model: Sunnova handles all maintenance on managed systems
Cons
- Smaller installer network than Sunrun — less coverage in South Florida metros
- Battery storage options fewer than Sunrun's Brightbox lineup
- Customer reviews more mixed than Sunrun in Florida-specific markets
- Less brand recognition means harder resale conversations vs Sunrun's known name
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Sunrun | Sunnova | |
|---|---|---|
| Sunrun | Sunnova | |
| US Market Rank | #1 residential | Top 5 residential |
| Battery Storage | Brightbox (LG/Powerwall) | Sunnova+ (various) |
| System Warranty | 25-year service agreement | 25-year production guarantee |
| FL Coverage | Statewide | Central/North FL stronger |
| Financing | Lease, PPA, loan, cash | Loan, cash (strong) |
| Lease Option | Yes | Limited |
| Hurricane Tested | Yes (multiple storms) | Yes |
| Best For | Battery backup priority | Loan financing, warranties |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sunrun or Sunnova hold up during Florida hurricanes?
Both companies engineer systems to Florida Building Code, which requires panels to withstand 160+ mph winds in coastal counties. Sunrun's Brightbox battery has been deployed through Hurricanes Ian and Milton — customers with battery backup maintained power while neighbors were out. Sunnova's systems similarly survived at high rates. The bigger hurricane risk is roof damage causing panel detachment — both require licensed Florida roofers to assess roof condition before install.
What happens to a Sunrun lease if I sell my Florida home?
With a Sunrun lease or PPA, the new buyer must assume the remaining agreement — typically 20+ years remaining on a new install. Florida buyers increasingly accept solar leases because they're getting below-retail electricity rates. However, some buyers and lenders still balk. If resale flexibility matters, consider purchasing the system outright (cash or loan) rather than leasing. Sunnova loans transfer with home sale more cleanly than Sunrun leases.
Can I get battery backup with Sunrun or Sunnova in Florida?
Yes. Sunrun's Brightbox uses Tesla Powerwall 3 or LG RESU batteries and is available statewide in Florida. Sunnova+ battery add-ons are available in most Florida markets. Expect $10,000–$18,000 additional for battery storage. Florida FPL customers should ask about the grid-outage-only battery mode which preserves battery life for actual outages rather than daily cycling.
Top-Rated Local Florida Solar Installation Alternatives
You don't have to pick a national brand. These Florida-based solar installation companies have the highest real Google ratings in our directory — often at a fraction of the franchise price.
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