Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in El Granada, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, local provider based in nearby Half Moon Bay, specializing in custom residential solar and battery storage solutions. They are known for personalized service, deep knowledge of local coastal permitting and grid interconnection (PG&E), and expertise in both new construction and retrofit projects.
A larger, well-established company with a strong presence throughout California. They offer a comprehensive suite of services from solar installation to battery backup and roofing. Their strong manufacturer partnerships and various financing options make them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a full-service, one-stop shop.
A premium, boutique solar installer renowned for high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. They focus on complex, high-end residential systems, including off-grid capable solutions and smart home energy integration. Their high rating reflects a focus on customer satisfaction over volume.
** The home solar market in El Granada is characterized by high homeowner engagement, driven by above-average electricity costs from PG&E, a strong environmental ethos, and excellent solar irradiance despite occasional coastal fog. The market is **moderately competitive**, with a mix of large regional installers and specialized local contractors vying for business. The average quality of providers is **high**, as the technical requirements for PG&E interconnection and coastal wind zones necessitate experienced and certified professionals. **Typical pricing** for a residential solar system in El Granada aligns with the broader San Francisco Bay Area, which is one of the more expensive markets in the U.S. Homeowners can expect to pay **between $3.00 and $4.00 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of **$30,000 to $48,000 for a typical 10kW-12kW system**. The federal investment tax credit (ITC) can reduce this net cost by 30%. The high cost is attributed to Bay Area labor rates, complex permitting in some coastal areas, and the prevalence of high-efficiency equipment and battery storage integrations, which are popular for backup power during grid outages.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with El Granada regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in El Granada, California.
El Granada's mild, foggy summers can reduce peak solar production compared to inland areas, but the consistently sunny and clear winters help balance annual output. The moderate temperatures are actually beneficial, as solar panels operate more efficiently in cooler conditions than in extreme heat. A well-designed system will account for the "June Gloom" and coastal microclimate by slightly oversizing the array to ensure it meets your annual energy needs.
All solar installations in El Granada require a building permit from San Mateo County, and your provider will typically handle this process. Due to the coastal location, projects may be subject to additional review for aesthetic and environmental considerations. It's also crucial to comply with the specific interconnection requirements of Peninsula Clean Energy, the local Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) provider, alongside PG&E's net metering program.
For a typical home, a solar system in El Granada ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 before incentives, depending on system size and roof complexity. The key financial benefit is the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces the net cost. Additionally, you will generate savings through Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) with PG&E and may be eligible for property tax exclusions under California's Solar Rights Act.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in San Mateo County, as they will be familiar with the specific permit process, microclimates, and interconnection logistics. Verify they are licensed (C-46 Solar or C-10 Electrical) and insured in California. Ask for references from recent installations in nearby coastal communities like Half Moon Bay or Moss Beach to assess their expertise with similar weather conditions and architectural styles.
Yes, salt mist is a legitimate concern for coastal El Granada homes. It's essential to choose solar equipment rated for "corrosive environments" (C5 or similar). This includes panels with robust frame anodization and inverters with protective coatings. A reputable local installer will use hardware designed for coastal durability and may recommend more frequent rinse-downs to remove salt residue and maintain optimal performance.