13 Best Solar Companies in Oakland, CA (2023 Reviews)
We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation,
and have selected the top 13 in Oakland based on:
-
Customer review scores - Service area for Oakland, CA
- Company policies and services offered
- Accreditations and certifications
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Average Oakland homeowner saves $2,798/year with solar panels
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Best Solar Companies in Oakland
As a homeowner or business owner in Oakland, you may be considering switching to solar energy and wondering about the best solar companies in your area. Solar could be a fantastic choice since it comes with lots of perks. Since Oakland is a solar paradise, it's no wonder you're considering installing solar panels.
The cost of installing solar panels can vary considerably according to your home's setup and your overall energy requirements. Interested in knowing how much you would pay to install a solar system on your roof? Click "get quote" below to get a free, no-obligation quote from a top Oakland solar installer.
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 Oakland
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
SolarUnion
- Free Quotes
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Informative Resources
- Recognized Excellence
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Skilled repairs
- Tailored solutions
- Business installations
- Expert panel installation
- Energy storage solutions
- Home installations
- Integrated roofing
- End-to-end services
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
Revamp Engineering, Inc.
- Free Quotes
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Informative Resources
- Recognized Excellence
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Energy storage solutions
- Expert panel installation
- Home installations
Solaria Corporation
- Free Quotes
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Informative Resources
- Recognized Excellence
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Business installations
- Expert panel installation
- Home installations
- Integrated roofing
CivicSolar, Inc
- Informative Resources
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Business installations
- Expert panel installation
- Energy storage solutions
- Home installations
Borrego (Oakland)
- Informative Resources
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Skilled repairs
- Tailored solutions
- Business installations
- Energy storage solutions
- Home installations
Sungage Financial
- Informative Resources
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Expert panel installation
- Energy storage solutions
- Home installations
- Integrated roofing
Adapture Renewables
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Home installations
Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Solar Companies in Oakland
EcoWatch's solar experts analyzed each solar company in Oakland 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 Oakland
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 Oakland
For lots of homeowners, whether or not you should invest in solar panels depends the most on the cost. There are quite a few factors you should take into consideration when trying to figure out the overall cost and how much you can save, including:
- Where your home is: This influences how much sunlight your roof receives, which helps determine how many panels you need.
- System size and type: Some models are more costly than others, so the one you choose can raise or lower your initial investment. Plus, the more solar panels you need to get, the more it'll cost.
- Your energy bills: This will impact your savings. In Oakland, the average homeowner can save about $1,100 a year on their electricity bills.
- Incentives: One thing that can save you money on your solar project is the solar investment tax credit (ITC), which is a tax credit that's equal to a percentage of the project cost. You can also save money on your energy bills, which can generate an average of $33,000 of savings over 20 years.
Thanks to solar panels decreasing in cost as well as various solar incentives, they are a solid investment for the majority of homeowners.
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For an estimate of both how much you could save and help protect the environment by installing a solar panel system, you can give the calculator below a try. You can also view our solar panel cost guide for Oakland, CA.
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Solar Incentives in Oakland
There are lots of reasons why you should switch to solar. One of them includes some government incentives you can take advantage of. There are a lot of federal, state and local rebates and tax credits that may earn you anywhere from 30% to 50% of your money in return after paying for solar panels. In our article on solar incentives, you can find out about the incentives you qualify for in Oakland.
Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in Oakland
Making the switch to solar power is a great way to do what you can for a more eco-friendly future. Many homeowners might be wondering how much exactly they can impact the environment by switching to solar in Oakland, though. A key thing to consider is your overall carbon footprint. For example, if your commute is very long, your footprint may be bigger, so switching to solar power for your home can help offset that. Because solar panels don't release greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere when producing electricity, they're a good trade for traditional energy sources. In fact, you could be looking at reducing your carbon dioxide emissions by about 50 pounds each year. If you want to do your part for the environment, you'll no doubt find that there are many good things about adopting solar power other than just saving money on bills. You can also help preserve the environment, which some would argue is priceless.
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 Oakland, CA Solar Company Rankings FAQs
Which solar company is the best in Oakland?
In Oakland, APG Solar is the most reputable 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.
What are the best and worst things about solar power?
The advantages of solar power are that it can reduce or, for some, completely cut your electricity bills, raise the value of your home and reduce your carbon footprint. The disadvantages are that solar panels can be expensive to install, you may not see as many savings if you don't use a lot of electricity and whether you can install solar panels depends on your roof configuration.
How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?
Solar panels typically pay for themselves in about 5.5 years, but your solar payback period will vary based on your utility costs. The higher your typical electricity bill, the faster your solar panel system will recoup your installation costs.
What is the best kind of solar panel?
There are three main types of solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film. In regard to efficiency and price, monocrystalline has the highest for both, then polycrystalline, and then thin-film. The best choice for you is highly influenced by your roof configuration, how much you're willing to spend and desired energy output.
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.