Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Cambria, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading, locally-owned and operated solar and battery storage company serving the Central Coast for over two decades. They are known for high-quality custom designs, expert installation, and deep knowledge of local permitting and climate conditions. They are a Premier Powerwall Installer and work with top-tier equipment.
As one of California's oldest solar companies, Solarponics has a strong presence on the Central Coast. They offer a full suite of services from consultation and design to maintenance and repair, emphasizing customer education and long-term support.
A highly-rated, customer-focused local installer known for personalized service and expertise in both residential and commercial projects. They handle the entire process in-house and are praised for their clean installations and professional crews.
The home solar market in Cambria is characterized by high-quality, competitive service providers, though there are no major national "big box" installers physically located within the small town itself. The market is served by established, reputable local and regional companies from nearby hubs like San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria. Competition is strong among these top-tier contractors, who are well-versed in the specific needs of the coastal environment, including managing marine layer fog and complying with local aesthetic guidelines. Typical pricing for a residential system in Cambria is in line with the California average, which is approximately **$2.80 to $3.40 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of **$28,000 to $44,000** for a typical 10-13 kW system. The high cost of electricity from PG&E in the region (among the highest in the nation) makes the return on investment for solar and battery storage particularly attractive for Cambria homeowners. Most providers are experts in navigating California-specific incentives, including the Net Energy Metering (NEM) programs and the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC).
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Cambria regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Cambria, California.
Cambria's abundant sunshine is excellent for solar, but the frequent morning marine layer ("June Gloom") can delay peak production until afternoon. Fortunately, modern panels are efficient in diffuse light, and the cooler coastal temperatures actually improve panel performance and longevity compared to hotter inland areas. Annual production estimates for Cambria systems are very strong, typically accounting for these specific weather patterns.
Installations must comply with both the California Electrical Code and local Cambria Community Services District (CCSD) requirements. If your home is in the Cambria Historical Committee review area or has specific CC&Rs, there may be additional aesthetic guidelines. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process, including the interconnection agreement with PG&E, which is mandatory for net metering.
Yes, but the economics have shifted. Under NEM 3.0, pairing solar with a battery storage system is highly advantageous to maximize self-consumption of your solar energy and provide backup power during PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), which affect San Luis Obispo County. The 30% federal tax credit and strong local sunshine still make it a valuable long-term investment against rising utility rates.
The main seasonal factor is the significant increase in energy usage during the cooler, foggier winter months for heating. A well-designed system will account for this higher winter load. Additionally, salt air from the ocean necessitates choosing corrosion-resistant equipment and may require periodic rinsing of panels to remove salt spray residue for optimal performance.
Prioritize providers with extensive experience installing in San Luis Obispo County and Cambria specifically, as they understand local permitting, weather, and grid interconnection. Verify they are licensed (C-10 or C-46), insured, and offer strong warranties. Seek out local references and consider established regional or local companies familiar with the Central Coast's unique requirements over large national advertisers.