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Best Solar Companies in California

We compared 555 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • OC Solar
      5.0(26)
    • Ameco Solar
      4.5(48)
    • Sunlux
      4.1(580)
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in California

    Based on recent reviews, equipment options and production guarantees, OC Solar is the best solar company in California. Ameco Solar, which has branches in Los Angeles and Sacramento, is a solid choice if you worry about something going wrong after installation. Sunlux stands out for its consistent customer service, while Soleeva and Sunrun are ideal for more budget-conscious homeowners.

    Our top 5 solar company picks for California

    1. Best overall: OC Solar
    2. Great warranty: Ameco Solar
    3. Helpful customer service: Sunlux
    4. Affordable leases: Sunrun
    5. Good value: Soleeva

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that 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 we make solar company recommendations.

    Our top pick overall
    OC Solar
    OC Solar
    5.0
    26 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.2%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2016
    Learn More Read Reviews

    OC Solar stands out for its premium technology and exceptional value. They have been installing rooftop solar panels and backup battery systems in the greater Los Angeles area since 2016. The company is a licensed Panasonic installer and partners with LG, Tesla, REC and Qcells, so you’ll have some good equipment options. 

    Residential installations typically range between $12,000 to $32,000, but customers consistently report that the investment pays for itself through significant energy savings. Several financing plans are available, including low- or no-down-payment options. Terms typically range from 60 to 240 months.

    Some reviewers mention brief communication delays during the process, but the overwhelming sentiment reflects satisfaction with OC Solar’s solar products and services.

    Pros

    • Accurate cost estimates
    • Quality solar equipment
    • Affordable financing
    • Ongoing equipment maintenance

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Somewhat limited availability
    “After five quotes, Orange County Solar was one of the less expensive for a higher-end solar system.”
    Matt Anaheim, CA
    “They did what they said they would do for the cost they quoted me. … Everyone showed up on time and was ready to get the job done.”
    Laurie Brea, CA
    “They were awesome, professional & took care of our solar situation when nobody else would.”
    therese Fontana, CA
    Our pick for great warranty
    Ameco Solar
    Ameco Solar
    4.5
    48 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panelarranty
    40 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    1974
    Learn More Read Reviews

    Ameco Solar has one of the longest warranties we’ve seen: Installations come with a 40-year warranty on equipment. It is a one-stop shop for solar panels, backup batteries, EV charging stations and roofing services.

    Headquartered in Valley Village, Ameco has a long track record of providing solar installations at a fair price throughout California. The company generally charges between $25,000 and $30,000 for residential solar installations (before any financial incentives are applied). Sales reps can help you find financing through solar loans.

    Happy customers praise Ameco reps for their professionalism, expertise and attention to detail in installing solar panels and roofing. However, there have been some complaints about delays in installation.

    Pros

    • Lots of experience
    • Great warranty
    • NABCEP certified
    • Roofing services available
    • Electric vehicle (EV) charging options

    Cons

    • Occasional delays
    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing
    “They were efficient, upfront, and friendly during the entire process.”
    Jason Stockton, CA
    “The installation was smooth as butter. The guys came over, and before I could even finish my coffee, they had everything set up on the roof.”
    Eugenia Riverside, CA
    “Their team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, thorough attention to detail, and a commitment to quality throughout the entire installation process.”
    Ashley Stockton, CA
    Our pick for customer service
    Sunlux
    Sunlux
    4.1
    580 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    19.7%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan and lease
    Year founded
    2012
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Sunlux has a lot of experience installing solar energy systems throughout Southern California. We’ve heard from hundreds of verified customers, and reps are consistently described as knowledgeable, helpful and patient. Reviewers are overall satisfied with the quality of the solar panels and the savings they see on energy bills.

    We also like that Sunlux has competitive pricing on quality equipment (Panasonic and Qcells panels), EV charging solutions, roofing services and flexible financing options.

    You can lease or finance a system for $0 down. However, if you buy the system outright, you’ll likely have to pay a $1,000 deposit to get started. After installation, the standard warranty covers parts and maintenance for 25 years. You have to upgrade to Platinum Protection to get an energy production guarantee.

    Many customers have saved money and are satisfied with their solar panels, but some have told us about financing or supply chain issues.

