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Sungate Energy Solutions

Solar Panels, Energy Efficiency Auditing

About us

An Angie's List "Page of Happiness" nominee, Sungate Energy Solutions is one of California's premier solar energy companies.

Business highlights

18 years of trusted experience
Emergency Services Offered

Services we offer

Solar Panels, Residential Solar Energy Systems

Amenities

Free Estimates
Yes
Warranties
Yes
Emergency Services
Yes


Accepted payment methods

Check
Financing Available
MasterCard
Visa

Photos of past projects

Reviews

4.223 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
65%
4
9%
3
0%
2
13%
1
13%


Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
4.9
value
4.0
professionalism
4.1
responsiveness
4.3
punctuality
4.4
Showing 1-23 of 23 reviews

RH E.
10/2015
1.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: I cancelled the solar contract within the 3 day rescind period because they were over priced ($/watt) as compared to other solar installers that had a higher rating on Angies List. They were supposed to return my $1000 deposit but didn't. I got a refund thru my credit card provider...

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
value
1.0
professionalism
1.0
responsiveness
1.0
punctuality
3.0

$1,000

Steve M.
09/2014
1.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Now Steve had warned us at the beginning that because DWP was our utility provider that the connect of the system would take up to 3 months. However, at the end of three months my husband called Sungate to see what the status was. He left a message. He never received a call back. So the next week my husband called the DWP to see if he could find out the status. When the representative from DWP called back and gave us the low down. It seems that not all the paperwork required by the DWP had been filled out completely. DWP had informed Sungate that they needed to complete the paperwork by July 9th, or the paperwork would need to be totally resubmitted if that time elapsed. Sungate never turned in the corrected/completed paperwork so I was told, so now we were not even in the queue to get connected. He did say that if all the paperwork was completed they could rush us to the front of the queue and get us connected. Very nice man. The only phone number they had on the paperwork didn't work he informed me. So I was mad and started researching and found that Sungate changed their name to Fidelity Home Energy and the original phone number we were given no longer worked. I found phone numbers on line . I couldn't believe it. I then called the rep. Steve. Then his boss, Jack. Then the woman in customer service we had been directed to call. I then emailed all of them. I told them all that what I had heard from the DWP and requested that they contact us to resolve the issue. Two days later I got an email from the customer service woman, Amber. No other response. She said they were working on it. It is now at the end of August, 2014. We still haven't heard anything from Sungate. I called and left a very angry message saying I was going to write a bad review, report them to BBB and do whatever I could to let others know that once Sungate has their money they are gone. The rep. Steve called back and left a message saying the entire thing was DWP fault. He had gotten our connection rush ordered, and it should be connected by next Thursday. This was just what the DWP guy had told me would happen if they got the paperwork in. Of course, that was almost four weeks ago. Now I am really upset, because he didn't take any responsiblility for what they didn't do, and just blamed DWP for everything. That is just not professional to blame some else for your mistakes, to not return calls, and keep customers posted on the status. I don't recommend going with Sungate at all. We do have other solar panels on another house that we lease and that experience was very positive. So we do know there are good solar companies out there. Note: Since the system is not working yet we can't evaluate the quality. ------------------------------Updated review on 12/1/14------------------------------------------ We were finally connected in November. The complaint to Sungate was resolved by Sungate admitting mismanagement and giving us $1100 toward our electric bill and $100 giftcard. The giftcard came from the customer service lady, who was very nice.
Description of Work: Sungate representative Steve, was very nice and informative. We signed with them and within a week the installers came out. the installers were sub-contractors. Even though we had been told that Sungate didn't sub out their work. The installers were great. Punctual. Did their work quickly. Cleaned up every day.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
value
3.0
professionalism
1.0
responsiveness
1.0
punctuality
3.0

$21,000

Christine H.
06/2014
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
They would have been an excellent choice. However we decided that, because we don't plan to keep our house more than 5 to 7 more years, the purchase of solar panels (cost versus overall savings) was not recommended.
Description of Work: I received presentation and a detailed quote.
Rating CategoryRating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro
$36,000

