Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Irvine, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading, locally-based provider with a strong focus on custom solar and battery storage solutions for Southern California. They are known for high-quality installations, exceptional customer service, and deep expertise in the latest technologies, including Tesla Powerwall.
A reputable, veteran-owned company serving all of California. They offer a full range of solar, battery, and roofing services. They are praised for their straightforward consultation process, strong financing options, and professional crews.
A partnership between a long-standing local installer (Stellar Solar, est. 1998) and a top-tier solar manufacturer (SunPower). This gives customers the benefit of local expertise combined with some of the most efficient solar panels and comprehensive warranties on the market.
Overview of home solar services in the area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Irvine regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Irvine, California.
For a typical 6kW system in Irvine, the average gross cost ranges from $18,000 to $24,000 before incentives. Beyond the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), Irvine homeowners benefit from California's net metering policy (NEM 3.0) and a statewide property tax exclusion for solar installations, meaning added value from solar won't increase your property taxes. Southern California Edison (SCE) is the local utility, and their specific rates and interconnection fees should be factored into your payback period calculation.
Irvine's abundant sunshine, with over 280 clear days per year, makes it highly suitable for solar. While the marine layer ("June Gloom") can reduce morning production in late spring and early summer, panels still generate significant power from diffuse light, and the long, sunny afternoons and consistently clear weather from July through October result in very high annual production. Systems are designed to maximize your annual energy offset, accounting for these predictable seasonal patterns.
Installing solar in Irvine requires a building permit from the City's Community Development Department and an interconnection agreement with Southern California Edison (SCE). The city has specific design guidelines, particularly for visible roof planes, to maintain aesthetic standards. With a reputable local installer handling the process, from permit application to "Permission to Operate" (PTO) from SCE, the total timeline typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience, as they will be familiar with Irvine's permit process, SCE's requirements, and optimal system designs for our microclimate. Verify they are licensed (C-10 or C-46), insured, and have positive reviews on trusted platforms. Ask for multiple Irvine-specific references and ensure they provide a detailed production estimate that accounts for local weather patterns and your home's specific orientation.
Yes, this is a critical local concern. California's Title 24, Part 9, and the Irvine Fire Department require specific fire code setbacks (pathways) on the roof for firefighter access. A reputable installer will design your system to comply with these mandated setbacks. Furthermore, your roof should be in good condition; if it's near the end of its life, it's highly recommended to replace it before installation to avoid costly removal and reinstallation fees later.