    Pros

    • Quality equipment options
    • 24/7 monitoring app
    • Lifetime customer support
    • Flexible financing options

    Cons

    • Occasional miscommunications
    • Some installation delays
    “I like the knowledge of Sunlux employees. … They kept me in the loop at all the time in the process, and made sure I was aware of what was going on.”
    Steven Rancho Cucamonga, CA
    “I interviewed several people and Sunlux had the best price and their solar energy system looked like a good product.”
    James Hesperia, CA
    “They were here when they said they were gonna be here and they did everything that they were supposed to do within that timeframe and everything went fine.”
    Susanne Cypress, CA
    2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Sunrun
    Sunrun
    4.2
    3,253 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Sunrun has a lease program that lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment. There’s no initial charge for any solar equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use the electricity it generates. As of publishing, you can add a home battery for about $45 per month.

    Like our other picks, Sunrun offers battery storage, EV charging and 24/7 system monitoring. It also has strong warranties that include roof leak protection. Overall, happy customers report a smooth experience, professional installation and noticeable savings on their electricity bills.

    Customers are generally satisfied, but some California reviewers have complained about not getting promised rebates or incentives, installation delays and other problems. Despite these issues, the majority of reviewers still recommend Sunrun.

    Pros

    • Long time in business
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring

    Cons

    • Some communication issues
    • Occasional delays
    • Third-party contractors
    “Their installation was fast and professional, living up to the contractual agreements, and they've always provided good customer service.”
    Royal Lompoc, CA
    “The battery backup has been a lifesaver, kicking in a couple of times each year. Most recently, it was invaluable during a wind storm that knocked out the power. It's really convenient; I could still use my microwave and coffee outlets.”
    Noele Hidden Valley Lake, CA
    “The salesperson was easy to understand and very flexible in the different payment options. The installation was well-organized and efficient.”
    Christopher Rohnert Park, CA
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Our pick for value
    Soleeva
    Soleeva
    4.0
    53 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    30 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2010
    Read Reviews

    Soleeva customers often tell us about lower electricity bills and highlight the long-term value of their systems. We also like that the solar panels come with a special kind of coating that makes them last longer against wear and tear. The self-cleaning panels are another standout feature.

    The company specializes in designing, engineering and constructing solar energy systems for residential, commercial and agricultural clients. Once solar projects are complete, Soleeva backs production with a 25-year warranty and solar panels with a 30-year warranty. There are multiple financing packages available, including low and $0 down payment options.

    We’ve heard about some hiccups during the installation process, like communication issues or damaged panels, but most customers are satisfied with the overall result.

    Pros

    • Available statewide
    • Referral bonuses
    • 30-year panel warranty
    • Proprietary technology
    • $0-down financing

    Cons

    • Some installation delays
    • Occasional customer service complaints
    “The price of the product is very competitive and it was cheaper than the other quotes I received.”
    Shuba Oakland, CA
    “Soleeva's price was good and so was their service.”
    Nickolas San Jose, CA
    “Since we’ve had the panels, our PG&E bill has been very low. It’s fantastic. We pay $10 a month in electricity and the rest is just gas.”
    Kerry Oakland, CA

    Solar Companies in California Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    OC Solar logo
    Ameco Solar logo
    Sunlux logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      We’ve talked to thousands of Californians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Many are happy with their installation and cost savings, but some feel misled by pushy sales tactics and end up with monthly bills higher than expected. If you’re ready to go solar, we’re here to help you compare your options and get the best deal.

      Key insights

      The average California homeowner needs a 7.33 kW solar panel system, costing approximately $18,105 before the federal tax credit.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for buying solar panels in California. You can also lease a system with little upfront cost, but you won’t be eligible for the ITC.

      Jump to insight

      When getting quotes, insist on a comparative analysis that clearly shows projected savings with and without a battery under the current Net Billing Tariff rules.

      Jump to insight

      How to choose a solar company in California

      To find a good solar company in California, compare quotes from several companies, check their licenses and look for customer reviews. Watch out for door-to-door solar scams that attempt to gather your personal information, false advertising and aggressive sales tactics.

      5 things to do before you hire a solar company

      1. Read reviews: Lots of positive customer reviews, ratings and testimonials over the last few years show you a company has a lot of local experience, which makes navigating your county or city’s regulations and incentives much easier. Avoid companies with recurring complaints about system malfunctions, lack of communication, misleading promises and poor customer service.
      2. Compare quotes: Most installers price systems according to their wattage or “cost per watt.” Similar to the price per square foot when you buy a house, this helps you compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes. The average solar panel installation costs $2.32 per watt in California.
      3. Check credentials: Legitimate solar companies have proper licensing, insurance and North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certifications for installers. Before you sign anything, verify the contractor's credentials throughthe California State License Board (CSLB).
      4. Understand the warranty: Solar panel product warranties typically range from 10 to 25 years, and performance warranties often last for 25 to 30 years. Longer warranties provide more protection and peace of mind. Installers should have a warranty on their labor that covers any defective workmanship or component breakdown for at least five years.
      5. Ask questions: Ask about financing or leasing options if you’re not planning to pay for the system upfront. Carefully review all the fine print before signing a contract with any solar company. If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or maintenance services, ask.

