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Best Solar Companies in Pasadena, CA

We compared 85 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunlux
      4.0(580)
    • Customer service
      First American Solar
      5.0(19)
    • Great warranty
      Ameco Solar
      4.6(48)

    Best Solar Companies in Pasadena, CA

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

    Our top 3 solar company picks for Pasadena

    1. Our pick for best overall: Sunlux
    2. Our pick for customer service: First American Solar
    3. Our pick for long warranty: Ameco Solar

    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 Pasadena

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

    Our top pick overall
    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 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.

    • “Customer service was great. There's a direct contact with me and so we got things squared away very fast. I was happy.” — Jim in Pasadena
    • “I compared the price with Tesla and with different companies, and I decided to go with SunLux. They're great and easy to talk to. They're on-time and very professional. They respond about anything and they know what they're doing. It was about a month or so from the time I signed up to when I went live and I've been running on solar energy since January. It's free so I don't have to pay any electrical bill. The only thing I have to pay is the service fee connected to the grid.” — Kevin in Pasadena
    • “SunLux had a strong proposal and I liked their warranties. They're not cheap but they were the best. When doing solar, buy the decent quality. Don't go for cheap crap because it won’t pay off in the long term.” — Alastair in Pasadena

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

    Sunlux specializes in residential solar panel installations with battery backup systems. It’s available throughout Southern California, including Pasadena.

    • 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
    • Long-term savings

    Cons

    • Some installation delays
    • Some customer service complaints
    Our pick for customer service
    First American Solar
    First American Solar
    5.0
    19 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2015
    Read Reviews

    Ameco Solar has a really innovative design and installation process, reasonable pricing and generally positive reviews. The installation process is often described as seamless and efficient, with attention to detail and a focus on optimizing the placement of solar panels.

    • “I had a good experience with them. Communication was very good. I'm very detailed, so they were very accommodating to my details and needs. Even afterward when I had a couple of troubleshooting questions with the program because it was all via app. So, I had to ask other people. The guys came over and took care of it for me. … They were very accommodating. And if I had any questions, I know I could call them and they could come out. They're good. Customer service for me is very important and with his guaranteed work and warranties, I was very happy with it. And he has come out even after his job was done.” — Danny in Pasadena

    Negative feedback is scarce, but, in some cases, a customer’s solar system did not completely cover their energy needs.

    First American Solar is a local company — headquartered in Glendale — with a great reputation throughout Southern California. The team includes solar technicians, finance experts and designers who work together to address different energy challenges.

    • Services: In addition to solar panel installations, First American Solar offers roof restorations, solar-plus-storage microgrids and EV charger installations.
    • Warranty information: Systems come with a 25-year warranty that covers your solar panels, racking, production, workmanship and roof penetration.
    • Payment options: First American Solar accepts cash, checks, credit cards, wire transfers and Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments.

    Pros

    • In-house installers
    • Solid warranty
    • Affordable payment plans
    • Long-term savings

    Cons

    • No leasing option
    • No pricing information available online
    Our pick for great warrantye
    Ameco Solar
    Ameco Solar
    4.6
    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. Overall, Californians have had positive experiences with Ameco Solar reps, praising their knowledge, professionalism and prompt responses.

    • “Amazing experience with product, install, and customer service. Ameco Solar is one of the lowest bids in terms of pricing and has the ability to get the job done on a quick timeline. Their people were dependable, did what they said they were going to do, showed up when they said they were going to show up, and got the job done in a timely way.” — SeJin in South Pasadena

    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

    • Good customer service
    • Roofing services available
    • NABCEP certified
    • Lots of local experience
    • Long-term savings

    Cons

    • Possible installation delays
    • No in-house financing

    How we chose the best solar companies in Pasadena

    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 Pasadena, 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 Pasadena Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunlux logo
    First American Solar logo
    Ameco Solar logo
    See our top picks

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    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      Pasadena solar panel buyers guide

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

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $17,086 in Pasadena.

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

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Pasadena

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Pasadena are comparable, ranging from $7,910 to $22,600.

      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 Pasadena household needs a system with a capacity of 7.56 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 Pasadena

      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 benefit from solar panels 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.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Is solar worth it in Pasadena?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. Thanks to sky-high electric bills and local incentives, going solar in Los Angeles County can really pay off. On average, Pasadena homeowners with solar panels can avoid $59,761 in total utility costs over 25 years.

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

      For a lot of homeowners, 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).

      But before you jump in, there are a few things to think about. You'll want to look into how the new NEM 3.0 rules might affect you and whether adding some batteries to your setup makes sense. Considering that the area is prone to earthquakes, make sure your solar installer uses seismic-resistant mounting and anchoring techniques to protect your system from potential damage.

      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 again. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Pasadena

      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.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: California ranked fifth in 2024

      Pasadena 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 Pasadena?

      Residents can also 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.

      Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) doesn’t currently offer solar panel rebates, but it does have net surplus compensation, which works like net energy metering. This means that you can send their excess solar energy to the grid in exchange for credits on future utility bills.

      Additionally, the California Energy Commission (CEC) offers various incentives and rebates, including 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

      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.

      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? Pasadena 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.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s at least worth considering. 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.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Pasadena

      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 Pasadena, 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 Pasadena 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. Sunlux
      2. First American Solar
      3. Ameco Solar

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