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Best Solar Companies in California

Compare California-based installers on solar panels, battery options, warranties and more

    • Best overall
      OC Solar
      5.0(71)
    • Solar-roof integrations
      Ameco Solar & Roofing
      4.8(83)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,980)
    +2 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino
    Author picture
    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in California

    The best solar company in California depends on what you need. We picked OC Solar as the best overall installer because of its in-house crews, battery expertise and transparent pricing. Ameco Solar is best for solar-plus-roofing services, Sunrun is best for leases, Sunlux gives homeowners the best equipment choices and LGCY Power offers the best payment options.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,957,941 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.

    Our top 5 solar company picks for California

    1. Best overall: OC Solar
    2. Best solar-roof integrations: Ameco Solar
    3. Best solar leases: Sunrun
    4. Best equipment selection: Sunlux
    5. Best financing flexibility: LGCY Power

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular California-headquartered solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, local experience, statewide service 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.

    Compare the best solar energy companies in California

    We compared each company on the equipment options, installation model, warranties and payment options. Because brands, financing and installer arrangements can vary by location and project, California homeowners should verify the exact equipment and contract terms before signing.

    Learn More About Solar Companies
    Best overall
    OC Solar logo
    Panel brands
    REC, Qcells, Silfab, Tesla
    Battery brands
    FranklinWH, Tesla, Enphase, SolarEdge
    Inverter brands
    Enphase, SolarEdge
    Headquarters
    Irvine, CA
    Why we picked OC Solar

    OC Solar is our best overall pick because it combines premium solar and battery equipment, an in-house installation team and a California-focused approach to system design.

    Its emphasis on pairing solar with storage is especially useful under NEM 3.0, when using more of your own solar power can matter more than simply maximizing daytime production. The company also offers long warranty coverage and handles design, installation and service through its own team.

    Key takeaway: Choose OC Solar if you want a local Southern California installer with reliable equipment, battery expertise and one company responsible for the project from design through service.

    Pros
    • In-house solar, battery and electrical crews
    • Tesla Powerwall Premier Certified and Enphase-certified
    • Battery-focused system design
    • Good selection of solar equipment
    Cons
    • Primarily serves Southern California
    • Smaller equipment selection than some competitors
    • No publicly stated battery-service response guarantee
    2x Award Winner
    OC Solar won two 2026 Buyer's Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best for Installation and Best Equipment.
    What California reviewers say

    California reviewers often highlight OC Solar’s responsive communication, competitive pricing and smooth installation process. Minor friction points include occasional delays in callbacks or post-installation troubleshooting.

    Costs and payment options

    Residential installations typically range from $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.

    Best solar-roof integrations
    Ameco Solar & Roofing logo
    Panel brands
    REC
    Battery brands
    Tesla, Enphase
    Inverter brands
    Enphase, SolarEdge
    Headquarters
    Valley Village, CA
    Why we picked Ameco Solar & Roofing

    Ameco is a particularly good choice if your roof needs work before you install solar. The company has operated in California since 1974 and handles both roofing and solar, which can make it easier to coordinate roof replacement, panel installation and warranty coverage through one contractor. It also has REC Gold Tier certification and offers extended warranty protection on qualifying solar-and-roof projects.

    Key takeaway: Ameco makes the most sense for California homeowners who need a new roof along with solar and want one experienced contractor responsible for both projects.

    Pros
    • Solar and roofing from one contractor
    • More than 50 years in business
    • REC Gold Tier installer
    • 40-year equipment warranty
    • Handles several roofing types
    Cons
    • Primarily serves Southern California
    • Less transparent about its current panel selection than some competitors
    What California reviewers say

    Many praise Ameco’s customer service and overall smooth installation process. Some note delays in project completion and system activation.

    Costs and payment options

    Ameco 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.

    Best solar leases
    Sunrun logo
    Panel brands
    Varies
    Battery brands
    Tesla, FranklinWH, Lunar
    Inverter brands
    Varies
    Headquarters
    San Francisco, CA
    Why we picked Sunrun

    Sunrun has one of the industry’s most established solar lease programs, making it a good fit for homeowners who want solar without buying or maintaining the equipment. Its monthly subscription may require little to no upfront cost and includes 25 years of maintenance and repairs.

