With the rising cost of electricity in Sacramento, it’s not surprising that more people are turning to solar electricity systems to help defray the cost of their utility bills. This guide provides information about solar electricity use in the city, including how much potential the technology has, what financial incentives are available for transitioning to solar, and the policies that encourage renewable energy.
4 Facts to Know About Solar in Sacramento
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The first utility-scale solar system was built by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) in 1984 at Rancho Seco. It generated enough power to accommodate 2,200 single-family homes.
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Sacramento was named one of 23 “Solar Stars” in 2019 report by Environment America Research & Policy Center, “Shining Cities: Harnessing the Benefits of Solar Energy in America.” Having 84 watts-DC per person at the end of 2014, Sacramento ranked 17th.
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According to statistics from the City of Sacramento, 72,056 homes in the city using solar energy, offsetting 17 percent of community-wide electricity use. The city has a Renewable Portfolio Standard of 33 percent renewables by 2020.
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The Sacramento Kings new Golden 1 Center is powered primarily by solar energy. The facility has a 700kW array on its roof that will supply 15 percent of the arena’s needs. Additionally, it receives the other 85 percent of its annual energy use from a 10.9 MW array on 62 acres in southern Sacramento County.
Source: Rendering / Kings.com
The Sacramento market is booming with the expected growth to be about 55 percent this year. We are experiencing a growth of over 70 percent to date.
IN-DEPTH: Solar in Sacramento
The NC Clean Energy Technology Center ranked Sacramento 37th on its list of the top 50 cities that provide the best return on investment for solar systems. Factors that the organization looked at included the amount of money saved monthly within a year of installing a solar system and the levelized energy cost of the technology compared to what the local utility company charges.
To provide a closer look at why solar energy is such a good option for Sacramento homeowners, this section provides information on electricity prices for the city and photovoltaic potential. In addition, there is a discussion of the policies, incentives, and permitting issues related to PV installation.
Electricity prices
According to the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, its customers’ utility bills are lower than many other utilities in California, including Pacific Gas & Electric.
The Time of Day Rate is standard for residential customers but a Fixed Rate is also optional. Customers who choose to reduce electricity use during peak times save money. Here is what the Time of Day structure looks like:
Photovoltaic potential
Photovoltaic potential is the amount of solar energy that can be generated in a specific location. The biggest factor that makes Sacramento a great location for solar is the weather: With 269 sunny days annually, people who have solar panels installed on their homes have the potential to decrease their utility bills significantly.
Plain and simple, solar saves the consumer money, helps with home value, and, of course, helps the carbon footprint. Solar savings are there for the majority of Sacramento residents, sometimes as high as 100 percent, but normally people should look to save approximately 20 to 30 percent. This varies depending on a number of conditions. These conditions include the power company provider and their charges for power. For example, the residents in the SMUD area will be paying a blended rate approximately 14 cents per kWh on a tiered system, where PG&E will pay a blended rate of approximately 22 cents on a tiered rate system. There are many other factors, like shade, azimuth, and roof pitch to name a few that have influence on the financial rewards of solar.
Policies & incentives
In order to reap the benefits of solar energy, Sacramento homeowners must adhere to certain laws. California has regulations regarding building practices, permits, and how systems should be connected to the power grid. In order to ensure that they are building and operating within the letter of the law, it’s important for homeowners to work with contractors who are intimately aware of these regulations.
Despite the savings potential of solar energy, many homeowners are rightfully concerned about whether or not they can afford the initial investment in a PV system. There are incentives available to help alleviate that concern, such as the programs below.
SMUD offers a $300 incentive to homeowners with PV systems. To qualify, equipment must be installed by a B, C-10, or C-46 contractor.
Through this program, people can offset the cost of energy improvements with a special assessment on property taxes. Eligible energy-efficient products include solar panels, artificial turf, and roofs.
Permitting & interconnection ease
Roof-mounted solar arrays installed on existing buildings don’t require design review as long as the system is not in the historic district of Sacramento.
| Residential, up to 10 kW | 1 hour plan review + 1 inspection | $328 |
| Residential, 10.1 kW – above | 1.5 hour plan review + 1 inspection | $410 |
| Commercial, up to 10 kW | 1 hour plan review + 1 inspection | $594 |
| Commercial, 10.1 kW – 25 kW | 3 hours plan review + 2 inspections | $1,211 |
| Commercial, 25.1 kW -50 kW | 4 hours plan review + 2 inspections .5 hour planning fee + 1 hour technician fee | $1,552 |
| Commercial, 50.1 kW -150 kW | 8 hours plan review + 4 inspections | $2,500 |
| Commercial, 150.1 kW – 500 kW | 10 hours plan review + 10 inspections | $3,812 |
| Commercial, 500.1 kW – 3 MW | 27 hours plan review + 20 inspections | $8,240 |
Solar Companies in Sacramento
The Sacramento resident should check the reputations of the companies they are vetting. Ask for jobs where something went wrong — there is no perfect company, so they should have at a minimum a few. How did they handle the problem and how responsive were they? And most importantly, talk directly with clients and ask the hard questions.
