Typical solar installation services: Residential solar panels, Battery backup systems, Solar pool heating, +4 more
The 30-Second Verdict
SunPower (now merged with Complete Solar) installs premium Maxeon panels with the highest efficiency in the industry (22%+) and a 40-year panel warranty. Sunrun is the largest residential solar installer in the US, offers more financing options (lease, PPA, loan, cash), and has a larger Florida service network. For a Florida homeowner paying cash or with excellent credit, SunPower's premium panels deliver better long-term performance on limited roof space. For no-money-down options (leases or power purchase agreements), Sunrun has the broader and more flexible offering. Important: SunPower Corp filed for bankruptcy in 2024 — existing warranties are now handled through Complete Solar and the SunPower equipment brand, but financial stability concerns remain.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Sunrun
Pros
- Largest US residential solar installer — extensive Florida service network
- Most flexible financing: $0 down lease, PPA, loan, and cash options
- 25-year production guarantee on lease and PPA plans
- Publicly traded — financial reporting transparency
Cons
- Lease/PPA customers don't own the system — reduces home resale value and complicates sale
- Standard-efficiency panels (19-21%) vs SunPower's Maxeon 22%+
- Installation subcontractors vary in quality — ask for the local installer's track record
- Aggressive door-to-door sales in Florida during 2024-2025 have hurt brand reputation
SunPower
Pros
- Maxeon panels: 22.8% efficiency — highest in residential solar
- 40-year panel warranty, 25-year workmanship — longest in industry
- Tighter panel tolerance — more power per square foot (matters for smaller Florida roofs)
- Microinverter and power-optimizer options for partial shade
Cons
- Premium pricing: typical Florida install $3.80-$4.80 per watt installed ($23,000-$38,000 for 6kW)
- SunPower Corp (parent company) filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2024
- Warranty service now handled through Complete Solar after bankruptcy transition
- Smaller dealer network in Florida vs Sunrun
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Sunrun | SunPower | |
|---|---|---|
| Panel Efficiency | 19-21% (Qcells or LG) | 22.8% (Maxeon 6) |
| Typical Florida Price ($/watt) | $3.20 – $3.80 installed | $3.80 – $4.80 installed |
| 6kW System Cost (cash) | $19,000 – $24,000 | $23,000 – $38,000 |
| Panel Warranty | 25 years | 40 years |
| Workmanship Warranty | 10 years (lease is 25) | 25 years |
| Financing Options | Lease, PPA, loan, cash | Loan, cash (lease limited post-bankruptcy) |
| Best For | Flexible financing, larger roof space, established company | Cash buyers, small roofs, forever-home, premium quality |
| Florida Dealer Network | Extensive (every major metro) | Limited (major metros only) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SunPower still in business after the bankruptcy?
SunPower Corp filed Chapter 11 in 2024 and most of its assets were acquired by Complete Solar and Dealers Industry. The SunPower product brand continues and new installations are being completed. Existing warranties have been transitioned to Complete Solar as the warranty servicer. For Florida homeowners considering SunPower in 2026, confirm which entity is actually selling and servicing the system — the brand, corporate structure, and warranty paths have all changed.
Should I lease, PPA, or buy solar in Florida?
Current federal note: the IRS says the Residential Clean Energy Credit is unavailable for residential property placed in service after December 31, 2025. Do not subtract the former credit from a 2026 residential proposal.
What about Florida net metering changes?
Florida net metering is under political pressure — FPL and Duke Energy have lobbied to reduce the 1:1 credit ratio. As of 2026, most Florida utilities still offer full net metering, but this could change. When comparing quotes, ask both installers: (1) what happens to my payback if net metering ratio drops to 0.75 or 0.50, (2) are battery backup options included, and (3) what's the payback period under each scenario.
Which handles Florida hurricanes better?
Both systems use Florida-code-rated mounting (typically tested to 140-160 mph winds). SunPower's Maxeon panels have tighter shingle-style construction that some data suggests holds up better to hail and debris impact, but hard real-world hurricane comparison data is limited. More important: confirm your installer uses Florida-specific flashing, sealant, and mounting that's warranted against hurricane damage. Get that in writing.
Any cheaper Florida alternatives?
Yes — extensively. Local Florida solar installers (ESA Solar, Mirasol Solar, Solar Bear, Momentum Solar, Florida Power Services) often install comparable Qcells or REC panels at $2.80-$3.40 per watt — 15-30% below either national brand. The premium brands offer longer warranties and (in SunPower's case) higher efficiency, but for most Florida homes, a mid-tier panel from a reputable local installer with a solid 25-year product warranty is the best value. Always get 3 quotes.
Sources checked
Official product, warranty, support, or regulatory sources used for this comparison.
Listed Local Florida Solar Installation Alternatives
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