    The main advantage is the service model: Sunrun monitors and maintains leased systems, so customers don’t have to handle manufacturer warranty claims or repairs themselves. Sunrun also offers battery storage, which can help California homeowners shift solar energy use to higher-cost evening hours.

    Key takeaway: Sunrun is best for homeowners who prefer a predictable solar payment and long-term service coverage over owning the system outright.

    Pros
    • Little to no upfront cost with qualifying lease plans
    • 25 years of maintenance and repairs with its monthly subscription
    • 24/7 system monitoring on qualifying plans
    • Solar-plus-battery lease options
    • NABCEP-certified installers
    Cons
    • Long contracts can complicate a home sale
    • Savings depend heavily on contract pricing and escalation terms
    • Installation may be handled by Sunrun or installation partners
    4x Award Winner
    Sunrun won four 2026 Buyer's Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best Customer Service, Best Value for Price, Best for Installation, and Best Equipment.
    What California reviewers say

    Customers often tell us about smooth installations, lower utility bills and Sunrun’s convenient monitoring app. Some, however, said it could be hard to reach customer service when problems came up.

    Costs and payment options

    Several customers in California have told us that their Sunrun bill is about $100 per month. As of publishing, you can add a home battery for about $45 per month.

    Best equipment selection
    Sunlux logo
    Panel brands
    Aptos, REC, Qcells
    Battery brands
    Tesla, Enphase, SolarEdge
    Inverter brands
    Enphase, SolarEdge
    Headquarters
    Corona, CA
    Why we picked Sunlux

    Sunlux gives homeowners more flexibility when choosing the equipment for their solar system. Its current panel lineup includes options from Aptos, REC and Qcells, so customers aren’t limited to a single brand.

    The company also works with major inverter and battery platforms, which can make it easier to design a system around priorities like efficiency, battery storage or adding more capacity later.

    Key takeaway: Choose Sunlux if you want to compare several panel, inverter and battery options instead of accepting a one-size-fits-all equipment package.

    Pros
    • Multiple premium panel brands
    • REC, Qcells and Aptos options
    • Broad inverter and battery compatibility
    • 25-year comprehensive warranty
    • Good option for shoppers who want to compare equipment
    Cons
    • Exact equipment availability can vary by project
    • Employee-versus-subcontractor installation mix isn’t clearly disclosed
    • More equipment choices can make quotes harder to compare apples to apples
    What California reviewers say

    Reviewers praise Sunlux’s sales team and pricing but report some delays, equipment substitutions and warranty issues.

    Cost and payment options

    On the high end, Aldo in Corona said they spent $80,000 on a system. 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.

    Best financing flexibility
    LGCY Power logo
    Panel brands
    Varies
    Battery brands
    Tesla, Enphase
    Inverter brands
    Enphase
    Headquarters
    Lehi, UT
    Why we picked LGCY Power

    LGCY Power stands out for its flexible financing options. Depending on the project, homeowners can choose from cash, solar loans, leases, PPAs and home-equity financing, making it easier to find a payment structure that fits both their budget and ownership preferences.

    The company also offers low- or no-upfront-cost options and provides estimated monthly savings and payback projections to help customers compare plans before committing.

    Key takeaway: Consider LGCY Power if you want several ways to pay for solar and the flexibility to choose between owning the system or using a lease or PPA.

    Pros
    • No-upfront-cost options available
    • Available across much of California
    • Product and workmanship warranties
    • NABCEP-certified
    Cons
    • Equipment and installer options can vary by market
    • Exact warranty coverage depends on the equipment and project
    • More financing choices mean homeowners need to compare rates, fees, escalators and total contract costs carefully
    What California reviewers say

    California reviewers generally describe LGCY Power’s sales reps as knowledgeable, patient and thorough, though one reported transparency concerns during sign-up.

    Costs and payment options

    LGCY doesn’t publish standard installation prices, since costs vary by system size, equipment and location. Payment options include cash, solar loans, leases, PPAs and home-equity financing.