- Est. 2014
- 401 Roland Way
Oakland, CA 94621 - 510-568-5531
American Array Solar has experienced installers who can add solar panels to an assortment of different kinds of structures, including gravel, metal, and wooden roofs. Provides customers with a 30-year guarantee.
- Est. 2007
- 3335 E. Lathrop Road
Manteca, CA 95336 - 866-676-5276
The service ARAM SOLAR provides begins before its experienced technicians even arrive at customers’ residences. After performing a preliminary assessment, the company works closely with clients to ensure that they get the individualized services they need.
- Est. 1983
- 4332 Fruitvale Ave.
Oakland, CA 94602 - 844-997-6527
Since its inception, Avatar Energy Solutions has been dedicated to reducing carbon emissions by providing green solutions such as solar, thermal, and wind technology. Customers can choose from on-grid or off-grid systems through the company.
- Est. 1977
- 11370 Trade Center Drive, Suite 3
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 - 916-853-2700
This award-winning company offers solar electric, as well as solar water and pool heating. Affordable payment options are available.
- Est. 1979
- 4060 Alvis Court
Rocklin, CA 95677 - 916-741-0508
Installs and provides maintenance for photovoltaic systems for electricity, as well as those for water and pool heating. Customers can also take advantage of the company’s high performance insulation, get air conditioning systems installed, and obtain energy audits.
- Est. 1977
- 5990 Devecchi Ave.
Citrus Heights, CA 95621 - 916-993-3449
In addition to installation services, solar customers are advised on which rebates and other incentives they’re eligible for. Buckley Heat Air Solar also offers HVAC services.
- Est. 1978
- 3160 Gold Valley Drive, Ste. 300
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 - 916-631-8186
California Sunrooms offers expert installations to homeowners in the Sacramento area, as well as sunrooms, awnings, and patio covers. The company has worked with over 14,000 clients in the area.
- Est. 2002
- 111 Derek Place
Roseville, CA 95678 - 916-782-3333
With decades of experience and membership in North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, Capital City Solar uses its expertise to provide solar solutions to the Sacramento area. The company also works closely with utility companies like PG&E and SMUD in order to help customers get tax credits and rebates on their solar systems.
- Est. 1963
- 4411 Auburn Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95841 - 916-609-2667
This company designs, engineers, and provides versatile solar systems, as well as troubleshoots problems that may arise with them. It also provides advice on the types of financing.
- Est. 1999
- 1731 Howe Ave., #631
Sacramento, CA 95825 - 916-868-8660
Eco Electric Service Company is a family-owned and operated company that provides creative solar solutions—from an initial energy audit to installation. The systems include automation technology that allows the company to monitor them.
- Est. 2010
- 9010 Brentwood Blvd., Ste. F
Brentwood, CA 94513 - 925-513-1772
This company specializes in solar energy systems, as well as vertical axis wind turbines. It provides site analysis, system design, installation, financing, and technical support to its customers.
- Est. 2008
- 3330 Swetzer Rd
Loomis, CA 95650 - 866-497-6527
This award-winning company works with residential, industrial, educational, municipal, commercial and agricultural clients to create customized solar energy solutions. Offers affordable financing options.
- Est. NA
- 4661 Pell Drive, Ste. 36
Sacramento, CA 95838 - 916-426-5814
Epic Energy provides the education and support that consumers need when making decisions about solar energy for their homes. The company works closely with clients to design and install the system that’s the right choice for their needs. Warranties of up to 25 years are available.
- Est. 1978
- 8980 Grant Line Road
Elk Grove, CA 95624 - 800-985-0733
Since 1978, Future Energy Savers has installed more than 6,500 solar electric systems. The company also offers energy-efficient windows and air conditioning and heating systems, as well as solar hot water systems, and indoor air purification products.
- Est. 1979
- 916-784-6357
Provides solar PV technology that includes a Green Power Solar Monitor system, which allows homeowners to get data on their energy production and usage. Customers can take advantage of a 5-year warranty for materials and workmanship, as well as a 25-year warranty for power output.
