Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Nevada City, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A top-tier provider combining the high-efficiency SunPower product line with local installation expertise. They are known for comprehensive system design, premium equipment, and strong customer service, handling everything from initial consultation to post-installation maintenance.
A locally owned and operated company based in nearby Grass Valley, providing a personalized approach to solar and battery storage. They are highly regarded for their knowledge of local permitting, PG&E interconnect agreements, and energy efficiency assessments.
A well-established national company with a strong local branch in Auburn, REC Solar offers a full suite of residential solar services. They are recognized for their straightforward process, quality installations, and expertise in navigating state and federal incentives.
** The home solar market in Nevada City is mature and competitive, characterized by a high level of consumer awareness and adoption. The combination of abundant sunshine, high electricity rates from PG&E, and an environmentally conscious population has created a robust solar industry. The average quality of providers is high, with several long-standing, reputable companies serving the area. Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region ranges from **$3.00 to $4.00 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$18,000 to $24,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can reduce this cost by 30%. Providers in this market are generally very knowledgeable about local incentives, net metering policies with PG&E, and the specific needs for off-grid capable systems, which are popular in the more rural parts of Nevada County.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Nevada City regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Nevada City, California.
Nevada City's excellent summer sun provides ideal conditions for high solar production, which can offset lower winter output. While heavy snow is rare, panels are installed at an angle to shed light snow and maximize year-round exposure. The region's clear, high-elevation air can actually increase panel efficiency compared to more humid or hazy areas.
All installations require a building permit from the City of Nevada City's Community Development Department and must comply with the California Electrical Code. If your home is in the Historic District, you may face additional design review requirements. Your installer should handle this process, which also includes interconnection approval from PG&E, our local utility.
PG&E's current Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0) still makes solar financially valuable, but the economics now heavily favor pairing solar with a battery storage system. This allows you to store excess daytime energy for use in the evening when PG&E rates are highest, maximizing your savings and providing backup power during Nevada County's frequent Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
Prioritize local, established installers familiar with our county's permit processes, terrain, and weather challenges. Verify they are licensed (C-10 or C-46), insured, and have strong references from local projects. Be wary of out-of-area door-knockers; a reputable local company will provide a detailed site assessment that considers your roof's condition, tree shading, and future energy needs.
For a typical Nevada City home, a 6-8 kW system ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 before incentives. The key incentive is the 30% federal tax credit. California also offers a property tax exclusion for the added home value from solar. While the state rebate program (SGIP) is primarily for battery storage, it is highly relevant here for PSPS resilience, and some local installers may offer additional promotions.