After researching and reviewing multiple solar installers, the This Old House team named Elevation and Sunrun as the best solar companies in California.
California ranks among the states with the highest electricity prices in the U.S., with an average residential rate of 30.22 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is almost twice the national average rate of 16.94 cents per kWh. However, high electricity costs mean that homeowners can achieve major energy bill savings by installing solar panel systems. Learn more about the benefits of going solar in California and our top picks in this article.
Top Solar Companies in California
Here is our ranking of the top four solar companies in California:
- Elevation Solar: Best Energy-Efficient Upgrades
- Sunrun: Best Solar Panel Leasing
- Palmetto Solar: Best Customer Support
- Momentum Solar: Best Solar Panel Installation
Comparing Top Solar Companies in California
The table below compares the best solar companies in California, highlighting our scores, Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, and equipment warranty terms. With warranty coverage, you can avoid paying out-of-pocket if your solar panels malfunction or need replacing after installation.
| Provider | Logo | Our Score (Out of 5) | BBB Rating* | Warranty Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Elevation SolarGet Quote |  | A+ | 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship | |
SunrunGet Quote |  | A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | |
Palmetto SolarGet Quote |  | A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship | |
Momentum SolarRead Our Review |  | A+ | 25-year panels, 10-year workmanship |
*The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of January 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Elevation is our top-rated solar company in California because it offers several energy-related services, leading warranty coverage, and flexible payment options.
- The average cost of solar panel systems in California is $2.73 per watt according to the University of California at Irvine. At this rate, you can expect to pay $16,380 for a 6 kilowatt (kW) solar system or $11,466 after the 30% federal tax credit.
- California does not offer local tax credits and rebates for solar panels, based on our research. However, home batteries qualify for a rebate of $0.15 per watt-hour under the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP).
Our Reviews of the Top California Solar Companies
Below is an overview of our picks for the best solar companies in California. We reviewed each company by comparing solar equipment options, warranty terms, financing plans, additional services, and customer review ratings.
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 25–30 year workmanship
Performance Guarantee: Varies by solar panel manufacturer
Company Overview
- Has over a decade of experience serving five states, including California
- Offers solar panel installation, solar battery systems, system maintenance, energy monitoring, and home energy efficiency upgrades
- Has installed solar panels and energy efficiency upgrades in over 13,000 homes
Keep in Mind
- Provides limited information about its solar panel and battery brands online
- Does not offer much information about financing options on its website
Our Review
In addition to offering solar panel and battery systems, Elevation focuses on home energy efficiency in general. The company also provides home energy audits, insulation upgrades, and in-house energy monitoring through its Curb mobile app. Elevation installs high-quality solar panels with a manufacturer’s warranty of at least 25 years. The company also offers an extended 30-year warranty for an additional cost, but we could not find pricing details online.
Elevation does not specify equipment brands on its website, so we recommend contacting the company to learn more about its solar panels. Elevation also offers four payment options: cash purchase, solar loan, solar lease and power purchase agreements (PPA). However, we could not find additional details about its financing terms online.
Customer Feedback
Elevation has mostly positive online reviews, with customers often praising the company’s professional representatives and installers and affordable prices. However, the company has received some complaints regarding slow repair services after customers reported system malfunctions.
“[I] spoke with [a representative] from Elevation [and] he provided excellent customer service, listened to me completely, didn’t rush me, and walked me through trouble shooting that solved the issue. He also explained every step thoroughly to increase my knowledge to help me become more independent.” —Joe R. via the BBB on Aug. 26, 2024
“I have had multiple technical issues with [a] solar system installed in summer of 2022, requiring technicians to come to my home to perform repairs every few months. Given the young age of the system, it is frustrating to deal with this many quality issues. The parts are under warranty, but I have just been informed that Elevation has a ‘policy change’ and each visit, which was originally offered free of charge, is now subject to a $200 fee for labor. Given how many issues I’ve had with the inverters and panels, this will be incredibly costly for me.” —Amber A. via the BBB on Oct. 29, 2024
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship, 10-year roof penetration
Performance Guarantee: 90% of estimated energy production
Company Overview
- Founded in 2007 and is headquartered locally in San Francisco
- Installs solar panels, home batteries, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and smart electrical panels
- Has a mobile app that offers system monitoring, customer service, and billing
Keep in Mind
- Warranty terms can vary depending on your system financing method
- Works with third-party solar installers, which may lead to variable workmanship quality
Our Review
Sunrun is one of the largest solar companies in the U.S., serving over 1 million residential customers across California and multiple other states. Although Sunrun does not list specific panel brands on its website, the company offers two energy storage options for California customers looking to install a battery: the Sunrun Shift and Tesla Powerwall 3. The Sunrun Shift is an in-house storage system that uses LG batteries, designed to increase your energy savings and optimize your electricity usage under time-of-use tariffs. However, Sunrun Shift is not designed as a backup power system. If you want this feature, you must purchase the Tesla Powerwall 3.