    Solar Companies in California Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    OC Solar logo
    Ameco Solar & Roofing logo
    Sunrun logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      Going solar in California can help lower your electric bills and help protect you from rising energy costs, especially for homeowners dealing with high utility rates. But with so many installers to choose from, it’s important to compare things like equipment options, warranties and payment plans.

      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, use this guide to help you compare your options and get the best deal.

      Key insights

      California’s NEM 3.0 makes battery storage more valuable, so many top picks specialize in solar-plus-storage.

      Jump to insight

      The average California homeowner needs a 7.2 kW solar system, costing about $17,114 before incentives.

      Jump to insight

      The federal solar tax credit expired in 2025, but California homeowners may still qualify for local incentives.

      Jump to insight

      Compare quotes showing estimated savings with and without a battery under California’s current Net Billing Tariff.

      Jump to insight

      What to know about solar batteries in California

      A battery can help you get more value from your solar system by storing extra energy for use at night, during outages or when electricity rates are highest. For many California homeowners, that can mean lower electric bills and more reliable backup power.

      Choose an installer with experience installing solar batteries in California. Your installer should use approved equipment, handle the utility paperwork and guide your system through the permission-to-operate (PTO) process to help avoid unnecessary delays.

      A properly sized solar-and-battery system makes a big difference. Robert in Winters told us his battery backup resulted in “very low to zero electricity bills,” while Noele in Hidden Valley Lake I have a battery back up as well, and we've had to use it once or twice every year. In fact, just the other day, the power went out because of high wind. Sunrun has been wonderful. It's convenient because I still have the microwave and the coffee outlets. So I can still eat.

      How to choose a solar company in California

      To find the best solar company in California, get quotes from at least three installers, verify their California license and compare recent customer reviews. The best companies offer transparent pricing, quality equipment and experienced local installation teams.

      1. Compare quotes

      Get at least three quotes and compare them on the same terms. Look at the total price, cost per watt, system size, projected kWh production, equipment and warranties — not just the monthly payment.

      The average cost per watt is $2.44 in California.

      For financed systems, compare the cash price with the financed price to identify dealer fees or other added costs. If you’re considering a lease or PPA, check the starting rate, contract length and any PPA escalator that could increase your rate over time.

      This hits the feedback directly while keeping the section focused and avoiding a second quote-comparison section.

      2. Verify licenses and certifications

      Make sure the installer is licensed through the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) and carries appropriate insurance. Installers with NABCEP-certified professionals have demonstrated additional solar expertise.

      3. Read recent customer reviews

      Look for consistent praise about communication, installation quality and post-installation support. Be cautious if multiple reviewers mention unexpected costs, misleading sales tactics, installation delays or poor customer service.

      4. Review warranties carefully

      Solar panel product warranties typically last 10 to 25 years, while performance warranties often extend 25 to 30 years. Ask about the installer’s workmanship warranty, roof penetration warranty and what happens if you need service after installation.

      5. Ask about the installation process

      Find out who will install your system, whether the company uses subcontractors and whether it handles permitting, utility interconnection and permission to operate (PTO). If your roof needs repairs or replacement, ask whether the company offers roofing services or can coordinate both projects.

      Don’t judge a solar installer by years in business alone. Look for a proven track record, financial stability and recent customer reviews that show the company is still delivering quality installations and honoring its warranty support. Choosing an established company can reduce the risk of service disruptions if the business is sold, restructures or leaves the market.

      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 $12,224 and $24,449 depending on the size of your system. 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.

      A typical California household needs a 7.2 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, the condition of your roof and whether or not you want a battery are big solar cost factors. Solar storage batteries are expensive (typically $7,000 to $18,000), but might be worth it in the long run. Getting solar panels is similar to buying a car. Most homeowners end up financing their system through a solar loan.

      Average solar panel costs by system size in California

      Solar incentives in California

      There are more solar incentives in California than in 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 of dollars off the price of a solar battery, plus other local rebates.

      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.

