11 Best Solar Companies in Oakland, NJ (2023 Reviews)
We analyzed over 1500 solar companies in the nation,
and have selected the top 11 in Oakland based on:
-
Customer review scores - Service area for Oakland, NJ
- Company policies and services offered
- Accreditations and certifications
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Average Oakland homeowner saves $1,199/year with solar panels
Updated May 04, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Best Solar Companies in Oakland
When choosing between the best solar panel companies, Oakland homeowners have more choices than ever before, which can be a lot to consider, but we're here to make making the switch to solar power simpler. Because of Oakland's great amount of sunshine on average, there are lots of solar companies to choose from.
Here, we'll narrow down some of the top solar companies in Oakland to make your choice a little bit easier. Read on to see our picks for the top solar companies in the city, or connect with a vetted solar company near you right away by clicking the 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
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
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Expensive - Customer service varies by local dealer
Services Offered
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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
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
Trinity Solar
- Many financing options
- Family-owned and -operated
- Makes charitable contributions
- Limited service area
- Relatively short workmanship warranty
Services Offered
- Solar Panels
- Solar Batteries
- Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
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
Solar Cents
- Free Quotes
- 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
- Integrated roofing
Sussex Energy Group
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Informative Resources
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Expert panel installation
- Home installations
Solar Products Inc
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Business installations
- Home installations
Elumis
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Home installations
PaneltheEarth LLC
- Free Quotes
- Clear Pricing Policy
- Outstanding Customer Support
- Informative Resources
- Recognized Excellence
- Limited information available on website
Services Offered
- Tailored solutions
- Integrated roofing
- Expert panel installation
- 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 New Jersey 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
Although solar panels can help save you a decent chunk of change on electricity bills over time, it's important to consider the upfront costs. Some key things that determine the cost and possible savings include:
- Energy consumption: Installing a solar system may be too steep of an option for families that don't need too much energy each month.
- Incentives: Along with the federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which gives you a tax credit currently worth 30% of your total installation cost, your 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 $14,000 over 20 years with your solar panels, too.
- How much energy costs for you: The typical household in Oakland shells out around $700 a year on energy alone, so you could end up with that much in savings.
- The model of solar panels you can afford: This depends on what your budget is.
Solar is a fruitful investment for most homeowners. You can generate your own power instead of paying for it from the grid and make use of solar tax credits and rebates, all while helping the planet.
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Solar Incentives in Oakland
One of the great things about installing a solar panel system is receiving incentives from the government. State and city solar incentives vary by location and, sometimes, utility company. Many states offer rebates for solar power, in addition to the federal solar tax credit. Our article on solar incentives goes over more information on the incentives you can find in Oakland.
Environmental Impact of Switching to Solar in Oakland
There are a few primary reasons why many people want to invest in solar energy: to put more money in their bank account and to help the planet. But you may be wondering — how much exactly can you help the planet by using solar power? One thing that can severely affect your carbon footprint is how long your commute is and how much you drive overall. If you go solar and have an electric car, you can vastly reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by charging your car at home. Because solar panels don't release greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere when creating electricity, they're a good alternative to traditional energy sources. In fact, you could reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by about 60 pounds each year. As you can see, investing in solar has so many other rewards besides saving money. One of the most important ones is that you can help save the planet too.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Oakland, NJ Solar Company Rankings FAQs
What is the best solar installer in Oakland?
In Oakland, Phoenix Energy is the top local solar company. Our team of experts rates it 5.00 stars, so it's a great choice if you're planning on installing solar panels on your house.
What is the negative environmental impact of solar panel manufacturing?
Solar panels can be detrimental for the environment when manufacturers use toxic chemicals in the manufacturing process. Chemicals can make solar panels difficult to dispose of safely once they've reached the end of their lifespan. Solar panel manufacturing needs a lot of energy as well. The energy payback period is about 1 to 4 years.
How long does it take to see a return on your investment after getting solar panels?
Solar panels typically pay for themselves in about 12.9 years, but your solar payback period will depend on your utility costs. The more your typical energy bill, the faster your solar panel system will recoup your installation costs.
How much solar panel capacity do I need for my house?
Solar panel capacity is rated based on how many watts of power they produce under standard testing conditions. Since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watts per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.