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Best Solar Companies in Ventura, CA

We compared 27 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunrun
      4.1(3,121)
    • Equipment options
      Sunlux
      4.1(579)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.8(174)

    Best Solar Companies in Ventura, 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 Ventura

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    2. Our pick for equipment options: Sunlux
    3. Our pick for DIY projects: ShopSolar

    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 Ventura

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

    Our top pick overall
    Sunrun
    Sunrun
    4.1
    3,121 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    We’ve talked to more than 2,000 Sunrun customers. Over a recent two-year period, 77% were satisfied with their installations and 73% were satisfied with the technology. Many tell us about significant savings on electric bills and would highly recommend the company to others.

    • “They did everything very meticulously. They provide a good service. They have the highest level professionalism, good attitude, and they are always on time. And whenever I need anything, I just call them and they are right there the next day.” — Vladimir in Ventura
    • “Enrolling with Sunrun was very good and easy. The installers were very knowledgeable and pleasant. The eight panels that were recommended are working well. My electric bill is nil. I am very satisfied.” — Robert in Oxnard

    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, there’s no initial charge for panels, equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. Contracts typically last 25 years and include free repairs.

    Pros

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

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional billing issues
    Our pick for equipment options
    Sunlux
    Sunlux
    4.1
    579 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.

    • “Our rep with SunLux was organized. My wife and I were fine working with him. I'm hoping that the installation will start in early February.” — Thomas in Ventura
    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
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    ShopSolar
    ShopSolar
    4.8
    174 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018
    Read Reviews

    ShopSolar has a nice selection of equipment for DIY projects, helpful reps and fast deliveries. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup.

    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 Ventura

    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 Ventura, 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 San Buenaventura Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunrun logo
    Sunlux logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      Ventura solar panel buyers guide

      ConsumerAffairs has heard from thousands of Californians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Ventura 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 $15,498 in Ventura.

      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 Ventura may falsely claim to be affiliated with a Ventura County or California government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Ventura

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Ventura are comparable, ranging from $8,820 to $25,200.

      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 Ventura 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 Ventura

      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 Ventura?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Ventura homeowners with solar panels avoid $57,142 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 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).

      Think of going solar in terms of your monthly costs. Given rising energy costs in Ventura and elsewhere, financing solar panels makes sense as long as your monthly loan payment is less than what you would be paying the utility company anyway.

      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 Ventura

      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

      Ventura solar FAQ

      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

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

      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, 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 Ventura?

      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.

      • Ventura County Regional Energy Alliance: The Ventura County Regional Energy Alliance (VCREA) offers resources to residents to support solar energy adoption. They don’t provide direct rebates but assist homeowners in identifying financing options like PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) programs, which allow for solar installations to be paid through property tax assessments, easing upfront costs.
      • California Energy Commission: 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.
      • Net metering: 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.

      » 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? Ventura 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.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: California ranked fifth in 2024

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Ventura

      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 Ventura, 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 Ventura 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. Sunrun
      2. Sunlux
      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 Ventura, CA." Accessed Oct. 6, 2024.
        4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Ventura, 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 (SEIA), "California Solar." Accessed Oct. 3, 2024.
        8. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.

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