On this page, you’ll discover the top 15 solar panel installation companies in California along with clear pricing details. The world is moving toward renewable energy, and homes and offices everywhere are embracing the power of the sun.

Imagine reducing your electricity bills, increasing your property’s value, and contributing to a cleaner planet—all by installing solar panels. Thousands of Californians are already making the switch, and now it’s your turn to join the movement.

Whether it’s for your home or office, these trusted companies are ready to guide you every step of the way. A simple phone call, a quick WhatsApp message, or a request through their portal is all it takes. Share your needs, and they’ll come directly to your location, provide a detailed estimate, and give you transparent information about your solar installation.

The future is bright, and renewable energy is no longer a dream—it’s today’s reality. California’s best solar experts are here to help you harness the sun and transform your space into a hub of sustainable power.

Solar Panel Installation Companies in California

California’s Solar Leaders: California continues to shine as the nation’s solar powerhouse, with more than 1,100 installers driving the state’s clean energy revolution. Among the most trusted solar panel installation companies in California are Sunrun, Tesla Energy, Momentum Solar, Palmetto, Semper Solaris, Baker Home Energy, SunPower, SolarMax Technology, Infinity Energy, New Day Solar, and etc. check detailed information below.

When going to consider Cost & Value, Homeowners can expect installation prices to average between $2.50–$3.50 per watt, which means a typical 6 kW system runs about $15,000–$21,000 before incentives. With the federal tax credit and California’s high electricity rates, the payback period is often just a few years. The 30% federal tax credit applies only to systems installed by December 31, 2025—act quickly to qualify. Most companies have no strict minimum system size—they customize based on roof space, energy usage, and feasibility.

Here you can check Rankings & Reputation. Most entrepreneurs are choosing these companies. Because they are consistently highlighted across platforms like EnergySage, SolarReviews, EcoWatch, and ConsumerAffairs, based on customer satisfaction, years in business, and overall market presence as of late 2025. National giants such as Sunrun and Tesla dominate in scale, while regional providers often win praise for their personalized service and local expertise.

Future-Ready Solutions With California’s NEM 3.0 net billing rules reshaping solar economics, many installers now bundle battery storage to maximize savings. By storing excess energy instead of exporting it at reduced credits, homeowners can achieve greater independence and resilience.

Top 10 Solar Panel Companies in California

1. Sunrun

• Cost: $2.75–$3.50/watt (leases/PPAs higher; owned systems closer to average)
• System Size: Flexible; designs as small as 5–7 kW
• Highlights: Largest U.S. installer with strong California presence. This is one of the best solar panel installation companies in California. They Offers leases, PPAs, or purchase. Battery options include Tesla Powerwall and Sunrun Brightbox. 25-year warranties on leases. Mixed service reviews but high volume and grid support programs like CalReady VPP.

2. Tesla Energy

• Cost: $3.00–$3.90/watt (lower via direct ordering; price-matching available)
• System Size: Starts around 4 kW (e.g., 12-panel 4.8 kW system)
• Highlights: Sleek, low-profile panels (400–425W) with seamless Powerwall integration and app control. Known for affordability and modern aesthetics, though service quality varies. Great fit for EV owners.

3. Solar Optimum

• Cost: $2.80–$3.20/watt
• System Size: Custom designs from ~4–6 kW
• Highlights: Southern California specialist. EnergySage Installer of the Year (2024–2025). High ratings for quality and responsiveness. Uses Panasonic/SolarEdge equipment. Strong battery and custom layout options.

4. NRG Clean Power

• Cost: $2.90–$3.30/watt
• System Size: Flexible; systems from ~4 kW upward
• Highlights: Premium equipment (REC, Enphase). Excellent reviews (4.9+ stars). Focuses on transparency, custom designs, and long-term performance.

5. OC Solar

• Cost: $2.80–$3.20/watt
• System Size: Typically 5–7 kW for OC homes
• Highlights: Orange County leader with strong warranties and production guarantees. High customer satisfaction. Seamless roofing + solar integration.

6. SunPower (via Stellar Solar)

• Cost: $3.20–$3.50/watt (premium Maxeon panels)
• System Size: Flexible; smaller systems possible due to high efficiency
• Highlights: Top-tier efficiency (22%+). Stellar Solar (San Diego dealer) has outstanding reviews. Best for limited roof space. This is best solar panel installation companies in California warranties up to 40 years.

7. Freedom Forever

• Cost: $2.80–$3.30/watt
• System Size: Commonly 6–10 kW
• Highlights: National provider with strong California focus. Competitive financing and production guarantees. Good for mid-sized systems.

