Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in French Camp, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar and battery storage, known for its strong brand recognition and comprehensive service offerings. They provide a full suite of services from consultation to installation, maintenance, and robust financing/leasing options. Their partnership with Costco and major manufacturers adds to their credibility and buying power.
A highly-rated local provider based in nearby Lathrop, specializing in both solar and roofing. This dual expertise is a significant advantage for integrated projects or for homeowners concerned about roof integrity. They are known for personalized service, high-quality installation, and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems.
A well-established, local Stockton company that has been serving the Central Valley for over two decades. They have built a strong reputation for quality workmanship and customer service. As a smaller local firm, they offer a more hands-on approach and are deeply knowledgeable about the specific incentives and utility policies (like those from PG&E) affecting French Camp residents.
** The home solar market in French Camp is robust and competitive, characterized by a mix of large national providers and established local installers. The area is ideal for solar due to high numbers of sunny days and historically high electricity rates from the primary utility, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). This combination creates a strong financial incentive for homeowners to switch to solar. **Average Quality:** The quality is generally high, with providers well-versed in the specific permitting requirements of San Joaquin County and the interconnection process with PG&E. Reputable companies hold the necessary CSLB licenses (C-46 for Solar, C-10 for Electrical) and carry full insurance. **Competition Level:** Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Homeowners have a clear choice between the extensive resources and financing of a national company (like Sunrun) and the specialized, personalized service of a local expert (like Norcal Solar or Stockton Solar). **Typical Pricing:** As of 2024, the average gross cost for a residential solar panel system in California ranges from **$18,000 to $35,000** before incentives, depending heavily on system size (typically 5kW to 10kW for an average home). The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, significantly reduces the net cost. Local providers are adept at helping homeowners navigate this incentive, as well as any local programs that may be available.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with French Camp regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in French Camp, California.
For a typical 6kW system in French Camp, the gross cost before incentives is usually between $18,000 and $25,000. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit, and California's net metering policy (NEM 3.0) provides bill credits for excess energy sent to the grid. While San Joaquin County doesn't have additional local rebates, the combination of strong Central Valley sunshine and these incentives makes for an excellent return on investment.
French Camp's hot, sunny Central Valley climate is ideal for solar energy production, with over 260 sunny days per year. While peak production occurs in the long, clear summers, efficiency can slightly decrease during extreme heat waves. The mild, foggy winters will see reduced output, but the system will still generate significant power year-round, especially with proper panel orientation to maximize southern exposure.
Prioritize installers licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) with specific experience in San Joaquin County. They should be familiar with local permitting processes through the County Community Development Department and the interconnection requirements with PG&E. Look for established companies with strong local references, as they will best understand the regional climate and any specific structural considerations for homes in the area.
In French Camp, the entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from San Joaquin County, the physical installation (which usually takes 1-3 days), and the final inspection and "Permission to Operate" (PTO) from PG&E. The PTO phase can sometimes cause delays, so working with an installer experienced in navigating PG&E's process is key.
Under California's Net Metering 3.0 (NEM 3.0), your solar system significantly offsets your consumption from PG&E, locking in a lower, predictable cost for your own generated power. While the export rates for excess energy are lower than previous programs, the strategy now emphasizes pairing solar with a battery storage system. This allows you to use more of your own solar energy directly and provides backup power during PG&E's Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events, which can affect French Camp.