Overview
Highlands Energy is a clean energy solutions company based in Fresno, California. The company was founded in 1985. In addition to installing solar arrays, Highlands Energy works with California Public Utilities Commission to provide no-cost weatherization services to qualified homeowners.
Solar Panels and Services
Specific Solar Panels Offered
Winaico: Winaico panels aren’t popular, despite having decent specs. They have efficiency ratings up to 20.95% but degrade at a high of 0.53% per year. This makes them lose value quickly. The performance warranty is only 25 years, which is standard. Customers appreciate their appearance and performance, but that’s about it.
Panasonic: Panasonic solar panels have high efficiency ratings, up to 22.2%, and people like them. They come in black and non-black models, all pricey. The product warranty is 25 years. They perform well in heat, only losing 0.26% efficiency per degree above optimal temperature.
SolarWorld: These panels have terrible efficiency ratings, with the best one at just 17.83%. They also have low power ratings, so more will be needed for solar projects. At least they have a 20-year warranty.
Hanwha SolarOne: SolarOne modules exhibit standard attributes, including a 12-year product warranty, typical power ratings, and average efficiency ratings, accompanied by moderate costs. Nevertheless, the brand is appreciated for its diverse offerings, as it manufactures monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels.
LG: While LG panels are no longer being produced and carry a considerable price tag, they remain an excellent choice for commercial and residential installations. The NeON 2 and NeON R panels are the most sought-after LG panels, offering enhanced light absorption and substantial power ratings. LG also provides a 25-year warranty on its solar panels, ensuring long-term support and protection for customers.
Specific Types of Solar Offered
Residential solar: Homeowners can either go grid-tie or hybrid with Highlands Energy. In the former case, the company installs the solar array, connecting it to the electricity grid and securing incentives for the customer through net metering. If the customer needs a hybrid solar system, Highlands adds an Enphase battery to the array and also connects the array to the electricity grid.
Installation Costs and Processes
After the customer establishes communication with Highlands Energy, the company’s team contacts the customer. The discussion revolves around the details concerning the scope and size of the solar system. Upon mutual agreement, a solar installation contract is signed by both parties. However, it is at this stage that Highlands Energy demonstrates its unprofessionalism.
The company drags its feet in every subsequent stage of the installation process, causing delays in submitting applications for permits and consequently extending the timeline for the solar installation. Several customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s staff installing solar arrays before obtaining the necessary permits, contrary to the appropriate procedure.
Costs
Highlands Energy remains notably reticent regarding the expenses associated with the installation of solar systems. Given the company’s less-than-favorable feedback on solar installations, it is reasonable to surmise that customers may have desired a more advantageous arrangement.
Legitimacy
Highlands Energy possesses an array of certifications that prove its authenticity. In addition to being BBB-accredited, the company is licensed in California as both a general and electrical contractor. Furthermore, it has been certified as a Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise, a Minority Business Enterprise, and a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise.
The company’s technicians are also certified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in accordance with Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. Despite these certifications, Highlands Energy has garnered a somewhat unfavorable reputation among customers.
Maintenance
Highlands Energy does not disclose any information regarding its maintenance policies, and third-party sources have not provided any insights. Before hiring this company, it is advisable to clearly understand its maintenance procedures, or lack thereof, for your solar system. To ensure proper maintenance, consider requesting the inclusion of a maintenance policy within your contractual agreement.
Review AnalysisWe reached out to Highlands Energy, which offers a range of solar panels from manufacturers such as Winaico, Panasonic, SolarWorld, Hanwha SolarOne, and LG. While some panels have good efficiency ratings and warranties, others have lower efficiency and power ratings. They provide residential solar installations, offering both grid-tied and hybrid systems, and assist customers in securing incentives through net metering. However, there have been customer concerns regarding delays in the installation process and a lack of transparency regarding costs. Highlands Energy holds various certifications and licenses, but it is advisable to conduct thorough research and clarify maintenance procedures before considering their services. |
The SolarEmpower View
Although Highlands Energy aspires to offer exceptional service to its customers, it may struggle with the issue of overpromising and underdelivering. While any company can overpromise, not all can successfully deliver on their commitments. In the case of Highlands Energy, there is a possibility that the company may not fulfill its promises.
| 💲Cost: 5/10 | ✅Legitimacy: 6/10 |
| ⭐️Quality: 5/10 | 📞Customer Service: 7/10 |
