Best Solar Companies in Bakersfield, CA

We compared 18 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunlux
      4.5(577)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.3(2,996)
    • Competitive pricing
      Project Solar
      4.8(75)

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      Best Solar Companies in Bakersfield, CA

      Our top solar company picks for Bakersfield

      1. Best overall: Sunlux
      2. Solar leases: Sunrun
      3. DIY projects: Project Solar

      To pick the best solar companies in Bakersfield, we compared popular California solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. Our picks may be Authorized Partners who compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how ConsumerAffairs makes solar company recommendations.

      Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
      • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
      • 4,547,329 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
      • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
      • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
      • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

      Compare the top 3 solar companies in Bakersfield

      The best solar companies in Bakersfield

      Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Bakersfieldians’ energy needs.

      Our top pick overall

      Sunlux

      Max. panel efficiency
      19.7%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan and lease
      Year founded
      2012

      Sunlux is a top-rated solar company only available in Southern California. We like that it has a range of equipment options. Its 24/7 monitoring app lets you easily track your system’s performance, and tech support is on standby if anything goes wrong.

      • “We looked at multiple companies for solar over a year. Sunlux was professional from the first point of contact. Between their customer service, installers and employees everyone was helpful and respectful. Getting solar was the best decision we made and I would highly recommend Sunlux.” — Kim in Bakersfield

      Sunlux gets a lot of great feedback, but there are some areas for improvement when it comes to communication regarding system expansion and maintenance. Despite these minor issues, customers are generally satisfied with Sunlux and recommend the company to others.

      Sunlux specializes in residential solar panel installations with battery backup systems. It’s available throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Rancho Cucamonga, Rancho Santa Margarita, Irvine and Valencia.

      • Services: Reps can coordinate financing, EV charging and smart home solutions, as well as roofing services if needed.
      • Warranty information: Sunlux has two tiers of warranty options. The standard warranty covers your system's installation and physical components (panels, inverter and racking) for 25 years. With Platinum Protection, Sunlux also covers labor for repairs and guarantees the energy your system generates for 25 years.
      • Payment options: Sunlux accepts cash and third-party loans. It also has leases and prepaid leasing plans.

      Pros

      • 24/7 monitoring app with technician support
      • Lifetime customer support
      • Flexible financing options
      • Lots of local experience

      Cons

      • No in-house financing
      • Some customer service complaints
      Our pick for solar leases

      Sunrun

      Max. panel efficiency
      22%
      Panel warranty
      Varies
      Payment options
      Cash, loan, lease
      Year founded
      2007

      Sunrun's leasing program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment. There’s no initial charge for any panels or other equipment, installation or permits.

      • “I've had nothing but good experience. One of the sales reps was Omar. He gave me his cell phone number. He was in contact with me. He told me when the crew was coming out and what they were gonna do. He followed up with me afterwards to make sure that they did what they were supposed to do. The communication part was important to me. I've worked with a lot of contractors that tell you when they're gonna be there but don't show up. But Sunrun did exactly what they said they were gonna do when they were gonna do it.” — Darrell in Bakersfield

      Some customers have said they are not satisfied with the contract and terms. Make sure you read the fine print carefully.

      Sunrun specializes in residential solar systems with battery storage. Installers use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers like LG.

      • Services: Sunrun designs and installs customized solar panel systems for homes and businesses. Technicians provide ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure optimal performance.
      • Warranty information: Sunrun provides a 10-year warranty on workmanship and equipment, roof leak protection and a 25-year performance guarantee.
      • Payment options: You can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but Sunrun leasing plans really set it apart. With leases, contracts typically last 25 years and include free repairs.

      Pros

      • Reliable systems
      • Flexible payment options
      • Comprehensive warranties
      • Daily system monitoring

      Cons

      • Some customer service complaints
      • Occasional billing issues
      Our pick for value

      Project Solar

      Max. panel efficiency
      20.9%
      Panel warranty
      25 years
      Payment options
      Cash, loan
      Year founded
      2016

      We’ve talked to more than 50 Project Solar reps focus on simple, streamlined installations. The no-sales-gimmicks approach appeals to more budget-conscious clients who want either professional services or do-it-yourself options. We also appreciate the price transparency. Full-service installations start at $1.61 per watt. DIY projects are cheaper, starting at $1.26 per watt.

      • The gentleman came, did the work, and was gone. It was great. … Our electricity bill has gone down.” — Ruth in Bakersfield

      The installation process is generally smooth and professional, but we have heard about some delays. For instance, Ruth said her first rep didn't follow up in the beginning. “So, our solar didn't get put in as soon as it should have,” she told us. “But after we got the right person, it went well.”

