California continues to lead the nation in residential solar adoption, with thousands of homeowners turning to clean energy to beat rising electricity costs. Whether you’re motivated by long-term savings, grid independence, or environmental impact, choosing the right installer makes all the difference.
This guide ranks the top 10 solar companies in California for 2026, based on deep market research, verified reviews, and real-world pricing. NRG Clean Power takes the top spot this year , and for good reason.
Quick Takeaways
- NRG Clean Power ranks #1 with a 4.9★ rating, top-tier certifications, and standout service across California.
- Ameco Solar follows at #2 for its 50-year track record and integrated roofing + solar services.
- Sunrun and SunPower hold #3 and #4 spots with strong financing options and premium equipment.
- 2026 brings continued savings: a 30% Federal Tax Credit (ITC) and California’s SGIP rebates for battery storage.
- Average solar prices in California: $2.75–$3.50/watt, with full systems ranging from $13,000 to $30,000+.
- Only California-headquartered, residential-focused companies are included.
Top 10 California Residential Solar Companies (2026)
| Rank | Company | Headquarters | Avg Rating | Cost/Watt | Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NRG Clean Power | Canoga Park | 4.9★ | $2.20–$3.00 | Solar, battery, roofing, EV |
| 2 | Ameco Solar | Valley Village | 4.7★ | $2.50–$3.00 | Solar + roofing integration |
| 3 | Sunrun | San Francisco | 4.0★ | $2.77 (PPA) | Leasing, PPAs, national network |
| 4 | SunPower | Richmond | 4.6★ | $3.75–$4.50 | Premium high-efficiency panels |
| 5 | Freedom Forever | Temecula | 3.0★ | $2.80–$3.20 | Tesla Powerwall dealer |
| 6 | Semper Solaris | El Cajon | 3.2★ | $3.50–$4.50 | Roofing, HVAC + American-made |
| 7 | SunLux | Corona | 4.7★ | $3.00–$3.25 | Concierge solar + battery installs |
| 8 | Baker Electric | Escondido | 4.2★ | $2.80–$3.50 | Solar + electrical + roofing |
| 9 | LA Solar Group | Van Nuys | 4.0★ | $2.60–$3.10 | Solar, battery, EV solutions |
| 10 | Renova Energy | Palm Desert | 4.0★ | $2.50–$3.50 | Coachella Valley local installer |
How We Chose the Rankings
Each company was evaluated using:
- Customer Ratings: Verified Google, SolarReviews, BBB, and EnergySage feedback
- Licensing & Certifications: Tesla/Enphase partnerships, C-10 licenses, etc.
- Pricing Transparency: Published average cost-per-watt or total system cost
- Warranties: Panel, labor, and workmanship terms
- Services Offered: Battery storage, EV chargers, roof replacement, maintenance
- Track Record: Years in business, verified customer volume, industry awards
Companies had to be headquartered in California and focused on residential installs.
🏆 #1 NRG Clean Power
NRG Clean Power stands out for its balance of price, professionalism, and premium equipment. With over 35 years in business and offices across California, NRG offers full-service installations — solar, battery, roofing, EV chargers — using Tesla, Enphase, and REC components.
✅ Tesla Premier Certified & Enphase Gold Installer
✅ Lifetime labor warranty
✅ A+ BBB rating and 4.9★ across major platforms
👉 Get an Instant Quote
🥈 #2 Ameco Solar
In business since 1974, Ameco combines solar panel systems with expert roofing — ideal for homeowners needing both. With high marks on SolarReviews (4.7★) and an A+ BBB rating, Ameco serves Greater LA and Orange County.
✅ Tesla Powerwall certified
✅ Roofing + solar bundles
✅ Excellent customer service record
#3 Sunrun
Sunrun is the biggest solar lease/PPA provider in the U.S. California homeowners who want no-money-down solar often start here. Service quality varies by region, so check local reviews.
✅ Flexible financing (PPA, lease, loan)
✅ Tesla Powerwall & LG Chem options
⚠️ Mixed reviews: high complaints volume on BBB/SolarReviews
#4 SunPower
SunPower’s premium solar panels are some of the most efficient in the world. Though pricier, their all-in-one system and design appeal to homeowners who want long-term performance and minimal roof space.
✅ 25-year system warranty
✅ Top-tier aesthetic design
⚠️ Pricey & recent financial instability (2024 restructuring)
#5 Freedom Forever
Known for its dealer model and Tesla installations, Freedom has grown rapidly but with that growth came customer service issues. Some reports cite long delays and poor communication.
✅ Tesla-certified in multiple states
⚠️ BBB alerts for complaint patterns
#6 Semper Solaris
Veteran-owned and based in San Diego, Semper offers roofing, HVAC, and solar bundles. Ideal for homeowners wanting an all-in-one contractor.
✅ 25-year warranties
✅ Discounts for veterans
⚠️ Complaints of long service delays, mixed reviews
#7 SunLux
SunLux gets top marks for customer service and pricing. With offices in Corona and LA, it delivers personalized residential solar systems and Tesla Powerwall installs.
✅ 4.7★ SolarReviews
✅ Transparent quotes and timelines
⚠️ Minor post-install roof complaints
#8 Baker Electric Home Energy
Founded in 1938, Baker has one of the strongest reputations in the industry. It offers solar, battery, electrical upgrades, and even HVAC.
✅ BBB Torch Award for Ethics
✅ Tesla + Enphase certified
⚠️ Premium pricing, slow post-install support for some
#9 LA Solar Group
Based in Van Nuys, LA Solar Group has become one of Southern California’s most trusted residential installers since its founding in 2011. Known for competitive pricing and efficient installs, the company offers full solar, battery storage, and EV charging services.
⚠️3.1★ average on SolarReviews
✅ Tesla-certified and Enphase installer
#10 Renova Energy
Serving Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley, Renova Energy is a local favorite. Its Tesla-certified crews install sleek systems with full permit handling.
✅ 4.9★ SolarReviews & Yelp
✅ In-house maintenance team
⚠️ B– BBB rating due to slow complaint response
2026 Solar Panel Costs in California
| System Size | Solar Only | With Battery Storage |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $13,000–$16,000 | $19,000–$23,000 |
| 7 kW | $18,000–$21,000 | $25,000–$29,000 |
| 10 kW | $25,000–$30,000 | $32,000–$38,000 |
🎯 Final Advice for 2026 Buyers
- Compare at least 3 quotes before signing a contract.
- Look for in-house crews and long warranties (25+ years).
- Consider storage: SGIP rebates and frequent outages make batteries worthwhile.
- Ask about post-install support — great installers stay responsive after the sale.
For the smoothest path to solar savings:
👉 Get an Instant Quote from NRG Clean Power
Written with insights from verified customer reviews, SolarReviews, BBB.org, EnergySage, and direct company profiles.