Julio D.
04/2014
4.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
unknown
Description of Work: Install 8 solar panels, inverter. Breaker panel, included all installations, permits, blue prints etc. use to pay about $1300/ year on electricity, this year I will pay about $250 for the whole year, they will pay for them selves eventually. Includes 20 year warranty on panels, 10 year warranty on inverter. If your roof needs replacing and you use someone else to recomend panels warranty is voided: read your fine print

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
3.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$20,000

Lyn P.
11/2013
2.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
The installers were great. Their customer service representatives were dreadful, however. They are not helpful, they do not follow up, and I was told that I was told that I paid way to high of a price. I have contacted them about the price and they have been unresponsive. I have about 8 pages of notes that I typed out just to know what is going on.
Description of Work: They added solar panels to my roof.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
1.0
professionalism
1.0
responsiveness
1.0
punctuality
1.0

$16,300

Pauline B.
10/2013
2.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
The sales person was fine. He did the best to answer my questions. However, when it came to the cost of the system his price was 20,000 more than other companies I was interviewing. Not only that but the initial quote was 90,0000. With the tax credit and other promotional discounts he gave me it brought the price down to $54,000.
Description of Work: Provide a proposal for solar installation.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
value
1.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
4.0

$54,000

PETER & BELINDA S.
10/2013
1.0
energy audit, solar panels
  + 0 more
My spouse is not willing to get involved with decisions concerning the major house systems. The scheduler stated that they require both spouses to be present for a 2-hour in-home analysis appointment. When I told them that my wife was not interested and that they'd be dealing only with me (and that I am the sole decision-maker for these types of home improvements), they refused to meet! So I guess their discriminating policies make them only willing to do business with married people who are willing to sit together for their 2-hour appointment. That's pretty stupid. I recently made an individual decision to spend $9,000 for new windows and doors. That company didn't require a dinner party!
Description of Work: They called me (unsolicited) to tell me that the corner location of my home was perfect for me to participate in their advertising promotional special offer. They scheduled an appointment with me. About a minute later, I received another phone call from another person to confirm the appointment, who then canceled the appointment!

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
professionalism
1.0


Response from Sungate Energy Solutions
Dear [removed member name], Thank you for taking the time to provide your valuable feedback. I do appreciate your concerns. I am sorry that you have been given the wrong impression of our company. Sungate Energy Solutions is a very successful solar energy company, with many very happy customers (whose Grade A testimonials can be read right here on Angie’s List). Sungate has always had a corporate policy that both spouses need be present for our solar consultations for the following reasons: Sungate’s solar consultant does a full energy evaluation on your home, to estimate your energy consumption and needs, so it is important that both of you be present to assist our consultant by answering our questions, and to get the most savings out of the Energy Analysis. Our consultants have to travel, sometimes up to 50 miles, to meet with our potential customers. They hold an in-depth, very educational presentation on energy usage as well as the science behind and benefits of solar energy. It is important that both of you be present. A solar system is not only a very large investment, but an important lifestyle decision, so it is imperative that both of you be present, to understand and approve this financial decision. All of our customers have agreed that this is not only a necessary, but very beneficial part of our sales and installation process. It is not in any to be discriminatory towards either spouse. In fact it is the opposite, as we make sure to respect the input and the decision-making ability of both. If you would like to discuss this further please contact our San Diego Branch Manager Mark Ivory at 858-220-7778. We would like to be given the opportunity to address your concerns and ample time to present to both of you, the numerous benefits of choosing solar energy. Sincerely, Sandhya Keller Customer Service Manager Sungate Energy Solutions Direct line: 858-220-7761

