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2026 RANKINGS

Best Solar Contractors in Sacramento, CA

We compared 5 licensed solar contractors serving Sacramento based on credentials, insurance, experience, and customer reviews.

Updated March 2026

5
Total Contractors
16.4
Avg. Years Licensed
4
With Workers' Comp
Sacramento's abundant sunshine and progressive environmental policies make it one of California's most attractive markets for residential solar installations. With an average of 269 sunny days per year and some of the highest electricity rates in the nation through SMUD and PG&E, Sacramento homeowners are increasingly turning to solar power to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint. The city's Solar and Storage Permit Program has streamlined the approval process, making it easier than ever to go solar, but the success of your installation depends heavily on choosing the right contractor.

Selecting a solar contractor in Sacramento requires careful consideration of multiple factors beyond just price. California's Contractors State License Board (CSLB) regulations mandate specific licensing requirements for solar installations, and Sacramento County has its own permitting processes and building code requirements that contractors must navigate. The region's hot summers and occasional severe weather also demand quality installation practices that will stand up to decades of use. Unfortunately, the solar industry has seen its share of fly-by-night operators and high-pressure sales tactics, making due diligence essential.

This comprehensive guide examines five licensed solar contractors operating in Sacramento, analyzing their credentials, customer feedback, and specializations. We've verified each company's CSLB license status, reviewed their insurance coverage, analyzed hundreds of customer reviews, and evaluated their track record in the Sacramento market. Whether you're looking for a residential photovoltaic system, solar pool heating, or EV charging installation, this guide will help you identify contractors with proven expertise in the Sacramento area. Our goal is to provide you with the factual information you need to make an informed decision about one of the most significant home improvements you'll ever make.

Quick Comparison

# Contractor Rating Reviews Years Insured
1 Solaron 4 26 37 Yes
2 Ilum Energy Solutions 4.6 49 4 Yes
3 AAA Steiners Solar Service 4.6 11 19 Yes
4 Valley Solar 4 4 21 Yes
5 Revolving Power Solar 5 4 1 No

How We Ranked These Sacramento Solar Contractors

Our ranking methodology combines objective licensing verification with subjective customer experience analysis to provide a complete picture of each contractor's capabilities and reliability. We began by verifying each company's California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) status, confirming active licenses, bond amounts, and workers' compensation insurance coverage. All contractors featured in this guide hold active C-46 Solar licenses or equivalent classifications that legally permit them to perform solar installations in Sacramento County. We verified bond amounts meet or exceed the state-required $25,000 and confirmed workers' comp coverage where applicable.

Customer feedback analysis formed the second pillar of our evaluation process. We collected and analyzed reviews from Google and Yelp, examining both quantitative ratings and qualitative feedback patterns. Rather than simply averaging star ratings, we read through individual reviews to identify recurring themes about communication, workmanship, problem resolution, and post-installation support. We paid particular attention to how contractors handled complaints and negative feedback, as this reveals their commitment to customer satisfaction. Finally, we considered years of licensing history as an indicator of stability and experience, though we recognize that newer contractors can also provide excellent service. This multi-factor approach ensures our rankings reflect both regulatory compliance and real-world customer satisfaction.

What to Look for in a Sacramento Solar Contractor

When evaluating solar contractors in Sacramento, license verification should be your first step. Every solar contractor must hold a valid C-46 Solar Contractor license from the CSLB, which requires passing comprehensive examinations, demonstrating financial solvency, and maintaining proper insurance. You can verify any contractor's license status at cslb.ca.gov by entering their license number. Check that the license is active, not expired or suspended, and review any complaints or disciplinary actions on file. Sacramento County also requires specific permits for solar installations, and experienced local contractors will be familiar with the Sacramento County Building Inspection Division's requirements and can handle the permitting process efficiently.

Sacramento's climate presents specific considerations for solar installations. The region experiences temperature extremes from freezing winter nights to 100-plus degree summer days, requiring equipment rated for these conditions and proper installation techniques to handle thermal expansion. Contractors should conduct detailed site assessments that consider your roof's orientation, shading from nearby trees or structures, and compatibility with your existing electrical system. Sacramento's connection to either SMUD or PG&E also affects system design and net metering arrangements, so contractors should be experienced with your specific utility's interconnection requirements.