      Net metering in California

      California has statewide solar compensation rules, but the current Net Billing Tariff pays lower export rates than traditional net metering. Recent changes in how it works have resulted in lower rates for homeowners.

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

      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.

      “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,” Steve Marcou, Vice President of Marketing at SolarTech, a solar installation company headquartered in El Cajon, said.

      A solar storage battery lets you use stored energy in the late afternoon and evening, when electricity rates are often highest.

      Are solar panels worth it in California?

      Plenty of sunshine, high electricity rates and financial incentives make solar worth it in California for a lot of residents (and it’s usually mandatory if you’re building a new home in the state).

      Solar panels typically pay for themselves within 9 years.

      Many homeowners find that their monthly solar payment is lower than their old electric bill. Andrew in El Dorado Hills said that "with the rising prices of energy, it mathematically makes sense" because his annual loan payments are already less than what he used to spend on electricity. In some cases, homeowners can eliminate their electric bill altogether. Gilbert in Azusa It's actually saving me quite a bit of money. I pay less and I get money back because of the solar.

      On average, California homeowners with a solar-only system save about $100 per month, while adding a battery can increase savings to at least $135 per month. Over 25 years, total utility bill savings can exceed $136,109.

      California also has excellent solar potential, with most areas receiving four to six peak sunlight hours each day. Desert regions receive even more sunshine, helping solar systems generate even more electricity.

      Pro tip

      If your roof needs repairs or replacement, consider taking care of both projects at the same time. Many solar companies also offer roofing services, making it easier to coordinate roof replacement, protect your roof penetration warranty and complete the project through a single contractor.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How solar markets vary by region in California

      California’s solar market looks very different depending on where you live. Climate, utility providers, permitting timelines and local incentive programs can all affect installation costs, energy production and how quickly a system gets approved.

      Southern California (SoCal)

      Southern California gets lots of sunshine, which helps solar panels produce strong energy output year-round. Most homeowners use Southern California Edison (SCE), and permits usually take about four to eight weeks.

      Bay Area

      Bay Area homeowners are mostly served by PG&E, where electricity rates are high but sunshine levels are lower than in Southern California. Some residents may qualify for DAC-SASH solar incentives, and permits often take six to 12 weeks.

      Central Valley

      The Central Valley has some of California’s best conditions for solar because of its long, sunny summers. Many homes are in PG&E territory, and some counties offer local rebates or solar programs.

      Northern California

      Cooler temperatures in Northern California can help solar panels work more efficiently. Permitting timelines vary by county but often take about four to 10 weeks.

      Desert and Southern Inland

      Desert and inland areas get extremely high amounts of sunshine, making them great for solar energy. Homeowners are usually served by SDG&E or SCE, and permits can move quickly — sometimes in as little as two to four weeks.

      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.”

      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

      Who is the best solar installer in California?

      Based on recent customer reviews, available equipment and production guarantees, OC Solar stands out as the best overall option. Ameco Solar offers stronger warranty coverage, and Sunrun has a lower-upfront-cost lease option. We like that Soleeva focuses on competitive pricing and $0-down financing, and Sunlux is our pick for homeowners looking for a wide selection of solar panels and batteries.

      Is it better to lease or buy solar in California?

      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.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Are batteries worth it in California?

      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.

      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.

      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 expensive, but they may be worth it if you want backup power or plan to go off-grid. 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: How we chose the best solar companies in California

      To select California’s best solar companies, we compared popular installers 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 financing options, such as loans, leases or power purchase agreements.
      5. Monitoring and maintenance: Solar panels may only take a few days to install, but you’ll rely on the system 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.

      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 guide include:

      1. DSIRE, “Programs.” Accessed Aug. 13, 2026.
      2. Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), “California Solar.” Accessed Aug. 13, 2026.
      3. California Solar & Storage Association, “Thinking About Going Solar?” Accessed Aug. 13, 2026.
      4. California Public Utilities Commission, “CPUC Modernizes Solar Tariff To Support Reliability and Decarbonization.” Accessed Aug. 13, 2026.
      5. California Contractors State License Board, “Solar Smart.” Accessed Aug. 13, 2026.

      Not sure how to choose?

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