8. Citadel Roofing & Solar

• Cost: $2.90–$3.30/watt
• System Size: Typically 15–25 panels (~6–10 kW)
• Highlights: #1 in California for solar + storage integration. Roofing expertise ensures seamless installs. Excellent for combined roof/solar projects.

9. LA Solar Group / AMECO Solar

• Cost: $2.80–$3.20/watt
• System Size: Flexible; smaller systems (4–5 kW) possible
• Highlights: Long-established locals (AMECO has 50+ years experience). Reliable with strong roofing integration. Great for custom LA-area needs.

10. Solar Negotiators

• Cost: $2.70–$3.10/watt
• System Size: Typically 4–8 kW
• Highlights: Central California specialist. 4.8+ star reviews from thousands of customers. Competitive pricing and lifetime support.

11. New Day Solar

• Cost: $2.70–$3.10/watt
• System Size: Commonly 5–8 kW; flexible for smaller setups
• Highlights: Southern California specialist (Murrieta/Riverside/San Diego). Formerly Carlson Solar with 23+ years experience. In-house work (no subcontractors). Strong on battery storage and custom designs. Excellent reviews for transparency and responsiveness.

12. Infinity Energy

• Cost: Not quoting new systems (appears out of business as of 2025)
• System Size: N/A
• Highlights: Previously active but now reported closed with unresolved complaints. Avoid. (Note: distinct from Infinity Solar in Orange County, which has positive reviews).

13. SolarMax Technology

• Cost: $2.60–$3.10/watt
• System Size: Flexible; residential systems from ~5 kW upward
• Highlights: Riverside-based, manufactures panels in the USA. Over 12,000 installs. Strong warranties (25 years). Good reviews for affordability and battery integration.

14. Baker Home Energy

• Cost: $2.70–$3.20/watt
• System Size: Typically 6–10 kW
• Highlights: San Diego/Escondido-based, part of Baker Electric (85+ years). Over 20,000 installs. Offers whole-home solutions (solar, batteries, HVAC, roofing). Premium equipment and service, though bundled options may cost more.

15. Semper Solaris

• Cost: $2.60–$3.00/watt
• System Size: Typically 6–10 kW
• Highlights: Veteran-owned with statewide presence. Not only this solar panel installation company located in California, but they are also strong in San Diego, LA, and Bay Area. Known for reliability, roofing integration, and Tesla Powerwall options. Thousands of positive reviews. Fast installs and strong warranties.

Solar Panel Installation & Pricing in California

As of December 2025, solar costs have stabilized post-NEM 3.0, with battery storage now essential for maximizing ROI.

• Average Cost Per Watt: $2.40–$3.25 (most sources cite ~$2.80–$3.10)
• Typical System Size: 6–9 kW (average ~8–9 kW to offset home usage)
• Gross Cost Example (8 kW system): $19,000–$26,000
• After 30% Federal Tax Credit: $13,300–$18,200
• Battery Add-On (10–15 kWh): $10,000–$15,000 gross (rebates via SGIP available)
• Payback Period: 5–8 years (faster with battery due to high utility rates ~$0.30–$0.50/kWh)
• Lifetime Savings (25 years): $80,000–$120,000+ after payback

Key Considerations & Risks

• Hidden fees: Some installers add costs for permits or roof work.
• Panel efficiency: Premium brands like SunPower cost more but save space.
• Financing traps: Watch for high-interest solar loans.
• Local expertise: Smaller companies (e.g., Baker Home Energy, New Day Solar) often provide better service than national chains.

Factors Affecting Price

• Location: Higher in Bay Area/LA; lower in Central Valley.
• Equipment: Premium panels (e.g., Maxeon) cost more.
• Roof complexity: Add-ons like batteries or EV chargers increase costs.

Conclusion

Even with the adjustments brought by NEM 3.0, solar power continues to stand out as one of California’s smartest investments. The state’s abundant sunshine and steep utility rates ensure that homeowners can still achieve strong financial returns—especially when systems are paired with battery storage to capture maximum value.

To get the best deal, it’s wise to compare 3–5 quotes from both national providers and trusted local installers. Mid-tier companies such as New Day Solar, SolarMax Technology, Baker Home Energy, and Semper Solaris consistently earn praise in homeowner reviews and regional rankings.

Platforms like EnergySage make it easy to evaluate offers for your specific address, and under NEM 3.0, batteries are no longer optional—they’re essential for long-term savings. With payback periods averaging 5–8 years and lifetime savings stretching well into six figures, now is the time to act. Be sure to lock in the 30% federal tax credit before it expires, and let California’s sunshine power your future.