Beyond technical qualifications, evaluate contractors on their communication practices, warranty offerings, and financing options. Quality contractors provide detailed written estimates, explain system specifications in understandable terms, and offer realistic production estimates based on your specific location and energy usage. They should carry both installation warranties and help you understand equipment manufacturer warranties. Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics or deals that seem too good to be true. The best contractors will encourage you to get multiple quotes and take time to make an informed decision about this significant investment in your home.

Detailed Contractor Reviews

#1

Solaron

License #561720 • Sacramento, CA

37 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
4.0
26 reviews
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Solaron brings 37 years of licensing history to the Sacramento solar market, making them one of the most established contractors in this guide. Licensed since 1988, the company maintains active CSLB license #561720 with full workers' compensation coverage and required bonding. Their Google rating of 4.0 stars from 26 reviews reflects a mixed but generally positive customer experience. Reviewers consistently praise their pool solar heating installations, with multiple customers highlighting the company's expertise with Helicoil systems for pool heating and their responsiveness on service calls. One customer noted keeping their pool at 88 degrees through summer and fall, while another emphasized that Solaron was "head and shoulders above their competitors" in both product and people.

The company's strengths appear to lie in pool solar installations and responsive ongoing service, with customers like one who mentioned technicians resetting pool pump timers twice and going "above and beyond." Installation teams receive praise for being organized, clean, and providing clear communication about system operations. However, some reviews indicate challenges with administrative processes, particularly regarding warranty support and equipment replacement, suggesting the company may be stronger on installation than long-term customer service follow-up. Solaron appears best suited for Sacramento homeowners specifically interested in solar pool heating systems or those who value working with a long-established local company. Their decades of experience in the Sacramento market provide institutional knowledge of local conditions and requirements that newer contractors may lack.
#2

Ilum Energy Solutions

License #1092865 • Sacramento, CA

4 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
4.6
49 reviews
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Ilum Energy Solutions operates with CSLB license #1092865, actively licensed for 4 years with full workers' compensation and bonding. Despite being newer to the market, they've built a solid reputation with a 4.6-star Google rating from 49 reviews, representing a substantial volume of customer feedback. The company distinguishes itself through competitive pricing and fast installation timelines. Multiple reviewers specifically mention that Ilum's quotes beat competing bids, with one customer noting that Tyler Thomason's quote was "about half the price" of other Sacramento companies. Installation speed also emerges as a key strength, with one customer switching from another company specifically because Ilum could complete the job much faster than a competitor's three-month timeline.

Customer reviews highlight the professionalism of the installation work, with one homeowner praising the "really professional job" and noting the system "looks great." Sales representatives, particularly Ben and Robert Dean, receive mentions for responsiveness, with one customer noting Robert got back to them "in a matter of minutes" after initial contact. However, the company has faced at least one serious complaint regarding sales practices, with a December 2024 review alleging inappropriate sales to vulnerable populations and poor post-sale support. This recent negative review warrants consideration, though it stands in contrast to the majority of positive feedback. Ilum appears well-suited for cost-conscious Sacramento homeowners who prioritize competitive pricing and quick installation timelines, though prospective customers should carefully review all contract terms and ensure they're comfortable with the sales process before committing.
#3

AAA Steiners Solar Service

License #887507 • Sacramento, CA

19 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
4.6
11 reviews
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AAA Steiners Solar Service holds CSLB license #887507 with 19 years of licensing history, positioning them as an experienced mid-sized contractor in the Sacramento market. The company maintains active status with full workers' compensation and required bonding. Their 4.6-star rating from 11 Google reviews suggests strong customer satisfaction, though the smaller review volume means each customer experience carries more weight in their overall rating. Customer feedback emphasizes the thoroughness of their consultation process, with one reviewer noting that Steve was "the most thorough when coming out to house" compared to other contractors they considered. The company handles both residential photovoltaic systems and pool solar installations, demonstrating versatility across solar applications.