      Know your rights

      Contractors must give you a Solar Energy System Disclosure Document before a purchase, finance or lease agreement can be finalized. Once you sign, you have three business days to cancel the contract for any reason.

      » MORE: Solar scams becoming more common

      How much does it cost to go solar in California?

      Average solar panel costs in California typically range between $8,645 and $24,700, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for. On the high end, Matthias in Westlake Village spent $52,000 going solar, and Aldo in Corona said they paid $80,000 for a system. 

      California down-payment limits prohibit installers from collecting more than $1,000 or 10% of the contract price upfront.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In California, the average cost per watt is $2.32.

      A typical California household needs a 7.33 kW system to offset enough energy costs to make solar viable. You might need a smaller or larger system depending on your household energy usage. Other than system size and incentives, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets are big solar cost factors

      Average solar panel cost by system size in California

      What about the tariffs? 

      Tariffs are broadly expected to increase solar panel prices for homeowners. While the exact percentage increase will depend on the final tariff rates and the specific panels chosen, any new significant tariff on imported cells or modules will add a noticeable amount to the overall system cost.

      Steve Marcou, Vice President of Marketing at SolarTech, a solar installation company headquartered in El Cajon, suggests asking installers about the origin of their panels. “While domestically produced panels might be less directly affected by new import tariffs, their price can still be influenced by overall market dynamics and demand,” Marcou said.

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is similar to buying a car. If you have enough savings to pay upfront, the biggest advantage of paying upfront over financing is you don’t have to pay interest. Most homeowners end up financing their system through a solar loan.

      Getting a loan to pay for solar panel installation makes sense as long as your loan payment is cheaper than what you’d be paying for electricity anyway. Then, once the loan is paid off, you essentially get “free” electricity.

      Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system. California also has legalized power purchase agreements, which work similarly to leases. The biggest downside to both is that you’ll be disqualified from many of the best financial incentives, like the 30% federal solar tax credit. It also might make your house harder to sell since a new buyer must take over the lease agreement.

      Solar incentives in California

      California has more state solar incentives than many other states. There’s a property tax exclusion on the value solar adds to your home, a rebate for installing energy storage technologies (including solar batteries) and the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP). SGIP offers substantial rebates that can cut thousands off the price of a solar battery, plus other local rebates.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the most significant incentive for going solar in California. The tax credit gives you a federal income tax credit equal to 30% of the total cost of your solar energy system, including equipment, labor costs and permit fees. It’s a nonrefundable credit, so it rolls over into the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount.

      Net metering in California

      California has statewide net metering, which pays you for any excess energy you produce and send into the local energy grid. However, recent changes in how it works have resulted in lower rates for homeowners. Under the current Net Billing Tariff (also known as Net Energy Metering or NEM 3.0), homeowners are compensated for excess electricity at the “avoided cost” rate.  Before NEM 3.0 went into effect in 2023, people earned the higher “retail” rate.

      The NEM 3.0 rules only apply to investor-owned utilities like PG&E and Southern California Edison.

      “With these lower export credits, the most effective way to save money with solar is to use as much of your own solar power as possible,” Marcou said. A solar storage battery lets you discharge when export prices spike in late afternoon and evening compensation. 

      Solar storage batteries are expensive (typically $7,000 to $18,000) but might be worth it in the long run. According to the California Public Utilities Commission, a solar-only system installed now generally saves about $100 each month. Pairing panels with a battery can save at least $135 each month.

      Are solar panels worth it in California?

      Plenty of sunshine and financial incentives make switching to solar worth it in California for a lot of homeowners (and it’s mandatory if you’re building a new home in the state). In the best-case scenario, you can completely eliminate your electricity bill and get a little money back from your utility. On average, California homeowners can avoid about $108,915 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      “Not only do I pay less,” Gilbert in Azusa told us, “but I actually get money back because of the solar installation, which has translated into substantial savings over time.” 

      Solar panel investments typically pay for themselves within 9 years.

       Whether it's really worth it also depends on where in California you live. On average, the state gets four to six hours of peak sunlight each day, which supports strong solar performance. Some areas — like the desert regions — enjoy even more. As Allan in Palm Desert said, “Out there in the desert, where all you get is sunshine, 120 degrees in the summer, going solar is worth it.”

