Best Solar Companies in California

California is one of the sunniest states in the USA, receiving 5,050 hours of sunlight annually. If you live in California, you can benefit from this abundance of sunshine by installing solar panels on your roof. The advantages include cutting monthly energy bills, generating clean and green energy, and gaining full energy independence. If you are searching for the best solar companies in California to install solar systems, you are in the right place. We have sorted some of the best companies within California to provide you with efficient solar services.

Is It Worth Installing Solar System In California?

Yes, it is worth installing a solar system in California as it receives the most sunlight among states and there are a number of incentives and tax credits you can benefit from after installing solar panels on your home or business. Additionally, solar power supports environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Overall, it’s a financially and environmentally beneficial investment.

Average Solar Cost in California

Before purchasing a solar panel system you must be wondering, how much is it going to cost you? To understand the average cost of commercial solar panels and residential solar systems you must understand that these costs can vary on the following factors:

Scale & Complexity: Commercial solar systems typically require larger scale and more complex installations compared to residential systems. This involves more extensive infrastructure, additional equipment, and higher labor costs, which increases the overall system cost.
Incentive Structures: Different incentives, rebates, and financing options are available for residential and commercial installations in California. While the cost of a commercial system is expensive, it can be significantly reduced by tax credits and depreciation benefits, which can make a big difference in the final amount you end up paying for these setups.
System Size & Energy Needs: Residential solar systems are designed to meet the needs of a household, while commercial systems are scaled to meet the energy demands of larger operations. The higher energy needs of commercial properties usually require larger and more expensive systems which results in increased installation cost.
Installation: Commercial installations often involve more complex logistics, including coordinating with larger teams and managing larger rooftops or ground spaces. This complexity can increase installation costs.

Average Solar System Cost for Residential Installations in California

On average, residential solar systems in California can cost between $15,000 and $30,000 before incentives and rebates. The cost per watt typically ranges from $2.50 to $4.00, depending on factors such as the size of the system, the quality of components, and installation specifics.

Average Solar System Cost for Commercial Installations in California

Commercial solar installations in California range from $100,000 to $500,000 or more. The cost per watt for commercial systems is lower than residential systems, averaging between $1.50 and $2.50, due to economies of scale and the larger size of the installations.

The Math is simple the more you buy the less you have to pay per watt for a solar panel.

Best Solar Services Companies In California

Here are some of the top companies to buy solar services from in California in 2024.

1 Solar Industry Watch

This is a Tesla-certified company in provides efficient solar services to their customers, with highly competitive prices.

Excellent Customer Support: They provide excellent customer support to answer customer queries and receive feedback.
Residential & Commercial Solar Panels: With over 15 years in industry they have been providing services for both types of systems.
Expert Staff: A staff with proper education and experience can be the best asset in growing your company and building up the trust of your customers. And that is the reason they have a good staff with the proper expertise needed.
Hassle-Free Installation: The expert staff makes the installation process seamless for the customer without disturbing their daily routine.
Solar System Maintenance: They provide their customers with proper maintenance services after the installation to ensure longevity and efficient working of the system.
Customized Solar Solution: Solar Industry Watch is one of the top companies in California their staff is trained to work according to your needs and ideas.

2 Power with Watts

Despite them being new in the market they are proving themselves with the quality of services they are providing.

Customer Services: The level of satisfaction you will see in the review section of their website or any other platform, which gives a clear picture of how effectively they communicate with their customers.

Experienced & Educated Staff: The reason for their continuous growth is their staff who satisfy the customers by giving them the best installation services possible.

Minimum Environmental Impact: The purpose of installing solar is to protect the environment, their staff ensures that their work doesn’t impact the environment directly and indirectly.

Innovative Technology: The professionals they have hired work properly with the most advanced equipment available to ensure quality services.

3 Sun Energy Guide

They are the best Commercial solar installers you can hire in California to provide you with the most advanced solar system the way you want it.

