Best 10 Solar Companies in Tracy, CA

The Tracy community is intentional about preserving its natural resources and living sustainably. That's why many people are purchasing panels from the best solar companies for their homes. While embracing solar power comes with upfront costs, local homeowners could ultimately save $1,700 per kilowatt on their electric bills. A professional technician can help you choose the best panels to maximize your savings. In this article, we'll show you Tracy's best solar installers and offer tips for your company choice, so you can find the perfect one for your residence.

Ranking Methodology

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

• Feedback and reviews from customers: Most Tracy solar providers have both favorable and unfavorable reviews. However, a good review ratio shows a company's reliability and responsiveness to issues.
• Panel quality and brand offerings: The best solar companies keep up with new technology, providing equipment from cutting-edge and trustworthy manufacturers.
• Professional licenses and credentials: Each contractor 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 Tracy community for over 15 years.
• Educational programs and business model: Solar technicians must be good teachers. They should tap into their years of experience address your questions on how to maintain your system and improve its performance.
• Warranty and service offerings: Solar installers should stand behind their equipment and services with warranties. We evaluated how each provider responds to issues and warranty claims, focusing on promptness and customer satisfaction.

Benefits of Solar Energy

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

• Reduced carbon footprint: The sun is a highly abundant clean energy source, meaning you can lower or beat your home's dependence on "traditional" sources.
• Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with battery storage systems work through blackouts and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on the power grid for your safety and well-being.
• Lowered energy bills: You can avoid the expensive cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity right where you use it. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back to credit part of your bill.

What Solar Incentives Are Available to Tracy Homeowners?

California agencies and electric companies offer a range of solar incentives to help minimize your solar system costs. Below is a breakdown of available solar programs where you live.

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Tracy

The price and efficacy of solar panels often rely on which company installed them. Consider all of these elements in your service provider search.

Licensing and Training

California requires solar companies to hold licenses for each type of equipment they install, which can include solar HVAC, photovoltaic (PV) systems, water heaters, pool heaters, and boilers. Contractors must take a highly comprehensive educational series, gain four years of experience as an apprentice or journeyman, and pass written exams to secure a license. Check a company's website for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most credible trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Tracy

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.

If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your panel array more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar provider offers these extras, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's crucial for you.

Generally speaking, it will cost about $17,350 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Tracy. This table lists more specific prices for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Tracy

There are numerous ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include power purchase agreements (PPAs), leases, cash payments, and loans. Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most economical choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a car loan or mortgage, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in specific circumstances. Ask each installer you're evaluating about the payment options it offers. A representative can help you determine the optimal option for your pocketbook.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy devices until the year 2032. City and state officials and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and specialized financing options that could save you more.

Sources

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