Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in San Martin, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A top-tier provider known for offering high-efficiency SunPower® equipment, which is often considered the premium brand in the industry. They provide a full suite of services from consultation and design to installation and maintenance, with a strong focus on customer service and long-term system performance.
A reputable, veteran-owned company with a strong presence in Northern California. They are known for their work with both solar and battery storage, particularly Tesla Powerwall installations. They offer various financing options and are well-versed in local and state incentives.
A highly-rated, local installer based in Gilroy with a focus on custom-designed systems for residential and commercial properties. They are known for their personalized service, expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions, and strong manufacturer partnerships.
** The home solar market in San Martin is characterized by high demand due to abundant sunshine and relatively high electricity costs from PG&E. The market is competitive, with a mix of large national companies and highly-regarded local/regional installers vying for business. The quality of providers is generally high, as the California contracting license (C-46 Solar) and insurance requirements create a significant barrier to entry. San Martin residents are typically looking for systems that can offset high air conditioning costs during the hot summers. Battery storage (like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery) is increasingly popular as a solution for PG&E's Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) and for maximizing self-consumption under the current Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) rules. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in the area ranges from **$3.00 to $4.50 per watt** before incentives. This means an average 6 kW system could cost between $18,000 and $27,000 gross, but the 30% federal tax credit and other potential local incentives can significantly reduce the net cost. The top local providers distinguish themselves through superior design expertise, high-quality equipment choices, and exceptional customer service, rather than competing on price alone.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with San Martin regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in San Martin, California.
For a typical 6kW system in San Martin, costs before incentives range from $18,000 to $25,000. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with California's Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) program, which credits you for excess power sent to the grid. Additionally, San Martin residents served by PG&E should explore their specific solar and battery rebate programs, which can further reduce the net cost.
San Martin's abundant sunshine with over 260 clear days a year is excellent for solar production. However, under California's NEM 3.0, the financial value of exporting excess energy to the grid is significantly lower than during peak afternoon hours. This makes adding a home battery system highly advantageous, as you can store your midday solar surplus and use it during expensive evening peak periods (4-9 pm), maximizing your savings under the new rules.
As an unincorporated community in Santa Clara County, your installation must comply with the County's Planning and Development ordinances. This includes obtaining a building permit and ensuring your system meets specific setback and structural requirements. Your chosen installer should handle this process, but it's important to confirm they are familiar with Santa Clara County's specific permit timelines and requirements, which can impact project scheduling.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in Santa Clara County. Verify they are licensed (C-10 or C-46), insured, and have positive reviews on platforms like Yelp and the California Contractors State License Board website. Ask for references from recent installations in San Martin or nearby communities like Morgan Hill to see how they've navigated local permits, PG&E interconnections, and the unique roof types common in the area.
Yes, this is a key local consideration. During a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) or other outage, a standard grid-tied solar system will automatically shut off for safety, leaving you without power unless you have a battery backup. Given San Martin's rural setting and exposure to PSPS events, we strongly recommend pairing your solar panels with a battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar) to maintain essential power during outages, which are most common during the dry, high-wind fall season.