Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Felton, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier, locally-owned and operated solar installer with a long-standing reputation in Santa Cruz County. They are known for high-quality custom designs, exceptional customer service, and expertise in both residential and commercial systems. They handle the entire process in-house, from design and engineering to installation and maintenance.
A dedicated local company focused exclusively on solar photovoltaic systems. They are praised for their transparent pricing, technical expertise, and knowledge of local permitting and incentives. They offer a range of solutions from simple grid-tied systems to complex installations with battery backup.
A smaller, highly-rated local contractor specializing in residential solar and electrical services. They are known for personalized service, attention to detail, and being a trusted provider for home energy upgrades. Their services extend to general electrical work, which is beneficial for integrated energy system upgrades.
** The home solar market in Felton, CA, is mature and competitive, characterized by a high concentration of quality, locally-owned installers rather than national corporations. The average quality is very high, as companies must navigate the specific challenges of the Santa Cruz Mountains, including varying microclimates, potential shading from redwood forests, and diverse roof types. Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Felton is aligned with California averages, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This means a typical 6kW system could have a gross cost between $16,800 and $21,000. The 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) significantly reduces this net cost. Providers in this area are exceptionally knowledgeable about local incentives, including Net Energy Metering (NEM) policies with PG&E, and are adept at designing systems that maximize energy production and savings for homeowners. There is a growing and strong emphasis on pairing new solar installations with battery storage systems (like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery) due to both the desire for energy independence and the reality of Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) in the region.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Felton regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Felton, California.
Felton's summer fog and tree cover can reduce peak sunlight hours, making accurate system sizing critical. A reputable local installer will conduct a detailed shade analysis, often recommending higher-efficiency panels and potentially a slightly larger system to compensate. Despite the fog, Felton still receives ample annual sunlight for excellent solar production, especially with the clear skies in late spring and fall.
Installing solar in Felton requires a permit from Santa Cruz County's Planning Department, which has specific guidelines for structural and electrical work. Your installer will handle this, as well as the interconnection application with PG&E. The process is streamlined under California's Solar Rights Act, but factors like historic districts or heavily treed lots may require extra review, so choosing an installer familiar with local codes is key.
Yes, seasonal changes are important. Autumn typically offers the highest production with clear days, while winter brings shorter days and potential rain/leaf debris. Spring can be variable with fog. Regular cleaning to remove pollen and redwood duff is advised, and trimming overhanging branches seasonally maximizes winter sun exposure. Snow is rare, but heavy rain runoff should be managed.
Look for providers with extensive experience in Santa Cruz County, strong references from Felton neighbors, and licenses (C-10 or C-46). They should understand local climate challenges. Beyond the 30% federal tax credit, check for current California-specific programs like the SGIP for battery storage, which is highly valuable for Felton residents concerned about PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
For a typical 6kW system in Felton, gross costs range from $18,000 to $24,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, the net investment is often between $12,600 and $16,800. With high PG&E electricity rates (among the nation's highest), payback periods typically range from 5-8 years, followed by decades of significantly reduced or eliminated electric bills.