High Efficiency: They have a good public image due to their high-efficiency panels.

Mounting Equipment: For system longevity and durability, using the best mounting equipment is essential, and their expert staff ensures this.

Customer Service: To survive in the competitive market, you must have a good connection with the customer; they understand this very well.

Expert Installers: Having expert installers maintains the customer’s trust and peace of mind, and Sun Energy Guide hires experienced educated staff.

4 Integrate Sun

Integrate Sun has been providing solar services across the USA for about 18 years, making them an ideal choice if you live in California, the state with the most home-installed solar systems.

Customer Support: They satisfy their customers with proper support and efficient services.

Experienced Staff: Hiring a good worker ensures the company’s position in market if you have good cooperative staff, it can grow the company to new positions.

Best Quality & Reliability: They provide the best quality and reliability across all states.

Seamless Installation: They have experienced staff who excel in providing hassle-free installations for their customers.

5 Sun Power

If you search anywhere online or offline the first name you will hear is Sun Power they hold a strong position in the solar industry.

Affordable & Reliable: Offering all its products at affordable prices while maintaining high reliability and durability has helped the company grow over the years.

Customer Support: Despite being one of the largest solar companies in the world they always maintained a positive connection with the customers.

High Efficiency: All the products they offer, from regular solar panels to energy storag solar batteries, are highly efficient. They keep up with advanced technology.

Customer Trust: Since the company was founded in 1985 making it one of the oldest solar companies, it helped them gain customers’ trust.

All of these companies are rated according to the quality of services they are providing to the customers and if they have a good connection with them.

Solar Panels Installation Incentives and Rebates

If you are installing solar panels, there are some federal and local incentives and rebates available to the people of California to help reduce the cost of installation, allowing you to maximize your investment:

Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC): The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) enables homeowners to deduct 30% of their total solar system expenses from their federal taxes. Currently, this credit is scheduled to decrease to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034, with a planned expiration for residential systems in 2035.

Net Metering: Net metering enables solar panel owners to sell excess electricity back to the grid for credit on their energy bills. California’s program was once a leader, offering full retail rate compensation. However, recent changes have significantly reduced the financial incentives for solar adoption. Making it less attractive for homeowners and businesses.

Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) & Equity Resiliency Program: These programs are managed by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), offering financial rebates for the installation of energy storage systems in both residential and commercial settings, making batteries more affordable through these savings. Additionally, the SGIP Equity Resiliency Program provides extra rebates of $850 or $1,000 per kWh of battery storage specifically for low-income households and those living in areas at high risk for wildfires or frequent power outages.

Property Tax Exclusion for Solar System: This incentive ensures that there would be no additional property taxes after solar panel installation.

Local Solar Incentives: Some local Utility Companies and municipalities offer local incentives. These can vary based on the utility provider and may include rebates for system installation or performance-based incentives.

Best Way to Install Solar in California

By the best way to install batteries I mean if you want to install the solar panels by yourself, how can you set them up to give maximum energy output? So to get maximum energy out of your system in California, solar panels should ideally face true south to maximize exposure to sunlight throughout the day. This ensures they capture the most sunlight, especially during peak hours. The optimal tilt angle for solar panels is roughly equal to the latitude of the location. For most parts of California, this means a tilt angle of about 30-35 degrees. Adjusting the angle seasonally can also enhance performance, with a steeper tilt in winter and a shallower angle in summer. To ensure maximum efficiency, place solar panels in an area with minimal shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions, as shade can significantly reduce solar output. Regular maintenance is important for longevity. You have to do proper maintenance and if you can’t do it yourself you should hire professionals. However, what you can do on your own is maintain cleanliness, because dust and debris can reduce the solar panel’s efficiency.

