Best Solar Companies in Clovis, California

We compared 3 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Soleeva
      4.0(53)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.1(3,093)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(159)
    +2 more
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Clovis, California

    Our top solar company picks for Clovis

    1. Best overall: Soleeva
    2. Solar leases: Sunrun
    3. DIY projects: ShopSolar

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

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
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    The best solar companies in Clovis

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

    Our top pick overall
    Soleeva
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    30 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2010

    Soleeva stands out for having great reviews. We also like that its solar panels come with a special coating that makes them last longer against wear and tear, which is particularly helpful in the San Joaquin Valley.

    • “Soleeva gave me a good deal for the price that they charged me compared to other places. I paid it all in cash. It's producing good and saving up some money here and there. … The guy that I spoke to was very helpful. I'll be recommending Soleeva to friends and co-workers.” — Alireza in Fresno

    Installation is generally smooth, although some customers have reported broken tiles or difficulty with the wireless connection.

    Soleeva was founded by a mechanical engineer and a manufacturing finance expert in the San Francisco Bay Area. The company specializes in residential, commercial and farming solar panel projects.

    • Services: Reps coordinate solar design, engineering and construction. The company also offers ongoing maintenance services.
    • Warranty information: Projects come with a 30-year solar panel warranty and a 25-year production warranty.
    • Payment options: Soleeva offers credit-based and non-credit-based financing options.

    Pros

    • 30-year panel warranty
    • Proprietary technology
    • $0 down financing
    • Long-term savings
    • Lots of local experience

    Cons

    • Some installation delays
    • Some customer service complaints
    Our pick for solar leases
    Sunrun
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007

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

    • “The enrollment process was easy and a smooth transition. They showed up for the installation then I went to do some errands and they were done in less than an hour. I like the service so far and I don't have to pay the extra fee. Being with Sunrun changed a few things and I'm getting another panel. I also tell friends they need to get Sunrun.” — Gabriel in Clovis
    • “I was doing research on all the companies and I met with Michael and Michelle who took me through the experience and showed me the advantage of going with Sunrun as opposed to anyone else. I've gone with them four times for four different jobs, three being my own properties and all have been excellent. All the guys that I talked to were polite and nice. … It's nice not to get any bills from PG&E except for the gas for two months. On my sub-lease property, they're noticing a $700-saving so they're very happy. My mother-in-law is very happy as well." — Greg in Clovis

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

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

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

    Pros

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

    Cons

    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional billing issues
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    ShopSolar
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018

    ShopSolar offers fast delivery on equipment for DIY projects. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup. We also like that it has free shipping on all solar kits, a price match guarantee and lifetime customer support.

    • “I live out in the country and we have been impacted by a lot of snow and power outages this last winter. I'm in central California, so we also got a wildfire risk. I wanted to have something besides having a portable gas generator available. … I had no problem setting it up once I got on YouTube and looked up how to hook up the solar panels correctly and safely.” — Steven in Oakhurst

    Some customers have told us about problems with damaged equipment. On the bright side, reps try to quickly resolve these issues with refunds or replacements.

    » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

    ShopSolar is an online retailer that stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

    • Services: Reps can help you design a custom solar system based on your specific energy requirements. The company doesn't offer direct installation services, but online tutorials and video guides are available.
    • Warranty information: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by individual manufacturers’ warranties.
    • Payment options: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International. It also partners with Affirm to offer financing options.

    Pros

    • Great for RVs and outbuildings
    • Price-match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support

    Cons

    • Some shipping and delivery delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

    How we chose the best solar companies in Clovis

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

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

    » MORE: Full methodology

    Solar Companies in Clovis Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    Top Picks

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      Clovis solar panel buyers guide

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

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $18,239 in Clovis.

      Jump to insight

      On average, Clovis homeowners with solar panels avoid $53,251 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

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

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Clovis

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Clovis are comparable, ranging from $8,050 to $23,000.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing. It’s worth considering if California’s net metering rates continue declining or if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Clovis household needs a system with a capacity of 7.93 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Clovis

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      You can finance or lease solar panels with minimal upfront costs. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment.

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

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      How to find a reputable solar company in Clovis

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

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

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Going solar in Fresno County

      Clovis participates in California’s efforts to streamline the solar permitting process, reducing time and costs associated with obtaining permits. This is part of the state's broader SolarAPP+ program, which helps simplify residential solar installations through online permitting.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: California ranked fifth in 2024

      Clovis solar FAQ

      Is my house a good candidate for solar?

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

      • What is the condition of my roof? As a rule of thumb, if your roof is over 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof, and reinstall the panels. This is an expensive and frustrating process.
      • How much sunlight do I get? Clovis gets a good amount of sunlight. The state averages 5 to 7.5 peak sun hours every day. However, the panels might not get enough sun to power your home if you have a lot of shading around your house, whether from trees or tall buildings.
      • How old are my appliances? Getting your electrical loads as small as possible before going solar means you’ll need a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall. If you have older electrical appliances, upgrade those before investing in solar panels.
      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is a significant incentive for most homeowners going solar. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels.

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, getting a refund check is possible if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      Are there any other solar incentives in Clovis?

      Residents can take advantage of statewide solar incentives in California, including Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) rebates for homeowners who install battery storage systems with their solar panels.

      PG&E offers rebates for improving your home’s energy efficiency, such as upgrading insulation, windows and appliances. Combining these upgrades with solar panels can enhance savings by lowering overall energy usage.

      Additionally, solar installations are exempt from property tax reassessments, meaning the value added to your home by solar panels won’t increase your property taxes. Additional incentives, including state tax credits and rebates, can be combined with federal incentives to maximize savings.

      How does net metering work in Clovis?

      In California, net metering lets homeowners with solar panels send excess energy into the grid in exchange for credits on their utility bills. These credits help offset future energy costs, reducing overall electricity expenses and making solar energy more affordable.

      Clovis is served by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), which offers Net Energy Metering (NEM). Under the state's NEM 3.0 policy, solar customers can send excess energy back to the grid and receive credits on their electricity bills. However, under NEM 3.0, the compensation for exported energy has decreased, which makes the addition of battery storage systems more beneficial for maximizing self-consumption and savings​.

      » GREENEST STATES: California ranked 17th in 2024

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

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

      What are the different types of solar panels?

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

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

      Are solar panels worth it in Clovis?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Clovis homeowners with solar panels can avoid $53,251 in total utility costs over 25 years.

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

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Clovis

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

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

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

      Warranties: 20%

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

      Equipment selection: 20%

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

      Financing and payment options: 20%

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

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

      1. Soleeva
      2. Sunrun
      3. ShopSolar

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide sources

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

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

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