Bill R.
08/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Met with Sungate rep at my home and discussed filling out an area with panels to zero my electric bill. Adding these 3 to my existing 12 Sungate installed panels will likely have PG&E paying me. Sungate took care of plans & permits and their installer would notify me of completion of each permit step. The installer set up an install time with me and gave me an estimate on the time required for installation which turned out to be very accurate. I watched the work and am very satisfied with the neatness and workmenship. After completion,county inspection & PG&E approval went smooth . I originally calculated, with 12 panels, that my payback period would be within 12 years. After 1 full year of use,it appeared payback would be about 9 years! I was still paying a little for electricity on average so I had 3 more panels added. That means they will, on average, be paying me now!!!
Description of Work: Sungate added 3 solar panels to existing array of 12.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$5,000

david W.
08/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
great , i was sick ,but when i checked they had gone into over time to try and complete the job,but still had to return next day for 1 hour and only 3 men. they were a happy bunch of worker and very careful not to break or destroy my plants or other things . we trusted them and they proved themselves to be worthy of our opinion.
Description of Work: install 8 solar panels on roof

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Nirav P.
07/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
This transaction and installation was by far one of the most problem free experiences that we have had. We have been looking at solar panels for over 2 years and have interviewed 5 other companies. We chose Sungate based on their down to earth presentation, (no heavy sales pitch or pressure, just the facts) the pricing, and the timeframe with which they were able to provide the service. They used quality panels that were high graded and they were installed within three days. Sungate worked with our city to obtain the permits and schedule the inspection. The installer, Mark, was very professional. He was present during the inspection from the city and also taught us about our panels and the operation set up. When he left we felt that we understood what we were to do. Other important issues are the warranty. Sungate monitors the panels (this is built into the panel) and will provide all the maintenance needed. If a panel is not working, the monitor will alarm the company and they will be responsible to fix it. This was a great burden of relief for us. The panels will last 25 years plus. We will receive our ROI within 5-7 years. The other aspect that we truly liked about this company was the presentation and education that our representative Sergio gave us. He had information we had not seen before. It wasn't just an analysis of our electric bill. The follow up from customer service was excellent. We felt informed every step of the process. We were contacted by email and phone by the customer service representatives to make sure everything was proceeding as planned. They also outlined the time frame and answer any questions that we had during the process. We are so happy we made the decision to go with this company and now we are on our way to a lower electrical bill and feeling good about our part in renewable energy.
Description of Work: The provider sent out a representative to present the Solar Program along with education on energy savings that can be performed within the house. The provider then provided a plan with exact pricing that would meet our solar needs. After agreement, the provider installed solar panels and provided an energy savings kit to assist us with further reducing our energy costs.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$32,000

Stephen A.
07/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
They did a fantastic job. Their prices are very good. The best part is the way they follow up on each and every detail. It seems they really want to make you feel that they care about you and your business.
Description of Work: Sold me solar and installed it. Seven panels with room for more later.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$13,500

James C.
07/2013
2.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Salesman did not offer his recommendation of system required based on our power usage. Instead, wanted to know what other companies had proposed
Description of Work: Made sales visit with poor quality presentation.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
value
3.0
professionalism
2.0
responsiveness
2.0
punctuality
4.0


Response from Sungate Energy Solutions
Dear (deleted member name), We are sorry that you feel our sales presentation did not meet your expectations. According to our records, you were given a quote for a system according to your energy usage. During a follow-up call you informed us that you had made the decision to go with a different solar company. We are sorry you have chosen not to join our hundreds of very happy solar customers, many of which have posted glowing reviews right here on Angie's List. We are sorry your experience seems to have been an exception, when it comes our established reputation of providing an excellent experience for our customers, from sales to installation, and beyond. Sincerely, Sandhya Keller Customer Service/Media Relations Manager

Harry M.
06/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Everything went as planned and as scheduled. Only hiccup was that there was also an inspection required by SDGE that I was not aware of and this delayed the turn-on by a couple of days - no biggie.
Description of Work: Install solar electric system connecting with SDGE