Commercial Solar and its Benefits in California

Commercial solar power in California offers substantial benefits, making it a smart investment for businesses. With abundant sunshine, your company can reduce electricity costs and achieve up to 70% savings on energy bills. Additionally, adopting solar energy aligns businesses with California’s aggressive climate goals, reducing carbon footprints and enhancing corporate sustainability profiles through green marketing. Installing solar panels on your property can increase property value by up to 4% and can provide you with energy independence. In the end, commercial solar power in California helps businesses save money and protect the environment, making them stronger for the future.

Residential Solar and its Benefits in California

California is the leading state for solar power in the USA. So, why aren’t you on the list yet? Get quotes now to take advantage of 30% federal tax credits on solar panel installation, meaning the government will cover 30% of your total installation cost.

Installing solar panels on your home roof can be a great decision, offering energy independence and potentially reducing your electricity bills to zero. This also contributes to making California a dream living state by producing no carbon emissions and eliminating fossil fuel fumes, thereby helping to reduce pollution.

Home Value Increase

Installing a solar panel system can increase a home’s value by an average of 4.1%. This increase can make a significant difference in the overall worth of your property. A study reveals that homes with solar panels in California sell for roughly $9,930 above market value. This premium highlights the growing demand and appreciation for sustainable energy solutions in the housing market.

What is a good Solar Panel Installer?

There are number of things you need to know and ensure when hiring a solar panel installer:

Certified Professionals: Look for installers certified by recognized organizations like NABCEP.
Licensed: Ensure they have the necessary local and state licenses.
Proven Track Record: Choose an installer with a history of successful installations.
Technical Knowledge: They should understand the latest solar technologies and standards.
High-Quality Components: Use reputable brands and warranties.
Up-to-date Technology: Stay updated with the latest advancements in solar technology.
Full-Service Offering: Provide consultation, design, installation, maintenance, and support.
Customized Solutions: Tailor services to meet specific customer needs and conditions.
Positive Reviews: Look for strong customer feedback and high ratings.
Referrals: Provide references from past clients.
Transparent Quotes: Offer detailed and transparent cost breakdowns.
Clear Timelines: Include clear project timelines and milestones.
Responsive: Provide prompt and clear communication.
Supportive: Offer ongoing support and maintenance services.
Incentive Guidance: Help customers maximize available incentives and tax credits.
Compliance: Ensure installations comply with local codes and regulations.
Adherence to Safety Protocols: Follow strict safety standards.
Insurance: Have adequate insurance coverage for potential damage or accidents.
Comprehensive Warranty: Offer strong warranties on installation work and equipment.
After-Sales Service: Provide reliable post-installation support and maintenance.
Eco-friendly Practices: Follow environmentally friendly installation practices.

Company Customer Reviews

It is good practice to visit any of the company’s past customers. If this is not possible, you should read their customer reviews from various platforms, both online and offline. This helps ensure the quality of services they are providing and confirms if they are offering proper maintenance services after the solar installation.

FAQ’s

Q. What is the Best Solar Company in California?

Ans. All the solar companies in California are good, having their pros and cons, but some of the top companies are Solar Industry Watch, Power with Watts and Integrate Sun providing you with the most effective solar panels with high efficiency and energy output.

Q. How to do Green Marketing?

Ans. Green marketing means promoting products for their environmental benefits. Focus on honest claims, use sustainable materials, and clearly communicate your efforts. Make sure to track results and keep improving to build trust and attract eco-conscious customers.

Solar installation is a proven green marketing strategy, Big tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta use solar energy to boost their environmental image.

Q. What are the best commercial solar system installation companies?

Ans. Top 5 companies to go solar with:

Solar Industry Watch
Power with Watts
Sun Energy Guide
Integrate Sun
Sun Power

All the above companies have made a name for themselves in the last few decades, by installing commercial solar services all over the USA.

Q. Is it worth going solar now in California?

Ans. Yes, going solar in California is worth it as this state is among the top states receiving the most amount of sunlight annually which can help you reduce your electricity bills, offering energy independence and no carbon emission while generating energy.