The 7 Best Solar Companies in San Diego

SunPower

Since 1985, SunPower has grown to become one of the largest and most trusted solar installers in the country. The company has over 1,000 solar innovation patents and offers high-efficiency panels that compete with the leading brands. SunPower does all of its installations with solar panels made in-house, and it can also provide battery storage.

SunPower is a business that has received Cradle to Cradle Alliance certification and provides homeowners in San Diego with top-notch solar energy solutions. While its solar panels are more expensive than those of other installers, they are the most efficient and well-designed. 

Pros

• Offers a comprehensive 25-year warranty 
• Over 35 years of solar installation experience 
• Installs the most efficient solar panels in San Diego
• Provides a design studio and estimates online

Cons

• Higher cost compared to other installers
• Customer service depends on the service area 

‍Bottom Line: With its high-efficiency solar equipment, great warranty, and vast installation experience, SunPower is the leader of the solar industry. While its products come at a cost, SunPower offers the best electric savings and reliability.

Warranty

SunPower’s 25-year warranty covers solar panels, electrical systems, performance, labor, and parts—one of the best in the nation. 

Solar Services

SunPower installs its own Equinox system on all residential solar projects. The company can also add battery backup technology that links with SunPower’s energy monitoring system. 

Financing Options

SunPower does offer solar panel financing options, but you need to talk to a company representative about the best ones for your project. Homeowners in San Diego may be eligible for low monthly payments and interest rates.

Solfinity

Solfinity has been in business for over two decades and provides competitive pricing for solar installations nationwide. Quotes begin at $49 per month, but pricing for your project will be reviewed after inspection. Solfinity also uses low-profile mounting brackets to make installations look smooth, which is good for people who like a cleaner look.

Solfinity sells a number of high-efficiency solar panels and inverters, which give homeowners more energy options. All of the company's installations also come with great warranties that are on par with the best in the business. Overall, Solfinity provides some of the best financing and solar products in San Diego.

Pros

• Flexible financing options as low as $49 per month
• Low-profile mounting and less exterior hardware
• Great selection of solar panel brands

Cons

• Contractor quality may vary in every service area
• Limited information on the company’s website

Bottom Line: Solfinity provides high-efficiency panels, financing options, and excellent warranties for San Diego residents. The company has been in the business for a long time and has a lot of experience. It also offers full designs and installations that go smoothly, making it one of the best choices.

Warranty

Solfinity's installations come with a 25-year warranty on the parts, the installation, the roof penetrations, and the performance. 

Solar Services

Solfinity offers complete consultations and designs for homes in San Diego. The company provides solar installs, system monitoring, low-profile mounting, and additional system installs. 

Financing Options

Solfinity advertises financing options for qualified homeowners but doesn’t provide exact information on its website. Monthly payments start at $49, but this will vary depending on the project.

ADT Solar

The well-known home security company ADT teamed up with Sunpro and changed its name to ADT Solar. Now, people in San Diego have access to a reliable network of solar installers who can help them with custom solar projects and energy solutions that don't cost too much. The company's products work with its smart home and security systems to provide all-in-one monitoring capabilities. This makes the company a good choice for people who want to upgrade their security and put in solar panels. 

ADT Solar offers competitive warranties, excellent customer service, and flexible financing options. Solar Power World also named Sunpro the runner-up for the Top Residential Rooftop Solar Contractor in the United States in 2021 before its merger with ADT. 

Pros

• Uses high-efficiency batteries and inverters from top manufactures 
• Combined expertise in solar technology and home security 
• Excellent customer service and installation support

Cons

• Relatively new partnership that lacks some solar services 
• Contractor quality may vary depending on the area

Bottom Line: ADT Solar has all-in-one solutions for solar energy, home security, and good customer service. While the company's solar division is still in its early stages, ADT Solar provides efficient solar energy installations for your San Diego home.

Warranty

During the design phase, ADT Solar will tell you exactly what your project's warranty covers, but in general, its installations come with a 25-year warranty on the work and manufacturer warranties for the solar panels and Enphase microinverters. 

Solar Services

ADT uses solar equipment brands with high efficiency ratings as well as quality electrical components. ADT Solar also provides system monitoring and backup capabilities. 

Financing Options

A solar consultant from ADT will talk to you about your financing options. The company offers cash, loans, and leases, all of which have different costs up front and monthly payments.

San Diego Solar

San Diego Solar is a family-owned business in the area that has been around for more than 20 years. The company is licensed to do work in solar energy, electricity, and roofing. This makes it a great choice for homeowners who want to replace their solar panels, electrical systems, and roofs all at once. The website for San Diego Solar has a lot of videos and other resources for homeowners who want to learn more about the process.

San Diego Solar covers most of the city and has an excellent local reputation. The company's website needs information about solar panel brands and financing, but it's otherwise a great option for San Diego homeowners.