In addition to solar panels and batteries, Sunrun also offers EV chargers and smart electrical panels with energy management and smart monitoring features. However, the company works with third-party installers, and solar equipment options may vary depending on your location.
Sunrun’s warranty terms depend on how you pay for your home solar system. The company specializes in solar leases, which allows a homeowner to use a solar system in exchange for a monthly payment, but also accepts cash payments and loans. The company offers leases with monthly payments or 25-year prepaid options. While exact warranty terms will vary depending on how you pay, customers receive 24/7 system monitoring regardless.
Customer Experiences
Sunrun has mixed scores on the BBB and Trustpilot. Sunrun receives many positive reviews from customers who seem satisfied with the overall installation process and the company’s representatives. However, Sunrun has received complaints in recent years regarding confusion around its solar leases. Some customers have also reported that their monthly lease payments exceed their power bill savings.
“[Our representative] provided a completely seamless transition from SDG&E to Sunrun! She followed the job from the start [by] helping with all the necessary documentation to finish [by] obtaining all the necessary approvals. She followed closely to make certain there were no hiccups. The actual installation of [the] panels, batteries, inverter, and wiring took less than half a day. It’s so nice not getting an electric bill, particularly when they have been constantly on the rise!” —Elizabeth via Trustpilot on Feb. 27, 2024
“They take a while to activate [the solar panels] … We thought we were going to pay monthly and [the panels] would be ours [but] it is not like that. They are rented [and] the seller lies to you about the sale. I do not recommend this company.” —Tania V. via the BBB on Jan. 30, 2024
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment, 10-year workmanship
Performance Guarantee: 95% of estimated energy production
Company Overview
- Sells solar system protection plans, a unique benefit compared to some other companies
- Provides installation of solar panels, batteries, EV chargers, and heating and cooling upgrades
- Offers online quotes and virtual consultations, a benefit for customers who prefer digital communications
Keep in Mind
- Provides limited information about its solar equipment options online
- Only offers basic monitoring if you purchase a solar system without a protection plan
Our Review
Palmetto distinguishes itself from competitors with its solar system protection plans: Palmetto Protect Essentials and Palmetto Protect Performance. Both plans offer benefits such as a 25-year equipment warranty, 10-year workmanship warranty, a 5-year roof penetration warranty, an energy app, and smart system monitoring with remote diagnosis and proactive service alerts. If you buy the Performance Plan, Palmetto also includes parts and labor coverage and a 95% performance guarantee. So if your solar system generates less than 95% of its projected energy output over time, Palmetto will send you a check to compensate for the missed electricity savings.
You can purchase a Palmetto solar system without a protection plan, but you will only receive a basic system monitoring service. Your solar equipment is still covered by manufacturer warranties, but Palmetto does not extend an additional performance guarantee. In addition to accepting cash purchases and solar loans, Palmetto has a solar lease program called LightReach. The company’s solar leases include a protection plan by default, but adding this protection will cost extra if you purchase your system in cash or with loan financing.
Customer Experiences
Palmetto has average ratings on platforms such as the BBB and Google Reviews. Positive reviews often mention the customer’s power bill savings after installing a Palmetto solar system, as well as the professionalism of the company’s installation crews. Negative reviews describe lower-than-expected power bill savings and slow repair services.
“From start to finish my Palmetto team was always there to help and guide me through the sometimes complicated steps of switching to solar power. Especially those steps dealing with the final completion of the process and the permits and inspections that the electric company had to perform before flipping that switch. [The] installation went smoothly and any questions I had about placement of the panels and approval were completed without any problems.” —Mj H. via the BBB on Nov. 7, 2024
“Installed a solar system roughly three years ago. The [salesperson] lied about how a solar system would reduce energy costs. We pay about $290 monthly for zero reduction in energy. Our bill is as high as it ever was and getting more expensive every year. We are stuck paying for a system that serves no purpose whatsoever. The system will never pay for itself and will be worn out by the time it’s paid off.” —Jason N. via the BBB on Oct. 13, 2024
NABCEP Certified: Yes
Warranty Length: 25-year equipment and workmanship
Performance Guarantee: Varies by solar panel manufacturer
Company Overview
- Founded in 2009 and has over 15 years of solar industry experience
- Specializes in solar panel systems with home batteries for energy storage
- Has earned several awards, including recognitions in the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 and Inc. 500 rankings
Keep in Mind
- Offers limited details about its solar panel and battery brands online
- Provides minimal information about financing options on its website
Our Review
Momentum Solar handles its entire installation process using in-house crews, without relying on external contractors. Momentum only installs Tier 1 solar panels, but does not disclose specific brands on its website. However, the company uses Enphase microinverters, which get installed individually on each panel to optimize energy production. Additionally, the company provides a 25-year equipment and workmanship warranty for all its home solar systems.
