Key takeaways
On this page
alifornia is known for its sunny skies, and Bakersfield is no exception. With the warm weather and abundant sunshine, it's no wonder that many residents here are opting for solar power. But, with so many solar installers vying for your attention, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've taken the time to research and compile a list of the most reliable solar installers in Bakersfield. So, whether you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply lower your energy bills, we've got you covered.
Is it a good idea to install PV panels in Bakersfield?
Bakersfield, located in the heart of California, is known for its sunny weather and ample solar resources. With an average of over 272 sunny days per year, the city is a prime location for installing photovoltaic (PV) panels. By going solar in Bakersfield, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy while reducing their dependence on the backup power grid and lowering their monthly energy bills.
In Bakersfield, you can expect to pay an average of $2.83 per watt for a PV panel. If you want to install a 6-kilowatt system, which is the average size for a residential setup, you can expect to pay anywhere from $14,400 to $19,500 before tax credits or incentives. The average cost for this type of installation is around $17,000, but with the federal solar tax credit of 30% and other incentives, the net price can drop significantly. Plus, with California's high electricity costs, you can expect to pay off your investment in just five years, at which point your savings on your electric bill will have surpassed the cost of the solar panels.
Choosing the right solar company, such as those in Bakersfield, is crucial for ensuring that components like the Aurora Inverter are installed correctly and efficiently.
Top solar companies in Bakersfield
Now, let’s take a closer look at the leading solar companies in Bakersfield, examining their services, reputation, and customer satisfaction.
Sunrun
Sunrun, the most prominent U.S. solar installer based on market share, is a highly sought-after option for Bakersfield residents. The company was at the forefront of making residential solar power systems more affordable by providing a leasing program. Customers can either have a fixed monthly payment or a 25-year prepaid lease that includes maintenance and monitoring services.
In addition to solar leasing, Sunrun provides alternative financing solutions such as buying, borrowing, or a power purchase agreement. The company offers a diverse range of products and installation services, each with unique warranty options. Sunrun's solar panels come with a manufacturer warranty, typically lasting ten years, but can go up to 25 years.
Finding cheap solar power options is crucial for making renewable energy accessible and affordable for everyone.
Heritage Solar
Heritage Solar, a well-established local installer based in Bakersfield since 2005, offers top-notch solar services at an affordable price to homes and businesses across Southern California. They differentiate themselves from their competitors by providing personalized services to each client. The company creates and installs solar systems specifically designed to meet client’s needs and optimize efficiency and savings.
Despite the lack of transparency about pricing on the Heritage Solar website, their clients consistently report affordability as a key benefit. Furthermore, the company is recognized for its skilled staff and unparalleled customer service.
MSI
For over a decade, MSI Solar has been the go-to company for PV panel installation services in Bakersfield, as well as security and surveillance solutions for homes and businesses. What makes them stand out is their exclusive reliance on in-house technicians for their services, which yields exceptional workmanship and product installations. Furthermore, MSI provides some of the longest solar panel warranties in the business.
MSI's primary focus is installing solar panels in residential properties, utilizing high-quality modules by Mission Solar - the American-based company located in San Antonio, Texas. MSI is also recognized for offering installations at a lower cost than many larger companies such as Sunrun.
The best states for solar panels offer abundant sunshine and favorable policies, making solar energy a viable and efficient choice.
Solar Optimum
Solar Optimum, established as a family venture in 2008, has grown to become one of California's leading solar installation companies. They offer components from some of the world's most well-known manufacturers, including LG, Enphase, and Panasonic.
Clients can either pay upfront or finance their solar investment through leases and PPAs. One of the defining features of the company is its comprehensive 25-year warranty on new PV energy systems. It comes standard with each installation and covers panels, racking, inverters, roof, workmanship, and kilowatt-hour performance.
Basics of solar energy involve harnessing sunlight using photovoltaic cells to generate electricity or using solar thermal systems to produce heat.
Sunlux
Sunlux was founded in 2015 and is currently only available in Southern CA or Central Texas. It provides high-efficiency panels from leading brands such as Panasonic, LG, REC, and QCells, and also offers solar batteries from Tesla, LG, and Enphase.
SunLux provides customers with four methods to acquire their solar setup: buying, financing, renting, and Power Purchase Agreement. Additionally, they have a user-friendly online calculator on their site that calculates the probable cost and savings of going solar for homeowners.
One of the key benefits of Sunlux is its exceptional after-sales service and support. The company offers a solid 25-year warranty on system components and guarantees installation, parts, and maintenance. By upgrading to Sunlux's Platinum Protection Package, you can also count on the guaranteed energy output from your home solar system.
Discover leading solar companies serving the Empire State in our article on Solar Companies in New York. Additionally, explore solar companies in Texas and their contributions to the renewable energy sector in our article on Texas Solar Companies.
Choosing the right solar company is crucial for ensuring the efficiency and reliability of your solar energy system.