I was recently asked to provide a reference for SunRun and Alteris.  Here is what I wrote:

Hi Lynne,

We had Alteris install a SunRun PV system for us.  No hot water yet although we are considering it.  We are extremely happy with the system and the overall customer experience. However, it is difficult to quantify the actual amount of savings because a number of factors:

• Since enrolling in the program, we have definitely been more conscious about our power usage. It is a little like driving a Prius. You tend to drive more energy-efficiently when you have all this data about production and consumption.
• SunRun’s billing is based on estimated production for the first year.  The panels may produce more than estimated.  If they do, there will be an adjustment later on.
• Every season is different with the weather and how much we are home.
• The real cost savings of the SunRun program accrue in the future when the conventional utility electricity prices go up but SunRun customers are locked in at a flat rate for 18 years.  So, we didn’t expect to save much the first year.  Besides, the up-front investment was really small compared to owning the system.

I can, however, say the following:

• There were no hidden costs.  The price was as advertised (although we did have to buy a new roof because the roof that was recently put on by the prior owners was not properly done and violated the building code).
•  The installation procedure was painless.  Alteris was prompt, friendly, and professional and they didn’t make a mess.
• Our National Grid bill has gone down dramatically.  Here is a spreadsheet of our power consumption (downloaded from National Grid). I won’t have to tell you when the panels were installed.
• The panels are producing more power than predicted. 
• SunRun gives you good information about their billing and what you may owe (see screenshot ).
• The panels look pretty cool too.