10 best solar companies in El Dorado Hills, California
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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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.
High-quality solar panel installation in El Dorado Hills, California, requires hiring a solar installer that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To help you find the right team, we’ve compiled a list of the leading solar installers in El Dorado Hills.
Prior to choosing an installer, ask others for suggestions, evaluate potential companies and request multiple quotes to find the right company for your requirements. You can find a local solar company in El Dorado Hills or select a well-known 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 putting in solar panels requires a substantial initial investment, it can decrease your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that switching to solar energy allows El Dorado Hills homeowners to save an average of $1,000 annually.
The services 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 El Dorado Hills
When researching El Dorado Hills solar companies, find those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a good reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reviewing previous customer testimonials can provide insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth noting as a possible warning sign.
Sunrun Solar
Services Offered
1215 Striker Ave Ste 120, Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 547-5250
www.sunrun.com/solar-by-state/ca/sacr...
Senga Energy, LLC
Services Offered
Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc.
Services Offered
Solar Savings Direct, Inc
Services Offered
Nationwide Sun
Services Offered
Phoenix Energy Solutions
Services Offered
Sunrise Energy Solutions
Services Offered
SUPERIOR SOLAR, INC
Services Offered
Capital City Solar
Services Offered
Bright Home Services
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in El Dorado Hills?
The El Dorado Hills region enjoys plenty of sunlight, which is great for homeowners to capitalize on solar energy. Here are some of the major reasons to go solar:
- Save on energy bills: Using solar energy lets you lower your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels substitutes for electricity that would otherwise be purchased from utility providers.
- 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) reports that generating electricity is a large source of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy enables you to fuel electric cars at your house. Using your own power is the optimal way to make sure your electric vehicle operates on renewable energy.
Facts about El Dorado Hills
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 El Dorado Hills?
Per a survey we did in October 2023, the median cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The cost of solar panel installation depends on several factors, such as where you live, sunlight exposure, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. Expect to pay more if you choose add-ons like solar trackers, animal guards or batteries.
Based on statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA the average expense to install solar panels in El Dorado Hills is $7,493.
How much can you save by going solar in El Dorado Hills?
While solar panel installation can be a big initial cost, you stand to see major savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in El Dorado Hills from going solar
After transitioning fully to solar power, El Dorado Hills homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and elements like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for achieving returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to earn back its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, El Dorado Hills' average payback period for solar is 7 years.
- Annual solar savings in El Dorado Hills: Homeowners in El Dorado Hills typically save an average of $996 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: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save approximately $18,998 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in El Dorado Hills from going solar
Beyond cost savings, changing to solar power also decreases your carbon footprint and minimizes your environmental impact. Provided below are the projected CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 47 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 1175 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in El Dorado Hills?
Homeowners in El Dorado Hills can be eligible for several solar incentives. Certain are available statewide for all California residents, and others are based on your utility company, city and municipality.
The following solar incentives are available for 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 |
Rebate Program SMUD - PV Residential Retrofit Buy-Down | $300 |
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 El Dorado Hills solar installer?
Take time to think through these questions prior to hiring a solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
The right solar system size for you is based on how much energy your household uses, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Houses with higher energy demands often need larger solar panel systems. If the system isn't large enough, it might not generate sufficient electricity to power your whole home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local requirements could affect your solar project. You’ll need to apply for the proper permits through your local building department and arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not every house gets the same amount of sun. Nearby trees, rain and extreme weather conditions can limit sunlight. If your home lacks enough sunlight, you may need additional panels with increased wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A number of solar panel systems come with a solar battery. Solar batteries preserve extra energy, which can be helpful for ensuring continuous power during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could increase the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have choices among solar panel types, as they differ in efficiency, life expectancy and design. These elements affect cost, how soon you'll need to swap panels and the amount of roof area you'll need.
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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