Best 5 Solar Companies in Redlands, CA

The Redlands community is purposeful about preserving its natural resources and living sustainably. That's why many people are purchasing panels from the best solar professionals for their homes. Local homeowners might opt for solar to break free of high power costs from sources like natural gas. A professional solar installer can help you install and optimize a system that fulfills your energy needs without being too expensive. Discover Redlands' best solar companies and learn essential decision-making tips on this page.

Ranking Methodology

Our team has thoroughly vetted dozens of solar installers near Redlands, with emphasis on the following criteria:

• Panel quality and brand offerings: The best solar companies remain current on new technology, providing equipment from innovative, dependable manufacturers.
• Service offerings and warranties: Solar companies should stand behind their products and services with warranties. We evaluated how each installer responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on timeliness and customer satisfaction.
• Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Redlands solar providers have both positive and critical reviews. However, a good review ratio shows a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.
• Certifications and credentials: Each provider on our list meets state and city licensing requirements and keeps current with industry best practices. Many of them have been a part of the Redlands community for a decade or longer.
• Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be knowledgeable. They should tap into their years of experience address your questions on how to look after your system and maximize its performance.

Benefits of Solar Energy

Solar energy has several advantages that will enhance your home for years to come.

• Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is the universe's most abundant clean energy source, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
• Lowered energy bills: Solar panels allow you to generate your own energy to power your home, minimizing your periodic electricity costs. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant amount of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
• Better energy independence: Adding a solar battery storage system lets you have dependable energy during grid outages and storms.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Redlands Homeowners?

The state of California offers multiple solar incentives to help reduce your solar system costs. Here's a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Redlands

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar energy system. Here are some crucial criteria to remember while searching for a solar provider.

Licensing and Training

California requires solar companies to hold licenses for each type of equipment they install, which can include solar water heaters, photovoltaic (PV) systems, HVAC, boilers, and pool heaters. Contractors must take a highly comprehensive educational series, gain four years of experience as an apprentice or journeyman, and pass written exams to earn licensure. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most prestigious are the Solar Heating Installer and PV Installation Professional certificates, granted by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Redlands

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

Additional accessories, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not all solar companies include these add-ons, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's a priority for you.

If you're a resident of Redlands and are considering getting a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $17,350 for parts and installation. See more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Redlands

Choosing the ideal financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include loans, cash payments, leases, and power purchase agreements. We recommend making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, like an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for installers that offer two or more payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Redlands.

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new home solar systems purchased through 2032. Further incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.

Sources

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
• U.S. Department of Energy