Pros

• Locally owned and operated business with over two decades of experience
• Informational and helpful consultation approach
• Transparent company with a solid local reputation

Cons

• Limited information on the website
• Shorter labor warranty compared to other installers

Bottom Line: San Diego Solar has a good reputation among homeowners in the area and offers a variety of solar and roofing services. Even though you won't have all the information until your consultation, the solar installer is a good choice for your solar needs.

Warranty

San Diego Solar’s products come with a 25-year equipment warranty and a 10-year installation warranty. 

Solar Services

San Diego Solar can put in solar energy systems, new roofs, battery storage, and charging stations for electric vehicles (EV). During the first consultation, the company will talk to you about the brands and systems that are available for your project. 

Financing Options

San Diego Solar doesn't say if it offers financing options, but the quote will talk about these options.

Renewable USA

Renewable USA has been in business since 2009 and works in Southern California. The company has worked with cities and codes all over the state, giving homeowners custom solar solutions and easy service. The company offers high-efficiency solar panels, microinverters, and optimizers, though the brands can vary.

Renewable USA also has good warranties and great customer service, but its website doesn't have all the information that it should. Customers have had good experiences with the sales and consultation teams, and the company gives customers clear pricing throughout the process. Renewable USA is a great local company that has a great reputation in Southern California for installing solar panels.

Pros

• Experience working with several municipalities and codes 
• Educational consultation team and great reputation
• Great equipment and installation warranties

Cons

• Limited information on the website
• Not as many financing options as other installers

Bottom Line: Renewable USA has been in business in Southern California for a number of years and knows everything there is to know about installing solar panels, from getting the right permits to taking advantage of local incentives. Renewable USA has a reputable and helpful team, even though its website lacks information.

Warranty

Standardly, Renewable USA's installations come with a 25-year warranty on the solar panels and the installation. Depending on the equipment, the inverters can come with a 20- to 25-year warranty. 

Solar Services

Renewable USA has a number of solar energy services and can also install system monitoring, pool efficiency equipment, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), and lighting. 

Financing Options

During your consultation, Renewable USA will talk about your specific financing options. For qualified homeowners, the company does offer 1- to 15-year options with low interest rates and power purchase agreements.

Solar Optimum

Solar Optimum is a respected name in the industry and serves homeowners in Arizona, California, and Nevada. Solar Optimum has been in business for more than ten years and has put in high-quality solar energy and backup systems with good warranties. In addition, the solar installer constructs new roofs, which serve as excellent foundations for solar panels.

Solar Optimum is a full-service solar provider with extensive experience on the West Coast. It has clear prices and helps with installation, and San Diego homeowners can use the company's expertise for their solar energy needs.

Pros

• Offers solar incentives and rebate program assistance
• Provides several solar energy and roofing services
• Competitive and transparent pricing

Cons

• Relatively new company compared to other solar installers
• Equipment brands and services may vary by state

Bottom Line: Solar Optimum is one of the best solar installers in San Diego, having been named the Panasonic National Installer of the Year in 2020 and 2021. Homeowners can be sure that when they work with Solar Optimum, they will get top-notch service and results. 

Warranty

Solar Optimum installations come with a 25-year workmanship, performance, and equipment warranty. Solar Optimum roofs also include a 25-year warranty. 

Solar Services

Solar Optimum serves homeowners and businesses across California and can install solar energy systems, energy backups, and new roofs. 

Financing Options

Solar Optimum offers flexible financing terms with low down payments. However, Solar Optimum’s team will discuss the details of your project.

Tesla Energy

Solar roofs and custom solar panel designs made by Tesla are some of the most innovative and energy-efficient solar products on the market. While its installations are expensive, the quality and durability of its products rival the best in the industry. Tesla will put in EV charging stations for homeowners who want them, and the Tesla Powerwall can be used to back up a home's power.

Tesla's solar installations come with competitive performance and equipment warranties. While the company's solar division continues to grow and some areas have different customer service experiences, Tesla is an excellent choice for San Diego solar energy projects.

Pros

• Offers high-efficiency and durable solar products 
• Has one of the best battery storage systems on the market
• Convenient online consultation and design process

Cons

• High pricing compared to other installers
• Customer service and contractor quality varies in each area

Bottom Line: Tesla is known for making electric cars, but it also makes some of the most efficient and durable solar panels in San Diego. Even though some customers have had bad customer service experiences with Tesla, it is still one of the best ways to switch to solar. 

Warranty

The Tesla solar roof and solar panels come with a 25-year equipment and performance warranty. Its solar panel inverters come with a 12.5-year warranty. 

Solar Services

Tesla can install solar tiles, solar panels, Powerwall batteries, and EV charging. 

Financing Options

Tesla doesn’t specify exact financing details but offers cash and loan purchase options with an initial down payment of at least 10%.

