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Best Solar Companies in California

OC Solar, Ameco Solar, Sunlux, Sunrun and Soleeva are our top picks

    • OC Solar
      5.0(56)
    • Ameco Solar & Roofing
      4.2(61)
    • Sunrun
      4.3(3,704)
    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 right now. Ameco Solar, which has branches in Los Angeles and Sacramento, has a great warranty, making it a solid choice if you worry about something going wrong after installation. Sunrun stands out for its affordable solar lease option.

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    Our top 5 solar company picks for California

    1. Best overall: OC Solar
    2. Best warranty: Ameco Solar
    3. Best for leases: Sunrun
    4. Best value: Soleeva
    5. Best equipment options: Sunlux

    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.

    Compare California’s best solar energy companies

    Our top pick overall

    OC Solar

    OC Solar
    5.0
    56 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.5%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2016
    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.

    OC Solar gets overall positive feedback from customers. Some review mention issues with communication or delays in the installation process. However, these types of delays can happen with any solar company.

    “After five quotes, Orange County Solar was one of the less expensive for a higher-end solar system.”
    Matt Anaheim, CA
    “From the start the communication was excellent, and the complexity of our project was handled with professionalism at every turn. The office staff, the on site construction crew, and the installation team were all top notch.”
    Chris Santa Barbara, CA
    “OC Solar was fantastic. They always kept me updated on the tasks and progress of my project. Appointments for installation, inspections, etc were timely and always on time. Any questions I had were always answered promptly and thoroughly.”
    Bob Redondo Beach, CA

    Residential installations typically range $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.

    OC Solar is a solar panel and battery installer based in Orange County, California.

    • Equipment: Installers specialize in Qcells solar panel installations. Battery backup options include the Tesla Powerwall home battery.
    • Warranty information: OC Solar provides 25-year installation and product warranties.
    Pros
    • Accurate cost estimates
    • Quality solar equipment
    • Affordable financing
    • Ongoing equipment maintenance
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Somewhat limited availability
    Our pick for great warranty

    Ameco Solar & Roofing

    Ameco Solar & Roofing
    4.2
    61 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    40 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    1974
    Learn More Read Reviews

    Ameco Solar has a long track record of providing solar installations at a fair price throughout California. It’s a one-stop shop for solar panels, backup batteries, EV charging stations and roofing services.

    Ameco also has one of the longest warranties we’ve seen: Installations come with a 40-year warranty on equipment.

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

    “Great customer service. They were quick to respond and come out to troubleshoot my system. Helped me out with a small issue I had with a system I purchased a few years ago.”
    Tom Valley Village, CA
    “I put this purchase off for a long time afraid of the hassles. Ameco stayed with me through all of my hesitation ensuring I was comfortable and got the very best equipment and rates that were available to me. Installation was quick and installers were very informative throughout the process.”
    Tin La Verne, CA
    “They were efficient, upfront, and friendly during the entire process.”
    Jason Stockton, CA

    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.

    Headquartered in Valley Village, Ameco is available to residential and commercial customers throughout California.

    • Equipment: Solar panels, composite shingle roofing and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are available. Post-installation, Ameco provides solar panel production tracking via app or website. 
    • Warranty information: Installations come with a 40-year warranty on the solar equipment.
    Pros
    • Lots of experience
    • NABCEP certified
    • Roofing services available
    • Electric vehicle (EV) charging options
    Cons
    • Occasional delays
    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing
    Our pick for solar leases

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    4.3
    3,704 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. 

    Here’s why it makes sense: If your lease payment is lower than your current electric bill, you start saving immediately. And while utility rates are likely to increase over time, your payment stays more predictable. You’re essentially locking in today’s energy costs for the next 25 years.

    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.

    “Having the system seems to be more economical than relying solely on PG&E. Sunrun’s solar panels and batteries have become my primary energy source, reducing my dependency on traditional utilities.”
    Saul Novato, CA
    “Since switching to solar, my energy bills have stabilized. In the summer, I no longer face exorbitant energy costs, and in the winter, the expenses are even lower. This setup essentially covers my energy bills, which has been a pleasant surprise.”
    Christopher Hanford, CA
    “Tracking the energy production and billing is seamless with their app, which I find very convenient. Since the installation, my monthly electrical expenses have dropped significantly, with my previous bills ranging from $180 to $200 now replaced by a consistent $100 fee.”
    Michael Compton, CA

    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.

    Sunrun designs and installs customized solar panel systems for homes and businesses. The process begins with an analysis of your electricity bills to estimate your energy needs. Sunrun then assesses your roof’s conditions to design a system optimized for your home.

