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

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

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

Average San Francisco homeowner saves $2,580/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 Francisco

When choosing between the best solar panel companies, San Francisco homeowners have more choices than ever before, which can be mind-boggling, but we're here to make adopting solar power less confusing. Because solar panels produce their own energy, they can greatly lower your electricity bill each month, if not completely eliminate it. In fact, you could be looking at about $31,000 of savings over 20 years.

In this article, we'll help you narrow down the top companies in your area. To see how much you would have to pay to put up a solar panel system on your roof, you can get a free, no-obligation quote from one of the top solar companies in San Francisco by clicking the "get quote" button 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 Francisco

Best Local Installer
ecowatch badge icon

EcoWatch Rating

4.4/5

SunPower Corporation

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

Services Offered

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

Website: https://us.sunpower.com/
Address: 1414 Harbour Way S, Richmond, CA 94804
Phone: 5102608200
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.1/5

High Definition Solar

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

Services Offered

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

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

4.5/5

Solar Works

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • 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 Home installations
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon End-to-end services
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation

Website: http://www.solarworksca.com/
Address: 400c Morris St, Sebastopol, CA 95472
Phone: 7078298282
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

EES Solar

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

Services Offered

  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Home 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

3.0/5

SunPower Elite Dealer - Impact

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • 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 Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions

Website: https://www.sunpowerquotenow.com/
Address: 3558 Round Barn Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Phone: 7076151929
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

3.0/5

SunPower by The Solar Quote

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

Services Offered

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

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

4.9/5

Solar Panel RoofNSave Alameda

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

Services Offered

  • Service icon Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Skilled repairs
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Home installations

Website: https://solarpanelroofnsavealameda.com/
Address: 1101 Marina Village Pkwy, Alameda, CA 94501
Phone: 5107512223
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.9/5

Save a Lot Solar

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

Services Offered

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

Website: https://www.savealotsolar.com/
Address: 1201 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94706
Phone: 8338765272
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.9/5

A1 Sun, Inc.

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

Services Offered

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

Website: http://www.a1suninc.com/
Address: 1455 Fourth St, Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone: 5105265715
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.7/5

SolarUnion

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

Website: https://www.solarunion.com/
Address: 1700 Montgomery St Suite 108, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: 8888156633
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 Expert panel installation
  • Service icon Tailored solutions
  • Service icon Energy storage solutions
  • Service icon Business installations
  • Service icon Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Home installations

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

EcoWatch Rating

4.7/5

CivicSolar, Inc

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

Services Offered

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

Website: https://www.civicsolar.com/
Address: 304 12th St #3b, Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: 8004092257
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.7/5

GRID Alternatives

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

Services Offered

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

Website: http://www.gridalternatives.org/
Address: 1171 Ocean Ave UNIT 200, Oakland, CA 94608
Phone: 5107311310
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.5/5

Sun Light & Power

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

Services Offered

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

Website: https://www.sunlightandpower.com/
Address: 1035 Folger Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710
Phone: 5108519028
Outstanding Local Installer
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EcoWatch Rating

4.9/5

Pegasus Solar

  • Pros icon Free Quotes
  • 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 Integrated roofing
  • Service icon Professional reinstallation
  • Service icon Home installations
  • Service icon Tailored solutions

Website: http://www.pegasussolar.com/
Address: 506 W Ohio Ave, Richmond, CA 94804
Phone: 5102103797

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

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


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 Francisco

Even though solar panels can help save you a decent chunk of change on energy over time, it's important to take into consideration the upfront costs. Some main factors that influence how much it will cost to install a solar panel system on your home and how much money you could save over time are:

  • Incentives: Along with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which lets you deduct 30% of your total installation cost, your local government may offer additional tax exemptions, credits or rebates that will help you save even more. Excluding incentives, you can save an average of $31,000 over 20 years with your solar panels, too.
  • 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 current power bills: Solar panels can significantly reduce, or completely eradicate, your utility bills. In San Francisco, you can save an average of $84 a month.
  • How much sunlight your roof gets: If your roof doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight, your solar panels won't be able to produce as much energy, which will leave you with lower savings on electric bills than a house with a roof that gets lots of sunlight.

Even though a solar panel system costs a decent chunk of money upfront, it can save you much more over the lifespan of your panels. The question of how much, though, depends on a number of factors, like the kind of solar panels you get and your local electricity rates.

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Solar Incentives in San Francisco

If you're thinking about making the switch to solar energy, several government incentives and subsidies can immensely bring down the installation costs and expedite the return on your investment. You can qualify for the federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) for the tax year you turn on your a solar panel system. You can also potentially use the ITC with other local rebates and benefits. In our article on solar incentives, you can find out about the incentives you qualify for near you.

Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in San Francisco

Installing solar panels is a powerful way to do your part for a cleaner and more sustainable future. Many homeowners might be wondering how much exactly they can impact the environment by switching to solar in San Francisco, though. One thing to keep in mind is your overall carbon footprint. For example, if you spend a lot of time in the car and have an electric vehicle, you can use solar energy for your home to power your EV and therefore help offset your carbon emissions. Because solar panels don't release CO2 emissions into the atmosphere when creating electricity, they're a good substitute for traditional energy sources. In fact, you could look forward to lowering your carbon dioxide emissions by about 50 pounds each year. As you can see, trading traditional energy for solar has so many other benefits besides saving money. One of the primary ones is that you can help save the environment too.

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 Francisco, CA Solar Company Rankings FAQs

What is the most reputable solar panel installer in San Francisco?

In San Francisco, SolarUnion is the top local solar company. Our team of experts rates it 4.06 stars, so it's a great choice if you're planning on installing solar panels on your home.

Are solar panels actually eco-friendly?

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

How long does it take for solar to pay for itself?

The average payback period for solar panel installation is about 5.9 years, but the exact period varies by the cost of electricity where you are, incentives and net metering programs.

When should I install solar panels?

You can put up solar panels whenever it's convenient for you, but consider doing it in the winter when the demand is less. With fewer homeowners switching to 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.