Best Solar Companies in Fremont, California

We compared 12 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Soleeva
      4.0(53)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.1(3,085)
    • Local experience
      Sun Light & Power
      5.0(2)
    +2 more
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Fremont, California

    Our top solar company picks for Fremont

    1. Best overall: Soleeva
    2. Solar leases: Sunrun
    3. Local experience: Sun Light & Power

    To pick the best solar companies in Fremont, we compared popular California solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranty terms and other factors. 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 ConsumerAffairs makes solar company recommendations.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,604,607 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.

    The best solar companies in Fremont

    Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Fremontians’ 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 Bay Area.

    • “I reached out to Soleeva and they were very responsive. They were great. … We're getting money back from PG&E right now. There were definitely a few less expensive options. But Soleeva is worth it, and part of it is because they also have this written energy harvest guarantee, so they stand behind their product. They do something funky with it. They coat their solar panels with an anti-fouling agent. I don't know how well that works, but it's cool. I'm a tech guy, so I’m all into it.” — Ivano in San Jose

    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 specialize in coordinating 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
    • Zero-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. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it.

    • “I have had Sunrun install on three of my houses and two of them are already up and running but one is still waiting for PG&E's final approval. ... Sunrun is a very good and trustworthy company and going solar is very good for not only saving money but also the green. Very soon, I'm going have them install in my own house too.” — Ke in Fremont 
    • “Enrolling with Sunrun two years ago was pretty good and the process was easy. It has clean energy with low cost. Overall, I'm satisfied I went solar.” — Guozhu in Fremont

    Ke mentioned that the smartphone app isn’t as comprehensive as they thought. We also suggest reading 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
    Our pick for local experience
    Sun Light & Power
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    1976

    Sun Light & Power is a solid local option with years of experience. We suggest getting a quote to see if it’s a good fit for your budget.

    • “I interviewed 4 separate potential contractors and selected SL&P because they were friendly, informative and transparent. I also liked the fact that they had been in business for decades and are employee owned. I chose correctly. Their work was excellent, they kept me informed at each step of the way and I felt like they had my interests at heart. Each of their staff members was very knowledgeable and did a good job of answering my questions. My system is up and running and I am very happy with it. I highly recommend them.” — Martin in Berkeley

    Sun Light & Power gets generally positive reviews from our site. However, we have not talked to as many of its verified customers as we have for other top picks.

    As a solar installer, Sun Light & Power does not manufacture its own equipment. Installers use equipment from Qcells, REC Group, SolarEdge, Tesla, FranklinWH and SPAN. The company is located in Berkeley and serves Alameda, Contra Costa, Sacramento, Santa Clara, San Francisco and Sonoma counties.

    • Services: Installers specialize in commercial and residential solar panel installations.
    • Warranty information: Panels come with a standard 25-year manufacturer’s warranty. Inverters are covered for 12 years, and batteries are covered for 10 years.
    • Payment options: You can finance products and services through loans and leases, or you can pay upfront.

    Pros

    • Quality solar equipment
    • Multiple payment options
    • Lots of local experience

    Cons

    • Somewhat limited customer feedback
    • Possible installation delays

    How we chose the best solar companies in Fremont

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the Mediterranean-type climate, to choose the best solar companies in Fremont, 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 Fremont Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

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      Fremont solar panel buyers guide

      ConsumerAffairs has heard from thousands of Californians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Fremont 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 $15,129 in Fremont. However, you can finance or lease with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      On average, Fremont homeowners with solar panels avoid $57,142 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers in Fremont may falsely claim to be affiliated with an Alameda County or California government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Fremont

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Fremont are comparable, ranging from $8,610 to $24,600.

      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 to decline or if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Fremont household needs a system with a capacity of 6.15 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 Fremont

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. Most people pay cash, finance or lease. 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

      Is solar worth it in Fremont?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint. For Gandhi in Fremont, solar energy is worth it to help lower reliance on traditional electricity and reduce their environmental impact. “PG&E electric prices were pretty high compared to what we have with solar energy,” he told us.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      Nearby, Robert in San Jose saw his PG&E electric bill go from a couple hundred dollars down to zero. He told us he is financing the system, and the loan payment “is about average what we'd be giving to PG&E but the difference is that we're paying for something that's gonna stay in the home. Once that's paid off, it'll start paying for itself.”

      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). On average, Fremont homeowners with solar panels can avoid $57,142 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      Potential roof problems

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 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 then reinstall the panels. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Fremont

      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 Alameda County / California

      In California, net metering lets homeowners with solar panels send excess energy into the grid in exchange for credits on their utility bills. However, recent policy changes mean lower compensation rates from Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Consequently, adding a battery storage system to capture excess energy for use during peak hours can make solar more financially attractive.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: California ranked fifth in 2024

      Fremont 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 a couple of other questions to ask yourself:

      • How much sunlight do I get? Fremont gets a good amount of sunlight. The state averages 5 to 7.5 peak sun hours every day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, whether from trees or tall buildings, the panels might not get enough sun to power your home.
      • 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 huge incentive for most homeowners going solar. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels.

      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, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      How long does it take to install solar panels?

      Installation times depend on a range of factors, especially seasonality and supply chain issues. The actual installation might take only a day, but it takes time to design, plan and activate the system. One Fresno resident said it took several months. They began the process in October and the installation happened in mid-April.

      Are there any other solar incentives in Fremont?

      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. Check with East Bay Community Energy (EBCE), which serves Alameda County, for potential solar incentives or renewable energy programs.

      Additionally, the California Energy Commission (CEC) offers various incentives for solar water heating systems and energy efficiency upgrades, which can be combined with solar installations to maximize overall 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.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Fremont

      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 Fremont, 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 Fremont 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. Sun Light & Power

      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 Fremont, CA." Accessed Oct. 6, 2024." Accessed Oct. 6, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Fremont, 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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