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s the demand for renewable energy continues to rise, more and more solar companies are popping up in California. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming for homeowners to determine which company is the best fit for their needs. From installation and maintenance to financing and customer service, there are various factors to take into account when selecting a solar provider. This article will explore the different aspects to consider when choosing an installer and list the top solar companies in California.
Looking for the best solar company in California
California is a leader in the US solar industry, with about 28,000 megawatts of total solar capacity. This is a shining example of the state's commitment to clean energy and sustainable development. California has set ambitious goals to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, and solar power is a key component of these efforts.
According to Solar Energy Industries Association, the Golden State generates a whopping 27% of its electricity from solar. And California is not stopping there - more and more solar companies are popping up, with a total of 2,437 currently in operation, including 1,164 PV installers. While this is fantastic for the industry, it can be a bit overwhelming for homeowners trying to find the best solar company in California – much like searching for a needle in a haystack. But don't worry! With a little digging, you'll find the perfect fit.
When selecting a solar installer for your project, there are a few things to keep in mind. The most important is making sure they are licensed and insured to protect you in case of any accidents or damage during the installation process.
Another important consideration is the installer's experience and reputation. Look for a provider with a history of successfully installing solar panel systems and ask for references from past customers. Additionally, it's advisable to check out online reviews to get an idea of what other California solar energy homeowners have experienced working with the installer.
Lastly, be sure to evaluate the quality of equipment and materials the installer utilizes. Look for an installer who uses high-quality equipment from reputable manufacturers, as this will guarantee that your PV system is durable and efficient. Also, ensure that the installer follows industry-accepted installation procedures and all safety regulations relevant in California.
Top 10 solar panel installers in the Golden State
With so many solar panel installers, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. Below, we will take a look at some leading solar companies in California based on customer reviews, reputation, and experience. From small local companies to large national players, we'll help you find the right solar panel provider for your needs.
Elevation: Ideal for comprehensive home upgrades
Elevation is an excellent option for those in California looking for whole-home improvements. They offer Elevated Home service, which focuses on making your home more sustainable using Energy Star-certified products. The process starts with an energy efficiency audit of your residence, followed by the installation of a custom solar energy system that integrates seamlessly with your home.
The systems they install can include monocrystalline panels, microinverters, electric vehicle chargers, solar batteries, as well as duct sealing and insulation. They also provide 25-year warranties on both products and labor and have various payment options, including full purchase or solar loans. However, some customers have reported difficulty with scheduling and callbacks, and the company doesn't provide cost information online.
Palmetto Solar: Tailor-made solar solutions
Palmetto Solar is a well-known and reputable residential PV installation company known for its wide range of flexible service options. This makes it an excellent choice for many California residents, given the state's diverse landscape and size. Palmetto takes care of all aspects of the solar installation process, from designing to obtaining permits. They also assure that their installation process typically takes only two to four months on average.
Palmetto offers solar systems with high-performance black rooftop panels, a standard inverter, and a connection to the power grid. The company provides a 25-year output warranty for its systems and offers an optional plan called Peace of Mind Protection. This plan, which costs an additional $12 per month, covers labor for fixing or replacing parts, guarantees service deadlines, and offers discounts on services such as pest control, PV panel cleaning, and panel removal and reinstallation.
Sunrun: Best option for solar leasing
If you're considering leasing solar panels instead of buying them outright, Sunrun is worth looking into.
Sunrun was one of the first installation companies to offer a leasing program. This program has two options: a standard monthly payment plan and a prepaid lease option that covers 25 years of service, including active monitoring and maintenance at no extra cost. If your credit score qualifies, Sunrun financing may even allow you to get a PV panel system with no money down. This leasing program is perfect for California homeowners who want to tap into solar energy but are not prepared to make a full payment upfront.
Besides these leasing options, Sunrun also offers the possibility of purchasing a solar system outright. They can give you a quick quote online, but if you want a more accurate estimate, you will have to schedule a consultation either in-person or virtually.
Sunrun takes care of the installation process and uses their own software to design a solar system that is tailored to your needs. They used to install LG solar panels but have recently switched to different high-quality brands after LG discontinued production. They also offer Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem batteries as storage options.
