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Best Solar Companies in Los Angeles, California

We compared 91 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Best overall
      OC Solar
      5.0(26)
    • Affordable leases
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,258)
    • Great customer service
      Sunlux
      4.0(580)
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +2 more
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    Edited by: Cassidy McCants
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Los Angeles, California

    Based on its recent reviews, available equipment options and production guarantee, OC Solar is the best solar company in Los Angeles. Budget-conscious homeowners may appreciate Sunrun for its zero-down leasing option, and Sunlux stands out for its consistently helpful customer service.

    Our picks for the 3 best solar companies in Los Angeles

    1. Best overall: OC Solar
    2. Affordable leases: Sunrun
    3. Good customer service: 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.

    The best solar companies in Los Angeles

    Our top pick overall
    OC Solar
    OC Solar
    5.0
    26 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.2%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2016
    Learn More Read Reviews

    OC Solar stands out for its premium technology and exceptional value. Since 2016, it has been installing solar panels and backup battery systems in the greater Los Angeles area. The company is a licensed Panasonic installer and partners with LG, Tesla, REC and Qcells. It also offers roofing services and ongoing equipment maintenance.

    Residential installations typically range between $12,000 and $24,000, but customers consistently report that the investment pays for itself through significant energy savings. Multiple financing options are available with low- or no-down-payment options and terms between 60 and 240 months. Systems come with 25-year installation and product warranties.

    Some reviewers mention brief communication delays during the process, but the overwhelming sentiment reflects satisfaction with both the final product and service quality.

    Pros

    • Great customer service
    • Accurate cost estimates
    • Quality solar equipment
    • Backup battery options
    • Affordable financing

    Cons

    • Some installation delays
    • Occasional communication issues
    “Easy to discuss initial goals and bid, absolutely fantastic solar products and layout recommended in the bid and explained in detail, very competitive price (meaning much lower) compared to other companies.”
    Michael Los Angeles, CA
    “They did what they said they would do for the cost they quoted me.”
    Laurie Brea, CA
    “Every person we worked with at every step of the process was a true professional.”
    David Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
    2025 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Sunrun
    Sunrun
    4.2
    3,258 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    We like that Sunrun leasing plans let you go solar for $0 down. Leased systems typically come with free maintenance and repairs. If you purchase a system, it comes with a 10-year warranty coverage on workmanship and equipment, and the 95% system performance guarantee lasts 25 years.

    Reps start by looking at your past electricity bills to estimate your energy needs. Then they use a specialized computer tool to create the optimal solar system design. Many customers have told us about significant decreases in their electricity bills and say they’re satisfied with the performance of the solar panels.

    Sunrun reviewers have had mixed experiences. Some praise the company’s professionalism and efficient installation process, while others have told us about issues with customer service, billing discrepancies or delays in service.

    Pros

    • Zero-down options
    • Roof leak warranty
    • Long time in business
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some communication issues
    • Relatively short equipment warranty
    “Since the installation, I've noticed a substantial reduction in my electricity bill, almost zeroing it out, which is fantastic.”
    Georgia Los Angeles, CA
    “The enrollment process with Sunrun was very streamlined and happened relatively quickly.”
    John Los Angeles, CA
    “I’ve been very satisfied with the overall quality of the system. Everything has been working well without any issues, and I'm thrilled to see the savings.”
    Gilbert Azusa, CA
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service
    Our top pick for customer service
    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 with a range of equipment options. The 24/7 monitoring app lets you easily track your system’s performance, and tech support is on standby if anything goes wrong. We also like that Sunlux has competitive pricing on quality equipment (Panasonic and Qcells panels), EV charging solutions and roofing services, plus flexible financing options.

    You can lease or finance a system with minimal upfront costs. However, if you buy the system outright, you’ll most likely have to pay a $1,000 deposit to get started. Post-installation, the standard warranty covers parts and maintenance for 25 years. You have to upgrade to Platinum Protection to get an energy production guarantee.

    Overall, Sunlux has received both positive and negative feedback from reviewers. Happy customers are consistently satisfied with the quality of the solar panels and the savings they see on energy bills. However, we have also heard complaints related to financing or supply chain issues.

