
5 Best Solar Companies in California (2025 Reviews)
In this guide on the best solar companies in California, you’ll learn:
- Who our top 5 picks are for solar providers in California
- How we evaluated California’s solar companies
- What Californians should look for when choosing a solar company
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EcoWatch Highlights
- Elevation is the solar installer I’d personally go with if I lived in California. The company offers some of our top-rated solar panel brands, has above-average customer service ratings and offers efficiency upgrades to help you get the most value from your solar array.
- California’s net metering policy recently took a hit and basically made solar batteries a necessity for anyone looking to save money on their utility bills. Choose a provider that offers batteries for the greatest return on investment.
- Pay close attention to warranty coverage. Some companies advertise lengthy warranties, but they don’t include labor or roof leak coverage, something that’s particularly important in Northern California where rainfall is more prevalent.
California is the top state in the nation for solar adoption, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). With over 1,100 solar installation companies, California makes it more challenging than any other state to sift through the providers available and find a reputable one that will save you money in the long run.
I’ve spent the last four years researching and writing about the solar industry, and I’ve also connected with solar executives to discuss what’s most important when looking for a solar installation company. I’ve also used my knowledge and experience to choose an installer for my own home. By choosing a reliable installer, I’ve paid nothing for electricity in the past two years. California has new policies like net metering 3.0 that make going solar a bit less beneficial than where I live, but choosing a reliable provider will still help maximize your long-term savings.
Check out the video below to see an explanation of California’s new net metering policy and how it’s affecting homeowners considering solar:
In this guide, I’ll use my personal and professional experience to help you navigate the hundreds of solar installation companies vying for your business in California, and I’ll compare them based on key metrics such as services provided, warranty coverage, overall reputation and customer service. Even if you don’t take my specific recommendations, the information I’ll share about how and why I chose these providers as the best solar companies in California should help you find the right provider for you that will keep your system protected with adequate warranty coverage while still saving you money on your monthly energy bills.
EcoWatch Reviews Methodology
The EcoWatch team has reviewed dozens of solar installers across the country based on six primary criteria. These include standard services and financing options, extra services that go above and beyond the typical offerings, the quality and reliability of the equipment, which includes a look at all three warranty coverage options, company reputation and customer service.
I’ve used the EcoWatch methodology to assess and rank the best solar installers, but my expertise doesn’t stop there. I’ve spent much of the past four years researching the solar industry, which has included connecting with real providers and experts to see how these companies operate in the real world and also their impact on the industry and the future of renewable energy as a whole. I also used that knowledge to install solar on my own home, so I’m confident that the information I’ll share will help you choose the best provider available in your area.
What are the Best Solar Companies in California?
- Elevation: Best for Whole-Home Efficiency
- Stellar Solar: Best Local Installer
- Momentum Solar: Best Customer Service
- Palmetto Solar: Best Social Impact
- Sunrun Solar: Best Protection Against Damage
Compare The Top Solar Companies In California
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This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.

Elevation

Average cost
Pros
- Comprehensive service offerings
- Outstanding customer service
- Full-service home energy solutions
Cons
- Limited service area
- Quality of installation may vary by location
Elevation is my top pick in California primarily because it offers solar customers the opportunity to customize their energy systems beyond the typical products. In addition to the panels, batteries, and EV chargers you can get from most installers, Elevation can also help you further reduce your carbon footprint — which is especially appealing in California given the multitude of efficiency incentives and the general focus on renewable energy —with other, less common products, such as its Curb energy monitoring device, whole-home energy audits and even insulation installation. It’s a true one-stop shop for boosting your home’s efficiency and reducing utility bills.
Elevation couples its variety of products with stellar customer service — maintaining a 4.06-star rating with the Better Business Bureau ( BBB) and an above-average 3.5-star rating with TrustPilot — and it has a decade of experience behind it, which suggests that you’ll get professional installers who know what they’re doing. You’ll also receive a 25-year warranty that covers products and labor to ensure your investment is protected for the long run.
What I Like About Elevation
Elevation’s comprehensive energy efficiency products and services are a big reason why I chose this as one of the best solar companies in California. The Golden State routinely ranks in the top five greenest states, which means Elevation fits in perfectly with the environmentally friendly nature of California. As a Californian, you also have access to some of the most robust energy efficiency incentives, rebates and tax credits in the nation, and Elevation Solar’s array of services can help you reduce your carbon footprint more than most other providers while also helping you take advantage of those perks.
California is also the top state in the nation for solar conversion, and along with that demand comes more installers — over 1,100 — than any other state. Having so many options makes it all the more important to choose a provider that can meet your needs and exceed your expectations, and Elevation’s above-average customer review scores on sites like the BBB and Trustpilot suggest that it will stand above the competition when it comes to your satisfaction.
Elevation also includes a lifetime workmanship warranty, which very few providers are willing to offer. This proves that the company stands behind its work and all but guarantees your system will help you maximize your savings and minimize headaches in the long run.
What I Don’t Like About Elevation
There are some minor downsides to choosing Elevation, including the fact that it doesn’t make any note of NABCEP® (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners®)-certified installers and that it isn’t an SEIA member. In my opinion, these really aren’t make-or-break drawbacks. SEIA membership only suggests that the company is invested in the solar industry as a whole, but the ten years of experience Elevation has should speak to its commitment. NABCEP®-certified installers are also great to have because they receive more specialized training than general contractors, which normally suggests a more professional installation and a lower risk of issues after your system is activated. However, Elevation’s lifetime workmanship warranty suggests you’ll still receive those perks, even without NABCEP® certification.
Beyond that, I’d really have to nitpick to find anything wrong with Elevation. The only other very minor drawback is that the company doesn’t handle roof replacements or repairs, so if you need either of those in order for panel installation to make sense, you’ll have to coordinate with a separate roofing company. Again, not a huge deal, but for those who do need roof work beforehand, it can add another step and another company with which you’ll have to coordinate.
Elevation Installation Process and Timeline
The process of going solar with Elevation is going to mimic what you’d get from most other installers. You’ll have an in-person inspection first, and then the company’s in-house design team will design your system before you get a finalized quote. Once the design is approved, a representative will pull permits for your installation, and once those are approved, the in-house installation crew will install your equipment. They’ll then schedule final inspections with your utility company and building department, if necessary, and you’ll be up and running. Elevation doesn’t provide a typical timeline from first contact to system activation, but based on reviews, I’d expect it to be about the standard: six to eight weeks.
One thing I have to point out here is that Elevation has an in-house team that does all of the planning and work from start to finish, so there are no third-party companies in the mix that can cause delays and miscommunication. Elevation also has a dedicated project manager assigned to each project, so you’ll have one point of contact no matter where you are in the process. When I went solar, I had a handful of contacts, and while it didn’t seem to cause delays, it certainly could have, and it was confusing at times whom I should reach out to with questions.
Elevation Standard Services & Financing
25/25
Elevation gets perfect marks in terms of the standard services and financing options it offers. It installs a variety of solar panels via an in-house installation team, which is preferable to a company that contracts out, in my opinion, for better communication and accountability.
Importantly, Elevation installs solar batteries, which have become more important than ever before in California since the adoption of net metering 3.0 (NEM 3.0). The new net metering policy in California reduced the credit rate for exported electricity (overproduction), which means you stand to save less on cloudy days and at night if you only have panels installed. Batteries give you the option to store the excess power and use it for free when your panels underproduce, boosting your overall savings because you no longer have to pay some of the highest prices for power when the sunlight isn’t sufficient.
Elevation also provides professional solar monitoring services to catch issues early and reduce long-term loss of savings on utility bills. You can also get access to the Curb app if you choose to install the Curb energy monitoring system exclusively available from Elevation. The app gives you real-time data about energy consumption and production, which can help you save more on your electric bills and perform self-monitoring on your solar array.
Cost and Financing Options
Elevation accepts cash purchases, loans and solar leases, so you have plenty of options for payment. I strongly recommend a cash purchase or loan if you can make either of those work because they offer a few key benefits.
With a cash purchase, you instantly own your panels, and you won’t pay any interest, so you’ll get the fastest panel payback period (when the savings break even with your up-front cost) and the highest possible savings after that point. Of course, cash demands the highest up-front cost — an average of $19,980 in California before incentives, or $13,986 after the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), excluding battery costs — so it will work for the fewest homeowners. Luckily, the average solar array in California is between $7,000 and $10,000 less expensive than it is in most other states, so more Golden State residents should be able to swing a cash purchase than homeowners elsewhere in the country.
With a solar loan, you’ll pay an average of around $5,000 in interest, but since you’ll still see a break-even point, you should still save an average of about $36,000 over the life of the panels. Both cash purchases and solar loans let you take the federal tax incentive, which means you could effectively save an average of just under $6,000 if you can take the entire credit.
Leases don’t let you take the credit, so you could be leaving that $6,000 on the table. However, they’re more realistic for a lot of homeowners because there’s no down payment requirement. Most solar installers set up leases so you still see net savings every month, but you’ll never own your panels, so there’s no break-even point. Most leases save homeowners in California around $5,000 total over the life of the system. This is much lower than with the other options, but you should still save. There are also lots of other solar incentives in California that you might be able to take advantage of that can reduce your costs and boost your savings even further.
Some companies, such as Sunrun, incentivize leases by offering added warranty coverage, guarantees and free maintenance packages if you lease, but Elevation doesn’t make any mention of these perks. This is a double-edged sword anyway — leases are less beneficial for you as the homeowner, so the additional perks can sometimes make them more appealing. Personally, I’d still prioritize cash or a loan in California if possible.
