Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Westwood, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier, locally-owned and operated solar and energy efficiency company with a stellar reputation for high-end, custom residential installations. They are known for exceptional customer service, meticulous design, and expertise in complex roofing situations common in Westwood's older, architecturally significant homes. They are a certified installer for top-tier equipment like SunPower and Tesla.
A veteran-owned company with a strong regional presence in Southern California. They are recognized for their robust financing options and comprehensive service bundle, often combining solar with roof repair or replacement, which is a common need. They offer strong manufacturer warranties and partnerships with brands like LG and Tesla.
A leading solar and battery storage installer in the Greater Los Angeles area, known for its volume and efficiency without sacrificing quality. They are a top-tier installer for Panasonic and Enphase, offering cutting-edge technology. They excel at navigating incentives and providing cost-effective solutions for a wide range of budgets, including both purchase and lease options.
The home solar market in Westwood, CA, is a high-end, competitive environment. The average quality of installers serving the area is excellent, as the affluent and educated homeowner demographic demands premium equipment and flawless installation. Competition is fierce, which benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential system in Westwood is above the national average due to the high cost of labor and living, the complexity of some installations (e.g., tile roofs, multi-story homes), and the prevalence of top-tier equipment. A typical 6kW to 8kW system can range from **$25,000 to $40,000+ before the 30% federal tax credit**. However, with high local electricity rates from LADWP, the return on investment (payback period) remains attractive, typically between 5-8 years. Companies operating here must be highly knowledgeable about the specific rebates and net metering policies of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP).
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Westwood regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Westwood, California.
For a typical Westwood home, a 6kW to 8kW solar system can cost between $18,000 and $30,000 before incentives, with pricing influenced by roof type, equipment quality, and installation complexity. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this cost through the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and California's net energy metering (NEM 3.0) program, which provides bill credits for excess energy sent to the grid. Additionally, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) customers may access specific rebates or financing programs, so checking their website for current offers is essential.
Westwood's abundant sunshine makes it excellent for solar, with panels producing strong output most of the year. The marine layer and "June Gloom" can reduce production by 10-25% on overcast mornings in late spring and early summer, but systems are designed to account for this seasonal variation. Importantly, panels still generate electricity on cloudy days, and the exceptionally clear, sunny weather from late summer through fall typically results in above-average production that compensates for the gloomier period.
Installing solar in Westwood requires compliance with City of Los Angeles building and electrical codes, which mandate specific engineering plans for seismic and wind loads. You will need a permit from the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), and your installer will typically manage this process. As a homeowner, your most critical step is ensuring your chosen installer is properly licensed by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) and familiar with LADWP's interconnection requirements for grid-tied systems.
Prioritize local installers with extensive experience navigating LADWP's specific interconnection and permitting processes. Verify they hold a valid C-46 Solar Contractor license from the CSLB, carry proper insurance, and have strong references from recent Westwood or Westside installations. Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics and always compare detailed proposals that include equipment specifications, production estimates under NEM 3.0, and a clear breakdown of all costs, warranties, and post-installation service.
Adding a battery, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar, is a highly recommended consideration for Westwood homeowners due to increasing Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) and grid reliability issues. A battery provides backup power during outages and under California's current NEM 3.0 rules, it allows you to store excess solar energy for use in the evening when grid electricity rates are highest, maximizing your financial savings. While it increases the initial investment, the added resilience and improved economics can make it a valuable upgrade.