Momentum Solar only offers battery systems in certain states, including California. The company usually offers Enphase battery systems, but options may vary based on your location. While the company offers four payment options—cash purchase, solar loan, solar lease, and PPAs, its website does not provide specific details about interest rates and other financing terms.
Customer Experiences
Momentum Solar has average customer review scores on the BBB and Google Reviews. Positive reviews often mention the company’s affordable prices and how clear information was provided during the design and installation process. However, Momentum has received numerous complaints for its high-pressure sales tactics, which include repeated phone calls and knocking on doors with “no soliciting” signs.
“Momentum was great on price, quality and the install. [Our technician] went way above and beyond in making sure it was done right! I recommend Momentum for anyone who needs a great solar system.” —Tom C. via the BBB on Feb. 23, 2024
“Extremely aggressive sales tactics. I have asked them to stop contacting me verbally and in written form and they have continued to call me at least twice a day for over two weeks now.” —Adrian B. via the BBB on Jan. 3, 2025
Local California Solar Companies
So far, we have compared large solar installation companies that operate across multiple states—including California. However, you can also find local solar installers that focus on specific states or regions. Small solar companies can provide a more personalized customer experience, lower system prices, and expertise on local requirements and incentive programs.
For example, AMECO Solar and Roofing serves California exclusively. Founded in 1974, the company has decades of experience in the local solar and roofing industries. AMECO has installed over 7,000 home solar systems in the Golden State, using high-quality REC solar panels and Enphase microinverters. Additionally, it offers a 40-year solar equipment warranty, which is longer than the 25-year warranties provided by many national installers. AMECO also offers home batteries and EV chargers.
Solar Insights, Regulations, and Incentives in California
California is the top solar state by installed capacity, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). The Golden State has installed 49,776 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity, enough to power more than 14.5 million homes.
While many states generate less than 10% of their power with solar panels, California meets 31.37% of its electricity needs using solar technology. Although Texas and Florida have emerged as major players in the national solar industry, they still trail behind California with 37,712 MW and 17,054 MW of installed capacity, respectively.
Solar Regulations in California
California has basic requirements for solar panel systems commonly found across the U.S. This includes that your system must meet the interconnection requirements of your utility company, and must receive Permission to Operate (PTO) before being switched on. California also has stringent building codes, which include additional safety and structural requirements for home solar systems. However, this should not present an issue if you contact a qualified solar installation company to help you navigate the installation process.
Since January 2020, the California Energy Commission requires solar photovoltaic systems as a mandatory feature for all new low-rise residential residential. Specifically, this requirement applies for new single-family homes and multi-family buildings up to three stories, but not for existing properties.
As with other states, California offers net metering, a program that allows solar system owners to sell excess energy generation back to the grid in exchange for billing credits. In April 2023, California introduced Net Energy Metering 3.0 (NEM 3.0), which greatly reduced compensation rates for solar owners with surplus production. Under previous net metering policies, solar owners could sell excess energy at compensation rates very close to retail prices. However, NEM 3.0 reduced solar buyback rates by around 75%–80%. As a result, exporting excess solar energy to the grid is now less viable in California—you can typically achieve greater savings by using solar electricity directly, or storing it in a battery for nighttime use.
California Incentives and Rebates
Beyond the 30% federal solar tax credit, California does not offer local tax incentives for solar energy systems, based on our research. The state offered a property tax exclusion and multiple solar rebate programs in the past, but most of these benefits ended as of 2025. However, California still offers a rebate program for home batteries, which homeowners often pair with solar panels, as well as a low-income solar rebate program.
| Incentive | Details |
|---|---|
| Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) | This program offers a home battery rebate of $0.15 per watt-hour of storage capacity. For example, a Tesla Powerwall 3 with a capacity of 13.5 kWh (13,500 Wh) would qualify for a $2,025 rebate. The rebate is available in the San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), Southern California Gas (SCG), and Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) service territories. |
| Disadvantaged Communities Single-Family Affordable Solar Housing (DAC-SASH) | This program offers a solar rebate of $3 per watt for households that meet certain income and location guidelines. For example, an eligible home that installs a 5 kW solar system could receive a $15,000 rebate. This incentive program is available for home solar systems ranging from 1 kW–5 kW of capacity. |
How To Choose the Best Solar Company
There are hundreds of solar companies in the market—especially if you live in California. Our team recommends comparing offers from several solar installers to ensure you’re getting quality equipment and favorable warranty terms at a fair price. The following checklist can help you compare solar quotes more efficiently:
- Read the warranty terms in each solar offer, and look for companies that offer at least 25-year equipment and 10-year workmanship warranties.
