10 best solar companies in Hayward, California
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
Editorial note: Homefront (defined in the Disclosure below) may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations
Read MoreJoin more than 1,246 people who have received a quote in the last 30 days.
Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Hayward, California, requires you to hire a solar company that is properly certified, trained and experienced. To help your search for the best installer, we've put together a list of the highest-ranking solar companies in Hayward.
Prior to choosing an installer, get referrals, evaluate potential installers and get multiple quotes to determine the best company for you. You can choose a local Hayward solar company or use an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
While solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can lower your energy bills over the long run. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that moving to solar energy allows Hayward homeowners to save an average of $1,100 per year.
Solar companies do not all provide the same services and products. You should assess different companies and ask for quotes before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Hayward
Seek out Hayward solar companies with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and comparable customer review platforms. The company should also have a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reviewing previous customer testimonials can provide insight into other homeowners' experiences working with the solar company. Consistent poor reviews are worth making a note of as a possible warning sign.
SunPower
Services Offered
Semper Solaris
Services Offered
Complete Solar
Services Offered
Solar Bill Review
Services Offered
Solar Technologies
Services Offered
CivicSolar, Inc
Services Offered
Your Energy Solutions
Services Offered
NorthStar Solar Inc
Services Offered
Infinity Energy
Services Offered
Got Watts?
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Hayward?
Homeowners in Hayward are well-positioned for solar energy since the area gets plenty of sunshine. The top reasons to transition to solar power include these:
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar reduces your carbon footprint by decreasing the use of fossil fuels that would be needed to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that electricity production is one of the biggest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy lets you charge electric cars at your house. Using your own power is the best way to ensure your electric vehicle operates on renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Switching to solar can help lower your electricity expenses. Solar panel systems generate power to substitute for the electricity you would have otherwise purchased from the utility company.
Facts about Hayward
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 Hayward?
Based on our survey carried out in October 2023, the typical national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of installing solar panels differs based on several factors, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Be ready to pay extra if you choose any extras like solar trackers, animal guards or batteries.
According to data from NASA, the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), installing solar panels in Hayward typically costs $7,314.
How much can you save by going solar in Hayward?
Solar panel installation is a sizable initial investment, but you can expect to see considerable savings reflected in your energy bills after some time.
Money savings in Hayward from going solar
Homeowners in Hayward who fully switch to solar energy can anticipate saving money. However, it takes time to recover the initial investment, and things such as rainfall and tree coverage impact the time it takes to see returns on your investment in solar panels.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the amount of time required for a solar panel system to recoup its upfront cost through energy bill savings. Based on our calculations, which leverage data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, Hayward's standard solar payback period is 6 years.
- Annual solar savings in Hayward: Homeowners in Hayward typically save around $1,053 per year by utilizing solar energy, based on our findings using data from NASA, the EIA and the Department of Energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After transitioning completely to solar power, you can expect to save around $20,577 over 25 years, according to our calculations from the EIA and NASA.
Energy savings in Hayward from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, switching to solar energy decreases your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the estimated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 48 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 1200 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Hayward?
Hayward homeowners can benefit from various solar incentives. Particular programs are offered statewide to all California residents, while others depend on utility company, municipality and city.
Accessible solar incentives to California homeowners, per DSIRE, include:
| 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 Hayward solar installer?
Consider the following before hiring a professional solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
The size of your system depends on your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households generally use more energy and may require a bigger setup. If the system isn’t large enough, it may not produce enough energy to power your entire home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar plans may be impacted by certain regulatory requirements and state or local laws. You must acquire proper permits through your local building department and schedule an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not every house gets the same amount of sun. Trees, precipitation and severe weather conditions can limit sunlight. If your home lacks adequate sunlight, you may need additional panels with increased wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems come with a solar battery. Solar batteries preserve extra energy, which can be vital for ensuring continuous power during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could increase the total cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in efficiency, design and life expectancy. These aspects affect not just the cost, but also panel replacement frequency and the space needed 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.
solarApr. 23
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.
solarMar. 27
Sleek and innovative, solar shingles are gaining rapid popularity. They cost more than traditional solar panels but are also more aesthetically pleasing.
solarMar. 25
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