The Bay Area is one of the most progressive and environmentally-conscious regions in the United States. Home to some of the world's top technology companies and startups, it's no surprise that many Bay Area residents are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. The Bay Area also has only 18.6% rainy days, making it an excellent location for solar energy. The combination of government incentives, social importance, and environmental factors has created a perfect foundation.
The median cost per solar watt in the Bay Area is $3.80. However, it ranges from $3.10 to $4.50 per watt, depending on solar efficiency and the brand you select. On average, American solar homeowners save around $1,500 in electricity costs every year.
There are many top-quality solar companies in the Bay Area, but it can be challenging to choose which one is right for you. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to the 20 top solar companies in the Bay Area. We'll look at what each company offers, their customer satisfaction ratings, and what makes them one of the best in the business!
Tip: What to look for when choosing a solar company
When looking for a solar company, it's important to consider key factors:
- Price: Solar panels can be expensive, so you'll want to ensure you're getting a good deal. Look for a company that offers competitive rates and financing.
- Products and services: Make sure the company offers a wide range of products and services, including installation, maintenance, and repairs.
- Customer service: It's important to choose a company that offers top-notch customer service. Look for companies with a good track record of customer satisfaction.
Tesla Energy (Formerly SolarCity)
- Estimated Cost Per Watt: $2.64
- Warranty: 25 Years Panel, 10 Years Battery
- Estimated Cost: $16,000 - $21,000
Tesla Energy offers a variety of solar products, including rooftop solar panels, solar roofs, and home battery systems. The Powerwall 2 is known as one of the best residential home batteries on the market. Customers also frequently mention the professionalism and cleanliness of the installation team.
They were the first company to offer solar roofs and continue to be at the forefront of solar technology. Tesla Energy is also known for high-quality products and top-notch customer service. They have 3.8/5 stars from Consumer Affairs.
Sunrun
- Estimated Cost Per Watt: $3.83
- Warranty: 11 Years Battery
- Estimated Cost: $15,000 - $29,000
Sunrun is a top solar company offering solar panel installations for residential and commercial properties. They were founded in 2007 and serviced more than 233,000 customers by 2019.
Sunrun is known for its solar-as-a-service business model. While they still sell equipment directly to customers, most of their business is through power purchase agreements (PPAs). These 20 to 25-year contracts provide solar energy to homes with no upfront costs. Overall, they have an A- rating from the Better Business Bureau and 3.7/5 stars from Consumer Affairs.
Vivint Solar
- Estimated Cost Per Watt: $3.76
- Warranty: 20 Years Panel, 20 Years Battery
- Estimated Cost: $11,000
Vivint Solar is a top solar company offering installation, system design, and maintenance. In July 2020, Vivint was acquired by Sunrun at a $3.2 billion valuation. As a result, Vivint is slowly being integrated into the new parent company.
Vivint is known as a leader in door-to-door sales. This acquisition allows Sunrun to strengthen their marketing abilities and grow to own 17.5% of the United States residential solar market. At the time, Vivint Solar had 3.8/5 stars from Consumer Affairs. Customers frequently mention the products' quality, the installation team's professionalism, and the ease of working with Vivint Solar.
SunPower
- Estimated Cost Per Watt: $4.48
- Warranty: 25 Years on Total System
- Estimated Cost: $11,150 - $46,100
SunPower is a top solar company offering solar panel installations for residential and commercial properties. They are one of the oldest solar companies in the United States and have a leading warranty that covers your total solar system. Most providers only offer coverage on your panels and battery.
SunPower is well-known for its effective mounting structure, which aesthetically preserves the look of your roof. They have also created an app that tracks real-time solar production and usage. Overall, they have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and 4.3/5 stars from Consumer Affairs.
Tip: Working with a solar broker
Navigating different solar companies can be overwhelming and have expensive mistakes. For example, one review stated that a lien was put on their home after they received a solar loan. This can make refinancing your mortgage more complicated. Having someone on your side can save you the headache and stress of navigating solar energy on your own. This is why many customers turn to Spark Change` to receive trusted recommendations.
