If your solar company has suddenly gone silent or shut its doors for good, you’re not alone. You are what the industry calls an “orphaned solar customer.”
In the last two years, a growing number of solar installers – both big and small – have shut their doors or pulled their business out of Arizona.
When a solar installer goes dark it causes a ripple effect of problems. Homeowners are left with unanswered service calls, unfulfilled warranty promises, and solar systems that might not be performing as they should. It’s a frustrating situation, especially when you’ve already invested so much.
But the good news is you still have options. Whether you’re dealing with a broken inverter, incomplete paperwork, or just don’t know who to call, there are steps you can take to protect your solar investment and get the support you need.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through why so many solar companies have struggled in recent years, what to do if your solar company has shut down, and how to choose a good solar installer that is financially stable so that you don’t end up in the same position again.
Like any industry, solar isn’t immune to business failure and challenging economic conditions Some reasons why solar installers shut down include:
Some solar company red flags to watch out for include:
Keep Reading: Installing Solar Panels (How to Avoid a Dodgy Company)
Below is a partial list of solar companies that have either closed their doors or pulled out of Arizona in recent years, leaving behind hundreds of ‘orphaned’ solar customers.
If your solar installer has gone out of business, you’re likely feeling frustrated and overwhelmed – especially if you’re left with a system that isn’t working properly and no one to call for help. The good news is, there are still ways you can protect your investment and get the support you need.
Here’s what to do if your solar installer has gone out of business.
Before assuming the worst, take a moment to verify the company’s status:
Even if your installer is gone, your system components – like inverters and panels – are often covered by manufacturer warranties. The first step is to find your warranty documents, as these will outline the terms and steps for initiating support.
Next, you can call the solar equipment manufacturer and see if they can connect you with an authorized service provider in your area. Be sure to ask if they cover labor, as some warranties only cover parts.
Finding a company to service or finish a system they didn’t install can be tricky – but not impossible. Here are some tips:
Whatever you do, avoid trying to do any repairs yourself. This is not only unsafe but can void any remaining warranties. Plus, solar panels are high voltage systems that can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.
At Sun Valley Solar, we have a vested interest in becoming your trusted partner for the lifespan of your solar panels. If your solar company has gone dark, don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss your options.
See: How to Choose the Best Solar Installer for Your Home
If you financed your solar panel system, it’s worth calling your lender. They often have a network of installers they work with and may be able to refer someone to help. In some cases, if your system isn’t working and can’t be serviced, you might qualify for deferred payments. Check your loan agreement as this will vary case by case.
If you’re constantly hitting dead ends trying to get support for your solar energy system, legal support may be a necessary consideration. If you choose to go this route, it’s important to be organized. Gather all the documentation related to your solar project, including:
You can also reach out to nonprofit organizations like Solar United Neighbors, an advocacy group that offers guidance to solar owners dealing with issues like orphaned systems.
Finally, don’t hesitate to report your experience to the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and SolarReviews.com. These public platforms create a record of your experience and can help warn others before they sign with the same company.
So, your solar company has gone bust and you’re looking for another solar installer to help you repair or maintain your solar system. Or maybe you’re just doing your due diligence before signing up with a solar company. Here are some ways to avoid signing up with a dodgy solar company.
It might sound obvious, but reviews matter – especially for a purchase as important as your solar system. Just as you’d read reviews before buying a new appliance, you should do the same when choosing a solar installer.
Start by checking verified reviews on platforms like BBB and SolarReviews.com, where you can see feedback from real homeowners in your area. Try to go beyond the star rating and find reviews that discuss how the company handles long-term issues, not just installation.
You can also ask the solar installer for referrals from past customers. A reputable solar company should be happy to connect you with satisfied clients. If they can’t, consider it a red flag.
A company that’s been around for several years has likely weathered the ups and downs of the industry, and that’s a good sign. Companies that manage their businesses responsibly are likely to continue operating for many years to come. Look for installers with a solid business history and local presence. Newer companies aren’t necessarily bad, but if you’re considering one, ask about the founder’s industry experience and how they plan to support customers over the long term.
Always get at least three quotes before making a decision. This helps you compare not just price, but also transparency and professionalism. When getting quotes, pay attention to how each company communicates. Are they informative and helpful or pushy and vague?
If one quote is dramatically lower than the rest, there’s probably a reason, and it might involve cutting corners on equipment, labor, or support.
Local solar companies with their own sales, installation, and service teams tend to offer more reliable support. After all, they’re accountable for every step of the process. Avoid ‘sales only’ companies that outsource the actual install or warranties. While not always the case, these setups leave a lot of room for accountability disputes and can leave customers stuck in the middle when something goes wrong.
Look for companies with a physical office in Arizona and a direct line for service. If they know your local utility and permitting process, that’s a great sign. Plus, you can visit their office if immediate attention is needed.
In Arizona, all contractors must be licensed through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (AZROC). Their ROC number should appear on all marketing materials, and you can verify their license and business history at www.roc.az.gov. If they aren’t listed, don’t risk it—find someone else.
APS and SRP also certify solar installers to ensure they’re trained for safe and reliable grid integration. You can search their approved installer lists here:
For added assurance, look for installers certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This respected certification requires rigorous training, testing, and ongoing education—signaling a strong commitment to safety and professionalism.
Sun Valley Solar Solutions holds all of these certifications, as well as many more.
If something feels off, it probably is. As final words of warning:
Similar Reading: 10 Things to Check Before Hiring Solar System Installers
Let us help you! At Sun Valley Solar Solutions, we’ve helped many Arizona homeowners get their solar systems back on track after being left behind by disappearing companies. Whether your system isn’t working properly, was never activated, or just needs a trusted team to take over support, we’re here to help.
Call us today at 480-576-5693 to speak with a member of our team.
Since 2006, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses throughout Arizona harness clean, reliable solar energy. We’re a locally owned, NABCEP-certified solar installer with a reputation for technical excellence, quality craftsmanship, and outstanding customer care (with an A+ BBB rating). With more than 15,000 solar systems installed across the state and a proven track record of long-term service, we’re one of Arizona’s most experienced solar providers.
Our in-house team includes solar consultants, licensed installers, and dedicated field technicians – so whether you need help with an abandoned installation or your current system needs repairs, we’ve got the expertise to get the job done right.
We work with all major solar panel and inverter manufacturers and can:
If you need a new solar partner you can count on, we’re ready to help. Call us today at 480-576-5693 to schedule a free consultation and we’ll walk you through your options.
Note: If your system is leased, we may need permission from your leasing provider to perform service. Let us know – our team is experienced in working with third-party financiers and can help guide you through the process.