    Pros

    • Knowledgeable reps
    • Quality equipment options
    • 24/7 monitoring app
    • Lifetime customer support
    • Flexible financing options

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some communication issues
    “I compared several companies… but ultimately chose Sunlux Energy due to their better pricing for the same size system compared to the bigger companies.”
    David Los Angeles, CA
    “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
    “The process with SunLux was quick, easy and painless.”
    Robert Whittier, CA

    How we chose the best solar companies in Los Angeles

    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 Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    OC Solar logo
    Sunrun logo
    Sunlux logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      ConsumerAffairs has heard from thousands of Californians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Los Angeles 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 $19,128 in Los Angeles.

      Jump to insight

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

      Jump to insight

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

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Los Angeles

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Los Angeles are comparable, ranging from $8,400 to $24,000.

      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 to decline or if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Los Angeles household needs a system with a capacity of 7.97 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 solar panel costs by system size in Los Angeles

      How are tariffs expected to affect solar panel prices?

      “While there are some solar panels being manufactured domestically, we still rely on Chinese imports for over 50% of what's being used in the U.S,” Vinnie Campo, co-founder and CEO of climate tech company Haven Energy, said. “With that in mind, solar panel prices have already been impacted by new tariffs, with prices increasing by 10% to 15% on average.”

      Campo added that California homeowners considering solar still have a few options:

      • Take advantage of existing incentives and rebates that can make solar panels extremely affordable for homeowners. For example, California's Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) offers income-qualifying homeowners the opportunity to secure low-cost or no-cost solar and battery systems. In this scenario, companies like Haven can check a homeowner's eligibility and, if they qualify and are approved for an SGIP rebate, manage the installation and operations of their system at a lower cost (or no cost) to the homeowner.
      • Purchase solar panels while the federal tax credit is still available. On May 22, House Republicans passed a budget bill that will require solar projects to begin construction within 60 days of the bill's signing in order to qualify for the clean energy investment tax credit (ITC). The bill is now moving to the Senate, where this stipulation could change, but in all likelihood, the residential tax credit for solar installation will no longer be available. The question remains on timing.

      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.
      • 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: Buy vs. lease

      Is solar worth it in Los Angeles?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Los Angeles homeowners with solar panels avoid $49,310 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 3.9 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      Roof damage is another potential problem. 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 again. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to choose a solar company in Los Angeles

      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 that 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.

      Always be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics. A reputable installer will give you time to make an informed decision without rushing or intimidating you. And remember, you always have the right to cancel. Most solar contracts include a cancellation window — typically three days, or five days if you're over the age of 65. Use this time to review the terms carefully and consult with someone you trust if anything seems unclear. 

      Pro tip

      When getting quotes, insist on a comparative analysis that clearly shows projected savings with and without a battery under the current Net Billing Tariff rules.

      » MORE TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Los Angeles 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 the cost of installing solar panels.

      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.

      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 Los Angeles?

      Los Angeles Department of Power & Water (LADWP) offers local solar incentives, including the Solar Incentive Program (SIP), which provides rebates for residential solar installations. Residents can also take advantage of statewide solar incentives in California, including Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) rebates and net metering. 

      » GREENEST STATES: California ranked 17th in 2024

      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.

      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? Los Angeles 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 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.

      We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator. As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering.

      Methodology

      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 Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles 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. OC Solar
      2. Sunrun
      3. Sunlux
      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 May 21, 2025.
      2. DSIRE, "California Programs." Accessed May 21, 2025.
      3. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Los Angeles, CA." Accessed May 21, 2025.
      4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Los Angeles, 2025?" Accessed May 21, 2025.
      5. EnergySage, “The cost of solar panels in California.” Accessed May 21, 2025.
      6. SolarReviews, “How much do solar panels cost in California, 2025?” Accessed May 21, 2025.
      7. Solar Energy Industries Association, "California Solar." Accessed May 21, 2025.
      8. Federal Trade Commission Consumer, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed May 21, 2025.
      9. Federal Trade Commission, “Solar energy is rising in popularity. So are the scams.” Accessed May 21, 2025.

      Not sure how to choose?

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