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10 best solar companies in Downey, California
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 10 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Downey. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
To perform a high-quality solar panel installation in Downey, California, you'll need to find a certified, skilled and experienced solar installer. We've put together a list of the top solar companies in Downey to help you find the right one.
Prior to picking an installer, get referrals, vet potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the right company for you. You can go with a local Downey solar company or choose a reputable national brand.
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
Although solar panels are a major upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long term. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), changing to solar energy allows Downey homeowners to save $750 on average each year.
The offerings from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Be sure to compare companies and get quotes before you book your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Downey
When researching Downey solar companies, find those with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, as well as a positive reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reviewing previous customer reviews will give you a sense of how other homeowners viewed the company, so be cautious if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
SunPower by Sun Solar-OC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
SunPower by True Power Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
SunPower by Sea Bright Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Precis Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Semper Solaris
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
10713 Norwalk Blvd, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
(213) 984-4554
www.sempersolaris.com/locations/los-a...
Better Earth Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Energy Service Partners
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Ameco Solar & Roofing
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Source
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
TENCO SOLAR
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
More providers
Below are additional solar installation companies that didn’t make our top picks based on their distance, ratings or service offerings.
Clean Initiative
Green Integrations and Management Inc.
Simple Solar
Nexus Energy Systems
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Downey?
The Downey region gets plenty of sunlight, which is great for homeowners to benefit from solar energy. Here are the key reasons to choose solar:
- Reduce environmental impact: Switching to solar lowers your carbon footprint by preserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to power your house. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that generating electricity is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: You can cut your energy bills by switching to solar energy. Power from solar panels substitutes the electricity bought from utility companies.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can fuel electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the ideal way to guarantee your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
Facts about Downey
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Downey?
Based on our survey carried out in October 2023, the typical national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The cost of solar panel installation depends on several factors, such as where you live, availability of sunlight, roof orientation, shading, system size and labor. Be prepared to pay more if you choose extras like batteries, solar trackers or animal guards.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA, installing solar panels in Downey generally runs about $6,920.
How much can you save by going solar in Downey?
While solar panel installation might be a big initial cost, you are positioned to see major savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Downey from going solar
Homeowners in Downey who transition fully to solar energy can anticipate saving money. However, it takes time to recover the initial investment, and things such as rainfall and tree coverage affect the time it takes to see returns on your investment in solar panels.
- Payback period: The payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to recoup its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, the average payback period for solar installations in Downey is 9 years.
- Annual solar savings in Downey: Downey homeowners can anticipate saving about $751 annually on average by moving to solar power, according to our analysis of data from the Department of Energy, NASA and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: According to data we've compiled from NASA and the EIA, by moving completely to solar, you can plan to see a total savings of around $13,325 after 25 years.
Energy savings in Downey from going solar
Switching to solar not only saves money but also reduces your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the estimated CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 51 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 1275 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Downey?
Downey homeowners can benefit from various solar incentives. Particular programs are offered statewide to all California residents, and others depend on municipality, utility company and city.
The following solar incentives are offered to California residents, as listed in DSIRE:
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Property Tax Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems and Solar Plus Storage System | 100% of system value; 75% of system value exemption for dual-use equipment |
PACE Financing Western Riverside Council of Governments - Home Energy Renovation Opportunity (HERO) Financing Program | Eligible products can be financed for up to 25 years, depending on the useful life of the eligible product. Minimum financing: $5,000 The financing may not exceed fifteen percent (15%) of the market value of the property, up to the first seven hundred thousand dollars ($700,000) of the property’s market value, and ten percent (10%) of the remaining value of the Property above seven hundred thousand dollars ($700,000) minus any PACE assessment on the propertyThe total amount of any annual property taxes and assessments shall not exceed five percent (5%) of the property's fair market value, determined at the time program financing is approved. |
PACE Financing Local Option - Municipal Energy Districts | Locally determined
|
Rebate Program Self-Generation Incentive Program | For projects 30 kW or larger, 50% of incentive will be received up-front; 50% will be received based on actual kWh production over the first 5 years. For projects under 30kW, 100% of the incentive will be paid up front. Incentives will step down over time. See below for incentive amounts. |
Feed-in Tariff Renewable Market Adjusting Tariff (ReMAT) | See Website |
Feed-in Tariff LADWP - Feed-in Tariff (FiT) Program | $0.17/kWh adjusted by a time of delivery multiplier Base price will step down over time as certain MW goals are met |
Rebate Program California Solar Initiative - Solar Thermal Program | Step 1 Incentive Rates (contact utility to determine current incentive levels): Single Family Residential Incentives: Systems that displace natural gas: $29.85 per estimated therm displaced Systems that displace electricity or propane: Funding has been exhausted Commercial/Multifamily Incentives: Systems that displace natural gas: $20.19 per estimated therm displaced Systems that displace electricity or propane: $0.42 per estimated kWh displaced *** Note, funding has been exhausted in this category for SCE and PG&E Solar Pool heating: $5.00 per estimated therm displaced |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Downey solar installer?
Take time to evaluate these questions prior to hiring a solar installation service provider.
What size system do you need?
Your solar panel system's size hinges on your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Bigger households use more electricity and may require bigger solar setups. An undersized system could struggle to fully energize your house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project could be subject to applicable codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to obtain the required permits from your local building department, as well as set up an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get equal levels of sunlight. Area tree cover, rain levels and severe weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get adequate sun, it may require more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Several solar panel systems feature a solar battery. Solar batteries save extra energy, which can be helpful for ensuring continuous power during storms. Opting for battery storage could increase the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These aspects impact not just the cost, but also panel replacement frequency and roof space requirements.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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