Elevation Extra Services Offered
3/5
Elevation scores higher than a lot of companies in our rankings, including Momentum, when it comes to the extra services it offers. In addition to panels and batteries, it also installs EV chargers — which is ideal in a state such as California, which has the highest new EV sales in the country and laws in effect that demand that all new cars sold after 2035 be at least partially electric. It also offers monitoring for your panels to ensure long-term performance and provides energy efficiency upgrades, such as its Curb system, which lets you monitor consumption and production in real time to maximize your efficiency and reduce electric bills even further.
While I strongly recommend solar batteries in California to get the most out of your overproduction — since the new net metering program reduces the credit rate by around 75% for exported electricity — the Curb system is a great option for boosting your home’s efficiency and your utility bill savings. Curb is exclusively offered by Elevation, and by putting real-time data in your hands, you can actively alter your electricity usage so that your consumption varies alongside your production. For example, you can check the Curb app to see your production levels at any point and then prioritize things like doing laundry, running the dishwasher or charging your EV when you see the production far exceeds your consumption. This should happen often enough in sunny California to make the installation worthwhile. This is the kind of whole-picture option I’d really like to see other installers providing as an alternative to more-expensive batteries.
Elevation only loses points in our ratings when it comes to additional services because it doesn’t tackle roof repair or replacement. This isn’t a huge deal, in my opinion, but it does mean a slightly less convenient switch to solar if your roof isn’t in at least decent shape.
Elevation Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices
7.5/10
Going solar provides a net benefit to the environment, but the industry as a whole still needs to take steps to ensure the manufacturing processes, especially, remain as sustainable as possible. When we rank installers, we look at how sustainable the manufacturers that they choose to work with are. We look at things like whether or not the manufacturer uses recycled materials during production, if they have an end-of-life (EoL) program for panel recycling to help ensure old panels don’t just end up in landfills and whether or not the companies have a history of slave labor, child labor, poor working conditions or discrimination. Our rating paints a picture of both environmental and social sustainability.
Elevation installs panels manufactured by REC, Q Cells and Panasonic. All of these options are tied with the best in the industry when it comes to sustainable manufacturers in our ratings, and they all only lose points because none of them is predominantly manufactured in the United States. Otherwise, they all receive perfect scores.
Elevation Equipment Quality & Reliability
23/25
Elevation nearly gets perfect scores — tied with the top performers we’ve ranked — when it comes to the quality of the equipment it installs and the warranty coverage you get from the manufacturers and from Elevation itself.
Solar is expensive, even in California, where the abundant sunlight and below-average electricity consumption mean smaller system requirements and, as a result, a lower overall cost to convert to clean energy. Choosing panels that will last for decades and continue to perform and meet your energy demands is crucial for ensuring you continue to save for years to come.
I personally would go with REC panels if you choose Elevation as your installer. These have the highest ratings in our solar panel reviews of the three brands Elevation offers, as well as the highest efficiency rating of the three. That means they’ll make the best use of the sunlight available, which should help maximize your savings over time. They also have one of the lowest temperature coefficients in the industry — tied for second place with the other two panels Elevation installs — which means they’ll outperform most other brands in higher temperatures. Of course, with hot summers and abundant sunlight in California, that’s something to prioritize.
REC panels are, on average, between Q Cells and Panasonic when it comes to the cost per watt. If you’re looking to save, you can ask your representative at Elevation if choosing Q Cells panels, which tend to be the most affordable of the three, would save some money on your total system cost. Q Cells is still a solid brand, and it would be my second pick of the three from this provider.
Warranties and Guarantees
Solar warranties and guarantees are an important consideration because they help ensure your system will continue to perform and be issue-free for decades, ultimately leading to greater savings. There are four factors we consider when comparing providers based on warranty coverage.
First is the equipment warranty, which covers manufacturer defects. This warranty actually comes from the manufacturer and not the installer, but it can vary by installer based on the brands it installs because these are pass-through warranties. For example, you’ll get a 40-year equipment warranty if you go with an installer that works with Maxeon panels, whereas you might get a 25-year warranty through an installer that uses REC or QCells panels. All three panel brands from Elevation come with a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty, which is the standard.
Second, we look at the performance warranty, which guarantees a maximum degradation rate for your panels over time. All panels degrade in real-world conditions, and the performance warranty tells you how quickly that loss of efficiency will occur. We look at the warranty term, the first-year degradation rate and the subsequent-year degradation rate. Those numbers combined tell you how your panels will hold up and perform over the years. All three options from Elevation come with a 25-year performance warranty, which is standard. Q Cells panels have a slightly lower percentage of their starting efficiency remaining — just 0.42% lower than REC and Panasonic panels — but the difference is negligible, and all three panels should serve you well in terms of durability in California.
Next, we look at the workmanship warranty, which comes directly from the installer — in this case, Elevation. Mistakes during the installation process can lead to system damage and a loss of production over time, which could mean out-of-pocket costs for repairs and usually dips in long-term savings. Elevation includes an outstanding lifetime warranty for workmanship, which I’ve never seen from any other installer. This should give you maximum peace of mind that you’re getting a truly experienced professional installing your system and a lower risk of problems with your panels.
Finally, we consider roof leak warranties, which, in my experience, most companies don’t offer. Elevation makes no mention of this coverage on its site, so this is the only place where the company lost points in our ratings for warranties and guarantees. There’s always a small risk of roof leaks with solar, so this could turn you off from the company, especially if you live in the rainier parts of Northern California.
Elevation Company Reputation
17.5/25
In a state with over 1,100 solar installation companies, choosing one that has a solid reputation and mostly satisfied customers is crucial. With the highest demand in the country for solar in California, many companies pop up to take advantage, which means a higher risk of getting an installer that’s just in it for profit and either won’t deliver on promises or causes problems with the installation process or warranty claims if you ever need to make one.
Elevation has a great company reputation. It maintains a 4.06-star customer rating with the BBB, which is above the industry average of 2 to 3 stars, and a 3.5-star Trustpilot rating, which is also above average. All in all, this suggests you’ll be satisfied with the provider and can rely on the warranties it issues with its products and workmanship. Elevation has also been in business for 10 years, which is a good sign that the company and its lifetime workmanship warranty aren’t going anywhere.
In those 10 years of business, Elevation has only expanded to four states. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but a lack of growth and expansion does mean we dock a small number of points, as growth is often an indicator of longevity in the industry.
The only other area related to company reputation that Elevation lost points in our rankings was for a lack of NABCEP®-certified installers and SEIA membership. As I already mentioned, NABCEP® certification requires more specialized training for installers and can lead to fewer problems with your system. Since Elevation provides a lifetime labor warranty this is more or less a non-issue.
Consumer Reviews and Testimonials
For each solar installer I review, I read through dozens of reviews to get a sense of what the company is doing right and how it can improve. This helps get a snapshot of the customer service a company provides to actual customers. A lot of the positive reviews for Elevation mention great communication from the company at all points throughout the installation process. Most importantly, many people rave about the provider standing behind their warranty coverage. Negative reviews mostly complain about long timeframes for warrantied repairs, but the company has responded to several of them and mentioned that the delay was on the part of the manufacturer. Some others mention delays in system activation following installation.
I’ll include two real customer reviews below that I feel represent the best and worst you might get from Elevation.
“Elevation was able to coordinate the [solar installation] process in time. Further along after the solar panel installation, Elevation customer service reached out to arrange for installation of their Curb monitoring system. The customer service continued the [communication] along the way until my system was fully online. Great customer service.” — Phil T. via BBB
“Horrible experience. Solar panels have been installed for over a month and still not in use. One person says they need to fix… before inspection. Another person says they need to do inspection before repairs. I can’t get a hold of a manager or [the] person I have been in contact with during install. No updates or idea when my solar panels will be active and in use. No call backs, no returned texts. Looks like they took my money and ran.” — Jake D. via BBB
Elevation Customer Service
8/10
In addition to reading through customer reviews, I also assign a customer service rating to each solar installer I review. I base these scores on my own personal experience as a secret shopper reaching out to the provider, as well as on my overall impression when reading through reviews and complaints. For the most part, Elevation seems to be a company I’d personally trust. The interaction I had with them on the phone was pleasant, and the representative was professional and friendly. I deducted some points here because there is a history of complaints that seem warranted regarding delays in communication in some instances, but the company generally seems to be responsive to customers.
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Facts and Figures: Elevation
EcoWatch Rating |
---|
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating |
Year Founded |
Average Cost ($-$$$$$) |
Solar Services |
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered |
Warranty Coverage |
4 |
A+ |
2014 |
$$$ |
Solar Panels, Solar Batteries, Energy-Efficiency Upgrades, Smart Home Energy Solutions |
REC, Tesla, SolarEdge |
25-year manufacturer warranty |

Stellar Solar
Pros
- Educational, no-pressure sales approach
- Offers products from leading manufacturers
- Representatives are experts on local policies
Cons
- Slightly limited service offerings
Stellar Solar is an outstanding local company that combines amazing customer service — as evidenced by the company’s near-perfect 4.99-star rating out of 5 with the BBB. The provider only installs Maxeon brand panels, and while the single brand option isn’t ideal, this is the brand we rank second-highest in terms of panel performance and value. It’s also the brand I installed on my home, and it’s the one I recommend to most people looking to go solar.
Stellar Solar also installs batteries and EV chargers, making it more or less a one-stop shop for solar in California, where batteries are basically a necessity for saving money and EVs are more popular than in any other state. If I lived in Stellar Solar’s service area, it’s the company I would personally go with. It’s a bit on the expensive side, but I think its products and customer service make it well worth the investment.