- Ask for solar quotes with itemized prices so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Watch out for lump sum offers, which often lack transparency.
- Check the quality of the solar panel, inverter, and battery brands included in your offer.
- Do background checks on solar installers by considering online reviews, years of experience in California, and certifications from organizations such as the National American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
Watch out for solar offers that seem too expensive or cheap, and companies using deceptive or misleading terms. For example, some solar companies offer loans with very low annual percentage rates (APRs), but then sell significantly overpriced solar systems. Keep in mind that solar systems usually cost around $20,000 on average, but prices may vary.
Also watch for companies offering “free solar panels,” which usually refers to a solar lease or PPA—not an actual free system. These are legitimate payment methods, but a reputable solar installer should use more transparency with its language. While a solar lease typically allows for you to put zero money down, you will still have to make monthly payments to use the system.
How Much Does Installing Solar in California Cost?
The average cost of solar panels in California is $2.73 per watt. This figure includes solar equipment, design and installation costs, and an installer’s overhead and profit. Based on this figure, we calculated typical prices you can expect to pay for commonly-sized home solar systems.
| System Size | Cost Per Watt | Total Installed System Cost | Cost After the Federal Tax Credit* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $2.73 | $13,650 | $9,555 |
| 6 kW | $2.73 | $16,380 | $11,466 |
| 7 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $13,377 |
| 8 kW | $2.73 | $21,840 | $15,288 |
*The federal tax credit is worth 30% of your installed solar system cost.
Cost of Solar in California vs. the National Average
The average cost of solar panels nationwide is $3.33 per watt according to the latest SEIA Solar Market Insight Report. With an average price of $2.73 per watt, solar systems in California cost 18% less than the national average. We compare state and national costs for a 6 kW solar system in the table below.
| California | National Average | |
|---|---|---|
| Price per watt | $2.73 | $3.33 |
| Total price | $16,380 | $19,980 |
Survey Insights from California Solar Customers
In 2025, we surveyed 1,000 home solar customers across the U.S., including 174 respondents from California, to understand their experiences shopping for and installing solar panel systems. The average cost to install solar panels among our respondents in California was $20,222, which is higher than the national average of $16,129.
Most California homeowners installed about 14 panels, and state residents reported higher energy bill savings per panel, averaging $15, compared to the national average of $14. This results in approximately $210 in monthly energy savings. Additionally, we found that around 30% of California respondents used Sunrun, one of our top recommended companies, for solar installation. This statistic suggests that Sunrun is a strong choice for solar installation in California.
FAQs About Solar Companies in California
What is the average cost to install solar panels in California?
The average cost of home solar systems in California is $2.73 per watt, according to UC Irvine. Based on this figure, you can expect to pay $16,380 for a 6 kW solar system, or $11,466 after applying the 30% federal tax credit.
What is the new solar net metering law in California?
Net metering allows you to send excess solar generation to the grid in exchange for billing credits. California implemented Net Energy Metering 3.0 in April 2023, which reduced compensation rates for excess solar energy by around 75%–80%. However, by storing excess solar energy in a home battery, you can save the full value of each kilowatt-hour.
How many solar companies operate in California?
There are 2,476 solar companies in California according to the latest data from the SEIA, including 427 manufacturers, 1,120 installers and developers, and 929 companies dedicated to “other” solar-related businesses.
How We Evaluated California Solar Companies
Our team developed a scoring system for solar companies that allows us to rank and review installers based on what’s most important to consumers. We score each company based on several factors, which we then convert into a rating out of 5 stars. Here is a list of the performance areas we considered when evaluating California solar companies:
- Solar Equipment and Services: Solar companies earned points in our review for offering additional products beyond solar panels, such as home batteries and EV chargers. We also gave companies points for us using in-house installers rather than third-party contractors, and providing additional home services such as energy audits and roofing.
- Warranty and Performance Guarantees: Companies received higher scores for offering solar equipment with long warranty terms, such as 25 years for equipment. We also rated companies higher for extending additional warranty coverage for system workmanship, energy production, and roof integrity.
- Brand Reputation and Professional Certifications: A company’s reputation can offer customers peace of mind, especially when it comes to solar installations. To assess this factor, we looked at BBB accreditation and ratings, NABCEP certification, customer reviews, and active lawsuits.
- Financing Options: Since having multiple finance options can help more homeowners access solar power, companies scored higher for offering four purchasing options—a cash purchase, solar loan, solar lease and PPA. Companies earned additional points for offering in-house financing, rather than using external partners.
- Industry Experience: Companies with more years of experience earned higher scores, with maximum points awarded to installers with 20 or more years in the industry.
- State Availability: Although we only considered companies that operate in California for this review, installers earned more points for having a service area that covers multiple U.S. states.
