Top Rated
SoCal Solar Experts
4.9
Price range: $$$
- NABCEP certified
- LADWP & SCE NEM 3.0
- battery storage specialist
- SGIP rebate eligible
- 25-year panel warranty
How We Evaluate Los Angeles Solar Companies
We evaluate Los Angeles solar installers based on NABCEP certification, California CSLB C-10 electrical contractor licensing, experience with both LADWP and SCE interconnection, and NEM 3.0 battery storage expertise.
California's NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff) launched in April 2023 significantly changed the economics of solar in LA. Under NEM 3.0, exported solar energy earns a much lower rate (around $0.05/kWh vs. previous $0.30/kWh). This makes battery storage nearly essential for new LA solar installations — solar-plus-storage systems export less and consume more self-generated power, dramatically improving payback periods under NEM 3.0.
We verify that each installer has experience designing NEM 3.0-optimized systems with appropriate battery storage, can document California's Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) for battery storage, and can apply the 30% federal ITC on your behalf.
Top Los Angeles Solar Installation Companies Compared
LA Solar Pros
4.7
Price range: $$–$$$
- NABCEP certified
- CSLB C-10 licensed
- NEM 3.0 battery optimization
- free energy audit
- financing available
Pacific Coast Solar
4.6
Price range: $$
- NABCEP certified
- LADWP interconnection specialist
- Tesla Powerwall installer
- locally owned
- 10-year labor warranty
California Solar Group
4.5
Price range: $$
- NABCEP certified
- CSLB licensed
- ITC & SGIP documentation
- commercial and residential
- flexible payment plans
Los Angeles, CA
Serving Greater Los Angeles
- Coverage across Los Angeles, Pasadena, Burbank, Glendale, Long Beach, Santa Monica, and the San Fernando Valley
- Experienced with both LADWP (municipal utility) and SCE (investor-owned utility) interconnection requirements
- NEM 3.0 battery storage design expertise for post-April 2023 installations
- California SGIP battery storage rebate documentation available
Why Local Matters
Contractors who know your area, your climate, and your local codes
Every contractor in our network is established locally — no out-of-state storm chasers. They know the permitting requirements, the climate challenges, and they'll be there for warranty work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Los Angeles CA
How does NEM 3.0 affect the economics of solar in Los Angeles?
Under NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff), excess solar energy exported to the LADWP or SCE grid earns a much lower avoided-cost rate (approximately $0.05/kWh) rather than the retail rate paid under NEM 2.0. This significantly extends payback periods for solar-only systems — from 6–8 years under NEM 2.0 to 10–14 years without battery storage. Adding battery storage allows you to store excess solar for evening use (when TOU rates are highest) rather than exporting at low rates, restoring payback periods to 7–10 years.
What is the average cost of solar panels in Los Angeles CA?
A typical 7–9 kW residential solar system in Los Angeles costs between $21,000 and $32,000 before the federal ITC. Adding a Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery adds $10,000 to $15,000. After the 30% federal ITC, the net cost of a solar-plus-storage system runs approximately $22,000 to $33,000. LA's high electricity rates (often $0.30–$0.50/kWh TOU) make solar-plus-storage one of the best financial investments a homeowner can make.
What is the California SGIP and how does it help LA solar customers?
California's Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides rebates for battery storage systems. Residential customers in disadvantaged communities or those with critical health needs can qualify for up to $1,000/kWh in SGIP rebates. Standard residential SGIP rebates vary by program budget — your installer should check current SGIP availability and help you apply. SGIP rebates are separate from the federal ITC and can be combined.
Should I grandfathered into NEM 2.0 or install now under NEM 3.0?
The NEM 2.0 enrollment window closed in April 2023 — new LA solar customers are automatically on NEM 3.0 (Net Billing Tariff). The key to maximizing solar ROI under NEM 3.0 is pairing panels with appropriately sized battery storage. A qualified installer will design a system that maximizes self-consumption rather than grid export, taking advantage of LA's high TOU rates to optimize your payback period.