Overview
HES Solar is a small solar energy and storage provider based in San Diego, California. It was founded in 2001. The company provides a range of services to homes and businesses, including solar system installation and maintenance of existing solar arrays.
Solar Panels and Services
Specific Solar Panels Offered
For residential installations, HES Solar uses the following modules:
SunPower: HES Solar primarily utilizes SunPower residential AC modules with power ratings ranging from 420 to 440 watts. These panels have efficiency ratings of up to 22.8%. They come with highly sought-after 25-year product and performance warranties. Remarkably, SunPower modules are reputed to generate 60% more energy than conventional solar panels over 25 years.
Maxeon 3: This model has power ratings ranging from 405 to 420 watts. Composed of monocrystalline half-cut solar cells, the Maxeon 3 boasts a maximum efficiency rating of 22.2%. Moreover, the warranty coverage for this model is remarkable, extending up to 40 years while featuring a minimal degradation rate of only 0.25% per year. Although its all-black design is aesthetically pleasing, the design may reduce sunlight-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency.
Qcells Q.PEAK DUO ML-G10+: This model is available in capacities ranging from 395 to 415 watts. This module boasts an impressive efficiency rating of up to 21.1%. Although it experiences a 0.5% annual degradation, the module is designed with half-cut cells that are characterized by lower electrical resistance. Furthermore, it is backed by exceptional 25-year product and performance warranties.
Meanwhile, HES Solar employs these photovoltaic panels in commercial installations:
Maxeon 6: This module is similar to the Maxeon 3 but boasts higher power ratings, spanning from 450 to 475 watts. Its efficiency rating is slightly superior, reaching 22.3%. Additionally, the warranty period extends for a 40 years, with a minimal performance degradation of only 0.25% per annum.
Silfab: The Silfab model used by HES Solar is available in 369W and 500W capacities, with 19.4% and 21% efficiency, respectively. Both panels have a 30-year performance warranty and a 12-year product warranty, which can be extended to 25 years by registering them on Silfab’s website. However, the Maxeon 6 may be a better option than this Silfab model.
Specific Types of Solar Offered
Residential solar: HES Solar offers only grid-tied installs where the customer is still partially dependent on their utility provider. Such solar panels are usually positioned on the building’s roof.
Commercial solar: HES Solar designs and installs innovative and efficient commercial systems utilizing ground mounts, ballasted roof mounts, and solar carports, to name a few.
Installation Costs and Processes
During the consultation with the client, the HES Solar representative gathers information needed to prepare a custom quote for the project. This quote is submitted to the customer for review, after which they sign the contract. Installation takes up to 2 days, reportedly clean and professional.
Costs
Customers are generally satisfied with HES Solar’s pricing, which is competitive compared to other local installers. Their size and partnerships enable cost-effective and quality service. HES Solar provides loan and lease options. However, these financing options are restricted to customers installing SunPower solar systems, so customers who prefer other brands of solar panels may have to pay cash. Consequently, HES offers no financing options for commercial solar projects.
Legitimacy
Holding BBB accreditation and a license to operate in San Diego, HES Solar is a certified installer of Tesla Powerwalls and Enphase Encharge systems. The company has predominantly positive reviews. However, it’s been alleged that HES Solar compensates dissatisfied clients to prevent them from sharing their negative experiences online. This allegation makes one question the company’s legitimacy.
Maintenance
All HES Solar installations come with a 10-year workmanship warranty. Also, HES actively monitors its installed solar systems and advises past clients when issues arise for free. In addition, it offers two paid maintenance packages: a $499 annual package and a $799 annual package with additional protection. While the maintenance packages are a valuable option, their pricing may not suit everyone.
Many clients report that HES customer service representatives are easily accessible and promptly resolve concerns.
The SolarEmpower View
A significant proportion of HES Solar’s customers report satisfaction with their solar panels and reasonable returns on their investment. Although there are a few negative reviews, they seem to be exceptions rather than the norm, and thus, HES Solar can be recommended.
| 💲Cost: 8/10 | ✅Legitimacy: 7/10 |
| ⭐️Quality: 9/10 | 📞Customer Service: 8/10 |
