Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Clearlake, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in the North Bay, known for high-quality custom designs and exceptional customer service. They have extensive experience with the specific climate and incentive structures of Lake County and are a go-to provider for both grid-tied and off-grid solutions, including complex properties.
A well-regarded local contractor with a strong presence in Lake County. They are praised for their personalized consultation process and deep knowledge of local permitting and PG&E interconnection. They focus on making solar straightforward and affordable for homeowners.
A large, award-winning solar installer based in Southern California with a strong operational presence in Northern California, including the Clearlake area. They are known for competitive pricing, robust manufacturer partnerships (e.g., Panasonic, Enphase), and handling the entire process from design to permitting and installation efficiently.
** The home solar market in Clearlake, CA, is characterized by high solar potential due to abundant sunshine, but a relatively small number of locally-based installers. This creates a competitive environment where regional companies from surrounding hubs like Ukiah, Santa Rosa, and the broader North Bay area actively compete for projects. The average quality of service is high, as the companies that succeed in this regional market tend to be established, licensed, and highly reviewed. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there are fewer storefronts in Clearlake itself, homeowners have access to a robust selection of 5-10 highly reputable regional installers who are eager to serve the area. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with the Northern California average. For a standard grid-tied residential system (6-8 kW), homeowners can expect a gross cost between **$18,000 - $30,000** before applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and any other local incentives. The final out-of-pocket cost is significantly lower after incentives. The strong competition helps keep pricing fair and transparent. Battery storage additions typically add $10,000 - $20,000+ to the total project cost, depending on the brand and capacity.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Clearlake regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Clearlake, California.
Clearlake's abundant sunshine, with over 260 clear days per year, is excellent for solar energy production. While extreme summer heat can temporarily reduce panel efficiency, the long, sunny seasons far outweigh this minor effect, leading to high annual energy yields. This climate allows a properly sized system to cover a significant portion, if not all, of your electricity needs from Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E).
The average gross cost for a residential solar system in Lake County ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and California's net metering program (NEM 3.0) with PG&E, which provides bill credits for excess energy sent to the grid. These incentives significantly reduce the payback period, often to 5-8 years.
Yes, installing solar requires a permit from the City of Clearlake's Building Department. The process is generally straightforward for standard rooftop systems, but local inspectors will ensure compliance with the California Electrical Code and structural requirements. A reputable local installer will handle this entire permitting process for you, which is a key reason to choose an experienced provider familiar with Lake County.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Lake County, proper California contractor licenses (C-10 or C-46), and positive reviews from Clearlake residents. Ask for local references and ensure they handle PG&E interconnection paperwork and local permits directly. Be wary of out-of-area companies that may not understand local wildfire safety requirements (like defensible space) or provide timely service.
Wildfire risk necessitates careful planning. Installers should design systems with clear access pathways for firefighters and may recommend microinverters (which shut off at the panel) for enhanced safety. You must notify your homeowner's insurance provider about the installation, as it increases your home's value. Ensuring your system and roof are included in your defensible space zone clearance is also a critical local consideration.