Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Burlingame, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading national provider known for its integrated Solar Roof and solar panel systems paired with the Powerwall battery storage. Tesla offers a streamlined, tech-forward process from design to installation and monitoring via its mobile app.
A veteran-owned company with a strong local presence in the Bay Area. They are known for excellent customer service and offer a comprehensive suite of services, including solar, battery storage, and roofing. They provide robust financing options and are well-versed in local incentives.
As a top-rated SunPower Master Dealer, Baker Electric Solar offers some of the highest-efficiency solar panels on the market. They are known for professional system design, high-quality installation, and strong manufacturer warranties. They have deep expertise in the California market.
** The home solar market in Burlingame is mature and competitive, characterized by high consumer awareness and above-average household income, which drives demand for premium systems with battery storage. The city's climate, with significant sunshine, is highly favorable for solar energy production. The market is primarily served by established regional and national companies, as there are few small, hyper-local installers based solely within Burlingame city limits. Competition is strong, leading to high service quality and a focus on advanced offerings like Tesla Powerwalls and SunPower's premium panels. Typical pricing for a residential system in Burlingame is in line with the high California average, generally ranging from **$3.00 to $4.50 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of **$18,000 to $27,000 for a 6kW system**. The high adoption rate is fueled by high PG&E electricity rates, strong state and federal incentives (like the 30% Federal ITC), and Net Energy Metering (NEM) policies. Companies operating here are typically highly knowledgeable about these financial mechanisms and offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and PPAs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Burlingame regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Burlingame, California.
For a typical Burlingame home, a 6kW to 8kW solar system costs between $18,000 and $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces the net cost. Additionally, California's net metering policies and the lack of local sales tax on solar equipment (due to state exemption) make the investment more attractive, with most homeowners seeing a payback period of 5-8 years given high local electricity rates.
Burlingame's Mediterranean climate provides excellent solar potential with abundant sunshine, especially from late spring through fall. The marine layer and "June Gloom" can reduce morning production in late spring and early summer, but panels still generate significant power in diffuse light, and sunny afternoons are common. Systems are designed to account for this seasonal pattern, ensuring ample annual production to offset your usage from Peninsula Clean Energy.
Yes, you must obtain an electrical and building permit from the Burlingame Community Development Department. The process is generally straightforward for standard rooftop systems. While California's Solar Rights Act significantly limits HOA restrictions, if your home is in a historic district or has specific aesthetic covenants, early communication with your HOA is advised. A reputable local installer will manage this entire permitting process for you.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in San Mateo County, as they will be familiar with Burlingame's specific permit process, interconnection with Peninsula Clean Energy, and optimal system design for coastal microclimates. Look for a licensed C-10 or C-46 contractor, strong warranties, and a robust portfolio of installations in nearby cities. Always check reviews and verify they handle the full process, including passing final city inspection.
A standard grid-tied solar system shuts off during a grid outage for safety, even if the sun is shining. To have backup power during PSPS events or outages, you must pair your solar panels with a battery storage system, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is an increasingly popular upgrade for Burlingame homeowners, providing critical circuit backup, maximizing self-consumption of solar energy, and offering greater independence from PG&E's volatile rates and reliability issues.