What I Like About Stellar Solar
There’s a lot to say about Stellar Solar that is overwhelmingly positive. First, they have some of the highest customer review ratings of any solar installer in California, scoring a 4.99-star rating on the BBB’s website. For a company with over 25 years of experience, that really makes Stellar stand out as the best option for getting high-quality service. The company also installs panels, batteries and EV chargers, and that includes ground-mount solar. These options make it a one-stop shop for most Californians, as batteries are basically a necessity thanks to the downgraded net metering policy, and EVs are more popular in the state than anywhere else in the country.
Stellar Solar offers some pretty lackluster warranty coverage on its own, but it became a SunPower Master Dealer in 2016, which means you get the best coverage in the industry from Maxeon, the manufacturer of its panels. The coverage includes an industry-leading 40 years of protection from manufacturer defects, issues related to workmanship and a guarantee of efficiency and production, all of which are well above average.
What I Don’t Like About Stellar Solar
The biggest drawback to Stellar Solar — and the main reason it doesn’t appear higher in our rankings — is that it’s only available in Southern California, specifically in San Diego and Orange County. That means most Californians won’t fall within its service area.
The company also doesn’t offer a roof leak warranty, but most installers don’t include this in their coverage. Other than these very minor drawbacks, I think Stellar Solar is about as close to an ideal installer as you can get, and provided you fall within its service area, it’s my top recommendation.
Stellar Solar Installation Process and Timeline
Stellar Solar doesn’t show a timeline for installation on its website, but you’ll follow the same steps you would with most other installers, which include an initial property inspection, a design phase, contract signing, permitting, installation, inspections and, finally, commissioning (turning on) your system. The average timeframe for these steps to be completed is around two months, and I’d expect the same to be true with a local installer such as Stellar. You might wait a bit longer if the in-house installation team is backed up, but you can ask the company for an expected activation date if you do decide to get a quote from them.
Stellar Solar Standard Services & Financing
25/25
Stellar Solar accepts cash purchases, loans and leases, but it doesn’t entertain power purchase agreements (more on these options in a bit). In terms of the routine solar installation services, Stellar does it all — solar panels, batteries, ground mount solar and even monitoring for your system for early detection of issues with production and performance. All installations are carried out by an in-house team, which is preferred for reliability and, usually, better customer service and communication.
Stellar only installs Maxeon panels, and while having just a single brand isn’t ideal in terms of customization options, Maxeon is our second-highest-rated panel brand in the industry. It has the best warranty coverages — 40 years for the equipment, workmanship and production — and has some of the best specs in the solar space, including the third-highest efficiency rating of 22.8% and a guaranteed 92% efficiency after 25 years of production. This is ideal for combatting the high electricity prices in California and avoiding high electric bills despite California’s diminished net metering policy.
The company also offers Tesla Powerwalls and Enphase batteries — two of the best brands in the industry. Again, batteries are basically a necessity in California following the roll-out of net metering 3.0, so I’m thrilled that Stellar offers two options for on-site storage.
Cost and Financing Options
Stellar Solar accepts cash payments, solar loans and leases, but it makes no mention of accepting power purchase agreements (PPAs). I strongly recommend paying in cash or securing a loan if at all possible because these options provide panel ownership, access to the 30% federal tax credit and the highest net savings overall. Leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs) are convenient because they come with low up-front costs, but they’re far less beneficial in the long run and preclude you from taking the ITC — an average potential value of just under $6,000.
In fact, I strongly prefer installers who try to dissuade customers from going with a lease or PPA, and Stellar Solar does just that, explaining that cash and loans yield the highest savings and greatest benefit over time.
Stellar Solar Extra Services Offered
4/5
Stellar scores a 4 out of 5 for extra services offered, further proving that it’s a one-stop solution for just about anything you need related to solar. It carries out roof replacements and repairs, which means you can get everything done by a single company to reduce complications and miscommunication if you need roof work done before installing panels. It also installs EV chargers to keep up with the growing demand for EVs and zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in California, precipitated in part by state legislation that is going to demand that all vehicles sold post-2035 are ZEVs. It doesn’t offer any energy efficiency upgrades like smart electrical panels, but it does get some additional points for including professional system monitoring alongside its standard services. This can help identify issues with production and performance and help avoid below-average generation as well.
Stellar Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices
7.5/10
Solar panels almost always provide a net benefit to the environment, but choosing panels manufactured by companies that make sustainability efforts before the panels ever make their way onto your roof is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint even further. I try to recommend manufacturers that use recycled materials, manufacture their panels mainly in the United States, have an EoL program for panel recycling at the end of their lifespan and don’t have a history of social sustainability issues, such as slave labor or unfair pay. Stellar only installs Maxeon panels, which score a 7.5 out of 10 in our panel ratings — the highest of any individual brand scores.
Stellar Solar as a company doesn’t publicize its own sustainability efforts. It isn’t terribly common for installers to do so, but I do love to see sustainability reports from larger national installers such as Sunrun.
Stellar Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability
23/25
Stellar gets near-perfect scores again when it comes to its equipment quality and reliability. First off, the Maxeon panels this provider installs rank second-highest in our panel reviews, only sitting behind LONGi. Maxeon panels have an above-average efficiency rating of up to 22.8%, industry-leading efficiency guarantees that leave you with 92% of the starting efficiency after 25 years and some of the best warranty coverage in the industry — 40 years for the equipment, production and workmanship, all covered by the manufacturer. Its batteries — Tesla Powerwalls and Enphase batteries — are also top-of-the-line brands and deliver outstanding performance and storage capacity.
Warranties and Guarantees
The workmanship warranty coverage Stellar Solar offers is subpar, lasting just one year from the installation date. However, since Stellar is a SunPower Master Dealer, the coverage you get from the panel manufacturer — Maxeon — is far more impressive. Since homeowners going solar want to know their investment is covered for many years to come, I look for comprehensive warranty coverage from installers, which is usually included across three categories.
First is the manufacturer’s warranty, which covers manufacturer defects. Most companies include 25 years of coverage, but the Maxeon brand installed by Stellar covers your equipment for an impressive 40 years.
Second, I look at the performance warranty, which guarantees a certain level of energy production capability after the warranty period, which is usually 25 years. Maxeon also covers all of its panels for 40 years for production, and after 25 years, it has an above-average efficiency — 92% or more — remaining. This means a higher level of energy production for longer, which is ideal in an area with above-average electricity prices, like California.
Finally, I look at the workmanship warranty, which guarantees that the installation labor won’t be the cause of damages to your system. Most companies cover this for 20 years, but since Stellar Solar is a SunPower Master Dealer, you get double that from Maxeon, the manufacturer. You also get Stellar’s one-year workmanship warranty from the installer itself, which could be helpful if the Maxeon warranty doesn’t cover the specific issue you run into.
Stellar Solar Company Reputation
16.5/25
Stellar Solar has an outstanding reputation, including an unmatched 4.99-star customer rating with the BBB and a 4.7-star rating on Yelp. Stellar is a local installation company, which means it’s smaller than competitors such as Sunrun and Momentum Solar. That usually means better customer service, which certainly seems to be the case for Stellar based on online reviews. The company loses some points in this category because it isn’t certified by NABCEP® and doesn’t appear as an SEIA member, but in Southern California, it couldn’t have a much better reputation. It was voted San Diego’s best solar installer by the San Diego Union-Tribune for 10 years over the past 13.
Stellar Solar has also been in business since 1998, so with a quarter-century of experience and 15,000-plus installations under its belt, it’s clear that this company knows what it’s doing and has excellent customer service as one of its core values.
Consumer Reviews and Testimonials
Stellar Solar has a nearly perfect track record when it comes to customer reviews, which is extremely uncommon to see in the solar industry. Out of over 150 reviews on the BBB, only one of them is not 5 stars…and it’s 4 stars. In terms of customer service, communication and upholding warranty coverage and company promises, you really can’t get any better than Stellar Solar. Most of the reviews rave about how professional, knowledgeable, punctual and friendly the representatives are, and there are no complaints about misleading or pushy sales tactics.
I’ll cite two reviews from the BBB below to give you an idea of what to expect when you choose Stellar. Just note that I usually choose one positive and one negative review, but I was forced to pick two positive ones, given the lack of complaints.
“I had a fantastic experience with Stellar Solar. Their entire team was professional, knowledgeable and efficient. The installation process was smooth, and my energy bills have significantly decreased. My representative was very communicative and made the whole process seamless. We recently moved and definitely will go with them again when we’re ready for another system. I highly recommend Stellar Solar for their excellent service and quality products!” —Jazlynn W. via BBB
“I just purchased my second solar panel system with Stellar and the entire process was just as smooth and easy as the first time. This most recent experience involved the purchase and installation of solar panels along with a Tesla Powerwall. The Stellar team explained the financial benefits of having a Tesla Powerwall under the new NEM 3.0 metering tariff which made the decision to go ahead much easier. The installation process was smooth and the Stellar technicians were prompt and professional. I would recommend them to anyone interested in a stress-free purchase and installation.” — Gene E. via BBB
Stellar Solar Customer Service
10/10
Finally, Stellar gets perfect marks in the only subjective scoring metric we use in our methodology. Based on my personal experience with going solar, I can’t recommend Stellar enough. They have the experience, high-quality products and outstanding customer service I looked for in a solar installer for my own home, and if I lived in Southern California, Stellar would be my go-to installer. I even called Stellar as a secret shopper and was impressed by the professionalism and knowledgeability of the representative I reached. With customer reviews raving about customer service post installation, too, Stellar seems like the obvious choice, in my opinion, if you fall within its limited service area.
