Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Corte Madera, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is one of the nation's largest residential solar, battery storage, and energy services companies. They are highly active in the Marin County market and are known for their flexible financing options, including popular Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and lease programs, in addition to cash purchases. Their strong manufacturer partnerships and in-house monitoring provide a comprehensive service package.
A local, employee-owned company based in Novato, SolarCraft has been serving Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties for over 40 years. They have an exceptional reputation for quality craftsmanship, personalized service, and deep expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems. Their long tenure signifies strong relationships with manufacturers and a deep understanding of local permitting and incentives.
PetersenDean is a notable provider that often bundles solar installation with roofing services, which is a significant advantage for homeowners who may need a new roof alongside their solar investment. They handle the entire process in-house, from roof assessment to solar design and installation, and offer various purchase and loan options.
** The home solar market in Corte Madera and the broader Marin County is mature and highly competitive, characterized by a high level of consumer awareness and environmental consciousness. The average quality of providers is high, with several long-standing, reputable companies vying for business. Residents have access to a full spectrum of services, from basic grid-tied systems to advanced battery storage (like Tesla Powerwall and Sunrun's Brightbox) for energy resilience. Typical pricing for a residential system in this affluent market is competitive but tends to be at or above the national average due to higher labor and operational costs, as well as the prevalence of premium equipment and complex installations (e.g., on steep roofs). However, the excellent solar resources and the combination of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with California-specific incentives (like the Net Energy Metering program, despite its evolution) continue to make solar a financially attractive investment for Corte Madera homeowners. The market is dominated by established players who emphasize strong warranties, financing expertise, and robust customer service.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Corte Madera regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Corte Madera, California.
For a typical Corte Madera home, a 6-8 kW solar system ranges from $18,000 to $28,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this cost through the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and California's Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) program, which credits you for excess energy sent to the grid. Additionally, Marin County has no local permit fees for residential solar, which helps keep installation costs lower compared to some other Bay Area jurisdictions.
Corte Madera's abundant sunshine provides excellent solar potential, with peak production from April through October. While coastal morning fog ("May Gray/June Gloom") can reduce early-day output, systems are designed to capture intense afternoon sun, and modern high-efficiency panels perform well in diffuse light. Annual production is more than sufficient to offset energy use, especially when paired with a home battery to store excess daytime energy for use during foggy mornings or evening peaks.
Corte Madera and Marin County follow California Solar Rights Act, which strictly limits HOAs from prohibiting solar installations, though they can have reasonable aesthetic guidelines (e.g., panel placement or conduit painting). The Town of Corte Madera requires a building permit for solar installations, which your qualified installer will typically manage. It's always wise to review your HOA's architectural guidelines and submit an application to ensure compliance with any color or layout preferences.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in Marin County, as they will be familiar with specific permit processes, microclimates, and common roofing styles in Corte Madera. Choose a licensed, bonded, and insured C-10 or C-46 contractor, check reviews on platforms like Yelp and the California Contractors State License Board, and ensure they offer detailed production estimates specific to your home's orientation and shading. Local companies often provide more responsive long-term service.
Yes, adding battery storage like a Tesla Powerwall or similar is highly recommended for Corte Madera homeowners. It protects you during PG&E's PSPS events, which have affected Marin County, and allows you to use your stored solar energy during peak evening rate periods (4-9 pm) when PG&E charges are highest. Under NEM 3.0, the economics for storing and using your own power have improved, making batteries a valuable investment for both backup and increased bill savings.