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$21,000

Peter N.
06/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Looking to reduce the monthly electric bill we invited a representative of Sungate Energy Solutions to our home to discuss if a solar system might be the right direction for us to go. The sales rep was thorough, professional and friendly. He found a finance plan that would suit us and we decided that Sungate's product was for us. The process from start to finish went exactly as first described. Sungate did all the legwork for city permits and San Diego Gas and Electric inspections to contacting our homeowners association. The timescale for each step in the process went exactly as promised. The gentleman who first went up on the roof to map the layout of the solar array discovered some broken roof tiles and showed me some pictures he took while up there. He even told us that Sungate would repair the roof while the solar panels were being installed at no cost. The installers arrived right on schedule and on time, they were friendly, professional and most of all clean. They got right to work and in no time the solar panels and all accompanying electrical connections were accomplished. Installation took one day, as was first discussed. Upon completion they left no trace of all the work done and sent pictures to my phone of the roof repairs that was promised. The final city and SDGE inspections were set up and attended by Sungate personnel and went flawlessly. Financing and billing also held no surprises. The best came last when we received our next electric bill and did indeed realize the cost savings that was discussed during the very first meeting with the Sungate representative. In summary, we our extremely pleased with the professionalism and integrity of all the Sungate Energy Solutions personnel we dealt with and would enthusiastically recommend this company to anyone considering a home solar system.
Description of Work: Installed 10 solar panels with reverse racking system on the south west facing roof along with a 3.3 Delta Inverter solar system.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$24,000

Cynthia S.
05/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
This is our story. We contacted several solar companies and experienced high pressure sales tactics as they tried to talk us into leasing a system at higher rate then our monthly electric bill. That didn't make sense to us. We continued to look and found Sungate Energy Solutions. The staff was professional and knowledgeable. A well-dressed representative came to our home and with no high-pressure sales routine, thoroughly explained their system. He knew he had a good product and portrayed it well. They use the highest quality and most efficient panels and inverters available. Sungate obtains all the necessary permits. They provide a great warranty for their product and installation. They have financing options, discounts for cash purchases, and a low down payment. It was money well spent. The service was quick with lots of support. They came out with a hand-held Solmetric SunEye device to determine the angle of the panels for optimal sun exposure. Installation took one day! To make everything better the installers were here to prepare for the inspector and show the unit. This is very important because a family member recently had a poor experience with a solar leasing company.The final hook-up and inspection processprolonged the powering of the unit almost four months. Sungate coordinated with the power company for installation of the net meter. We are very pleased. I can't begin to explain the great experience we had. Never during the process did we have a regret or feeling that we shouldn't have purchased it. They planned out the customer experience from start to finish handling all the details and making it possible to turn on the system in less than two weeks. To top it off, our system is barely visible from the street. It doesn't spoil the look of our home all.
Description of Work: solar panel installation

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$19,000

Bryan L.
05/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
After the sale, my rep followed up making sure scheduling contacted me. The installation group obtained a permit and scheduled installation on a Saturday for me. They showed up timely, introduced themselves explained what they would be doing. Walked the property with me and then did their thing. They worked a good part of the day, were very clean and cleaned up any debris they created. They showed the completed work to me and trained me how to use the controls and read the control panel. They told me they would return Monday to install new circuit breakers and meet with the City inspector, which they did and City inspector passed the installation. Then Sungate submitted documentation to San Diego Gas and Electric for their approval and I received calls on Friday 4/26 that I could turn on the system. My very first electric bill has been reduced to half of what it was the prior year! I'm very happy.
Description of Work: Provided and installed 10 solar panels on our south facing roof and installed all wiring, conduit, control panel. This was a completely permitted job, by City of Escondido.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$20,000

Linda R.
05/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
They were perfect. They came in and told us exactly what they would do and how much it would cost. Everything was put in perfectly.
Description of Work: They put in solar panels on our roof.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$30,000

freddy C.
05/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Overall cit went very well, it is working great
Description of Work: Install solar panels and inverter within a professional timely manner