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Facts and Figures: Stellar Solar
EcoWatch Rating |
---|
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating |
Average Cost ($-$$$$$) |
Solar Services |
4.5 |
A+ |
$$$$ |
Solar Panels, Solar Batteries, EV Chargers |

Momentum Solar
Pros
- Great warranty coverage
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Representatives are experts on local policies
Cons
- Slightly limited service offerings
- Only available in 11 states
Momentum Solar is the national company I recommend if you’re looking for the smoothest transition into renewable energy. The company is highly regarded for its unique concierge service. From the very beginning of the process, you have a single contact at the company, which streamlines all the steps. When I went solar, despite choosing a provider with excellent customer service, it was still confusing from time to time to know who to reach out to. I had different contacts when getting a quote, waiting for the system design, after I signed contracts and for the installation itself, and having this many points of contact can get confusing. Momentum solves that by providing a single POC that can help you every step of the way.
Momentum Solar isn’t quite a one-stop shop for all things solar, as it doesn’t install electric vehicle (EV) chargers, but it does offer what most customers will be looking for: panels and batteries made more accessible through a variety of financing options, including cash payments, loans, leases and PPAs. That means most customers, regardless of their financial situation, will be able to go solar through Momentum.
Momentum Solar only works with tier-one panels, which means the manufacturers are financially solvent and are less likely to go out of business, thereby voiding warranties. That means greater peace of mind than you’d get from companies that work with non-tier-one panels.
What I Like About Momentum Solar
One of the most notable upsides of Momentum Solar is its customer service. Many customer reviews on sites like the BBB and Trustpilot rave about the company’s customer service and communication. I called Momentum as a secret shopper, and although most companies are at least congenial before the sale is made, the representative upped the game through impressive knowledgeability. They were willing and able to answer questions without having to consult a higher-up. Based on reviews, it seems that kind of expertise and communication continue throughout the installation process, thanks in large part to the concierge service, which sets you up with a single point of contact from day one. Most other companies have multiple POCs, which can get confusing and lead to miscommunication.
Momentum Solar accepts cash purchases, loans, leases and PPAs, and with the average cost of solar nearing $20,000 in California before incentives, according to our research, this kind of financing flexibility is important for keeping solar accessible to all. I strongly recommend you go with a cash purchase or loan for the greatest long-term savings — I personally paid cash for my system and am on track to recuperate my investment in just nine years from the date of installation — but having lower-cost options like leases and PPAs can mean the difference between being able to go solar and not. This is especially true since California recently rolled out net metering (NEM) 3.0, which more or less makes solar batteries a necessity. These add between $10,000 and $20,000 to your installation costs in most cases, meaning Momentum’s financing options are all the more beneficial in your area.
What I Don’t Like About Momentum Solar
The biggest drawback to Momentum Solar, in my opinion, is that it has a history of discrimination in the workplace. It recently settled a class action lawsuit regarding racial discrimination with former employees. When I evaluate companies, I look for both environmental and social sustainability, so this is a big issue I have with Momentum.
Momentum also doesn’t handle EV charger installation or any other home efficiency upgrades. I like to see companies that get the big picture and put an emphasis on efficiency and carbon footprint reduction as a whole rather than cramming as many panels on your roof as possible. This isn’t to say that Momentum doesn’t care about clean energy, but I would like to see some additional efficiency upgrades available, especially since California has more efficiency perks, rebates and incentives than most other states.
Momentum Solar Installation Process and Timeline
The actual process of going solar with Momentum is going to look a lot like what it will with most other installers — you ask for a quote, get a property inspection and assessment, Momentum designs your system, you sign a contract, they complete the installation and then you save each month on your utility bills. From consultation to activation, you’re looking at four to eight weeks, in most cases, which is about the standard. That includes the time it takes for Momentum to pull permits and schedule the necessary inspections with your utility company and local building department. Some standout differences with Momentum, though, include the customer service and communication you can expect at every step, as well as the ease of monitoring your system and making payments via the Momentum Solar app.
Momentum Solar Standard Services & Financing
25/25
Momentum Solar gets a perfect score in this category because it handles all installations via its in-house installation team, it offers the basics — panels and solar batteries — and accepts all major payment and financing options.
In terms of panels offered, you can choose any tier-one brand with Momentum, which means more customizability than most other providers, with just a handful of options, offer. For example, Sunrun offers just four — SolarEdge, Q Cells, REC and Canadian Solar. Momentum does, however, have just a single battery brand: Enphase. I believe the option of even a single battery brand is adequate to make a solar provider a good option in California. As mentioned above, batteries are all but necessary given California’s new NEM 3.0 policy, which reduced the net metering benefits for solar customers. Having a battery of any brand gives you effective one-to-one net metering to help maximize your savings.
You can monitor both the panels and the battery performance via the Momentum app. Most installers don’t have their own app, so this is another stand-out feature you get from Momentum.
Cost and Financing Options
Momentum Solar doesn’t post pricing information on its site, but based on reviews and third-party sites, it seems the company comes in around the industry average, which would mean about $3.33 per watt, or around $19,980 for the average solar system in California, before any incentives.
Momentum Solar accepts cash, loans, leases and PPAs, which covers all of the options you’d get from other installers. I’ll say again that I strongly recommend a cash purchase or loan if you can swing one of those. Cash purchases have the highest up-front payment — around $20,000 in California before incentives — but avoiding interest and monthly payments means you own the panels right away and will see the maximum savings possible each month. Paying in cash means the greatest savings in the long run and the fastest panel payback period.
A solar loan involves paying interest, which will cut into your savings. Based on our research, you’re looking at paying $5,000 to $6,000 more for your system in interest if you finance. That will extend your payback period and reduce your net savings. Both cash payments and loans give you access to the federal investment tax credit (ITC), which can effectively reduce your system cost by 30%.
Leases and PPAs are less beneficial because you never own your panels and they prevent you from taking the ITC. You’re still likely to see monthly savings on your energy bills, but they’re going to pale in comparison to what you’d save with cash or a loan.
It’s important to note that California is flush with solar and energy efficiency incentives, so I strongly recommend you check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for more perks. Going with a company like Momentum with great customer service means that your installer is likely to find and file for those additional perks for you.
Momentum Solar Extra Services Offered
2/5
Momentum loses a few points here because its additional services beyond the standard ones are limited to roof repair and replacement. This is a great service to have since installing panels requires a roof that’s in good condition, and Momentum can tackle roof repair and replacement if necessary to save you from having to coordinate with a third party. However, it loses points because it doesn’t install EV chargers — a big deal, in my opinion, since 25% of cars sold in California in 2023 were zero-emission vehicles, and the state is mandating that all new cars sold in 2035 and beyond be ZEVs, according to California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Momentum doesn’t offer any home energy efficiency upgrades, either, nor does it include monitoring for panels to uncover problems with performance. You do get access to the Momentum app for self-monitoring, but it would be nice to see the company step in to keep an eye out for issues, too.
Momentum Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices
7.5/10
The EcoWatch team ranks a solar company’s environmental impact and sustainability by reviewing the panel brands it offers, looking at factors such as whether the brands are manufactured in the United States and whether they use recycled materials in manufacturing and have an end-of-life (EoL) panel recycling program. Since Momentum installs all tier-one panel brands, we gave it the highest score possible among any individual brand out of fairness: 7.5 out of 10.
It might be surprising that we assess the sustainability of a company committed to clean energy, but the manufacturing process for solar panels can be unsustainable. Panels that are manufactured without the use of recycled materials and that end up in a landfill instead of a recycling plant are, of course, less sustainable than panels that include post-consumer recycled content and get recycled once they reach the end of their useful lifespan.
I’ve also assessed each manufacturer based on social sustainability, which included an assessment of whether or not each has a history of using slave labor, has been involved in lawsuits or conflicts related to racism or poor working conditions and has a history of unfair pay for workers.
I’ll note again that the score in this section stems from the manufacturing partnerships that each installer holds. Momentum itself has been involved in a racism lawsuit, which calls into question its social sustainability.
Momentum Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability
20/25
Momentum installs a wide variety of solar panel brands, including all brands that are labeled as tier one by BloombergNEF. This designation really only means the company that manufactures the panels is financially solvent. This is a positive, as it means you’re unlikely to have your warranty voided by a company going out of business, but more important, in my opinion, are the specs of the panels offered. Specifically, the efficiency ratings tell you what percentage of the abundant sunlight in California your panels will be able to convert to electricity. The higher the efficiency rating, the better you can take advantage of the sunny weather. Since Momentum installs most brands that homeowners typically go for, it gets perfect marks in terms of the actual panel specs, including efficiency. It only loses points when it comes to the warranty coverage.
Warranties and Guarantees
I look at three types of warranty coverages and guarantees when I assess solar providers because, as a solar customer myself, I know that all three matter.
First, I consider the equipment warranty. This comes from the manufacturer,not the installer, and it covers damages related to manufacturer defects. This is good to have, but you’re rarely going to need to call on this. The maximum equipment warranty you can get from Momentum is 30 years, which is above the industry standard of 25 years but below the 40-year coverage from Maxeon, the industry leader (note that Momentum may soon be installing Maxeon panels, too, as the exclusivity agreement between SunPower and Maxeon is coming to an end).
