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Best Solar Companies in Simi Valley, CA

We compared 29 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunlux
      4.5(577)
    • Solar leases
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,054)
    • Ongoing support
      Ameco Solar
      5.0(47)
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    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +2 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Cassidy McCants
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    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Best Solar Companies in Simi Valley, CA

    Top Picks

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      Our top solar company picks for Simi Valley

      1. Best overall: Sunlux
      2. Our pick for solar leases: Sunrun
      3. Our pick for ongoing support: Ameco Solar

      To pick the best solar companies in Simi Valley, 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.
      • 4,590,668 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 Simi Valley

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

      Our top pick overall
      Sunlux
      Sunlux
      4.5
      577 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.

      • “Sunlux has been very diligent. Everything is transparent. They've tried to accommodate a lot of the questions and concerns that I've had. They don't promise everything, but they provide you with the details. The gentleman who explained the details to me had a very detailed presentation. — James in Simi Valley
      • “Sunlux had the product that I wanted and other companies may have been a little cheaper but they force you into buying a system that wasn't exactly what I wanted to buy. The process was a little bit slow with Sunlux but all in all, my experience was good.” — Pierce in Simi Valley

      We’ve heard some minor complaints about installation delays. For instance, K. in Simi Valley told us that it took us several months to get an official permission to operate (PTO), which is when people actually start seeing lower utility bills. “There was some snag with the paperwork. They filed the wrong paperwork with something,” K. told us. “I didn't quite follow which agency got the wrong paperwork, but that held up the PTO approval by the power company.”

      Solar panel installations are complicated projects, and mix-ups or misunderstandings are always possible. Overall, K. is still satisfied with Sunlux’s equipment and service.

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

      • 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

      • Some installation delays
      • Some customer service complaints
      Our pick for solar leases
      Sunrun
      Sunrun
      4.2
      3,054 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 huge upfront investment. There’s no initial charge for any panels or other equipment, installation or permits.

      • "I was trying to look at a purchase and the prices were high. Sunrun had this power-up purchase and it seemed like it might be a better way to go. It turned out to be a lot less cost and it would be replacing the batteries and other units that have less than 25-year life cycles. … On the whole, Sunrun seems to have proper connections and they do professional jobs." — James in Simi Valley
      • “Sunrun is reliable and has good value. … My utility bills in the summer used to run $600 running the AC. And since going solar, I have a monthly credit rather than having to pay the utility company. Only once in the last year and a half have I had any payment due, and it was $15.” — Eileen in Simi Valley
      • “The team who came out and installed the panels were good. They installed the panels in one day. That was seamless. … I'm on the net metering program so I square off with my utility company once a year. I'm selling power back to the company then in the summer months, I’ll supply power because I'm using a lot more power. I'm glad things seem to be working out pretty well.” — Jeffrey in Simi Valley

      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, 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 ongoing support
      Ameco Solar
      Ameco Solar
      5.0
      47 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 finally made the decision to install solar energy on my house and after researching for a solar company, I decided to give my business to Ameco Solar. Their customer service and attention to detail won me over. From the initial and planning calls, to the blueprint plans, to the professionalism of the panel installers, I was pleased with the experience and with the end result. It was a positive experience and I am happy with my solar panels and the fact that I am saving more money than before.” — Kat in Canoga Park

      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. Ameco Solar also offers roofing services, making it a great option if you need to repair or replace your roof before going solar.

      Headquartered in Valley Village, Ameco is available to residential and commercial clients 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 Simi Valley

      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 Simi Valley, 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

      Simi Valley solar panel buyers guide

      ConsumerAffairs has heard from thousands of Californians who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Simi Valley 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 $16,658 in Simi Valley.

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

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Simi Valley

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $8,645 to $24,700 in California. Prices in Simi Valley are comparable, ranging from $8,120 to $23,200.

      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 declining or if your area gets frequent blackouts.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Simi Valley household needs a system with a capacity of 7.18 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 Simi Valley

      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.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Buy vs. lease

      Is solar worth it in Simi Valley?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in California if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Simi Valley homeowners with solar panels can avoid $66,068 in total utility costs 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 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, 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 Simi Valley

      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 Ventura County

      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.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: California ranked fifth in 2024

      Simi Valley 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.

      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, 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 Simi Valley?

      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.

      • 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. Currently, Southern California Edison (SCE) credits you based on the "avoided cost" of energy, which is typically lower than the retail rate. This value changes with the time of day and year.

      » GREENEST STATES: California ranked 17th in 2024

      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? Simi Valley 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.

      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.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Simi Valley

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