Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in SSF, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar with a strong local presence. They are known for their comprehensive service, from design to maintenance, and are a primary provider of solar leasing and PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) options, making solar accessible with little to no upfront cost.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company based in the North Bay that serves the entire Bay Area, including SSF. They are praised for their personalized customer service, expert system design, and high-quality installation. They focus on purchase and loan-financed systems rather than leases.
An East Bay-based company with an exceptional reputation for quality and customer satisfaction. They specialize in complex installations and work closely with homeowners to design high-performance systems, including both grid-tied and off-grid solutions with leading battery technology.
** The home solar market in South San Francisco is **highly competitive and mature**, characteristic of the wider San Francisco Bay Area. The combination of high electricity rates from PG&E, strong state and federal incentives, and a generally eco-conscious population drives significant demand. * **Average Quality:** The quality of providers is generally high, but there is a distinct tier system. National providers (like Sunrun) offer strong financing and brand recognition, while top-tier local/regional installers (like Solar Technologies and Solar Harmonics) often compete on superior customization, craftsmanship, and customer service. * **Competition Level:** Intense. Homeowners in SSF are actively marketed to by a wide range of companies, from large national corporations to specialized local contractors. This competition benefits the consumer but requires due diligence to select a provider that aligns with their specific needs (e.g., lease vs. purchase, battery backup necessity). * **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is above the national average due to the high cost of living and business operations in the Bay Area. However, the return on investment remains attractive because of the exceptionally high cost of utility power from PG&E. A typical residential system before incentives can range from **$25,000 to $45,000+,** heavily dependent on system size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. The 30% federal tax credit (ITC) and other local incentives significantly reduce the net cost.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with SSF regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in SSF, California.
For a typical 6kW system in SSF, costs range from $18,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit and California's net metering program (NEM 3.0). While SSF doesn't have a city-specific rebate, Peninsula Clean Energy, our local Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) provider, offers additional programs that can enhance savings, making the net investment significantly lower.
SSF's famous fog and mild temperatures are a double-edged sword. Morning fog can reduce early production, but the cool climate actually improves panel efficiency as they operate better in cooler temperatures. Systems are designed with this microclimate in mind, and you'll still see strong production, especially on sunny afternoons. Proper placement to maximize southern exposure is key to overcoming the marine layer.
The City of South San Francisco's Planning & Building Services Department handles solar permits. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process for you. From signing a contract to "Permission to Operate" from PG&E, the timeline is typically 2 to 4 months. This includes system design, SSF permit approval, installation, and the final city inspection and utility interconnection.
Prioritize providers with extensive experience navigating SSF's specific permitting and PG&E's interconnection process. Look for licensed (C-10 or C-46), insured, and locally-reviewed contractors. We recommend getting at least 3 detailed quotes. Check for membership in the California Solar & Storage Association (CALSSA) and ask for references from recent installations in your specific neighborhood to gauge their familiarity with local roof types and weather patterns.
While not essential, adding battery storage is now highly advantageous under NEM 3.0. Batteries allow you to store your solar energy instead of exporting it at lower rates, maximizing self-consumption and providing backup power during PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), which can affect our area. For SSF homeowners, a battery can significantly improve system economics and provide valuable energy security.