Next, I look at the efficiency guarantee, which also comes from the manufacturer and guarantees that no more than a predetermined percentage of the panel efficiency will be lost over the warranty period. The standard is no more than 15% over 25 years, but you can get a guarantee of no more than 8% in that same time if you optimize for performance.
Finally, I look at the installer’s warranty coverage, which includes a workmanship warranty and, in ideal cases, a roof leak warranty. Momentum offers a 20-year workmanship warranty, which is in line with the industry standard but half of what the leader in the solar space — Maxeon via Master Dealers — offers. Momentum also doesn’t provide a roof leak warranty. This kind of coverage isn’t standard in the solar industry, but companies like Sunrun do offer it. This might be a sticking point for you if you live in Northern California, where rainfall is much heavier.
Momentum Solar Company Reputation
14.5/25
California has a higher demand for solar installations than any other state in the country, and it’s home to over 1,100 solar installation companies — also more than any other state. Unfortunately, in areas with such high demand, there are bound to be installers that enter the industry just to take advantage of the demand. This can lead to poor customer service and even voided warranty coverage if you pick the wrong provider. I always read carefully through real customer reviews on the BBB and Trustpilot to get a sense of how each company treats customers before, during and, most importantly, after the installation. I also look at the company’s longevity in the industry and how large its service area is to get a sense of its growth trajectory, experience and likelihood of sticking around.
Momentum has a 3.04-star rating with the BBB, which is above average for a company of its size. It’s also accredited and maintains an A+ rating there. On Trustpilot, it has a less-impressive 1.8-star rating. For comparison, Sunrun has a 1.3-star rating on Trustpilot.
Momentum doesn’t specify whether its installers are certified by NABCEP®. This certification is a plus but doesn’t necessarily distinguish professional installers from less-professional ones. Momentum is also not a member of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). I consider these certifications and memberships “nice-to-haves” because while they don’t guarantee that a company is trustworthy, they do help establish a positive role in the solar industry.
Consumer Reviews and Testimonials
As a part of my research and company review process, I read through dozens of company reviews for each provider on sites like the BBB and Trustpilot. I found that a lot of the positive reviews mentioned things like good communication and positive customer service, backing up the company’s claims that the concierge service makes them stand out in terms of quality customer care. There are some negative reviews that mention issues with customer service, but most often I found that customers took issue with the marketing — Momentum employees seem to be known for overpromising and even misrepresenting things like the ITC. I recommend you do your own research before hiring to make sure you don’t get tricked by a savvy salesperson.
Below, I’ll share some reviews — positive and negative — that I think provide a good representation of the kind of experience you’ll have if you choose Momentum.
“Very satisfied after 14 months of owning the system. Momentum was very helpful in roof renewal, they handled all the details, kept me updated at each stage. Very smooth overall. Just now read several negative reviews and feel perplexed. My experience was good, am I missing something?” — Ron D. via BBB
“Terrible. They sent the salesperson and he explained to me the entire process that was followed to place the panels. They made me replace the roof with a new one. Then they charge a higher monthly fee than the one we had agreed upon. More inspections than he actually told me. In short, all the information he gave me was totally false. I [have] called them many times…they don’t respond.” — Maria I via BBB
Momentum Solar Customer Service
8/10
Our final review category is customer service, in which Momentum scores an 8 out of 10. This scoring is the only part of our methodology that is subjective, and it’s the score I personally have assigned to Momentum. I’m basing this off of my conversation with the company’s sales representative when I acted as a secret shopper. The representative was extremely knowledgeable, and that’s coming from a solar expert who has spent more than four years researching solar. They were quick to answer questions, and I even asked about the importance of a backup battery to see if they’d recommend one. Where I live, I still have access to one-to-one net metering, so batteries really aren’t necessary. I was pleased to find that the rep told me exactly that.
I’ve deducted a few points here because customer reviews mention aggressive sales tactics and sometimes even misrepresented facts and figures, but based on my experience and the general experience of other customers, Momentum scores well here overall. It also seems that the provider is reasonably quick to respond to warranty claims, which is so important when you’re spending tens of thousands of dollars on your equipment.
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Facts and Figures: Momentum Solar
EcoWatch Rating |
---|
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating |
Year Founded |
Average Cost ($-$$$$$) |
Solar Services |
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered |
Warranty Coverage |
4.5 |
A+ |
2009 |
$$$ |
Solar Panels, Solar Batteries |
Q Cells, REC, Trina Solar, Jinko Solar, Canadian Solar and others depending on location |
25-year manufacturer and workmanship warranties |

Palmetto Solar
Pros
- Expansive service area
- Comprehensive service offerings
- Certified B Corp
Cons
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
Palmetto Solar uses a 100% build partner model, which means it will contract a local installer to carry out the actual labor, but Palmetto provides training resources and proprietary software to make the installation go smoothly and help benefit smaller solar installation companies to support the industry as a whole. I personally think Palmetto is doing a great job of keeping true to those promises, as it has outstanding customer review scores — an above-average 3.46-star rating with the BBB — and handles inventory management, lead generation, permitting, project management and customer service for its partners.
Palmetto also makes charitable donations, including the $5 million it’s in the process of donating to Solar Sister to bring clean energy solutions to underserved communities — which I personally love to see. Things like this suggest that Palmetto cares about the environment and improving the solar industry as a whole rather than just focusing on profit.
The biggest downside to Palmetto, in my opinion, is that it doesn’t install solar batteries. Batteries are more or less necessary in California since NEM 3.0 rolled out and reduced the credit value for excess solar production, so I’d only recommend Palmetto if you want a low-cost system without batteries to reduce your carbon footprint and aren’t specifically looking to prioritize long-term savings.
What I Like About Palmetto Solar
Aside from the positive social impact, Palmetto is noteworthy for its Palmetto Protect plan, which adds protection and maintenance to your system, includes monitoring to identify problems early and guarantees that your system will provide 95% of the estimated electricity for your home or the company will cut a check for the difference. I’ve seen an unfortunate amount of solar customers get stuck with underperforming systems from less-reputable installers that end up costing them rather than saving them money, so this protection plan is a great way to guarantee long-term savings.
Palmetto also couples outstanding customer service — as evidenced by its above-average 3.46-star rating on the BBB and its 3.7-star rating on Trustpilot — with affordability. Not only are Palmetto’s prices around the industry average to help keep costs down, but its LightReach program, which is a solar lease, helps guarantee low electricity prices for 25 years, something many Californians worry about given the already high cost of energy in the state.
What I Don’t Like About Palmetto Solar
In my opinion, the biggest downside to choosing Palmetto is that it doesn’t install solar batteries. Since the new net metering policy went into effect in California, the credits you get for excess energy production decreased by about 75%, which means batteries are basically a necessity in the state if you want to maximize your savings. On-site storage with batteries gives you effective net metering by letting you store the excess power and call on it for free when your panels aren’t producing, such as at night. If you’re going solar to save money, I strongly recommend choosing a provider such as Momentum that can couple your panels with batteries. You can add batteries after the fact, but then you won’t be able to take the 30% federal tax credit on the cost of the add-on — an average effective savings of around $3,000.
Palmetto also doesn’t handle roof replacement or repair, nor does it offer any other energy efficiency upgrades. It’s really only a good option if you only want panels, although it does install EV chargers, too, which is a popular add-on in California, where all vehicles sold after 2035 will have to be zero-emission vehicles.
Palmetto Solar Installation Process and Timeline
Palmetto doesn’t have an estimated timeline for installation and system activation on its site, but based on customer reviews that I read through, it seems like its timeline is about average at between 4 and 6 weeks. Palmetto works with local installers for the labor, which means it shouldn’t run into roadblocks when it comes time to get the system installed, but the permitting and design phases of installation usually make up the bulk of the waiting period anyway.
The process is similar to what you’d expect from other providers, as well. Palmetto will first send a representative to your home to conduct an in-person inspection, and then its in-house team will design your system and begin the process of pulling permits for the installation. A local partner will then come out to install your panels, and Palmetto will activate your system after scheduling final inspections.
Palmetto Solar Standard Services & Financing
17/25
Palmetto loses a few points in this category for two reasons: it uses third-party installers rather than an in-house installation team, and it doesn’t offer solar batteries.
Third-party installers don’t necessarily mean a poor customer experience, but introducing an intermediary can cause some delays and miscommunications. In my opinion, Palmetto is doing a great job making the build partner model work, as it maintains customer review ratings that far exceed some other companies, such as Tesla, that use a similar model.
The lack of solar batteries is a much bigger deal, in my opinion. As I mentioned above, California’s new net metering policy (NEM 3.0) reduced the credit you earn for excess energy production by around 75%, which means you really need on-site storage if you want to maximize your long-term savings. According to our research, the average solar savings in California is around $41,503 over 25 years, but you’d almost certainly need solar batteries to get near that number. Solar batteries do cost about $10,000 each, so that would eat into your savings anyway, but homeowners going solar to save money on California’s expensive electricity are likely going to want batteries.
Palmetto maintains a reasonably high score in terms of standard services and financing because it has its own app for solar monitoring and making payments, and it accepts low-cost leases with 90% production guarantees through its LightReach Energy Program.
Cost and Financing Options
Palmetto accepts cash purchases, solar loans and leases, so there are options for converting to clean energy regardless of your budget. I recommend a cash purchase or a solar loan, as these options let you take the 30% federal investment tax credit to bring down effective installation costs, and they also lead to the highest return on investment and long-term savings. Note that Palmetto charges a 2.9% processing fee for cash purchases, which I’m not a huge fan of, but I’ve seen a lot of companies doing this to maintain profits on the financing structures that are less beneficial for them over time. Still, the cost to go solar in California averages around $19,980 after the ITC in California, which is about $10,000 less than the national average, so cash and solar loans are more realistic of an option in California than in most other states.
