Best Solar Companies in California

In solar energy, California is the king of all states and has been for quite some time. No American state has maintained such a consistent commitment to solar power or come closer to meeting its stated goals in the renewable energy sector.

At the municipal and state levels support for solar initiatives and incentives has remained strong, and this along with California’s warm days and naturally sunny skies has helped solar energy prosper.

California currently gets about one-third of the state’s electricity from renewable energy sources [1]. The percentage provided by solar is just slightly above 27 percent, according to the most up-to-date statistics [2]. On a nationwide basis the cost of a complete solar energy installation has declined by 53 percent over the last decade, spurring development in California as well as elsewhere in the United States [3].

More than 1.5 million California homeowners and business owners have gone solar already, and as impressive as this sounds it is only the tip of the iceberg of what is possible [4].

Research by Project Sunroof found that a stunning 91 percent of California buildings have roofs that could support solar panels [5]. This testifies to the enormous untapped potential for solar energy in the state, despite how far the technology has progressed already.

Best solar companies in California

California has long been at the forefront of the United States’ transition to renewable energy, and solar energy is one of the most important sources of power in the state. As the first U.S. state to mandate solar panels on new homes and apartment buildings built after January 1, 2020, California continues to lead the way in solar energy innovation. 

This progressive approach has made California a major driving force in the development of solar technology and its applications. As a result, the state is home to many of the nation’s top solar providers, each contributing significantly to California’s renewable energy landscape. 

Here’s a detailed look at the top solar providers in California (to jump right to the review, click on the name of the company in this table:

Solar Company	Greentumble Rating Score
Project Solar	5.0
Solar Optimum	4.9
Energy Concepts	4.9
Option One Solar	4.9
SunMade Energy	5.0

Project Solar: Dual installation model

Project Solar stands out in the solar energy market with its unique dual installation model, offering homeowners both DIY and full-service options. If you are a hands-on person who loves tackling home projects, their DIY option could be perfect for you. The company provides all the necessary materials and comprehensive instructions. With their support, you can install your own solar system and save thousands of dollars on installation costs. 

For those who prefer to leave it to the experts, Project Solar offers a full-service installation option with the professional team that makes sure your solar panels are up and working. This flexibility means you get the best of both worlds – potential savings and the choice of how involved you want to be.

Established in 2016, Project Solar California has quickly grown to become a leader in the solar industry. Project Solar offers Full Service Installation in 31 states, and DIY in 44.

The company offers a generous 25-year product warranty on all standard equipment (solar panels, inverters, racking). 25-year production guarantee and 10-year workmanship warranty for full-service installations.

Project Solar is committed to transparency and customer satisfaction. They provide tools like a solar ROI calculator to help you understand your savings and energy production, making the process as clear and straightforward as possible. Their transparent flat-rate pricing model, ranging from $1.19 to $1.75 per watt depending on the installation type, helps curb the costs of adopting solar energy.

Services offered

E-commerce solar solutions: Design, customization, and purchase of solar systems through an online platform with fair pricing without door-to-door salespeople.

Dual installation options for residential solar: DIY Installation: Provides all necessary materials and support for homeowners to install their solar systems.

Full-Service Installation: Available in 31 states, partnering with NABCEP-certified contractors for professional installation. Premium black-on-black monocrystalline solar panels with over 20% module efficiency. Top-tier inverter, racking, and battery equipment.

Permits and documentation: Handling of all necessary permits and documentation required by local government or utility companies, even for DIY installations.

Financing options: Multiple financing options are available. They even accept third-party financing and home equity options. Additionally, they offer assistance with solar incentives and rebates, including the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit.

Monitoring systems included: Monitoring app is included with installations, allowing independent tracking of each solar panel’s production and notifications for any issues.

Maintenance and support: Regular maintenance recommendations and support for issues related to system production or equipment. Post-install team for troubleshooting and coordinating repairs.

Diligent handling of unforeseen challenges or delays, with transparency about potential cost impacts.

