13 Best Solar Companies in Gonzales, CA (2023 Reviews)
We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation,
and have selected the top 13 in Gonzales based on:
-
Customer review scores - Service area for Gonzales, CA
- Company policies and services offered
- Accreditations and certifications
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Average Gonzales homeowner saves $2,903/year with solar panels
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Best Solar Companies in Gonzales
Looking to go solar but trying to figure out which solar company would be best for your needs? Although it can be hard to decide on a solar company, the effort will pay off because going solar has many fantastic perks. Plus, the solar industry is booming in Gonzales, giving homeowners access to some of the most reputable solar panel installers in the country.
There are tons of installers to consider, but in this article, we'll help you pin down your options by recommending some of the best solar companies in Gonzales. To get free quotes from the leading solar companies in Gonzales, click the "get quote" button below.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch Rankings for Solar Companies in Gonzales
Average Cost
SunPower
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Most efficient panels on the market - National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
-
Expensive - Customer service varies by local dealer
Services Offered
-
Solar Panels - Solar Batteries
- EV Chargers
- System Monitoring
Average Cost
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
Average Cost
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- EV Chargers
- Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
Average Cost
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- EV Chargers
- Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
Average Cost
Palmetto Solar
- Expansive service area
- Makes charitable contributions
- Certified B Corp
- No leases or PPAs
- Quality of installation may vary by location
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
- Maintenance & Repairs
Average Cost
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- EV Chargers
- Solar Roof Shingles
- System Monitoring
Brandt Construction and Sea Wind Solar
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Free Quotes
- Informative Resources
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Expert panel installation
- End-to-end services
- Home installations
- Business installations
Sundance Solar Media
- Informative Resources
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Skilled repairs
- Home installations
- Expert panel installation
Bright Future Solar Energy
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Informative Resources
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Expert panel installation
- Home installations
- Tailored solutions
- Business installations
smart72
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Informative Resources
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Free Quotes
- Prompt Service Delivery
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Skilled repairs
- Tailored solutions
- Integrated roofing
- Home installations
- Expert panel installation
- Business installations
FMJ Electric, Inc.
- Prompt Service Delivery
- Free Quotes
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Expert panel installation
- Home installations
- Skilled repairs
- Tailored solutions
- Business installations
Western Sun Systems
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Free Quotes
- Informative Resources
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Energy storage solutions
- Tailored solutions
- Integrated roofing
- Expert panel installation
- Home installations
Smart Solar Panel Cleaning Hollister
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Informative Resources
- Free Quotes
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Home installations
- Tailored solutions
- Integrated roofing
- Business installations
Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Solar Companies in Gonzales
EcoWatch's solar experts analyzed each solar company in Gonzales based on criteria such as its reputation in the industry, customer reviews, services, warranty coverage and financing. Using this solar methodology, we used the data we collected to rate and rank each company and narrow down our picks for the best solar companies in Gonzales
Below are some the criteria we examined specifically for California solar companies
- Brand reputation and certifications (20%): We take each company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) score into consideration, as well as how long the installer has been in business (at least 5 years is required, 10 preferred) and what type of solar certifications it holds.
- Customer reviews (20%): Trust is a top priority at EcoWatch, so we take customer experience under close consideration. We scour different review sites and customer testimonials when ranking our top solar companies, checking sites such as Trustpilot and Google Reviews. We also consider any potential complaints or lawsuits filed against these companies and award or remove points accordingly.
- Warranty (20%): A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers 25-year warranties that cover performance, product and workmanship. The industry standard that we measure companies against is 25-year product and performance warranties, along with a 10-year workmanship warranty. We also look closely into the track record of the post-installation support each company provides in terms of honoring its contracts
- Solar services (10%): All of the companies we review install solar panels, but we award companies higher points if they offer additional services for customers, like battery installation, energy-efficiency audits, and EV chargers.
- Pricing and financing (10%): It's hard to get exact quotes for solar projects, but we use marketplace research to determine how each company prices its equipment and installation services. Additionally, companies that offer more help for panel financing — like in-house loans, leases, or PPAs — score higher than those that don't.
- Availability (10%): The bigger the service area, the higher the company will score.
- Transparency and accessibility (5%): Solar installers that offer free consultations and easy contact methods score higher in this category.
- Environmental, social and corporate governance factors (5%): A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers public data disclosure, addresses end-of-life (EOL) products or processes, and demonstrates a commitment to uplifting the communities that it serves.
The Cost and Benefits of Solar in Gonzales
We get that for most homeowners, the decision to invest in solar hinges on installation costs. A few main factors that determine the cost of installing solar panels on your home and how much money you could save over time include:
- Incentives: Along with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which gives you a tax credit currently worth 30% of your overall installation cost, your state or local government may offer additional tax exemptions, credits or rebates that will help you save even more. Aside from incentives, you can save an average of $34,000 over the first 20 years with your solar system, too.
- How much you spend on energy: The average family in Gonzales shells out around $1,100 a year on home energy use alone, so you could be looking at that much in savings.
- Your home's orientation toward the sun: This, plus your roof configuration, affects affect how much energy your solar panels can make.
- The type and model of solar panels you want to get: More efficient models are more costly, so that will affect your budget for your solar project.
There are many wonderful benefits of solar in spite of the upfront cost of installation. It can help the environment and your finances. Additionally, it can increase the value of your home, leading to even more benefits if you choose to sell your home later.
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Solar Incentives in Gonzales
There are a lot of reasons why going solar is a great investment. One of them includes some government incentives you can take advantage of. Local solar incentive programs depend on the location and, sometimes, utility company. A lot of states offer rebates for solar power, in addition to the federal solar tax credit. You can find out about the incentives you can use in our article on solar incentives
Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in Gonzales
A lot of people want to do what they can to help the environment, which often is the main reason they're interested in installing solar panels. But you may be curious — how much exactly can you help the planet by going solar? One thing that can drastically influence your carbon footprint is how long your commute is and how much you drive generally. If you install solar panels and drive an electric car, you can greatly reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by charging your car at home. When you go solar, your carbon emissions can be cut by about 50 pounds a year. For people who care about the environment, the upfront cost of solar is a small price to pay for reducing your carbon footprint.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Gonzales, CA Solar Company Rankings FAQs
Which solar power company is the best in Gonzales?
In Gonzales, APG Solar is the best local solar company. Our team of experts rates it 5.00 stars, so it's a solid choice if you're planning to add solar panels to your roof.
Are solar panels actually good for the environment?
Making solar panels uses chemicals and produces toxic waste that can be dangerous for the environment, which is the main drawback of solar panels.
How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?
Solar panels usually pay for themselves in about 5.3 years, but your solar payback period will depend on your utility costs. The higher your typical power bill, the quicker your solar panel system will recoup your installation costs.
What is the best type of solar panel?
The different types of solar panels are monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient but also more costly. Polycrystalline panels are less expensive but also less efficient than monocrystalline. Thin-film solar panels are flexible, so they can be used where the other types can't, like on curved surfaces or cars, but they are also less efficient. The best one for you depends on your budget, the layout of your roof and how much energy generation you want.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert’s opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.