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$15,000

Raymond E.
04/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Sungate came out to tell us about there product and how much it would cost. They also where able to look into the best option for financing for use. They said it would take about 3 to 4 weeks to be done, but it was actually done sooner. They did all the plans. Follow through with all the financing. All the people we work with through Sungate have been very helpful and pleasant. They installed 7 solar panels on are roof and the converter on are house to go back to SCE. We are very pleased with the work and product.
Description of Work: The guys where very professional and quite. They did the work in a very timely manner. They installed solar panels on are roof. They also made sure that they picked up there material.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$18,000

Suzi F.
04/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
The man came out and gave us the information and an estimate for the installation. We decided it was a good idea and a good price and signed the contract. They called us a few days later to set up the installation date and arrived VERY promptly to start the installation. They gave us a 2 hour window of when they would arrive to start work and arrived right at the beginning of that window of time. They were efficient and clean and very unobtrusive. They did their work and even went and color matched the paint color of our house to paint the lines that had to go along the side of the house to match. The area for the solar panels was predetermined on a previous visit based on the sun and where they would be able to gather the most energy. The lines from the panels to the solar inverter were routed in such a way that you almost can't see them from the front of the house so the entire system in no way takes away from the curb appeal of the house. The man who gave us the estimate has followed up with us since and has been very easy to get a hold of when needed. We had 1 very minor issue from a sign placed on our electrical box. A rivet from the sign meant we couldn't open the electrical box but they came out 1st thing the next morning and removed the rivet and corrected the problem.
Description of Work: We had 8 solar panels installed on our roof & a solar inverter that tells us how much energy we are producing. They did a wonderful job & even went & bought paint to match our house to paint the lines to the solar inverter.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$18,000

Carol M.
03/2013
4.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
Sales staff was wonderful. Install staff did leave items behind , however were polite and informative. I would purchase from them in the future
Description of Work: Solar panels installed on roof

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
3.0
value
2.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
4.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$18,000

Imelda O.
03/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
The sales person estimated that the installation of the solar cells as well as all the electric work would be within 2 weeks, but they did it very quickly in less than 2 weeks. This was a pleasant surprise.
Description of Work: Sungate installed the solar panel on the roof, also they did all the paper work with PG&E. Finally almost two months later, PG&E did the check up. I will use them again, their customer service staff respond quickly and address all questions.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$20,000

Joe P.
03/2013
5.0
solar panels
  + -1 more
I got a good presentation and decided to go with the system. Everything went smoothly except they didn't notice I had the wrong meter form SDG&E so there was a week lost there. The system works as advertised and the warranty (though I have not used it as yet) covers all the major components for a longer life than I was expecting.
Description of Work: They installed a 3KW solar system at my home that has driven my electrical bill into the negative so far and it is only winter. I think it will be a great help come summer when the AC is running.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$32,000

    Contact information

    8445 Camino Santa Fe Ste 104, San Diego, CA 92121

    www.thesungate.com

    Service hours

    Sunday:
    Closed
    Monday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Tuesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Wednesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Thursday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Friday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Saturday:
    Closed

    Licensing

    Bonded

    Insured
    State Contractor License Requirements

    All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.

    *Contact business to see additional licenses.


    Service Categories

    Solar Panels,
    Energy Efficiency Auditing

    FAQ

    Sungate Energy Solutions is currently rated 4.2 overall out of 5.

    Sunday: Closed

    Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    Saturday: Closed

    Sungate Energy Solutions accepts the following forms of payment: Check,Financing Available,MasterCard,Visa
    Yes, Sungate Energy Solutions offers free project estimates.
    No, Sungate Energy Solutions does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
    No, Sungate Energy Solutions does not offer a senior discount.
    Yes, Sungate Energy Solutions offers emergency services.
    Yes, Sungate Energy Solutions offers warranties.
    Sungate Energy Solutions offers the following services: Solar Panels, Residential Solar Energy Systems

    Contact information

    8445 Camino Santa Fe Ste 104, San Diego, CA 92121

    www.thesungate.com

    Service hours

    Sunday:
    Closed
    Monday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Tuesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Wednesday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Thursday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Friday:
    8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    Saturday:
    Closed