Future upgrades to your solar system: They offer help with upgrading or expanding solar systems, focusing on using Enphase microinverters to eliminate capacity limitations.

Why choose Project Solar:

#1 Locally owned and operated: Based in California, Project Solar is deeply rooted in the local community.

#2 Expert team: With nearly a decade of experience in solar energy, their team brings extensive knowledge in construction, roofing, and electrical contracting.

#3 Competitive pricing: By eliminating third-party sales channels, Project Solar offers competitive pricing, making solar energy more affordable.

#4 Direct-to-installer pricing: Enjoy comprehensive service from start to finish, with direct access to the installers for a seamless experience.

#5 Outstanding customer reviews: Numerous satisfied clients recommend Project Solar for their high-quality installations and excellent customer service.

Solar Optimum: Leading the charge in California solar energy

Solar Optimum is a premier solar energy provider with a strong presence in California. Based in Glendale and active since 2008, Solar Optimum has built an impeccable reputation not only in California but also in the southwestern United States, including Nevada and Arizona.

Solar Optimum has installed over 300 MW of solar energy capacity for both residential and commercial clients. The company operates through 11 offices across Southern and Northern California, ensuring broad coverage and accessibility to their top-tier services.

Their installations have earned them being named the top solar installer in California by Solar Power World and Panasonic from 2020 to 2022. Besides such recognition, Solar Optimum holds elite certifications from leading manufacturers, including Panasonic, REC, Enphase, Tesla, and Unirac. These certifications reflect their commitment to using high-quality equipment and adhering to industry best practices.

Solar Optimum standout features include:

Solar Optimum is not just surviving but thriving in California’s highly competitive solar energy sector, which is a testament to the company’s professionalism and commitment.

Solar Optimum prides itself on outstanding customer service, backed by thousands of positive reviews and numerous industry awards. They offer personalized consultations and handle all necessary permits and documentation. Their dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in their approach to every project, from initial consultation to installation and beyond.

Recognized excellence

Solar Optimum’s dedication to quality and customer service has earned them several prestigious awards, such as:

Panasonic National Installer of the Year (2020-2023)

Best Company: Ranked #3 in the nation

LA Daily News: 11-time winner, Best Solar Company (2013-2023)

Los Angeles Times: Best Solar Company (2022-2023)

Why choose Solar Optimum:

#1 Comprehensive warranties: Solar Optimum offers an impressive suite of 25-year warranties covering panels, inverters, racking systems, roof, workmanship, and performance. These extensive warranties ensure that your investment is well-protected and provide peace of mind for the long term. Additionally, these warranties are transferable, meaning they remain in effect even if you sell your home​​.

#2 High-quality equipment: The company uses top-tier equipment from renowned manufacturers such as Panasonic, QCells, REC Solar, Enphase, and Tesla.

#3 Certified installers: Solar Optimum is a certified installer for several leading brands, including being a Tesla Energy Premier Certified Installer and an Enphase Platinum Installer.

#4 Customer service excellence: Solar Optimum is highly rated for its customer service, with many reviews praising their professionalism & responsiveness.

#5 Experience and track record: With over 16 years in the solar industry, Solar Optimum has a proven track record of successful installations and satisfied customers. Their experience spans residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

#6 Services: Beyond solar panel installations, Solar Optimum also provides battery storage solutions, roofing services, and EV charging installations. This makes them a versatile provider capable of addressing all your energy needs under one roof.

Energy Concepts: Over 30 Years of Solar Excellence in the Central Valley

Energy Concepts is a leading solar energy provider based in Fresno, California. Established in 1992, Energy Concepts boasts over 30 years of solar industry experience. Their dedicated team efficiently installs solar panel systems for homes and businesses, handling every project aspect in-house. The company serves the Central Valley, including Fresno, Visalia, Clovis, and Madera.

