Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Windsor, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A large, well-established regional provider with a strong presence in Northern California. They are known for high-quality installations, comprehensive service from design to maintenance, and strong manufacturer partnerships (e.g., SunPower). They offer robust financing options and are experts in navigating California's specific incentives.
A highly-rated local contractor based in Santa Rosa, specializing in both residential solar and roofing. This integrated approach is a significant strength, ensuring the roof and solar system work in harmony. They receive consistent praise for their customer service, attention to detail, and expertise with both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
A national leader in residential solar with a significant local office and installation network. Sunrun is a primary option for homeowners interested in solar leasing and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible with little to no upfront cost. They also offer purchase and battery storage options.
** The home solar market in Windsor, California, is robust and highly competitive, characteristic of the solar-friendly Sonoma County region. The market is driven by high electricity rates from PG&E, abundant sunshine, and strong state and local incentives, including the Net Energy Metering (NEM) program and various rebate programs. **Average Quality:** The quality is generally high, with a mix of large national providers (like Sunrun) and esteemed regional/local contractors (like Baker and Norcal Solar). Customers have access to top-tier equipment and experienced installers. **Competition Level:** Intense. This competition benefits consumers through competitive pricing, better service offerings, and more flexible financing options. Homeowners are advised to get multiple quotes. **Typical Pricing:** As a general guide, the average gross cost for a residential solar system in California ranges from **$18,000 to $30,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending heavily on system size (typically 6kW-10kW for an average home), panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage. Battery backup systems, which are increasingly popular due to PSPS (Public Safety Power Shutoff) events, can add $10,000 to $20,000+ to the total cost. Leases and PPAs often require no money down but involve a long-term contract for the electricity generated.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Windsor regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Windsor, California.
For a typical 6kW system in Windsor, the gross cost before incentives is typically between $18,000 and $25,000. The most significant incentive is the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which directly reduces your federal tax liability. Additionally, Windsor homeowners benefit from California's net metering policies and the property tax exclusion for solar systems, ensuring added value isn't taxed.
Windsor's Mediterranean climate, with over 260 sunny days per year, is excellent for solar energy production. While summer offers the most peak sun hours for maximum output, the mild winters still provide significant generation. The region's characteristic morning fog, especially near the coast, typically burns off by midday, so system sizing and panel orientation are calculated to account for this daily pattern for optimal annual yield.
Installation requires a building permit from the Town of Windsor's Community Development Department and an electrical permit. Your installer will typically handle this process. After installation, the system must be inspected and approved by the Town and by PG&E for interconnection to the grid. From signing a contract to "flipping the switch," the entire process in Windsor usually takes 2 to 4 months, with PG&E interconnection being a common pacing item.
Choose a provider that is licensed, insured, and has strong local experience with Windsor's specific permitting and PG&E requirements. Look for installers with strong reviews on platforms like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau, and always get multiple detailed quotes. While many reputable national companies serve the area, there are also established local and regional installers based in Sonoma County who offer personalized service and deep knowledge of the microclimates and roofing styles common in Windsor.
Under PG&E's Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0), your solar system earns credits for excess energy sent to the grid, but the export rates vary by time of day, making a home battery highly valuable for maximizing savings. Importantly, standard grid-tied solar systems will shut off during a PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) or other outage for safety, unless you have a battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall) installed, which can provide backup power to your home.