Final Verdict: What’s the Best Solar Solar Energy Company in San Diego? 

San Diego residents can choose from a number of top solar energy companies, but SunPower is our top pick for your solar energy project. SunPower excels in all aspects, from the initial consultation and design to customer support. SunPower has made its own most energy-efficient solar products, which give homeowners the most electricity and save them money on their utility bills over time. Because SunPower's solar systems are all connected, homeowners can easily track and analyze their performance with the help of new technology for energy monitoring.

SunPower also backs up its installations with comprehensive warranties and excellent customer service. Overall, SunPower provides everything you need for solar energy and makes the switch simple, making it the best solar energy company in San Diego.

How to Choose the Best Solar Company 

When looking for the best solar company in San Diego, it's important to think about a number of things. To get you started, here are some details to think about when choosing a solar installer for your home. 

Cost of Services & Installation

Solar installers usually give quotes based on how much electricity a home needs, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). They usually ask what the average monthly electric bill is for the property to figure out the price per watt, which in 2023 can be anywhere from $3 to $6 per watt.

Consider a 4,000 kW home with a provided rate of $4 per watt as an example. This project would cost $16,000 without any tax breaks or rebates. To determine if you're getting a good deal, consider the initial out-of-pocket cost as well as the best California solar incentives and savings after installation. Ask the solar company about their pricing structure and available incentives so you can make an informed decision. 

If you live in LA, check out the best solar companies in Los Angeles. 

Solar Services Offered

You should look into the services offered by the solar company to make sure they meet your needs. Installing solar panels requires knowledge of electrical work, roof installation, and mounting. Your chosen company should have all of these skills.

If you want additional solar services, such as a power backup or EV charging, you should check with the installer to see if they provide those. A good solar installer should walk you through the entire process, from choosing the best home solar system to creating a custom design based on your preferences and desired services. 

Strong Warranty Coverage

Most solar companies offer warranties on the equipment, how well it works, and how well it was installed. These warranties vary by installer and equipment brand. Equipment and performance warranties cover problems and energy production over time. The best warranties usually last up to 25 years or the life rating of the panel, whichever comes first, which is ideal considering how long solar panels typically last. Installation warranties can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years and cover job quality, such as roof penetrations and installation errors.

When you look at a solar company's warranty, you should think about the type of solar panel system that was installed, how long the warranty is, what it covers, and the maintenance options. 

Customer Reviews and Reputation

Customer reviews and reputation should be prioritized when looking for a reputable solar company. The best solar companies in San Diego should have positive customer reviews on reputable websites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Keep an eye out for any warning signs, such as incomplete installations or poor customer service.

By looking into a company's reputation, you can make sure that your investment in solar will be worth it and save you energy in the long run. Consider how residents in your area feel about their installation experience, and look for the company with the best results based on third-party reviews.

Expertise & Knowledge

Working with a solar company that has been around for a while will make sure you get the best service possible. Look for companies that hire certified installers and electricians and other professionals with a lot of experience in their field. You should also inquire about the company's training and years of experience in San Diego.

Installers with experience are familiar with best practices and can advise you on the best solar panel system for your needs. They should be able to answer your questions, educate you on the process, and keep you informed and supported from the start.

Financing Options

Before you hire a solar panel installer, you should think about whether you want to buy your system outright, pay for it over time, or rent it. Most government solar incentives, like the Federal Investment Tax Credit, do not apply to leased solar panels. However, they may be eligible for other rebates or purchase agreements that you should talk to your solar installer about.

If you plan to finance, look for low down payments and reasonable interest rates. Choose a financing option that fits your budget and has manageable monthly payments while taking into account potential tax and utility bill savings.

Take the Homeowner Quiz to Find Out the Cost of Solar Panel Installation for Your Home

FAQs About Solar Companies in San Diego

Who is the most reputable solar company in San Diego?

There are several credible solar companies in San Diego, but SunPower is the most reputable of them all. SunPower is our choice for the best solar company because it offers both high-efficiency products and excellent customer service.

How much does it cost to install solar in San Diego?

The cost of solar panels depends on the size of the property, how much energy is used, the brand of the equipment, and any solar incentives that are available. In most areas, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $3 to $6 per watt. 

Is solar in San Diego worth it?

Yes, solar panels are a good investment in San Diego. Solar energy is a clean, cheap way to get electricity for many years to come. It lowers utility bills, cuts carbon emissions, and increases the value of a home.

What are the benefits of having solar in San Diego? 

Solar energy helps lower the price of electricity as it continues to rise across the country. Solar-powered homes also give off less carbon because solar energy is a green source of energy.

Do solar panels increase home values in San Diego? 

Most San Diego homes see an increase in property value after installing solar panels, but every market and property is different, so it can vary. Because most homebuyers value lower electricity costs, solar energy naturally makes some homes more appealing.