Energy Concepts earns positive reviews for both their products and customer service. Customers value their transparent, pressure-free approach, which helps them make informed solar investment decisions. They also appreciate the competitive pricing and the direct dealings with installers, eliminating middlemen and reducing costs.

What is a great bonus to chosing this company? You will receive a unique Lifetime Plus 1 Warranty when you choose Energy Concepts for your solar panel transition. This covers the installation and all electrical work on your home for as long as you own it, plus an additional year for the next homeowner. Quite cool, isn’t it?

Services offered

In-house team: Energy Concepts manages every aspect of the solar installation process in-house. This includes sales, customer service, engineering, and installation. The installation is thus a transparent process with no subcontracting, meaning you know exactly who is responsible at each step​.

Lifetime Plus 1 Warranty: They offer a unique Lifetime Plus 1 Warranty, which covers the entire installation, including roof penetrations, for as long as you own your home, plus an additional year for the next homeowner. This comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind and underscores their commitment to quality​.

Comprehensive solar solutions: Energy Concepts provides customized solar solutions tailored to the specific needs of residential, commercial, and agricultural properties. Their services include solar panel installation, solar panel cleaning, and battery storage options like the Tesla Powerwall​.

High-quality products: Their Maxeon solar cells are noted for producing 75% more energy over 25 years compared to conventional panels​​.

Customer education and support: Their consultations are designed to help customers understand every facet of their solar systems, from benefits to installation process.

Positive reviews and high customer satisfaction: The company consistently receives high ratings for their service. They boast a 4.9 rating on Google from over 400 reviews, highlighting their commitment to excellent customer service and high-quality installations.​

Why choose Energy Concepts:

#1 Locally owned and operated, based in Fresno, CA.

#2 All-in-house service: Every aspect of your project is handled by their dedicated team.

#3 Lifetime Plus 1 Warranty

#4 Three decades of experience in the solar industry.

#5 Competitive pricing by eliminating third-party sales channels.

Option One Solar: Reliable solar solutions with exceptional service

Option One Solar is a top solar energy provider in California with over 50 years of experience in the electrical industry, the company has built a strong reputation for delivering great work. The company’s foundation in electrical work gives them a unique advantage in delivering top-notch solar energy solutions to their customers.

One quality that particularly stands out about Option One Solar is their commitment to “space program standards” in all their solar installations and internal processes. This unique approach is rooted in the extensive experience of their founder, Jerry Thomas, who worked on the Apollo Space Program. The company applies the same rigorous standards of precision and reliability to their solar energy projects for California residents.

Option One Solar has received numerous awards for their excellence in the solar industry. They have been voted the best solar company in Southern California multiple times and have earned high ratings on Google, where they maintain a 4.9/5 rating.

The company offers an industry-leading 25-year full coverage warranty that includes labor, panels, inverters, and racking systems. This bumper-to-bumper warranty ensures that customers can trust in the longevity and performance of their solar systems.

Unlike many other solar companies that subcontract their installation work, Option One Solar also performs all installations in-house. This approach guarantees consistent quality and accountability for their work.

When you decide for this company you will get top-tier solar panels and components from reputable manufacturers like Tesla and Enphase. They also use advanced bifacial panels and microinverters for maximum efficiency when converting energy from solar.

Similarly like other top companies we have selected for our article, Option One Solar offers a variety of financing options, including no payments for one year. This flexibility allows customers to choose a payment plan that best fits their financial situation.

Services offered

Experienced team: Option One Solar’s team includes experts with extensive backgrounds in electrical work and solar energy. Their founder, Jerry Thomas, brings experience from the Apollo Space Program.

High-quality products and services: They use only top-tier solar panels, tools, and techniques to ensure the highest quality possible. The company offers residential and commercial solar installations, battery backup systems, and custom solar solutions like ground-mounted systems and carports​​.

Customer service: Your first contact with the company starts with a free consultation to analyze energy usage and design of a customized system for your needs. Further on, they handle the entire process, from consultation to installation and ongoing support​.

