Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Millbrae, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally owned and operated company based directly adjacent to Millbrae, specializing in high-end residential solar and battery installations. They are highly regarded for their custom system design, exceptional customer service, and deep knowledge of local permit processes and incentives.
A premium, full-service solar provider known for high-quality installations and excellent craftsmanship. They are a SunPower Master Dealer, offering some of the most efficient solar panels on the market. They provide comprehensive services from initial consultation to post-installation maintenance.
A well-established, technology-driven solar company that offers a streamlined online design and consultation process. They are a strong choice for homeowners seeking a straightforward, national provider with robust financing and leasing options and a strong focus on solar + battery solutions.
** The home solar market in Millbrae is mature and highly competitive, characterized by a high standard of quality due to the affluence and tech-savviness of the local population. The combination of high PG&E electricity rates, abundant sunshine, and California's strong solar incentives (like the Net Energy Metering program, despite recent changes) makes solar a compelling investment. The market is served by a mix of elite local/regional specialists (like Peninsula Solar) and top-tier national providers (like Sungevity) that maintain a strong local operations team. Competition is fierce, which benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from **$18,000 to $35,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending heavily on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage, which is increasingly popular for backup power and energy independence.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Millbrae regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Millbrae, California.
For a typical Millbrae home, a 6kW solar system costs between $18,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with California's net metering program (NEM 3.0) and Peninsula Clean Energy's local rebates, which can significantly reduce your net cost. Millbrae's excellent solar exposure increases your system's energy production, improving the return on investment.
While Millbrae experiences morning fog, especially in summer, solar panels still generate significant power from direct and diffused sunlight. The moderate coastal temperatures are actually beneficial, as panels operate more efficiently in cooler weather than in extreme heat. Systems are designed with this microclimate in mind, and the abundant sunny afternoons provide ample production to offset your PG&E bill.
All solar installations in Millbrae require a building permit from the City of Millbrae's Community Development Department. The process involves submitting plans that comply with the California Electrical Code and local zoning ordinances, including specific setback requirements. Your installer should handle this process, which also includes coordination with PG&E for interconnection under the state's Net Energy Metering (NEM) rules.
Prioritize providers with extensive experience installing in San Mateo County and a strong portfolio of Millbrae projects. Verify they are a licensed California C-10 or C-46 contractor, insured, and understand local permitting nuances. Check reviews and ask for references from nearby installations to see how they've handled specific coastal conditions and PG&E interconnection.
While not essential, adding a battery like a Tesla Powerwall is highly advantageous under NEM 3.0. It allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it during peak evening hours when PG&E rates are highest, maximizing your bill savings. For Millbrae residents concerned about grid reliability or potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), a battery also provides crucial backup power.