Sunworks
- Estimated Cost Per Watt: $3.62
- Warranty: 25 Years
- Estimated Cost: N/A
Sunworks offers solar panel installations for both residential and commercial properties. They are known for providing many financial options that provide solar access. These include solar leases, power purchase agreements, and loans. They have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and 3.2/5 stars from Consumer Affairs. Many customers cite their 25-year bumper-to-bumper warranty as the reason for purchase.
Hooked On Solar
- Estimated Cost Per Watt: $2.50 - $3.50
- Warranty: 25 Years
- Estimated Cost: 17,985 - $34,281
Hooked On Solar offers competitive prices, top-of-the-line products, and fantastic customer service. Their customers love them for their honesty and transparency, which sets them apart from other solar companies in the area.
Hooked On Solar offers a variety of solar products, including solar panels, batteries, and inverters. They also offer a wide range of services, including solar installation, financing, and maintenance. They also offer a money-back satisfaction guarantee so that you can make the best decision for your home.
Westhaven Power
- Estimated Cost Per Watt: $3.00 - $4.50
- Warranty: 25 Years Panel, 25 Years Inverter
- Estimated Cost: $12,684
Westhaven Power offers a wide range of services, including solar installation, financing, and maintenance. They also have a great selection of solar products, including solar panels, batteries, and inverters. Their customers love them for their competitive prices and top-of-the-line products.
V3 Electric
V3 Electric has been in business since 2014 and installs solar systems across California. They are a full-service solar company, meaning they help you with every step of going solar, from choosing the right system for your home to providing financing options. They also offer a monitoring service to see how your system is performing. V3 Electric has an A- rating with the Better Business Bureau, making them one of the top solar companies in the Bay Area.
Infinity Energy
Infinity Energy started in 2014 and is known for 45-day installations along with a 25-year warranty. They are a full-service solar company, which means they will help you with every step of going solar, from choosing the right system for your home to providing financing options.
Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort
Sierra Pacific has been providing top-quality solar installation and repair services for over 25 years. They are known for their excellent customer service and their highly skilled technicians. They offer various services, including HVAC, plumbing, solar energy, and more.
Energy Saving Pros
Energy Saving Pros is a leading provider of solar energy solutions in the Bay Area. They offer various services, including residential and commercial solar installation, solar panel maintenance and repair, and solar system monitoring. They were awarded the Loomis News’ best of the best 2020 award.
Magic Sun Solar
Magic Sun Solar has a strong reputation for quality workmanship and customer service. They offer various solar panel options, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film. They have a team of experienced installers that guarantee completion within 30 days. Magic Sun Solar also offers a variety of financing options, so you can get the solar panels you need without breaking the bank.
Citadel Roofing & Solar
Citadel Roofing & Solar is a leading roofing and solar energy solutions provider in the Bay Area. They offer various services, including residential and commercial solar installation, roofing repair and maintenance, and solar system monitoring. Citadel Roofing & Solar has an A rating with the Better Business Bureau and received numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers.
REC Solar
REC Solar is a global solar company based out of Norway. They were founded in 1996 and provide services to homes, businesses, and power plants. They have powered over 18.5 million people with home solar energy. Their services include installation, maintenance and repair, and solar system monitoring.
Gold Rush Energy
Gold Rush Energy is committed to providing its customers with high-quality products and services. They are a full-service solar company that offers a wide range of services. Interestingly, they offer a do-it-yourself solar option. However, they also have a team of highly experienced professionals who are passionate about helping homeowners save money on their energy bills. Gold Rush Energy has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Additional Considerations
West Coast Solar
- Cost Per Watt: $3.70
- Warranty: 25 Years
- Bay Area Installations since 2020: 83
Freedom Forever
- Cost Per Watt: $4.93
- Warranty: 25 Years
- Bay Area Installations since 2020: 81
SonRay Construction
- Cost Per Watt: $3.09
- Warranty: 20 Years
- Bay Area Installations since 2020: 66
Synergy Home Improvements
- Cost Per Watt: $3.89
- Warranty: 20 Years
- Bay Area Installations since 2020: 53
Aztec Solar Inc
- Cost Per Watt: $3.19
- Warranty: 20 Years
- Bay Area Installations since 2020: 52