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Best Solar Companies in Long Beach, California

We compared 9 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

  • Top overall
    Ameco Solar
    4.5(48)
  • Equipment options
    Sunlux
    4.0(580)
  • Solar leases
    Sunrun
    4.3(3,234)

Best Solar Companies in Long Beach, California

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By: Kathryn Parkman
+2 more
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Edited by: Cassidy McCants
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Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

Our top 3 solar company picks for Long Beach

  1. Best overall: Ameco Solar
  2. Equipment options: Sunlux
  3. Solar leases: Sunrun

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.

The best solar companies in Long Beach

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

Our top pick overall
Ameco Solar
Ameco Solar
4.5
48 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 good reputation for helpful reps, fair pricing and efficient installations. It also has one of the longest warranties we’ve ever seen a solar company offer.

  • “I recently hired Ameco Solar to do some solar panel work on my roofing last weekend. They were kind, professional, and worked efficiently. I am very satisfied with the way it turned out, highly recommend you hire them!” — Lily in Long Beach

You might need to replace your roof before installing solar panels, especially if you live in an older home. Solar panels last 25 to 30 years, so you need your roof to last at least as long. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay to remove the panels, replace the roof and reinstall the panels — an expensive and frustrating process.

Headquartered in Valley Village, Ameco is available to residential and commercial customers throughout California. Ameco generally charges between $25,000 and $30,000 for residential solar installations (before any financial incentives are applied).

  • Services: Solar panels, composite shingle roofing, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and roof replacements 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.
  • Payment options: Reps can help you find financing through solar loans if needed.

Pros

  • Great warranty
  • Good customer service
  • Roofing services available
  • NABCEP certified
  • Lots of local experience

Cons

  • Possible installation delays
  • No in-house financing
Our pick for equipment options
Sunlux
Sunlux
4.0
580 reviews
Max. panel efficiency
19.7%
Panel warranty
25 years
Payment options
Cash, loan and lease
Year founded
2012
Get Started Read Reviews

Sunlux is a top-rated solar company only available in Southern California. We like that it has a range of equipment options. Its 24/7 monitoring app lets you easily track your system’s performance, and tech support is on standby if anything goes wrong.

  • “Sunlux has been an amazing from start to finish. We had an excellent consultation and build for our system based on our past year with the electric company. Everything that followed was on schedule and delivered as promised.” — Bryan in Long Beach
  • “They did an amazing job. When I built a brand-new garage, I had a company come in and roof, and they didn't put a good quality product up there. That was the difference between the company that did it with Sunlux. They put high-quality product up there, which is what I wanted.” — Ronald in Long Beach

We’ve heard some minor complaints about installation delays, communication issues or billing problems. Solar panel installations are complicated projects, and there’s always the chance of mix-ups or misunderstandings.

Sunlux specializes in residential solar panel installations with battery backup systems. It’s available throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Rancho Cucamonga, Rancho Santa Margarita, Irvine and Valencia.

  • Services: Reps can coordinate financing, EV charging and smart home solutions, as well as roofing services if needed.
  • Warranty information: 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.
  • Payment options: Sunlux accepts cash and third-party loans. It also has leases and prepaid leasing plans.

Pros

  • Lots of local experience
  • 24/7 system monitoring
  • Flexible financing options
  • Lifetime customer support

Cons

  • No in-house financing
  • Some customer service complaints
2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
Sunrun
Sunrun
4.3
3,234 reviews
Max. panel efficiency
22%
Panel warranty
Varies
Payment options
Cash, loan, lease
Year founded
2007
Get Started Read Reviews

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

  • “Sunrun gave us a good price and a good contract so we picked it up. The system didn't make the house look bad and it didn't change anything in the house, so I'm satisfied. I saved a little bit of money once I learned how to use it. Because we have a little bit more people, we use more energy. But before that, we were saving at least $35 a month. All in all, we're good and we're happy. We've had no breakdowns.” — A reviewer in Long Beach
  • “With Sunrun, I'm keeping my electrical cost down. Their customer service reps are fine.” — James in Long Beach
  • “Sunrun was very efficient in putting the panels up and getting here for the permit with the city. … As far as the billing from Southern California Edison, I've got a credit. I've got more electricity than I'm using and my bill is very low.” — Julie in Long Beach

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. Lease contracts typically last for 25 years, with free maintenance and repairs during this time.

Pros

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

Cons

  • Occasional installation delays
  • Some customer service complaints
  • Occasional billing issues
1x Award Winner
Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

How we chose the best solar companies in Long Beach

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 Long Beach, 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 Long Beach Buyers Guide

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Long Beach solar panel buyers guide

ConsumerAffairs has heard from thousands of Californians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Long Beach 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 $15,891 in Long Beach.

Jump to insight

Solar loans, leases and other programs make it easy to go solar with minimal upfront costs.

Jump to insight

Solar scammers in Long Beach may falsely claim to be affiliated with a Los Angeles County or California government agency.

Jump to insight

Solar panel costs in Long Beach

A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Long Beach are comparable, ranging from $8,155 to $23,300.

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 Long Beach household needs a system with a capacity of 6.82 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 Long Beach

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 solar benefits without 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.
  • Free solar panels: 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: Lease vs. buy

Is solar worth it in Long Beach?

Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Long Beach homeowners with solar panels can avoid $61,779 in total utility costs over 25 years.

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

Going solar in Los Angeles County could really pay off, thanks to those sky-high electric bills and some nice incentives on offer. However, you need to look into how the new NEM 3.0 rules might affect you and whether adding some batteries to your setup makes sense.

The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 3.9 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

» 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 Long Beach

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 to 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 Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County has strict building codes and permitting requirements for solar installations. The county supports solar energy but enforces comprehensive safety standards and guidelines for structural, fire and electrical safety. Homeowners should be aware that navigating the permitting process may take time and involve several inspections.

» BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: California ranked 5th in 2024

Long Beach solar FAQ

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.

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.

Don’t get confused: 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. 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.

Are there any other solar incentives in Long Beach?

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

Additionally, the California Energy Commission (CEC) offers various incentives to get energy efficiency upgrades, which help maximize solar savings. Getting your electrical loads as small as possible before going solar means you’ll need a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall.

» GREENEST STATES: California ranked 17th in 2024

How does net metering work in Long Beach?

In Long Beach, 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.

Statewide, these credits became much less valuable under NEM 3.0. Southern California Edison's (SCE) Net Energy Metering still offers compensation for excess electricity but at a much lower rate than a few years ago.

Will solar panels increase my property taxes?

No. Under California law, solar installations are exempt from property tax reassessments, meaning the value added to your home by solar panels won’t increase your property taxes.

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 Long Beach

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 Long Beach, 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 Long Beach 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. Ameco Solar
  2. Sunlux
  3. Sunrun

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