Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Taft, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in Bakersfield with a strong reputation for quality residential installations. They offer comprehensive services from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing. They are known for their expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup systems, particularly in the hot climate of the Central Valley.
A reputable, veteran-owned company with multiple locations across California, including Bakersfield. They provide a full suite of solar services and have strong partnerships with top manufacturers like Tesla and LG. They are recognized for their straightforward consultation process and knowledge of state and federal incentives.
A highly-rated, employee-owned company known for exceptional customer service and high-quality custom solar system designs. While based in the San Jose area, they have a significant presence and project portfolio throughout California, including the Central Valley and Kern County. They handle everything from design to maintenance and offer various financing and leasing options.
** The home solar market in Taft, California, is characterized by high solar potential due to the region's abundant sunshine but is served primarily by established regional contractors from larger nearby hubs like Bakersfield. There are very few, if any, solar installation companies physically headquartered within Taft's city limits. The competition level is moderate, with several strong, reputable companies from Bakersfield actively competing for projects in Taft. These providers are well-versed in the specific needs of the area, including dealing with high temperatures and designing systems for both agricultural and standard residential properties. Typical pricing for a residential system in Taft is competitive with state averages, generally ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000** for a standard 6kW to 8kW system before the 30% federal tax credit and any other local incentives. The overall quality of available providers is high, as they must maintain strong reputations to compete across the broader region.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Taft regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Taft, California.
For a typical Taft home, a solar system costs between $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and energy needs. Crucially, you are eligible for the 30% federal tax credit, and California's net metering policy (NEM 3.0) allows you to earn credits for excess power sent to the grid. While there are no Taft-specific city rebates, the abundant Kern County sunshine maximizes your system's production and financial return.
Taft's high desert climate with over 275 sunny days per year is excellent for solar energy production. However, consistent summer temperatures over 100°F can cause a temporary, slight decrease in panel efficiency. This is easily offset by the long hours of peak sun. Minimal rainfall means you'll need to rinse panels periodically to remove dust and maintain optimal output, but snow load is not a concern.
Prioritize installers with strong local experience in Kern County, as they understand specific permitting with the City of Taft and interconnection with Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Verify they are California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) licensed and insured. Ask for references from recent installations in the area to assess their familiarity with local roof types and wind considerations.
The entire process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Taft, PG&E's interconnection application review, and the physical installation. The installation itself usually takes 1-3 days. Seasonal delays are minimal, but high demand in spring can extend timelines, so planning ahead is beneficial.
Many older homes in Taft may require a panel upgrade if the current panel is at capacity or is a Federal Pacific or Zinsco brand, which are safety concerns. A reputable local installer will assess this. Adding a battery, like a Tesla Powerwall, is highly recommended for backup power during PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), which can affect Kern County during high fire risk conditions.