Advertiser Disclosure
Our editorial team is committed to creating independent and objective content focused on helping our readers make informed decisions. To help support these efforts we receive compensation from companies that advertise with us.
The compensation we receive from these companies may impact how and where products appear on this site. This compensation does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides within our content. We do not include all companies, products or offers that may be available.
10 best solar companies in Lancaster, California
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
Join more than 1,246 people who have received a quote in the last 30 days.
We've ranked the top 10 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Lancaster. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Lancaster, California, requires you to hire a solar technician that is properly certified, trained and experienced. To assist your search for the best possible installer, we've put together a list of the highest-ranking solar companies in Lancaster.
Prior to choosing an installer, ask others for recommendations, vet potential installers and obtain multiple quotes to find the right company for you. You can go with a local Lancaster solar company or select a well-known national brand.
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
Even though solar panels are a big upfront investment, you can cut your energy bills over the long term. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that moving to solar energy allows Lancaster homeowners to save approximately $810 per year.
Various solar companies offer different products. Take the time to compare each company and get quotes from all before scheduling your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Lancaster
When researching Lancaster solar companies, find those with a minimum of 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).
Read through reviews to understand other homeowners’ experiences with a company, and watch for frequent bad reviews.
SunPower by True Power Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
SunPower by Sun Solar-OC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
SolarShoppers
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
HomeLink
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Design My Solar
Services offered
Green Solar Technologies
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Optimum
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Green Home Systems
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Clean Initiative
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
California Energy Builders
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.
CERVUS Solar & Construction
Greenpire Inc
Green Integrations and Management Inc.
AmeriGreen Solar
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Lancaster?
Homeowners in Lancaster are well-positioned for solar energy since the area receives a lot of sunshine. The top reasons to opt for solar include these:
- Reduce environmental impact: Going solar reduces your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels that would otherwise be used to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electricity production is one of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: You can lower your energy bills by switching to solar energy. Power from solar panels takes the place of the electricity purchased from utility companies.
- Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can fuel electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the best method to guarantee your electric car is running on clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Lancaster
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 Lancaster?
Based on the results of our survey carried out in October 2023, the average cost for solar panel installation nationally is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels hinges on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The price increases if you pick any add-ons like batteries, animal guards or solar trackers.
Based on statistics from the EIA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and NASA the mean cost to install solar panels in Lancaster is $6,920.
How much can you save by going solar in Lancaster?
While solar panel installation can be a sizable initial cost, you are positioned to see significant savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Lancaster from going solar
Homeowners in Lancaster who move completely to solar energy can anticipate saving money. However, it takes time to recoup 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 average payback period is the length of time required for a solar panel system to recoup its upfront cost through energy bill savings. Based on our calculations, which utilize data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, Lancaster's standard solar payback period is 8 years.
- Annual solar savings in Lancaster: Based on numbers that leverage data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA, Lancaster homeowners save around $811 annually with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After fully switching to solar power, you can expect to save around $14,837 over 25 years, according to our calculations from NASA and the EIA.
Energy savings in Lancaster from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, adopting solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the estimated CO2 emission reductions you can achieve by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- 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 Lancaster?
Lancaster homeowners can take advantage of various solar incentives. Particular programs are offered statewide to all California residents, and others vary based on utility company, city and municipality.
Per the DSIRE, these are the solar incentives offered to California residents:
| 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 Lancaster solar installer?
Consider these questions before hiring a professional solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio determine the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive homes tend to use more power and will potentially need larger solar installations. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to completely power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project might be subject to relevant codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to acquire the required permits from your local building department, as well as arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sun. Nearby trees, rainfall and extreme weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get adequate sunlight, then you may need more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
To store additional energy, many panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature is invaluable when sunlight is scarce and helps to prevent power loss. However, opting for battery storage can result in higher installation costs.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have choices among solar panel types, as they vary in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These elements affect cost, when you'll need to swap panels and space used on your roof.
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
Our editors may use AI as an input tool to tailor information in local markets. All content goes through a rigorous research and review process led by our team of writers and editors.
More on this topic...
Our guide explores the best solar companies available. Trinity and Elevation top our list for their services, and Sunrun rounds it out with its leasing options.
solarMay 16
While you can save money installing DIY solar panels, it’s not a simple home improvement project and does require electrical know-how as well as roofing skills.
solarMay 15
Sleek and innovative, solar shingles are gaining rapid popularity. They cost more than traditional solar panels but are also more aesthetically pleasing.
solarApr. 16
Solar panels last about 25 years, according to our expert. Our guide explains how to get the most out of your system’s life.
solarMar. 27