      Project Solar specializes in professional and DIY solar panel installations. Systems incorporate equipment from reputable brands like Qcells, Canadian Solar, Jinko and Enphase.

      • Services: Project Solar specializes in residential solar installation projects. Reps can handle the necessary paperwork, engineering plans and permit submissions for the installation. You can get a free online quote and explore sizing options for their homes.
      • Warranty information: There is a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Both are limited and have exclusions like weather damage or misuse.
      • Payment options: Project Solar partners with a few lenders to offer financing solutions for professional solar installations. DIY customers can pay cash or finance through a third-party lender.

      Pros

      • Easy sign-up process
      • High-quality equipment
      • Great value

      Cons

      • Occasional miscommunications
      • Subcontracted installers
      • No in-house financing

      How we chose the best solar companies in Bakersfield

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the desert-like climate, to choose the best solar companies in Bakersfield, California, based on the following key features and respective weightings:

      • Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
      • Warranty terms: 20%
      • Equipment selection: 20%
      • Financing and payment options: 20%

      » MORE: Full methodology

      Bakersfield solar panel buyers guide

      ConsumerAffairs has heard from thousands of Californians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Bakersfield residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with government incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $18,873 in Bakersfield. However, you can finance or lease with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      On average, Bakersfield homeowners with solar panels avoid $55,726 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers in Bakersfield may falsely claim to be affiliated with a Kern County or California government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Bakersfield

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Bakersfield are comparable, ranging from $8,155 to $23,300.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing. Considering changes to California’s net metering policies, investing in a solar storage battery can give you more savings and control over your energy use.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Bakersfield household needs a system with a capacity of 8.1 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Bakersfield

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment.

      • Solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright. 
      • Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit.
      • The Disadvantaged Communities Single-family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) program, run by GRID Alternatives, offers no-cost rooftop solar installations for income-qualified homeowners in disadvantaged communities. Find out if you live in an eligible community using this map from the California Environmental Protection Agency.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Is solar worth it in Bakersfield?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Bakersfield homeowners with solar panels can avoid $55,726 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      “I love going solar,” one resident, Sharon in Bakersfield, told us. “It's nice not having to worry about a high electricity bill when my bill is consistent with the solar. The solar payment is convenient and energy-efficient.”

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 5 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      How to find a reputable solar company in Bakersfield

      In our experience, the best solar companies in California have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Here are some hiring tips.

      • Check certifications: California requires solar contractors hold a C-46 licensing classification, which you can check through the Contractors State License Board. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Going solar in California

      In California, net metering lets homeowners with solar panels send excess energy into the grid in exchange for credits on their utility bills. However, recent policy changes mean lower compensation rates from Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Consequently, adding a battery storage system to capture excess energy for use during peak hours can make solar more financially attractive.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: California ranked fifth in 2024

      Bakersfield solar FAQ

      Is my house a good candidate for solar?

      A relatively slanted roof with plenty of unshaded space is best. The worst place to install would be on north-facing roofs, especially if those roofs have a high pitch (very steep). Here are a couple of other questions to ask yourself:

      • How much sunlight do I get? Bakersfield gets a good amount of sunlight. The state averages 5 to 7.5 peak sun hours every day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, whether from trees or tall buildings, the panels might not get enough sun to power your home.
      • How old are my appliances? Getting your electrical loads as small as possible before going solar means you’ll need a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall. If you have older electrical appliances, upgrade those before investing in solar panels.
      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000.

      Don’t get confused: The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      Are there any other solar incentives in Bakersfield?

      Residents can take advantage of statewide solar incentives in California, including Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) rebates for homeowners who install battery storage systems with their solar panels. The California Energy Commission (CEC) offers various incentives for solar water heating systems and energy efficiency upgrades, which can be combined with solar installations to maximize overall savings​.

      » GREENEST STATES: California ranked 17th in 2024

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      California’s Solar Rights Act prevents homeowners associations (HOAs) from restricting residential solar panel installations. HOAs can, however, impose minor restrictions as long as they don’t reduce the system’s efficiency.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Bakersfield

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Bakersfield, California. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Bakersfield customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 20%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      ConsumerAffairs Research Team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Sunlux
      2. Sunrun
      3. Project Solar

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. California Solar & Storage Association, “Thinking About Going Solar?” Accessed Oct. 3, 2024.
        2. DSIRE, "California Programs." Accessed Oct. 3, 2024.
        3. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Bakersfield, CA." Accessed Oct. 6, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Bakersfield, 2024?" Accessed Oct. 6, 2024.
        5. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in California.” Accessed March 2, 2024.
        6. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in California, 2024?” Accessed March 2, 2024.
        7. Solar Energy Industries Association, "California Solar." Accessed Oct. 3, 2024.
        8. Federal Trade Commission Consumer, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.

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