If you know that cash and solar loans are outside of your budget, or you just prefer a lease, Palmetto’s LightReach plan is a solid option. There are no up-front payments, and the company includes the Palmetto Protect perks with every lease. That means you get the added benefit of a 90% energy production guarantee to help ensure you save money over time. Just note that you can’t take the ITC if you choose a lease, so you’d potentially be leaving savings on the table if you went this route.
Palmetto Solar Extra Services Offered
2/4
Palmetto only scores half the potential points when it comes to its extra services offered. It installs EV chargers, which I think is a really important factor to consider for Californians. The state has more EVs on the road than any other, and new legislation will require that all vehicles sold in California after 2035 be ZEVs, so anyone who buys a car after that point — or chooses an EV or ZEV before then — will benefit from an at-home charger. Installing one alongside your panels is a good way to save regardless of when you buy a ZEV, as you can include the cost in the federal tax credit to save more (provided you owe enough in taxes to take the higher credit amount).
Palmetto also provides monitoring for solar arrays as a part of its Palmetto Protect program. This is less of a necessity than an EV charger, in my opinion, but it’s a nice perk that can help protect your hefty investment in your clean energy system and offers some added peace of mind that your panels will continue performing as expected.
Palmetto doesn’t provide any other home energy efficiency upgrades, which, again, aren’t critical but are something I look for in a one-stop shop for going green, and it doesn’t offer roofing services, so you might need to coordinate with a third party if your roof is too old to install solar.
Palmetto Solar Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices
7.5/10
We assess each solar provider we review based on its environmental impact, which we believe should go beyond providing clean energy solutions like solar arrays. We specifically look at the brands of panels the installer chooses to carry and the efforts those companies take to maintain sustainability. Palmetto installs Q Cells and REC panels, both of which tie for the highest sustainability scores with other leading brands in our rankings.
Both manufacturers use recycled materials in their production processes, which is important because panel manufacturing can put strain on the environment even if the panels will help offset emissions once in use. They also both have end-of-life recycling programs to ensure their products don’t end up in a landfill, which is crucial for the long-term viability and positive impact of the solar industry as a whole. These brands don’t have a history of social issues like slave labor, child labor or unhealthy working conditions, and they only lose points in our scoring because neither brand is primarily manufactured in the United States, where governmental regulations tend to be more strict.
Palmetto Solar Equipment Quality & Reliability
17.85/25
We also look at the quality of the equipment each installer uses, as well as the warranty coverage offered, both of which help protect your investment over the long haul. The panels Palmetto installs from REC and Q Cells both top out above 21% efficiency, which is well above the industry average of 19.4%. Higher efficiency ratings mean a greater level of electricity production, which is especially important in California, where sunshine is abundant, and any electricity your panels don’t cover will cost you more per kilowatt-hour (kWh) than just about any other state. Both panel options are tied for the second-best temperature coefficient — -0.24% — so the hot summers and intense sunlight in California won’t have as much of a negative impact on these brands as they would on most others.
If I were going solar in California, I’d personally want Maxeon panels for their industry-leading warranty coverage, but REC and Q Cells would be my second and third choices, respectively, for their reputation in the industry and impressive specs. Additionally, they’re more affordable than Maxeon panels, so they’re solid options for any Californian looking to keep installation costs to a minimum.
Warranties and Guarantees
Solar warranties and guarantees are some of the most important things to consider when choosing a panel brand and provider. I look at four different guarantees when evaluating companies.
First, I consider the manufacturer’s warranty, also called the equipment warranty. This coverage protects you from manufacturing defects and comes from the manufacturer, not the installer. REC and Q Cells both have 25-year warranties for their products, which is typical in the industry and second only to Maxeon’s 40-year warranty.
More important, in my opinion, is the performance warranty, which guarantees that your panels won’t lose more than a specified percentage of their starting efficiency over the warranty period. All panels naturally degrade in the elements, so a superior performance warranty will ensure you maintain a high level of production and the associated savings for longer. You should look at both the warranty term and the predicted efficiency loss — a panel with a longer warranty might seem better on the surface, but if it comes with a higher degradation rate, you could miss out on savings. REC and Q Cells both have 25-year performance warranties, which is standard in the industry. REC panels all guarantee 92% efficiency remaining after 25 years, and Q Cells is a bit lower at either 90.58% or 86%—depending on the specific panel modal—after 25 years. For long-term performance, I’d recommend REC.
The third and fourth warranty options come from the installer — in this case, Palmetto. First is the labor or workmanship warranty, which guarantees that no damages will result to your roof or system because of poor workmanship during the installation. This is crucial when choosing a provider because a less-reputable installer without a labor guarantee could leave you with roof damage or malfunctioning panels that you’d have to pay out of pocket to repair. Palmetto’s labor warranty is 10 years, which is on the short side. I’ve heard from industry experts that most issues would present themselves within that timeframe anyway, but I’d personally be more comfortable with the 20-year warranty you’d get from companies like Momentum Solar.
Finally, some installers offer a roof leak warranty, which protects you from roof leaks related to the penetrations created when installing your panels. Most installers don’t offer this at all, but Palmetto has a five-year roof leak warranty. This is outstanding, especially for customers in Northern California who see higher rainfall averages.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Palmetto Protect plan, which is included with leases, covers panel maintenance and repairs for 25 years. Many companies include this to make leases more enticing, so it’s not necessarily a stand-out offering, but it does provide some added peace of mind. I’d just make sure that isn’t the reason you go with a lease if you do, as cash and loans will still likely be more beneficial in the long run.
Palmetto Solar Company Reputation
20.5/25
Palmetto stands apart from the competition when it comes to its reputation for quality customer service, and in a state like California, where the competition among 1,100-plus solar providers is fierce, this is a big deal. Palmetto maintains a BBB customer rating of 3.46 stars and a Trustpilot rating of 3.7 stars. The rating on Trustpilot is also weighted downward given the low number of reviews, so in actuality, the single review on there is a 5-star rating. The average I’ve seen on these sites is usually between 2 and 3 stars, so you’re very likely to get great customer service from the initial contact through installation if you go with Palmetto.
Palmetto also has a lengthy track record spanning over a decade, which lends credibility to the company and, again, suggests a quality installation and customer experience as well as longevity in the industry. Some fly-by-night companies that pop up and go out of business after a few years can void your workmanship and roof leak warranties, but Palmetto’s growth trajectory suggests that won’t happen with this company.
Palmetto scores some additional points in our ratings when it comes to company reputation because it uses NABCEP®-certified installers and maintains membership with the SEIA. NABCEP® certification requires specialized training to ensure your installation is carried out by a true professional, and SEIA membership suggests that the company is invested in the solar industry as a whole.
Consumer Reviews and Testimonials
My analysis of Palmetto Solar included reading through dozens of customer reviews to see what the company does well and where it falls short of customer expectations. I primarily looked through comments and complaints filed with the BBB and Trustpilot.
A good portion of the complaints I read through pertain to lower production values than the customers believed — and, according to the customers, were told — they would get from their system. Those complaints mention that monthly bills end up costing them more after installation than they were paying for electricity beforehand. This is an issue I see fairly often with many solar companies. I strongly suggest that you carefully read through your contract for production and guarantees, and make sure you reread everything if the design changes. Some customers mentioned that Palmetto altered the design to include fewer panels, which led to the discrepancy. It’s unclear, though, if the design changes were initiated by the customer or Palmetto.
Positive reviews mention professionalism and monthly savings that are in line with what the customer was expecting. Some customers rave about the consistent communication they got from Palmetto representatives before, during and after the installation was complete. Some positive comments also mention that the installers were respectful, the customer service representatives were helpful and knowledgeable. and the salespeople were friendly and didn’t use aggressive or high-pressure sales tactics.
I’d like to note here that Palmetto does something — specifically on the BBB’s website — that I haven’t seen many other installers do — they own up to their mistakes. For example, in response to a complaint from July 2024, Palmetto apologized for a communication that was accidentally sent to the customer and specifically said it was their mistake. In my opinion, this speaks volumes about the company’s honesty and integrity, and I think the solar industry would benefit from more companies taking this approach to valid complaints.
Below, I’ll include one positive and one negative review to give you a snapshot of the service you can expect from Palmetto.
“Outstanding installation and customer service. Everything is going great so far after the first 14 months. Negative electric bills all spring, summer and fall, with $5 to $10 in the winter. I do have the loan payment, but I own it, and I get the residual checks which are quite nice, and [I] NEVER have to worry about rate increases. Win-win in my book.” —Jeff M. via BBB
“Product has not been [as] beneficial in [terms of] savings as the solar panels are hyped up to be. I called and emailed several times regarding the incentive promised by the salesperson, and to this day, [I’ve received] no follow up or incentive. Each time I spoke with Palmetto they would refer me to the utilities company and vice versa. I am now [paying] the same in utility cost and a loan payment which I can’t afford because I’m retiring at the end of the year, and this loan is not in my budget.” — Ruby W. via BBB
Palmetto Solar Customer Service
8/10
Finally, I provide a score for each solar provider I review based on my personal experience with the company and based on the many reviews and complaints I read through.
I called Palmetto Solar as a secret shopper to discuss getting a solar system installation, and I was impressed with how friendly the representative was. They were willing to answer questions, and they seemed to have all of the information I asked for readily available. I didn’t wait on hold, and I didn’t feel pressured into providing personal information or agreeing to an install.