Why choose Option One Solar:

#1 California owned and operated.

#2 Owner involvement: Personalized service with the owner often onsite for installations.

#3 50 years of experience in solar installations and related electrical services.

#4 Competitive pricing by eliminating third-party sales channels.

Sunmade Energy: Customer-Centric Solar Solutions in California

SunMade Energy, founded by Oz Wardak, began its journey in the solar industry in 2008. With over a decade of experience, they have managed the installation of more than 5,000 residential solar projects across California.

However, what sets them apart, as residents of the Central Valley, the team is deeply committed to their community. They focus on providing better service and lower pricing to their neighbors, reinforcing their reputation as a trusted local business. If you are from the area, you may benefit from this commitment.

One special quality that sets SunMade Energy apart is their commitment to in-house installations. Unlike many solar companies that subcontract their installation work, SunMade Energy uses their own certified, in-house team for every project. This promises a consistent level of quality, as all installations are performed by experienced professionals directly employed by the company. You have who to talk to if you don’t like something or if things do not go as planned.

SunMade Energy is the only Diamond Certified solar contractor in the Central Valley, a recognition they have maintained for five consecutive years as of 2024. This prestigious certification highlights their commitment to excellence in customer service and workmanship. Additionally, they are a SunPower Elite Dealer, GAF Certified Roofing Contractor, and Tesla Powerwall Certified Installer, indicating their access to top-tier products and advanced training.

SunMade Energy boasts a 5-star rating on platforms like Google, Better Business Bureau, and Yelp. They have also achieved a 98% “Customer Loyalty” and 100% “Helpful Expertise” rating, reflecting their dedication to customer satisfaction and support.

Services offered

Experienced and certified company: SunMade Energy boasts over 16 years of experience in the solar industry, having completed over 3,800 residential solar projects. The team is certified by NABCEP and recognized as a SunPower Elite Dealer

Warranty: SunMade Energy offers a robust 10-year workmanship warranty alongside a 25-year Complete Confidence Warranty from SunPower.

In-house installations: Unlike many other solar companies, the company does not subcontract its installations. All work is carried out by their dedicated and experienced in-house teams​​.

Diverse services: SunMade Energy offers solar panel installation, financing options, roofing, and backup power solutions.

Local engagement: The company is actively involved in the local community and holds memberships with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce and the Building Industry Association of Fresno and Madera Counties.

Why choose Sunmade Energy:

#1 Local involvement.

#2 Personalized service with a focus on customer satisfaction.

#3 Years of experience in solar installations and related services.

#4 Competitive pricing by eliminating third-party sales channels.

#5 Direct-to-installer pricing and guaranteed service from start to finish.

How to choose the best solar company in California

Before choosing any solar company to handle the installation of panels on your home, you should check their reviews carefully to make sure their past clients recommend them highly. Conduct a Google search for “solar installation companies near me” and review recent ratings and reviews. Also, explore resources like the Better Business Bureau and recommendation websites to gather insights. However, always conduct thorough research and visit company websites to understand their reputation.

Next, prioritize companies with a proven track record and years of experience. Just like you wouldn’t trust inexperienced professionals in other fields, choose a solar company with decades of experience and a solid reputation. Avoid unreliable contractors who may disappear and reemerge under different names.

Ideally, you should find solar homeowners in your neighborhood or community who can share their first-hand experiences with different companies.

Verify also their licensing and insurance. Reputable companies hold the necessary permits and licenses for each job. Ensure they provide insurance coverage for their workers to protect against any injuries during installation. Always ask for proof of proper insurance before proceeding.

You should certainly seek out bids from more than one contractor before proceeding, so you can compare the types of service packages they can offer. But remember: price shouldn’t be the sole determinant. Instead of limiting yourself to a specific number of estimates, focus on gathering sufficient information from one or two companies through discussions and consultations. Avoid choosing solely based on price, as it can be misleading.

Ensure that all aspects of your solar installation are documented, especially the financing terms.

