A local solar installer is the main buying route for a home rooftop solar system. As of ****, compare at least 3 quotes before choosing an installer. For an RV, shed, cabin, boat or backup system, check nearby Home Depot or Lowe's for portable and DIY equipment. Store inventory depends on your ZIP code.
| What you need | Best place to buy | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Complete home solar system | Local solar installer or installer marketplace | Includes system design, permits, installation and utility interconnection |
| DIY rooftop or off-grid system | Solar equipment distributor | Provides access to panels, inverters, batteries and mounting hardware |
| RV, shed, boat or small backup system | Home Depot or Lowe's | Offers convenient pickup and delivery for smaller solar products |
| Professional-grade equipment | Authorized solar distributor | Provides a wider equipment selection and contractor support |
Where to Find Solar Panels Locally
1. Local Solar Installers
For a grid-connected home system, start with a local installer. EnergySage lets homeowners enter a ZIP code and compare quotes from solar installers. Its marketplace puts pricing options and installer information in one place.
A local installer should provide:
- Solar panel and inverter specifications
- A roof layout and estimated annual production
- Cash pricing and financing terms
- Permit and inspection support
- Utility interconnection support
- Workmanship and equipment warranties
- Battery storage options, if needed
Do not buy rooftop panels separately unless a qualified installer has confirmed that the equipment works with your electrical system.
2. Home Depot
Home Depot sells solar panels and related products from brands such as Renogy, EcoFlow and Nature Power. Store pickup and delivery depend on the selected location.
Home Depot is most useful for:
- Small off-grid systems
- RV and boat projects
- Shed lighting
- Portable solar generators
- Replacement panels
- DIY battery and backup projects
For a whole-home rooftop system, buying a panel from a retail store does not replace system design, permits, electrical work or utility approval.
3. Lowe's
Lowe's lists solar panels and small solar-power products from brands including Renogy and Nature Power. Its product pages let shoppers check local availability and pickup options.
Lowe's can work well when you need:
- A small solar panel quickly
- A panel for an RV, cabin or shed
- Portable solar equipment
- A replacement panel for an existing system
Before buying, check the panel's voltage, wattage, connector type and battery compatibility.
4. Solar Equipment Distributors
Solar distributors sell equipment such as:
- Solar modules
- Microinverters and string inverters
- Batteries
- Racking and mounting hardware
- Disconnects and other electrical equipment
Many distributors serve contractors and may not install systems for homeowners. Manufacturer distributor directories can help you find authorized suppliers in your area. Schneider Electric, for example, provides a directory of authorized solar distributors.
Should You Buy Panels Online or From a Local Store?
Buy locally or through an installer when you need delivery support, warranty assistance or help with permits. Online distributors may offer more choices, but check freight costs, product condition, compatibility and warranty coverage before placing an order.
Confirm these details before buying:
- Panel wattage and dimensions
- Operating voltage and current
- Inverter compatibility
- Mounting system compatibility
- Roof or ground-mount requirements
- Shipping or freight charges
- Return and warranty policies
- Local permit and inspection requirements
A solar panel is one part of a photovoltaic system. A grid-connected system also needs an inverter, racking, wiring, disconnect equipment, monitoring and utility interconnection.
Best Next Step
- For a house: Enter your ZIP code into a solar quote marketplace such as EnergySage and compare quotes from local installers.
- For an RV, shed or small off-grid project: Check Home Depot and Lowe's for local pickup.
- For a DIY whole-home system: Contact a solar equipment distributor and ask a licensed electrician to review the design.