Best Solar Companies in California

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

    • Best overall experience
      OC Solar
      5.0(66)
    • Longest warranty
      Ameco Solar & Roofing
      4.7(79)
    • Lowest upfront cost
      Sunrun
      4.3(3,928)
    +2 more
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    Edited by: Justin Martino
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    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 warranties, Sunrun is best for leases, Soleeva offers the best value and Sunlux gives homeowners the most equipment choices.

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    Our top 5 solar company picks for California

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

    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 California-based solar installers using verified ConsumerAffairs reviews, warranty coverage, battery options, financing, installer credentials, years in business and whether installations are completed by company employees or subcontractors.

    Best overall

    OC Solar

    OC Solar
    Headquarters
    Irvine, CA
    In-house installers
    Yes
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    BBB rating
    A+

    OC Solar is our top overall pick because it combines high-quality equipment, transparent pricing and one of the strongest in-house installation teams we found. Instead of relying on subcontractors, the company says it handles everything from system design and installation to ongoing service with its own team.

    The company specializes in California battery-first systems using equipment from brands like Tesla, Qcells and REC. It also backs its installations with 25-year product and workmanship warranties, making it a good choice for homeowners who want a local installer that can manage the project from start to finish.

    Key takeaway: Choose OC Solar if you want a local Southern California installer with in-house crews and a straightforward Tesla or Enphase battery approach.

    Pros
    • Accurate cost estimates
    • Quality solar equipment
    • Affordable financing
    • Ongoing equipment maintenance
    • 25-year installation and product warranties
    Cons
    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some communication issues

    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.

    2x Award Winner
    OC Solar won two 2026 Buyer's Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best for Installation and Best Equipment.
    40 years of equipment coverage

    Ameco Solar & Roofing

    Ameco Solar & Roofing
    Headquarters
    Valley Village, CA
    In-house installers
    Yes
    Panel warranty
    40 years
    BBB rating
    A

    Headquartered in Valley Village, 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.

    It earns our pick for the best warranty thanks to its unusually long 40-year equipment warranty. Founded in 1974, it’s also one of California’s longest-running solar contractors, with experience installing solar panels, battery backup systems, EV chargers and roofing. Post-installation, Ameco provides solar panel production tracking via app or website.

    Key takeaway: Choose Ameco Solar & Roofing if you’re replacing your roof or want a contractor with decades of California experience.

    Pros
    • Lots of experience
    • NABCEP certified
    • Roofing services available
    • Electric vehicle (EV) charging options
    Cons
    • Occasional delays
    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing

    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.

    Little to no upfront cost

    Sunrun

    Sunrun
    Headquarters
    San Francisco, CA
    In-house installers
    Sometimes
    Panel warranty
    20 years
    BBB rating
    A+

    Sunrun is our top choice for solar leases because it lets homeowners go solar with little or no upfront cost while bundling long-term maintenance into the monthly payment. Unlike purchasing a system outright, leased systems include 25 years of monitoring, maintenance and repairs, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected service costs.

    Sunrun also offers battery storage from brands like Tesla, FranklinWH and Lunar, making it easy to add backup power. Keep in mind that installations may be completed by Sunrun or one of its certified local partners rather than exclusively by company employees.

    Key takeaway: Choose Sunrun if you prefer a lease and want long-term maintenance included.

    Pros
    • Long time in business
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring
    Cons
    • Some communication issues
    • Occasional delays
    • Third-party contractors

    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.

    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.
    Premium features for less

    Soleeva

    Soleeva
    Headquarters
    San Jose, CA
    In-house installers
    Yes
    Panel warranty
    30 years
    BBB rating
    A+

    Soleeva offers one of the best values for California homeowners by combining competitive financing, premium U.S.-made equipment and unusually broad battery options. It also stands out for using primarily full-time installation crews instead of relying heavily on subcontractors.

    Its proprietary solar panels feature self-cooling and anti-soiling technology designed to improve performance in California’s hot, dusty climate. Combined with strong warranties and low-rate financing, Soleeva delivers premium features at a competitive price.

    Key takeaway: Choose Soleeva if you’re in the Bay Area and want the most battery options with primarily employee installers.

    Pros
    • 25-year production guarantee
    • Proprietary technology
    • $0-down financing
    • Referral bonuses
    Cons
    • Some installation delays
    • Occasional customer service complaints

    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.

    Widest choice of panels and batteries

    Sunlux

    Sunlux
    Headquarters
    Corona, CA
    In-house installers
    Yes
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    BBB rating
    A+

    Sunlux is our pick for equipment options because it offers one of the widest selections of solar panels, inverters and battery systems in California. You can choose from multiple brands — including Tesla, Enphase, SolarEdge, REC, Qcells and Aptos — to build a system that fits your budget and energy needs.

    We also like that it offers flexible financing, lease options and 24/7 system monitoring, making it a good choice for homeowners who want more flexibility than a one-size-fits-all solar package.

    Key takeaway: Choose Sunlux if you’re looking for flexible financing and battery storage but don’t mind asking more questions about who will actually perform the installation.

    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

    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.

    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 rules have made battery storage much more valuable, which is why many of our top picks specialize in solar-plus-storage systems.

      Jump to insight

      The average California homeowner needs a 7.2 kW solar panel system, which costs approximately $17,114 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 you’re looking at a side-by-side comparison showing estimated savings with and without a battery under the current Net Billing Tariff rules.

      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.

      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.

      5 things to do before you hire a solar company

      1. Compare quotes. Get at least three quotes before making a decision. Compare the total price, cost per watt, equipment, warranties and estimated energy production — not just the monthly payment. The average solar installation costs about $2.44 per watt in California.
      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.

      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 June 26, 2026.
      2. Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), “California Solar.” Accessed June 26, 2026.
      3. California Solar & Storage Association, “Thinking About Going Solar?” Accessed June 26, 2026.
      4. California Public Utilities Commission, “CPUC Modernizes Solar Tariff To Support Reliability and Decarbonization.” Accessed June 26, 2026.
      5. California Contractors State License Board, “Solar Smart.” Accessed June 26, 2026.

      Not sure how to choose?

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