A reliable company will have a knowledgeable representative who can guide you through the contract and address any payment-related queries.

Your solar installer should impress you with their honesty and integrity, along with their willingness to stand behind their work and equipment with iron-clad guarantees. They should be upfront and forthright with you throughout the evaluation process, giving you a realistic assessment of what your final costs will be and of how long it will take them to finish the job.

Clarify satisfaction guarantees. Inquire about the company’s process for handling errors or unsatisfactory work. Choose a company that prioritizes your satisfaction and doesn’t accept payment until you are completely satisfied.

Inquire about how unexpected repairs are handled. Home improvements can reveal unforeseen repairs, and it’s important to understand how the company manages such situations. This ensures you are prepared and know what to expect throughout the process.

When a California solar company’s representatives are communicative and open, and can offer you high-quality equipment backed by good customer reviews and years of experience, they will earn your trust and your business.

Solar incentives in California  

California offers some generous incentives, credits and rebates to solar homeowners, including those who have already installed solar panels in addition to those who plan to do so in the near future.

Some of the highlights include:

#1 Disadvantaged Communities / Single-Family Solar Home Program

Homeowners classified as low income and living in economically disadvantaged communities in California are eligible for upfront rebates that can make solar panel installations more affordable [6].

The program aims to increase renewable energy adoption and decrease electricity costs in disadvantaged communities (DACs).

DAC-SASH: This program offers no upfront cost rooftop solar installations to income-qualified homeowners in DACs. It is administered by GRID Alternatives and is currently accepting applications. More information is available at this official website.

DAC-GT: This program provides a 20 percent bill discount on utility-scale clean energy for income-qualified residential customers in DACs who cannot install solar on their roofs. Eligibility is based on income requirements for CARE and FERA programs.

CSGT: This program allows residential customers in DACs without solar access to benefit from local solar projects and receive a 20 percent bill discount. Community organizations collaborate with utilities or Community Choice Aggregators (CCAs) to select project locations.

#2 Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)

The California’s Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides rebates for installing energy storage technology, including battery storage systems, in both residential and non-residential buildings. These systems are designed to operate during power outages, ensuring continuous power supply, and helping to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

The rebate currently covers 15 to 20 percent of the average battery cost, and any PG&E customer can apply.

Homeowners that install battery storage systems for solar energy can receive rebates of up to $200 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of stored energy capacity purchased [7].

For more information check the official CPUC website on the topic of SGIP’s participation. 

#3 Equity Resilience Rebate

Homeowners classified as low-income, medically vulnerable, or who live in areas with high risk of fire or are affected by the Public Safety Power Shutoffs, can receive additional benefits under the SGIP if they install battery backup to store solar energy. The rebate offered can go as high as $1,000 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of storage capacity installed [8].

Both PG&E and the CPUC oversee these programs. The Equity Resiliency program has its own funding, which is currently set at $600 million. Once the funds are distributed, the program may no longer be available.

#4 Solar Energy System and Solar Plus Storage System Property Tax Exclusion

Running only through 2025, this special tax credit ensures a homeowner’s property tax assessment will not increase if they install rooftop solar panels [9].

If you install an active solar energy system on your property, you may receive this property tax incentive. This incentive is called a new construction exclusion, which means that the value of the solar system will not increase or decrease the assessed value of your property.

Normally, when something valuable is added to a property, it is assessed and increases the property value. However, with an active solar energy system, the value of the system is not considered for assessment purposes.

Some properties with active solar energy systems may be eligible for exclusion from reassessment.

An active solar energy system is a system that uses solar devices to collect and use solar energy. It can be used for heating water, conditioning spaces, generating electricity, providing heat, or producing mechanical energy.

#5 California Net Metering

Throughout the state of California, you can export any excess solar energy your grid-tried solar array produces back to your utility company in return for credits on your electricity bill [10].

After April 15, 2023, customers who apply for interconnection need to use the new net billing tariff set by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in December 2022.

