Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Mountain View, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier provider resulting from the partnership between national solar manufacturer SunPower and a leading local installer, Stellar Solar. They offer high-efficiency SunPower equipment and are known for exceptional customer service and system design. Their long local presence in the Bay Area gives them deep knowledge of Mountain View's specific permitting and incentive programs.
A well-established, locally-owned and operated company specializing in custom residential and commercial solar systems. They are highly regarded for their consultative approach, focusing on energy efficiency and tailoring systems to specific homeowner needs, including complex roof types and off-grid capabilities.
One of the largest private roofing and solar contractors in the United States, with a significant presence in California. They offer a unique integrated service by handling both the roof and solar installation, which can be a major advantage. They provide various financing options and have extensive experience with battery backup systems.
** The home solar market in Mountain View is highly developed and competitive. The average quality of installers is very high, given the demanding consumer base and stringent local building codes. Residents benefit from California's favorable net metering policies (NEM 3.0), state incentives like the SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program) for batteries, and the high cost of PG&E electricity, which makes the return on investment compelling. **Competition** is fierce, with a mix of national brands (like Sunrun and Tesla) and strong regional players competing on price, technology, and service. This competition benefits the consumer but requires due diligence. **Typical Pricing** for a residential system in Mountain View ranges from **$20,000 to $45,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending heavily on system size (typically 5kW to 10kW), panel efficiency, and the inclusion of battery storage (e.g., Tesla Powerwall or SunVault). Battery storage has become an increasingly popular and almost standard addition due to both backup power desires and the financial structure of NEM 3.0.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Mountain View regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Mountain View, California.
For a typical 6kW system in Mountain View, the gross cost before incentives is usually between $18,000 and $25,000. Critically, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and receive additional savings from California's Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) program. While NEM 3.0 offers lower export rates, pairing your system with a battery is now highly recommended in Mountain View to maximize savings and provide backup power during PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
Mountain View's Mediterranean climate, with over 260 sunny days per year, is excellent for solar energy. You can expect peak production from late spring through early fall. While summer fog ("June Gloom") can cause morning reductions, afternoon sun remains strong. Winter production is lower due to shorter days and sun angle, but rain helps naturally clean your panels, and systems are designed to account for this seasonal variation in your annual energy offset.
All installations require an electrical permit and building permit from the City of Mountain View's Community Development Department. The process is standardized but must account for local fire code setbacks, especially for roof-mounted systems. Your chosen installer will typically manage this entire process. Importantly, if your home is in a designated historic district or has a homeowners association (HOA), you must obtain their approval, though California's Solar Rights Act significantly limits an HOA's ability to deny a system.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience, as they will be familiar with Mountain View's specific permit process, PG&E interconnection logistics, and common roof types in the area. Ensure they are a California Licensed C-10 Solar Contractor and check their reviews on platforms like Yelp and the California Contractors State License Board. Given the importance of batteries under NEM 3.0, choose a company proficient in both solar and battery storage integration.
This is a crucial consideration. If your asphalt shingle roof is over 15-20 years old or nearing the end of its lifespan, it is highly advisable to replace it before installation. Solar panels have a 25+ year lifespan, and removing them later for a roof repair is very costly. A reputable Mountain View installer will conduct a thorough roof inspection and advise you honestly. Coordinating a re-roof and solar installation can often be streamlined.