    • Equipment: Sunrun systems use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers. Battery storage options include Tesla, Lunar Energy and FranklinWH.
    • Warranties: Purchased systems include a 10-year warranty covering workmanship and equipment, plus a 25-year performance guarantee. Leased systems include free maintenance and repairs.
    Pros
    • Long time in business
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring
    Cons
    • Some communication issues
    • Occasional delays
    • Third-party contractors
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Our pick for value

    Soleeva

    Soleeva
    4.8
    58 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    30 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2010
    Read Reviews

    You can get a lot for your money with Soleeva. It has competitive pricing on U.S.-manufactured panels, strong warranties and affordable financing options. 

    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.

    Soleeva customers often tell us about lower electricity bills and highlight the long-term value of their systems. The installation process had a few hiccups for some customers, but most are generally satisfied with the end results.

    “The price of the product is very competitive and it was cheaper than the other quotes I received.”
    Shuba Oakland, CA
    “I appreciated how this company stays connected and helps us figure out how to monitor our system to make sure everything’s working as it should.”
    Goldy Huntington Beach, CA
    “The warranty and guaranteed production were big selling points. But the battery management software isn’t the most intuitive. That said, their customer service is solid, they walked me through every technical question without rushing me.”
    Mona Fremont, CA

    How much you spend depends on your system size and whether or not you want a storage battery. You can get started with $0 down financing. As of publishing, solar loan rates start at around 3.99%, depending on credit and terms.

    Soleeva specializes in designing, engineering and constructing solar energy systems for residential, commercial and agricultural clients. It is headquartered in San Jose.

    • Equipment: Soleeva uses solar panels with self-cooling and anti-soiling technology. This means that they stay efficient even during California’s hot, windy and dusty summers. EV chargers are also available. 
    • Warranties: Once solar projects are complete, panels are backed by a 30-year warranty and 25-year production guarantee.
    Pros
    • Available statewide
    • Referral bonuses
    • 30-year panel warranty
    • Proprietary technology
    • $0-down financing
    Cons
    • Some installation delays
    • Occasional customer service complaints
    Our pick for equipment options

    Sunlux

    Sunlux
    4.1
    580 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    19.7%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan and lease
    Year founded
    2015
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Sunlux has a lot of experience installing solar energy systems throughout Southern California. It’s our top choice for equipment options because it offers multiple brands of solar panels, inverters and battery storage systems. This variety means you can customize your system to fit your budget and energy needs.

    We also like that its 24/7 monitoring app lets you easily track your system’s performance, and tech support is available if anything goes wrong.

    Happy customers tell us about good communication, quality work and savings on their energy bills. We’ve heard some minor complaints about installation delays, communication issues or billing problems.

    “The installation process was easy and straightforward. I've had the Sunlux system for about six months now, and I'm very pleased with the quality. We're using the system solely for our electricity needs, and as a result, we don't have any billing, which is fantastic.”
    Bill Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
    “I compared several companies, including Tesla and some smaller providers, but ultimately chose Sunlux Energy due to their better pricing for the same size system compared to the bigger companies.”
    David Los Angeles, 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

    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.

    Sunlux specializes in residential solar panel installations with battery backup systems. Reps can also help coordinate financing, EV charging and smart home solutions, as well as roofing services if needed.

    • Equipment: Installers use solar panels from REC Solar, Qcells and Aptos Solar Technology; SolarEdge inverters and Enphase microinverters. Battery options include Tesla Powerwall, Enphase AC and LG Chem RESU.
    • Warranties: 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.
    Pros
    • Lots of local experience
    • 24/7 system monitoring
    • Flexible financing options
    • Lifetime customer support
    Cons
    • No in-house financing
    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional delays

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

      Key insights

      The average California homeowner needs a 7.2 kW solar panel system, which costs approximately $17,208 before any financial incentives.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) expired at the end of 2025, but you might still be eligible for local incentives in California.

      Jump to insight

      When getting quotes, make sure the company provides a side-by-side comparison showing your estimated 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.

      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 are a good sign that a company has extensive local experience. This 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 $2.39 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 through the California State License Board (CSLB). Watch out for door-to-door solar scams that attempt to gather your personal information, false advertising and aggressive sales tactics.
      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 $11,970 and $23,940, 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.

      Average solar panel costs by system size in California

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is similar to buying a car. 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.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      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 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.

      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 discharge stored energy when export prices spike in the late afternoon and evening.

      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. “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 panels typically pay for themselves within 9 years.

      According to estimates cited by the California Public Utilities Commission, a solar-only system installed today generally saves about $100 per month. Pairing panels with a battery can save at least $135 each month. On average, California homeowners can avoid about $116,253 in total utility costs over 25 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.”

      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

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

      Not sure how to choose?

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