Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Avalon, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading, long-established Southern California solar and battery storage installer with a strong reputation for quality and customer service. They have specific experience with the logistical challenges of installing systems on Catalina Island and are a premier installer for top-tier brands like SunPower.
A veteran-owned company with a significant presence across Southern California, known for its strong customer reviews and comprehensive service offerings. They emphasize turnkey solutions, including energy efficiency assessments, and have proven experience serving the unique needs of island properties.
As one of the largest residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun offers extensive financing options, including popular leasing and PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) models. Their national scale provides access to equipment and services that are available to Avalon residents, often through local installation crews familiar with the area.
** The home solar market in Avalon, California, is highly specialized due to its island location. There are no major solar installers physically headquartered within the city limits of Avalon. The market is exclusively served by established mainland Southern California companies that have the logistical expertise to transport equipment via barge, navigate the specific permitting requirements of the Catalina Island Conservancy and the City of Avalon, and manage projects remotely. **Competition Level:** Moderate, but with a high barrier to entry, favoring only experienced and well-organized companies. **Average Quality:** High. The logistical complexity filters out smaller or less capable installers, meaning residents typically have access to reputable, well-established companies. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is generally 10-20% higher than comparable mainland installations due to the significant additional costs for transportation, specialized labor logistics, and potentially more complex system designs (e.g., a greater need for battery storage for grid resilience). However, homeowners still benefit from the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and other state incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Avalon regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Avalon, California.
Avalon's abundant sunshine is excellent for solar production, but the salty, humid marine air can accelerate corrosion on equipment. It's crucial to install panels and racking with high corrosion resistance ratings. Additionally, the island's location means all equipment and crews must be barged over, which can add to project timelines and requires meticulous planning with your installer to coordinate logistics.
Installations require permits from both the City of Avalon and the Los Angeles County Fire Department, with strict adherence to local building codes designed for fire safety and coastal zone compliance. As Avalon is on Catalina Island, there may be additional guidelines from the Catalina Island Conservancy or utility provider (Southern California Edison) regarding visual impact and interconnection. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process for you.
Yes, batteries are highly recommended in Avalon. While Southern California Edison services the island, being battery-backed provides critical resilience during occasional grid outages or disruptions related to mainland supply. With California's Net Energy Metering (NEM) 3.0 policy, storing your excess solar energy in a battery for use in the evening is often more valuable than exporting it to the grid, improving your long-term savings.
Installed costs in Avalon are typically 10-20% higher than mainland averages due to logistical complexities, often ranging from $3.50 to $4.50 per watt before incentives. You remain eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces the net cost. California also offers a property tax exclusion for the added home value from solar, and you should consult your installer about any available local rebates.
Prioritize providers with proven experience installing on Catalina Island, as they understand the unique permitting, logistics, and climate challenges. Request multiple detailed proposals that include equipment specifications (noting corrosion resistance), a clear timeline accounting for barge schedules, a production estimate specific to Avalon's microclimate, and a full breakdown of costs, warranties, and post-installation service plans. Always check local references and reviews.