      Pros and cons of solar energy in California

      Solar energy has its advantages and disadvantages. It can be expensive, and it takes a while for a system to pay for itself. Some Californians say the cost savings are secondary. “For us, it will take more than 25 years to pay back,” Ralph in Redondo Beach told us, “but as a little contribution to the environment, we feel that is worth it. We are not into solar for the money.”

      Another solar energy customer, Victor in Oakley, put it this way: “Overall, being able to diversify energy sources while saving costs and making a positive impact on the environment is a great positive outcome.” 

      Pros

      • Long-term savings
      • Better for the environment
      • Low maintenance costs
      • May increase home resale value
      • Tax breaks and other incentives
      • Energy independence

      Cons

      • Upfront costs
      • Seasonal production variations
      • Potential roof leaks
      • Lower compensation under new net metering rules
      • Battery storage adds cost

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in California?

      The Disadvantaged Communities - Single-Family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) program offers no- or low-cost solar equipment to income-qualified homeowners in disadvantaged communities.

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Reducing your electrical loads now means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper.

      The condition of your roof matters too — if it needs replacement soon, do that before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This costs around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      Does California require solar panels on new homes?

      The California solar mandate has required all new residential construction projects to have solar photovoltaic (PV) systems installed since 2020. The mandate applies to single-family homes, condos and apartment buildings less than three stories high. It doesn’t apply if your roof is too small for solar panels, if you don’t get enough sunlight for them to be productive or if you already have access to a community solar system.

      Do I really need a solar battery?

      A solar battery system protects against fluctuating energy costs and policy changes while maximizing the benefits of your solar panels. As regulations change, batteries can insulate you from unfavorable policies and offer opportunities for future financial benefits, like participating in demand response programs or selling stored energy to the local grid. Solar batteries are also a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid.

      Is it cheaper if I install solar panels myself?

      It’s potentially cheaper to install solar panels yourself. It’s also tricky and dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing, especially for a large residential project.

      » DIY solar panels: Pros and cons

      Can I live off-grid with solar panels in California?

      Yes, but you need a way to store all that solar energy for days when it’s less than sunny. This usually means investing in a high-quality battery system. Solar batteries are pricey but worth it. Charles in San Francisco who went off-grid with a battery storage system, said: “I’m 1000% positive about going solar. It has been fantastic. It worked from day one. You plug them in and they work.”

      » MORE: What are grid-tied solar systems?

      Methodology

      To choose the best solar companies in California, the ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on several key features, including equipment quality, availability of services and financing options.

      1. Background check: We considered each company’s history, current reputation, mission and values. We preferred those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability.
      2. Reviews, ratings and testimonials: We analyzed thousands of California solar company reviews and ratings to gauge real-world satisfaction. The happy ones tell us about an easy installation process, great ongoing support and long-term cost savings on their monthly electric bills.
      3. Solar equipment selection: Companies were evaluated on their selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Our top picks use proprietary technology or partner with trusted brands to offer a wide selection of quality solar equipment.
      4. Financing options: Most people don’t pay cash upfront to install solar panels. All our top picks offer in-house financing options — such as loans, leases and power purchase agreements — to make it easier for the average person to go solar.
      5. Monitoring and maintenance: Solar panels don’t take very long to install. But then you’re stuck with them for 20 to 30 years. That’s why we picked solar companies that offer solid after-sales support, like real-time monitoring and regular maintenance services.
      6. Warranties: Any good solar panel manufacturer provides a product and performance warranty. We also made sure our top picks have solid warranties.

      To recap, our picks for California’s best solar companies in 2025:

      Guide sources

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

      1. DSIRE, "California Solar Programs." Accessed May 20, 2025.
      2. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in California.” Accessed May 20, 2025.
      3. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in California, 2024?” Accessed May 20, 2025.
      4. Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), "California Solar." Accessed May 20, 2025.
      5. California Solar & Storage Association, “Thinking About Going Solar?” Accessed May 20, 2025.
      6. EcoWatch, “Solar Panel Cost in California.” Accessed May 20, 2025.
      7. California Public Utilities Commission, “CPUC Modernizes Solar Tariff To Support Reliability and Decarbonization.” Accessed May 21, 2025.
      8. California Public Advocates Office, “Response to Claims that Rooftop Solar Creates Net Benefits for Non-Solar Customers.” Accessed May 21, 2025.
      9. Federal Trade Commission, “Don’t waste your energy on a solar scam.” Accessed May 21, 2025.
      10. California Contractors State License Board, “Solar Smart.” Accessed May 21, 2025.

      Not sure how to choose?

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