Under this tariff, energy production and consumption are calculated instantly instead of monthly. Any excess energy sent back to the grid is credited based on hourly values from the Avoided Cost Calculator, which determines the value of energy produced at different times of the day.

The calculator calculates values for each hour of the year (8,760 hours) and averages them for each month. It also considers whether it’s a weekday or weekend. For example, if you export energy from 3 PM to 4 PM on a weekday in July 2023, you will receive the same credit rate for all the energy exported during that hour.

If you join the net billing tariff within the first five years of its implementation, the values for the first nine years after you connect to the grid will be determined using a schedule of values for each hour from the Avoided Cost Calculator (ACC). This nine-year period is called the lock-in period.

Unfortunately, the scheme reduces compensation for excess solar power sent to the grid. Instead of getting credited at the same rate as your electricity bill (one-to-one net metering), a new lower rate called net billing is applied. The rate is based on “avoided cost” and varies depending on the time, day, and month of energy export. On average, these rates are about 25 percent of retail electricity rates, meaning net metering credits are lower by about 75 percent under this scheme.

#6 Municipal and County Governments Rebates and Energy Bill Credits

Many California communities offer extra financial incentives to encourage residents to install solar panels and/or battery storage systems. 

For example, residents of the Marin, Napa, Solano and Contra Costa Counties have available a Feed-In Tariff Plus. It is a performance-based incentive, dependent upon the performance of you solar system.

The program opens up a way for you to sell energy from your small-scale renewable power system within the service area. The program sets fixed rules, standardized 15-year contract terms, and a fixed price per kWh, that applies to all eligible small-scale solar power generators.

#7 Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit

In addition to these California-specific benefits, all homeowners in the United States are eligible for the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This popular program allows you to deduct up to 30 percent of the cost of a solar energy system installation from your federal income taxes [11].

The Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is a federal incentive designed to encourage investments in solar power. It provides a direct reduction in income taxes that individuals would otherwise owe to the IRS.

Initially, the ITC offered a 30 percent reduction in taxes for both residential and commercial solar projects until 2019. Originally, the tax credit was expected to gradually decrease over time. However, due to the Inflation Reduction Act passed by Congress in August 2022, the phasedown process has been delayed.

The act has locked the tax credit at 30 percent for the next 10 years, extending until 2032. This means that you can still benefit from a 30 percent tax credit on the amount invested in a solar system until that time.

#8 CaliforniaFIRST – PACE Financial Incentive

PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) is a financing option that combines the advantages of solar loans and leases.

Renew Financial’s PACE program allows you to build equity in your solar system, so you receive all the electricity and incentives directly. This turns solar into an investment with tangible returns, similar to a solar loan.

With PACE financing, there are no upfront costs. You can get a new solar installation, including the parts and labor, without spending any money upfront, just like with a solar lease.

Additionally, PACE offers other benefits. Unlike personal loans, PACE financing is tied to your property, not your personal debt. This makes it relatively easy to qualify for PACE financing, as long as you have sufficient equity in your home.

Furthermore, if you decide to sell your home, the PACE financing is transferred to the new owner. This means the debt is associated with the property, not with you as the homeowner.

CaliforniaFIRST is available to homeowners in specific counties. You can check the provided website to find out if your community participates in PACE and get more details about the program.

Becoming a solar homeowner in California

The state of California has set a goal of becoming 100-percent renewable energy dependent by the year 2045 [12]. Unlike other localities that have expressed similar ambitions, California has implemented policies that are fostering the growth of solar energy and other renewable technologies, to the extent that reaching this milestone seems fully achievable.

At the current time California residents are paying an average of $210 per month ($2,520 per year) for electricity imported from the grid, which is nine percent higher than the national average [13].

If you are a homeowner in the state, solar panels backed by battery storage have the potential to rescue you from these prodigious energy costs. Solar power in California could mean energy independence for you and your family, saving you more than enough money in the long run to offset the initial costs of a solar panel installation.