Reviewers consistently praise specific team members by name, including Steve for consultations and Mike and Drew for installation craftsmanship, suggesting a stable workforce with established expertise. One long-term customer has used Steiner Solar for pool solar maintenance since 2005, highlighting their reliability for ongoing service relationships. The company's responsiveness also stands out, with one customer amazed that they received a return call the morning after leaving a voicemail and had technicians troubleshooting their issue that same day. However, one recent negative review raises concerns about vehicle maintenance and professionalism, though this appears to be an isolated incident. AAA Steiners Solar Service appears best suited for Sacramento homeowners who value thorough consultations, quality craftsmanship, and long-term service relationships. Their nearly two decades serving the Sacramento area demonstrates staying power and suggests they'll be available for warranty service and system maintenance years after installation.
#4

Valley Solar

License #858197 • Sacramento, CA

21 years licensed Workers' Comp ✓ $25,000 bond Active License ✓
4.0
4 reviews
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Valley Solar operates under CSLB license #858197 with 21 years of licensing history, making them the second-longest established contractor in this guide. They maintain active license status with full workers' compensation and bonding. While their 4.0-star Google rating from only 4 reviews provides limited statistical significance, the available feedback offers insights into their service quality. The company appears to specialize in SunPower solar panel systems, with one reviewer specifically mentioning their 8 kW SunPower installation. Customers praise Valley Solar's comprehensive service approach, noting they "took care of all permits with the City, and dealt with SMUD," demonstrating their familiarity with local permitting processes and utility interconnection requirements specific to Sacramento.

Reviewer feedback emphasizes project management qualities, with customers noting the company was "on time, on budget, clean" and that the system worked "exactly as promised." One customer praised owner Brad Price and his team for providing "a hand-holding and smooth process from the beginning," suggesting the company excels at customer communication and project coordination. The longevity of customer satisfaction also stands out, with one reviewer commenting years after installation that their choice of Valley Solar and SunPower panels "has been an excellent one" and the system had been "running very smoothly without any issues." However, one recent negative review about driving behavior suggests attention to professional image could improve. Valley Solar appears best suited for Sacramento homeowners interested in premium SunPower equipment and those who value established companies with two decades of local market presence and proven experience navigating Sacramento permitting and SMUD interconnection processes.
#5

Revolving Power Solar

License #1135603 • Sacramento, CA

1 years licensed No Workers' Comp $25,000 bond Active License ✓
5.0
4 reviews
View Profile
Revolving Power Solar represents the newest contractor in this guide, holding CSLB license #1135603 with just 1 year of licensing history. Despite being newly licensed, they maintain proper bonding, though notably they currently operate without workers' compensation insurance, which may be permissible if they have no employees. Their perfect 5.0-star Google rating from 4 reviews reflects excellent early customer experiences, though the limited review volume means their track record is still being established. The company distinguishes itself through exceptional responsiveness and customer communication, with one reviewer noting that Fernando "was the only one who responded quickly and stayed in regular contact" among all the companies they contacted. This communication strength appears consistently across reviews, with multiple customers praising how Fernando explained everything clearly.

Reviewers emphasize competitive pricing, with one customer stating Fernando "had the best price out there out of all the quotes I received," positioning Revolving Power Solar as a value-oriented option in the Sacramento market. The company's service offerings extend beyond traditional solar panel installation to include Tesla charger installation, demonstrating capability with modern EV charging infrastructure. Customers consistently praise professionalism, quality of work, and adherence to permitting requirements. However, prospective customers should note the company's newness to the market and lack of workers' comp insurance, which may indicate a smaller operation or sole proprietorship structure. Revolving Power Solar appears best suited for Sacramento homeowners who prioritize responsive communication, competitive pricing, and personalized service from a smaller operation, and who are comfortable working with a newly established contractor building their market reputation.

How We Rank Contractors

Licensing & Insurance

Active CSLB license, workers' comp coverage, and bond amounts verified.

Experience

Years of licensed operation in California, demonstrating longevity.

Customer Reviews

Google & Yelp ratings weighted for consistent positive feedback over time.