Momentum Solar: Optimal for seamless integration
For those in California hesitant about making a switch to solar, Momentum is a great option to consider. They specialize in making the transition to solar energy simple and enjoyable, handling all aspects of the process in-house, from designing the system to financing it. Momentum’s prices may be slightly higher compared to others, but their streamlined installation process and superior customer service make it worth it for many clients.
The company’s solar products come with outstanding 25-year warranties on equipment and workmanship, providing customers with added security in their investment.
However, the solar services provided by Momentum Solar are less extensive in comparison to other California installers. They mainly offer installation of solar panels and battery backup, lacking more advanced options. In addition, their product selection is on the smaller side.
Tesla: Cutting-edge technology at its finest
Tesla Energy is a well-known name in the solar energy world and provides advanced PV panel systems and installation services throughout California. They have a team of in-house experts and also work with certified installers.
Tesla is aware that its technology is a crucial part of its solar provider reputation and focuses on offering only Tesla-branded products. These panels have high energy efficiency and are built to withstand harsh weather, making them a safe investment for California homeowners who frequently experience natural disasters.
Tesla's solar warranties provide long-term performance guarantees, with 25 years of coverage for performance and 80% of the advertised power capacity, but equipment coverage is limited to 10 years. Another limitation is that the company doesn’t offer PPAs or leases as payment options, only cash or solar loans.
ADT Solar: Industry-leading warranties
ADT is primarily known for its home security systems, but with the recent acquisition of SunPro, they are now branching out into solar energy as well. They offer California residents a variety of solar products, competitive prices, and the strongest warranties.
ADT provides a comprehensive solar installation service that includes everything from panels and batteries to roof repairs. They use high-quality equipment from trusted brands like Panasonic, LG, and Tesla and provide ongoing monitoring to ensure your system is running smoothly.
The installer is known for their excellent services and equipment, but what truly sets them apart is their inclusive warranty. When you purchase a system from ADT Solar, you can rest assured that it will produce electricity at the level estimated at the time of purchase for 25 years.
SunLux: PV systems tailored explicitly for CA homes
SunLux has strategically chosen to only operate in California and Texas, offering equipment specifically suited for the weather conditions in California and having extensive knowledge of permitting and installation in the state. They offer comparable solar panels and products as other installers but tailored to California homes.
SunLux installs premium solar panels from reputable brands such as LG, Panasonic, and Q Cells, as well as battery backups from Tesla, LG, and Enphase. And for California residents looking for an energy-efficient home upgrade, the company also offers smart home systems and EV charging-station installation. Financing options include purchase, lease, and PPA plans. All SunLux installations come with a 25-year warranty covering hardware components, labor and shipping costs, and overall performance.
In California, where solar energy adoption is widespread, businesses seeking renewable energy solutions often turn to commercial solar power companies for expertise and guidance
Sunpower: High-efficiency PV panel options
SunPower has a strong reputation as one of the best U.S. solar providers. They have been a part of the industry for 30 years and have a proven track record of delivering high-efficiency panels and top quality solar panel systems to homeowners across the United States. Their Maxeon panels are the most efficient available, and their solar systems are known for producing more energy and saving customers more money than any other brand.
While SunPower's panels offer quality and efficiency, they come at a higher cost compared to the California average. Another potential issue is that SunPower outsources installations to local businesses, which can affect the overall customer experience.
Green Home Systems (GHS): Best selection of products
If you're looking for a California provider with a diverse selection of products, Green Home Systems is a good option. They carry premium monocrystalline panels from well-known brands like LONGi and Panasonic, as well as solar batteries and generators.
GHS products come with a 25-year product warranty and performance guarantee. Payment options include purchasing the products outright or taking out a solar loan with $0 down financing for qualifying customers.
However, one downside is that cost information is not readily available online, and some customers have reported issues with scheduling and receiving callbacks.
California's solar policy is among the most progressive globally, with incentives, net metering, and mandates driving rapid adoption of solar energy.
Stellar Solar: Leading regional provider
Founded in San Diego in 1998, Stellar Solar has grown to become one of the best solar providers in California. They focus on installing solar panels, providing battery backups, and setting up EV charging stations, using products from leading brands such as SunPower, LG Chem, Q Cells, Enphase, and Tesla Powerwall.
Stellar Solar prices align with what you would expect to find in California. They also offer a solid 25-year warranty on all their solar panel systems. Additionally, the provider has a variety of financing options available, including cash payments and low-interest loans with no upfront costs.
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