15 Best Solar Companies in San Carlos, CA (2023 Reviews)

We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation,
and have selected the top 15 in San Carlos based on:

  • Customer review scores
  • Service area for San Carlos, CA
  • Company policies and services offered
  • Accreditations and certifications

Average San Carlos homeowner saves $2,746/year with solar panels

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Best Solar Companies in San Carlos

When you're on the hunt for the best solar companies in San Carlos, combing through so many options can be overwhelming, but it can pay off since adopting solar power can offer so many fantastic benefits. Because solar panels produce their own energy, they can greatly reduce your electricity bill each month, if not entirely eliminate it. In fact, you could be looking at about $33,000 of savings over 20 years.

There are so many installers to consider, but in this article, we'll help you get a handle on all your options by recommending some of the best solar companies in San Carlos. We advise shopping around for multiple quotes and comparing them to see which is the best installer for your home. To receive free, no-pressure quotes from vetted solar installers in San Carlos, click the link below.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch Rankings for Solar Companies in San Carlos

Best Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.5/5

SunPower Corporation

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Business installations

Website: https://us.sunpower.com/
Address: 51 Rio Robles, San Jose, CA 95134
Phone: 5105400550
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.1/5

High Definition Solar

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Integrated roofing

Website: http://www.highdefinitionsolar.com/
Address: 1190 Burnett Ave, Concord, CA 94520
Phone: 9255668282
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

SunPower by The Solar Quote

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Prompt Service Delivery
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: http://www.sunpowerbythesolarquote.com/
Address: 2819 W March Ln #154, Stockton, CA 95219
Phone: 8889446765
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

EES Solar

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.ees-solar.com/
Address: 7700 Old Redwood Hwy, Cotati, CA 94931
Phone: 7077922947
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.8/5

SolarWorld PanelWorks Palo Alto

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: https://solarworld-panelworks-palo-alto.business.site/
Address: 555 Bryant St, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Phone: 6505475770
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.9/5

Cobalt Power Systems Inc.

  • Pros icon Prompt Service Delivery
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Integrated roofing

Website: https://www.cobaltpower.com/
Address: 2557 Wyandotte St, Mountain View, CA 94043
Phone: 6508177791
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.3/5

Owens Electric & Solar

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Family-Operated Business
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Skilled repairs
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Home installations

Website: https://www.owenselectricinc.com/
Address: 279 N Amphlett Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94401
Phone: 6503485727
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.3/5

Nextracker Inc.

  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Home installations

Website: https://www.nextracker.com/
Address: 6200 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont, CA 94555
Phone: 5102702500
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.9/5

Topdot Solar

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.topdotsolar.com/
Address: 2900 Newpark Mall suite 203, Newark, CA 94560
Phone: 8007315104
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.4/5

Semper Solaris

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Skilled repairs
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Home installations

Website: https://www.sempersolaris.com/locations/bay-area/
Address: 2505 Amaral Ct, Hayward, CA 94544
Phone: 6502032589
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.2/5

CED Greentech

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Home installations

Website: http://cedgreentechus.com/
Address: 31260 Wiegman Rd, Hayward, CA 94544
Phone: 5103305068
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

Next Solar, Inc

  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Home installations

Website: http://nextsolarinc.com/
Address: 170 Glenn Way # 1, San Carlos, CA 94070
Phone: 6503568694
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.7/5

All Bay Solar Construction

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.allbaysolar.com/
Address: 5809 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112
Phone: 4156243535
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

Solar Grid USA

  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Skilled repairs

Website: http://www.solargrid-usa.com/
Address: 24301 Southland Dr #405, Hayward, CA 94545
Phone: 5109350507
Outstanding Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.5/5

Simply Solar

  • Pros icon Informative Resources
  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • Pros icon Reliable Customer Support
  • Pros icon Prompt Service Delivery
  • Pros icon Clear Pricing Policy
  • Con icon Limited information available on website

Services Offered

  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon End-to-end services
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: https://simplysolar.com/
Address: 4021 Clipper Ct, Fremont, CA 94538
Phone: 5105747676

Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Solar Companies in San Carlos

EcoWatch's solar experts analyzed each solar company in San Carlos 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 San Carlos


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 San Carlos

Solar panels run off a free energy source — the sun — but to take advantage of this you first need to pay to set up your panels. The cost of solar and the savings it generates vary depending on a few important factors such as:

  • Your location: This affects the average daily sunlight your roof gets, which helps determine how many panels you need.
  • System size and type: Some models are more pricy than others, so the one you want can raise or lower your initial investment. Plus, the more solar panels you need to get, the more it'll cost.
  • Incentives: The federal solar investment tax credit currently allows you to reduce your taxes by 30% of the project cost. Your state may also have incentives and rebates that you can benefit from. Plus, you can save about $33,000 over 20 years on your utility bills, not including incentives.
  • How much power your household needs: If your home uses a lot of energy, you'll reap more rewards from installing solar panels.

Even though a solar panel system costs a good chunk of money upfront, it can save you a considerable amount in the long term. The question of how much, though, depends on several factors, including the amount of daily direct sunlight available and your local electricity rates.

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Solar Incentives in San Carlos

Because solar power is a cleaner source of energy than fossil fuels, there are a number of government incentives available to encourage people to make the switch. These incentives typically include cash rebates, tax breaks and/or solar renewable energy credits. They can lower the cost of going solar by 30%, upwards of 50% depending on your location. In our article on solar incentives, you can read about the incentives you qualify for in San Carlos.

Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in San Carlos

If you're thinking of adding solar panels to your home, one of the principal reasons why may be to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. Many homeowners might be wondering how much exactly they can impact the environment by switching to solar in San Carlos, though. A significant thing to think about is your overall carbon footprint. For example, if you have a long commute, your footprint may be greater, so adopting solar power for your house can help offset that. After you go solar, your carbon footprint can be lowered by about 50 pounds each year. If you care about the environment, you'll no doubt get that there are many advantages to adopting solar energy other than just saving money on electricity. You can also help preserve the environment, which some would argue is worth more.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's San Carlos, CA Solar Company Rankings FAQs

What is the top solar panel installer in San Carlos?

The highest-rated local solar company in San Carlos is Next Solar, Inc, with a rating of 3.00 stars.

What is the negative environmental impact of making solar panels?

Solar panels can be bad for the environment when manufacturers use toxic chemicals in the construction. Chemicals can make solar panels difficult to dispose of safely once they've reached the end of their lifespan. Solar panel manufacturing requires a lot of energy as well. The energy payback period is about 1 to 4 years.

Is it worth installing solar panels on my house?

Solar panels require a large upfront investment that will cost you several thousands of dollars, but whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a collection of factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.

When should I put up solar panels?

You can put up solar panels whenever it's convenient for you, but consider doing so in the winter when the demand is less. With fewer homeowners going solar, you could potentially see faster installation times and more savings.

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.