Based on the issues and praises I read about in the reviews, I’d personally be comfortable going solar with Palmetto in California.
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Facts and Figures: Palmetto Solar
EcoWatch Rating |
---|
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating |
Average Cost ($-$$$$$) |
Solar Services |
4.5 |
A+ |
$$$ |
Solar Panels, Solar Batteries, Energy-Efficiency Upgrades, Maintenance & Repairs |

Sunrun
Pros
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
Cons
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
I’ll be totally honest here: I don’t recommend Sunrun unless you know you want a lease or a PPA — which, again, I don’t recommend due to lower net savings. Sunrun still takes one of the top spots, though, because the added coverage you get with those financing options is outstanding. Sunrun’s coverage for leases and PPAs includes roof leak coverage — which is more helpful for those in Northern California but still beneficial everywhere — as well as free maintenance and repairs for the life of your contract. That’s total peace of mind that you really can’t find anywhere else.
So, why not put Sunrun in our top position? The company has a history of deceptive sales tactics and aggressive marketing, which, in my opinion, gives the solar industry a bad name. It was named in a class action lawsuit for “deceptive and unlawful solar sales tactics,” and it has a history of customer complaints filed with the BBB about the same issues.
I personally wouldn’t choose to go with Sunrun because the downsides outweigh the benefits if you go with a cash purchase or solar loan and forgo the added coverage for leases and PPAs. The company seems to be turning itself around with improving customer reviews and ratings, but I would sooner go with another provider, like Elevation or Momentum.
What I Like About Sunrun
Sunrun may prioritize leases and PPAs, but if you already know you want or need to go with one of those financing options, then it’s a great choice because of the perks the company offers. Those include free system monitoring by professionals to catch any issues or dips in production early, free panel maintenance and repairs for life and roof leak protection. You also get a performance guarantee that your system will generate at least 90% of what the company estimates, or it will pay you the difference. That kind of peace of mind is hard to come by, honestly, which is mostly why Sunrun secures one of our top spots in the rankings. It’s one of the only companies to offer this kind of protection.
I also love the services offered by Sunrun. It covers the standard things such as panels and batteries — including a totally unique EV charger/battery system in partnership with Ford (more on that in a bit) — but it also offers energy efficiency upgrades and monitoring for your panels and EV chargers that help you get more out of your system. The battery options include Sunrun’s own Shift™ battery, which is designed to maximize savings in areas where net metering is nonexistent or below the retail rate for electricity, making it ideal for California homeowners, specifically. In fact, it was designed specifically for California and Hawaii and is only available in those areas.
What I Don’t Like About Sunrun
Sunrun is the target of a class action lawsuit for deceptive and misleading marketing practices, and although the company has seemingly turned itself around in the past few years — I’ve seen it go from 1-star reviews to a much more impressive 3.62-star average on the BBB since 2020 — it still seems to struggle with up-front and honest marketing. I strongly recommend doing your own research on whether or not solar is right for your home and using our solar calculator to see what size system you need before proceeding with Sunrun.
The company also prioritizes leases and PPAs, which I’m not a huge fan of. I wish they’d offer the outstanding coverage with cash and solar loans, even if it meant paying a little more for the peace of mind.
Sunrun Installation Process and Timeline
Sunrun details its installation process on its site, which includes seven steps that you’ll also experience with most other providers. These include the initial property inspection, the system design phase, permitting, installation, inspections, connecting to the utility company and, finally, powering on your system. Sunrun also mentions that the entire process takes between eight and 23 weeks, so you can expect to wait between two and six months from the time you first reach out to the day your panels start generating power for your home. As is the case with most providers, a good portion of that — two to four months — is waiting for permits to be filed and approved and waiting for inspections from third parties, such as your local building department and utility company.
Sunrun Standard Services & Financing
22/25
Sunrun gets nearly perfect scores when it comes to its standard services and financing options. It installs panels and batteries, offers professional system monitoring (although only for leases and PPAs), and provides access to the four main financing options: cash purchases, loans, leases and PPAs. These financing options are particularly helpful in an area like California where the need for batteries — thanks to the NEM 3.0 policy — drives up installation costs. Options like leases and PPAs help keep solar affordable, even with batteries.
Sunrun installs panels manufactured by Canadian Solar, REC, Q Cells and SolarEdge, giving you a few tier-one options to prioritize cost, efficiency or durability. Personally, I’d go with REC panels, as they have the highest efficiency rating at 22.6% and have lower degradation rates that allow you to take better advantage of the abundant sunlight in California. It installs Tesla Powerwalls and its own non-backup battery called Shift™. Batteries are basically a necessity in California to see significant savings due to the decreased NEM credits, so options here — specifically Shift™ that’s designed to help Californians save — are outstanding.
Sunrun also has its own app called MySunrun that gives you real-time information on your system’s performance and energy consumption. This is a nice perk to have, as it lets you watch for potential issues with your panels and can also help you save electricity by equipping you with consumption data.
Cost and Financing Options
Sunrun doesn’t publicize specific prices for its systems, but it does note that the average solar array in the United States in 2024 totaled around $25,000, which would mean around $2.77 per watt based on the typical 9 kilowatt (kW) system. Based on our internal data, Californians need only a 6kW system to offset electric bills, which would put the total for a system from Sunrun at around $16,620 before incentives, or $11,634 after the ITC. This is well below the industry average of $19,980 before incentives and $13,986 after the ITC. All in all, Sunrun should be more affordable than most providers in your area.
Sunrun accepts cash, loans, leases and PPAs, which I love to see. I strongly recommend going with cash or a loan if you can because these options lead to the fastest panel payback period and the highest long-term savings, and they also let you take the federal ITC, which is an average potential savings of $5,994 in California, based on our research. We’ve found that a loan will end up costing you about $5,000 more overall due to interest, so cash is the preferred payment method if you can afford it.
Leases and PPAs are good options if you don’t want to or are unable to put a significant amount of money down, and in my opinion, there’s no better company to go with in California if you know you want one of these low-cost options — mostly due to the enhanced coverage and protection you get for roof leaks and panel damage and maintenance.
Remember, though, that leases and PPAs don’t let you take the federal tax credit. If you don’t owe a lot in income taxes anyway, then this isn’t a big deal, and you won’t miss out on much, but if you expect to owe around $6,000 or more in income taxes over the next five years (cumulative), then I’d strongly recommend paying cash or using a loan so that you can take this perk.
Sunrun Extra Services Offered
3/5
Sunrun scores pretty high when it comes to its additional services, too. The only thing it doesn’t offer in this category is roof repair and replacement, so you’ll have to coordinate with a third-party company if you need work done on your roof. Sunrun earns points here because it offers energy efficiency upgrades such as EV chargers and the SPAN smart electrical panel to help you monitor and control your consumption remotely, and it also performs professional monitoring for your system (although only with leases and PPAs).
Sunrun installs Tesla Powerwalls and its own non-backup battery called Shift™. It’s also the only company I’ve seen to offer a battery and EV charger integration system in partnership with the Ford F-150 Lightning®. That system, exclusively offered by Sunrun, provides you with an EV (the Ford F-150 Lightning®) and a two-way EV charger that lets you use your EV as a battery backup for your home during outages. This is a really cool option that I’d personally love to see other installers offer, especially as EVs continue to become more prevalent in the United States and especially in California.
Sunrun Environmental Impact & Sustainability Practices
7.5/10
Sunrun installs panels from Q Cells, REC, Canadian Solar and SolarEdge, and we base the scoring for this section on the sustainability of the panels themselves. We look at four primary factors related to the panel manufacturers: the use of recycled materials in the manufacturing process, the availability of an EoL panel recycling program, whether manufacturing is done in the United States and whether or not the company has a history of slave labor, child labor, poor working conditions, unfair pay or discrimination. Sunrun loses a few points here because none of the panel options available are manufactured in the United States, but 7.5 is actually the highest score any of the panels we’ve reviewed has gotten.
Solar panels undoubtedly have a net benefit when it comes to the environment since they offset fossil fuel consumption, but we still think it’s important to track the manufacturing of panels to make sure they continue to be as sustainable as possible.
We also look at the installer itself to see what sustainability efforts it takes to make a positive difference. Sunrun recycled or reused 100% of the panels, batteries and inverters that came to the end of their lifespan in 2023, which is really outstanding. Sunrun’s sustainability report also shows that the company is making efforts to reduce its own carbon footprint and give back to the communities it serves.
Sunrun Equipment Quality & Reliability
16.65/25
Sunrun’s equipment is top tier and includes brands such as REC, Q Cells, Canadian Solar and SolarEdge. These are all great options and come with above-average efficiency ratings that should help take advantage of the abundant sunlight in California. I personally would stay away from SolarEdge, as the efficiency ratings are the lowest of the bunch, but really, all of these brands are good quality and should deliver decades of high performance. Normally, I’d recommend prioritizing efficiency, but since there’s so much uninterrupted sunlight in California, that’s not as important as it would be in a rainier or cloudier state.
Of the options offered, REC panels score the highest in our panel ratings. They have the second-highest efficiency rating — up to 22.6%, second only to Canadian Solar at 23.1% — of the four, and they have the lowest temperature coefficient, which means they’ll continue to perform better even in the hot, sunny summers in California.
Warranties and Guarantees
When I’m evaluating solar providers, I look at three primary warranty coverages: the warranties for equipment, performance and workmanship. There are also roof leak warranties, but these are relatively uncommon.
