Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Modesto, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company known for personalized service and expertise in both residential and commercial solar. They handle the entire process in-house, from design and engineering to installation, and are praised for their knowledge of local incentives and high-quality craftsmanship.
A prominent, veteran-owned company with a strong statewide presence in California. They are a certified partner for top-tier equipment like Tesla Powerwall and SunPower panels. They are known for robust financing options and often run special offers for veterans and first responders.
As one of the largest dedicated residential solar companies in the United States, Sunrun offers significant buying power and extensive experience. They are a major provider of solar leasing and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible with little to no upfront cost. Their large network ensures local service availability.
** The home solar market in Modesto is robust and highly competitive, driven by California's favorable solar policies, high electricity rates from PG&E, and abundant sunshine in the Central Valley. The average quality of providers is high, with a mix of strong local/regional installers and large national companies. **Competition Level:** High. Homeowners have numerous choices, which helps keep pricing competitive and encourages strong customer service. **Typical Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Modesto typically ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit. The final price is highly dependent on system size (kW), panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The prevalence of $0-down leasing and loan options has significantly increased adoption. **Key Local Factors:** Providers in this market must be exceptionally knowledgeable about the Net Energy Metering (NEM) programs, specifically the current NEM 3.0 policy, which makes the addition of battery storage a much more financially attractive option for new solar customers. The best local companies excel at designing systems optimized for this new tariff structure.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Modesto regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Modesto, California.
For a typical 6kW system in Modesto, costs before incentives range from $18,000 to $25,000. The key financial benefit is the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly reduces your net cost. Additionally, Modesto homeowners benefit from California's net metering policies and may qualify for property tax exclusions, making the long-term investment very attractive.
Modesto's abundant sunshine, with over 260 clear days per year, makes it excellent for solar. While winter "Tule fog" can reduce morning production for a few months, modern high-efficiency panels still generate power in diffuse light. The long, hot, and clear summers produce exceptionally high output, which typically more than compensates for any foggy periods on an annual basis.
Prioritize installers who are locally established, licensed (C-10 or C-46), and intimately familiar with Modesto Irrigation District (MID) or Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) interconnection processes, depending on your utility. Check for strong warranties, local references, and ensure they handle all necessary permits with the City of Modesto's Community and Economic Development Department.
The full process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the city, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the crucial utility interconnection approval from MID or PG&E. The utility inspection and permission to operate (PTO) is often the longest variable, so working with an installer experienced with your specific utility is key.
Absolutely. Solar production peaks during the sunniest and hottest parts of the day, which is precisely when your air conditioner is working hardest and electricity rates are highest. By offsetting this expensive grid power, your system directly targets your largest energy expense, providing substantial bill savings and adding resilience during heat waves and peak demand events.