Priority Score

Our algorithm combines all factors into a single score, updated regularly.

Our methodology for ranking Sacramento solar contractors combines objective regulatory compliance verification with comprehensive customer experience analysis to provide homeowners with actionable, reliable information. The evaluation process begins with California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) verification, which we consider non-negotiable. We accessed the CSLB online database to confirm each contractor holds an active license in good standing, verified their license classification authorizes solar work, and reviewed their complaint and disciplinary history. We documented bond amounts, workers' compensation insurance status, and years of continuous licensing. Any contractor with license suspensions, substantial unresolved complaints, or insufficient bonding was excluded from consideration.

The customer feedback analysis component involved collecting reviews from Google and Yelp, the two platforms most commonly used by Sacramento homeowners researching contractors. We recorded star ratings and review counts but went beyond simple numerical averages to perform qualitative content analysis. We read each available review in full, identifying patterns in customer feedback regarding communication quality, technical competence, project management, pricing transparency, problem resolution, and post-installation support. We paid particular attention to detailed reviews that provided specific information about the customer's experience rather than generic praise or complaints. We also evaluated how contractors responded to negative reviews, as this reveals their approach to customer service challenges.

Our analysis weighted several factors, though we did not use a rigid numerical scoring system. Licensing history received significant consideration, as contractors operating successfully for decades demonstrate stability and staying power that benefits customers needing long-term warranty support. However, we recognize newer contractors can offer competitive advantages in pricing, technology adoption, and customer service innovation. Review ratings and volume were balanced together, as a 5.0-star rating from 4 reviews carries different weight than a 4.0-star rating from 26 reviews. We considered both the overall sentiment and specific strengths identified in customer feedback. The goal was not to crown a single "best" contractor but to present diverse, qualified options that excel in different areas, allowing homeowners to select the contractor that best matches their specific priorities, whether that's established experience, competitive pricing, specialized services, or exceptional communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does solar cost in Sacramento?
Solar installation costs in Sacramento typically range from $15,000 to $35,000 for a complete residential system before incentives, depending on system size, equipment quality, and installation complexity. Sacramento homeowners generally need systems sized between 5kW and 10kW to offset typical household electricity consumption. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) currently offers a 30% tax credit on solar installations, effectively reducing costs by nearly a third. California's Net Energy Metering (NEM) programs through SMUD and PG&E provide additional value by crediting excess solar production against your utility bill, though NEM 3.0 has reduced compensation rates compared to earlier programs. Actual costs vary based on your roof condition, electrical panel capacity, shading issues, and whether you include battery storage. Sacramento's competitive solar market means getting multiple quotes is essential, as pricing can vary significantly between contractors. Some contractors offer financing options including solar loans and leases, though purchasing systems outright or through loans typically provides better long-term value than leasing arrangements.
Do I need a permit for solar work in Sacramento?
Yes, all solar photovoltaic installations in Sacramento require permits from the Sacramento County Building Inspection Division or the City of Sacramento Building Department, depending on your specific location. The permitting process typically includes submitting detailed installation plans showing panel placement, electrical connections, and structural attachments for review. Sacramento has implemented streamlined solar permitting processes to reduce approval timelines, and experienced contractors handle the entire permitting process as part of their service. Installations must comply with California Building Code, Electrical Code, and Fire Code requirements, including specific setbacks and pathways required by fire departments for roof access. Your contractor must also coordinate interconnection approval with your utility provider (SMUD or PG&E) before your system can be activated. Reputable contractors include all permitting costs in their quotes and schedule required inspections. Never allow a contractor to proceed without proper permits, as unpermitted work can result in fines, complications when selling your home, and potential safety hazards.
What should I ask a solar contractor before hiring?