The equipment warranty tells you how long your panels are guaranteed to perform without issues stemming from manufacturing defects. The standard is 25 years, and this comes from the manufacturer. You’ll get this standard coverage regardless of the panel brand you choose from Sunrun. All four manufacturers include 25 years of coverage for defects.
The performance warranty typically comes from the manufacturer as well, and it guarantees that your panels won’t lose more than a specific percentage of their efficiency over the warranty period. The standard here is 25 years, and you get this with all brands offered by Sunrun except Canadian Solar, which goes above the average and offers 30 years of coverage. You also need to consider the degradation that’s guaranteed, though. A brand that offers a longer warranty but a faster degradation rate will lead to lower production overall, which is crucial to avoid in California, where electricity prices are some of the highest in the country. Of the four brands available from Sunrun, Q Cells has the best performance warranty, which guarantees just a 1.5% loss in year one and no more than 0.33% per year thereafter.
If you go with a lease or PPA, Sunrun offers an additional performance warranty that most companies don’t — it guarantees that your system will generate at least 90% of what the company states it will, or it will pay you the difference. This is a huge upside in California, where electric bills are higher than in most other states, and guaranteed production protects your bottom line.
The workmanship warranty is far more important than the efficiency warranty, in my opinion, because panels that are improperly installed can cause a lot of damage to your roof and equipment, and they can lead to roof leaks, which lead to costly water damage. The standard coverage for workmanship is around 20 years. Sunrun covers its labor for 10 years if you use cash or a loan to buy your system, but that coverage increases to 25 years (above the industry standard) if you use a lease or PPA.
Sunrun Company Reputation
19.5/25
In California, where the demand for solar is higher than anywhere else in the country, having the choice of over 1,100 solar installers makes it all the more important to choose a reputable one. A company that’s just in the industry for the profit is more likely to go out of business and void your warranties in the process. Plus, a company that doesn’t prioritize customer service and care is more likely to ignore warranty claims, which could leave you thousands of dollars in the hole and with none of the expected savings on your utility bills.
Sunrun has been in business since 2007 and tackled over 900,000 residential solar installations. It’s had its ups and downs in terms of customer reviews and ratings on the BBB, Google and Trustpilot, but that kind of track record is tough to beat. Sunrun also has multiple contractors with NABCEP® certification, and the company is an SEIA member. These help ensure that your installation will be safe and professional, and the SEIA membership suggests that Sunrun is invested in the solar industry as a whole and not just around to turn a profit.
As I mentioned previously, Sunrun has had a troubled past with poor customer reviews and a history of poor customer service, but it seems to have turned that around. It now maintains a BBB rating of A+ and a customer rating of 3.62 stars. Especially for a company of this size, this is really quite impressive. For comparison with a similarly-sized company, Momentum Solar has a 3.04-star rating.
Consumer Reviews and Testimonials
I’ve read through over 100 customer reviews of Sunrun to get a good idea of what customers can expect if they decide this is the installer for them. A lot of the positive reviews mention speedy installation and no-hassle repairs and maintenance if something goes wrong. Although Sunrun definitely has its fair share of poor customer experiences post-installation, for the most part, it seems to keep customers happy.
The problem I keep seeing in negative customer reviews is that the company still seems to be engaging in deceptive marketing practices. I’ve read about things such as misrepresented incentives (specifically an issue in California due to how many there are and how challenging they can all be to navigate), misrepresented deals where leases are said to be more beneficial than they actually are and aggressive and high-pressure sales tactics.
Below are some customer reviews I’ve pulled from the BBB to help you get a sense of the best- and worst-case scenario you can expect from Sunrun.
“I just completed my second year as a Sunrun customer and I have been very pleased with my solar panels and solar production. [My] Sunrun consultant has been very helpful, especially in how to understand my ComEd bills and how my solar panels save me money. He is very thorough in his explanations and patient with me. I highly recommend Sunrun for the quality of service and excellent products.” — Kathleen R. via BBB
“[My] Sunrun representative was deceptive and I didn’t realize until it was too late. I was interested in [the] cost of purchasing panels. He told me there was no need to because Sunrun was offering a ‘win-win’ situation. He convinced me that Sunrun would put enough panels on my roof to cover my electric needs and for them to make a good profit off the other panels. He said Sunrun would use my roof and maintain all the panels for 25 years. I asked him again and again if this was a lease he was talking about. He emphatically said no…Then I started getting a monthly bill. I contacted Sunrun. They said I signed a lease agreement and would be charged monthly for 25 years…Sunrun does not even deserve a one star rating.” — Janet U. via BBB
Sunrun Customer Service
4/10
Our customer service rating for each provider is based on subjective scoring — the only portion of our methodology that doesn’t come specifically from hard data. I’ve personally assigned Sunrun this rating based on my own experience with the company. I called customer service as a secret shopper, and while the representative was friendly and willing to answer questions, I did deduct points here because of the many complaints I’ve seen regarding poor customer service and aggressive sales tactics. Before I went solar, I had multiple Sunrun representatives knock on my door. They were all friendly, but they were also pushy, which rubbed me the wrong way.
Sunrun also loses some points here because some customers complain about the provider neglecting warranty-related issues, which is a big red flag, in my opinion. You want to be sure that your sizable investment is protected for decades to come, so this is a real problem. Thankfully, Sunrun seems to be turning itself around in regard to ignored warranty claims, and I’ve recently seen the customer reviews start to trend upward, which is a good sign.
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This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.

Facts and Figures: Sunrun
EcoWatch Rating |
---|
Better Business Bureau (BBB) Rating |
Average Cost ($-$$$$$) |
Solar Services |
4 |
A- |
$$$ |
Solar Panels, Solar Batteries, EV Chargers, Energy-Efficiency Upgrades |
Calculate the Cost of California Solar
Based on our research, the average cost to go solar in California is around $19,980 before any incentives, which is based on a typical system size of 6 kilowatts and an average cost per watt of $3.33. After the federal tax credit, that total could come down to $13,986. Keep in mind that the cost to install solar in California can vary widely based on your monthly electricity demands, the direction your roof faces, your roof pitch and more. You can get an accurate estimate based on your specific home by using our solar cost calculator. You’ll just need to enter your property address, an approximate average monthly electric bill and your roof age, and answer a quick question about how much shade your property gets.
California Solar Regulations
There are a few solar regulations to be aware of in California. Although most of the requirements will be handled by your installer, it’s good to be aware of them so that you can double-check that your installer is properly licensed and reputable.
First, all solar installers must hold a valid and active license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). They can hold any of the following to be certified for solar installations in California: a solar contractor license, an electrical contractor license or a general building contractor license. You can ask your installer for their CSLB license number and check the license registration database maintained by the State Department of Consumer Affairs.
The State of California Energy Commission also has minimum system sizing requirements that your installer will have to abide by. The calculation is a bit complicated and either involves:
- an assessment of your conditioned flooring area and the number of units in the building, plus adjustments based on the Energy Commission’s guidelines; or
- an assessment of your available roof square footage that can safely support the weight of your solar panels.
Again, your installer should calculate the minimum system requirements for you, but it’s a good idea to make sure they do so.
Another important regulation to be aware of if you’re building a home in California is that all new construction must be equipped with a new solar array that meets the same sizing requirements outlined above.
One more thing tangentially related to solar is California’s ZEV mandate, which requires that all vehicles sold in the state after 2035 be zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), which more or less means that all new cars will require charging. If you’re going solar now — and I recommend it before that time since the ITC expires in 2035 — you should consider installing an EV charger to prepare for the future.
Editor’s Note: While this article highlights certain regulations, it is vital for readers to do their own research, as the mentioned regulations are not exhaustive.
California Solar News
Much of the recent solar news in California has been based around the hit the statewide net metering policy took in 2023. The credit used to be one-to-one, which meant every kWh of excess power you sent to the grid meant one kWh you could later pull from the grid for free within a 12-month period. The new policy is closer to net billing, where you get only a fraction of a kWh you can pull for free — around 25% — for each kWh you export.
In more recent news, California recently experienced heat advisories and wildfires, both of which place additional strain on the grid. There were few power interruptions, and experts in the industry believe that the adoption of renewable energy — including the installation of panels and batteries — is largely to thank for that.
Additionally, new incentives for electric vehicle purchases recently became available for low-income residents in California, providing up to $14,000 for new EVs. The incentive should help make EVs more widely available, especially in disadvantaged communities.
FAQs
California is one of the biggest solar markets, which means your questions about going solar set the tone for the future of solar. If you have specific questions that aren’t answered here, reach out to our team of solar experts at solar@ecowatch.com.
In most cases, yes, solar is worth it in California. According to our research, the average homeowner will save $41,503 over the lifespan of their panels, which represents net savings after the panels are paid for. Since California rolled out the new net metering rules in 2023, batteries are more or less required to see long-term savings, but the average solar savings in California should more than cover the $10,000 to $20,000 most customers spend to add solar batteries to their systems.
California is one of the best states in the country for solar incentives, as solar customers have access to the federal investment tax credit — which reduces your income taxes owed by 30% of your total system cost, an average of just under $6,000 in potential savings. There’s also the Self-Generated Incentive Program (SGIP), which provides a rebate for installing solar batteries, and a property tax exclusion, which prevents your system from driving up property taxes. You can check for additional California solar incentives for more information and additional perks.
The cheapest solar company in California is likely going to be a company that prioritizes solar leases and PPAs, which usually include a monthly price that’s below what your electric bill would be. Sunrun is a good example, with below-average prices and access to leases and PPAs, and it also provides added perks for customers who choose these options, like free maintenance and a 90% production guarantee.