Start by requesting the contractor's CSLB license number and verifying it yourself at cslb.ca.gov to confirm active status and check for complaints. Ask how long they've been installing solar specifically in Sacramento and request references from recent local customers. Inquire about their experience with your specific utility provider (SMUD or PG&E) and their familiarity with current net metering rules. Request a detailed written estimate that itemizes equipment specifications, including panel manufacturer and model, inverter type, monitoring system, and any additional components like optimizers or battery storage. Ask about warranties covering both installation workmanship and equipment, and clarify who handles warranty claims if equipment fails. Discuss the expected timeline from contract signing through system activation, including permitting and utility interconnection steps. Ask what financing options they offer and whether they work with specific lenders. Inquire about their approach to roof assessment and whether any roof repairs or upgrades are needed before installation. Request projected energy production estimates and ask what assumptions those projections are based on. Finally, ask about ongoing monitoring and maintenance services, and clarify whether they provide system performance support after installation.
How do I verify a contractor's license in California?
Visit the California Contractors State License Board website at cslb.ca.gov and use the "License Search" tool on the homepage. You can search by license number, business name, or contractor name. The search results will show the license status (active, inactive, expired, or suspended), license classification, issue date, and expiration date. Review the bond and workers' compensation insurance status to ensure both show as current. Check the "Complaints and Disciplinary Actions" section to see if any formal complaints have been filed or if the contractor has faced disciplinary action. The CSLB database also shows the contractor's official business address and additional license classifications they may hold. You can also call the CSLB automated phone system at 800-321-CSLB (2752) for license verification. This verification process takes only a few minutes but provides essential protection against unlicensed contractors, who cannot legally pull permits and leave you without recourse if problems arise.
What's the best time of year for solar work in Sacramento?
Sacramento's mild, dry climate makes solar installation feasible year-round, but spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable working conditions and may provide scheduling advantages. Summer installations mean your system goes online during peak production season, immediately maximizing your solar generation and utility bill savings, though intense heat can make rooftop work more challenging. Fall installations (September through November) offer moderate temperatures and generally settled weather while still capturing strong production through the remaining sunny months. Winter installations are perfectly viable in Sacramento's relatively mild winters, though occasional rain may cause minor scheduling delays. Spring (March through May) represents another excellent window before summer heat arrives. From a practical standpoint, contractor availability varies seasonally, with some contractors experiencing higher demand during spring and summer. Scheduling your installation during shoulder seasons might provide more flexible scheduling and potentially better pricing. However, the timing decision should primarily be driven by your readiness to proceed rather than seasonal optimization, as Sacramento's 269 sunny days annually mean your system will perform well regardless of installation month. Consider that the entire process from contract signing to system activation typically takes 6-12 weeks, so plan accordingly if you're targeting a specific activation timeframe.
Selecting the right solar contractor represents one of the most important decisions in your solar journey, with implications for system performance, warranty support, and overall satisfaction that extend decades into the future. The five Sacramento contractors profiled in this guide each bring different strengths to the table, from Solaron's 37 years of established presence to Revolving Power Solar's responsive communication and competitive pricing. Whether you prioritize extensive experience, specialized services like pool solar heating, premium equipment partnerships, or value-oriented pricing, Sacramento's competitive solar market offers qualified options to match your specific needs.

The most critical takeaway is the importance of due diligence. Verify every contractor's license status directly through the CSLB website, read beyond star ratings to understand what actual customers experienced, and obtain multiple detailed written quotes before making your decision. Don't be pressured by limited-time offers or aggressive sales tactics. Quality contractors will encourage you to take your time, ask questions, and make an informed decision. Pay attention to how contractors communicate during the sales process, as this typically reflects how they'll communicate throughout installation and beyond.

Compare Local Pros provides the tools and information you need to make this decision with confidence. Use our platform to request quotes from multiple contractors, compare their credentials side-by-side, and read verified customer experiences. Solar represents a significant investment, but with Sacramento's abundant sunshine, supportive utility programs, and qualified contractors, it's an investment that can provide decades of energy savings and environmental benefits. Take the time to find the right contractor for your specific situation, and you'll be well-positioned to enjoy the many benefits of solar power in California's capital city.

Related Pages

Data Sources: License information from California CSLB. Ratings and reviews from Google. Rankings updated regularly.

This ranking is based on publicly available information and our proprietary scoring algorithm. We recommend getting multiple quotes and verifying all credentials directly before hiring.

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