- Est. 2010
- 5201 80th St.
Sacramento, CA 95820 - 916-241-5664
Provides solar services to Sacramento and the surrounding areas. In addition to new solar panel installation, the company provides upgrades to customers with existing panels.
- Est. 2010
- 8900 Grant Line Road
Elk Grove, CA 95624 - 916-226-2525
Since its inception, Go Solar Now has been dedicated to helping customers make the transition to renewable energy systems. Services include installation of solar electric and solar hot water systems.
- Est. 2014
- 426 14th St., Ste. 212
Modesto, CA 95354 - 855-786-1010
Offers competitively priced solar systems to companies and individuals. Has experience installing systems on composition, tile, and metal roofs, as well as ground-mounted installations.
- Est. 2001
- 25747 Jefferson Ave.
Murrieta, CA 92562 - 951-677-7755
HelioPower Solar specializes in integrated energy solutions and has completed over 5,000 solar system installations since it was founded in 2001. Customers can buy or lease the solar panels for their home, and the company has affordable funding options.
- Est. 2015
- 4141 Northgate Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95816 - 916-905-0941
Completes solar system design and installation for commercial and residential clients. Financing available.
- Est. 2009
- 3025 E. Palm Ave., Ste. 101
Manteca, CA 95337 - 866-499-8933
Residential, agricultural, commercial, and non-profit customers can take advantage of the solar systems provided by Kurios Energy. This full-service company offers feasibility studies, cost analysis, design, permitting, installation, cleaning, and monitoring services.
- Est. 2008
- 2336 Auburn Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95821 - 559-228-0229
This full-service solar provider strives to make renewable energy affordable to homeowners. Systems are designed to be both durable and aesthetically-pleasing.
- Est. 2010
- 3750 Taylor Road
Loomis, CA 95650 - 916-259-2587
Customers of Magic Sun Solar are guaranteed complete installation of their solar systems within 30 days. In addition to installation, the company offers maintenance, including cleaning services, on their products.
- Est. 1991
- 304 Chesapeake Bay Ct
Cameron Park, CA 95682 - 916-330-4400
Prospective customers who work with Moxie Mechanical can expect to receive a full solar consultation at no charge, and a proposal that details the project and financing options. The company also secures permits and designs a system to meet customer needs. After the installation has been completed, the company offers a warranty package for equipment maintenance.
- Est. 2007
- 201 Harris Ave., Ste. 10
Sacramento, CA 95838 - 916-567-9611
This certified company provides comprehensive solar solutions from engineering and design to installation and maintenance. Customers can also purchase an array of home improvement services from the company, such as granite countertops, decks, home additions, and hardwood flooring.
- Est. 1995
- 11200 Sun Center Drive
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670 - 916-851-1632
This full-service solar provider uses its years of experience to deliver energy solutions to customers in Sacramento County. The company also constructs doors, patio covers, and sunrooms.
- Est. 1994
- 1 Front St.
Healdsburg, CA 95448 - 707-433-6556
Pure Power Solutions is a full-service renewable energy company. It provides grid and off-grid solar systems for commercial, residential, and agricultural properties.
- Est. 1984
- 2550 Mercantile Drive, Ste. D
Rancho Cordova, CA 95742 - 916-638-0543
Offers an array of solar services, such as electricity, attic fans, water heating, and pool heating. Also provides diagnostics and maintenance on its systems.
- Est. 1995
- 1999 S Bascom Ave, Ste. 700
Campbell, CA 95008 - 408-779-3333
Provides a balanced approach to solar energy that is efficient and affordable. Customers not only receive design and installation, they can also take advantage of the company’s expertise to learn how to optimize their solar energy.
- Est. NA
- 737 Southpoint Blvd., Ste. E
Petaluma, CA 94954 - 707-285-7037
From consultation to installation, the experienced professionals at Simply Solar bring passion to every solar energy project. Services include design, installation, and monitoring.
- Est. 1988
- 2611 Highland Hills Drive
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 - 916-933-2773
Skyline Energy Savers Inc. is a family-owned business dedicated to helping people beautify their homes and reduce their energy bills. Provides solar energy systems, insulation, HVAC, and water heaters.
- Est. 2012
- 164 Main St.
Los Altos, CA 94022 - 1-888-870-6092
This company utilizes a 30-day process that includes an energy walkthrough, solar system design, engineering, system review, and installation. Offers a group buy discount program that allows customers to team up with other homeowners to receive savings on their systems.
- Est. 2009
- 9190 Jackson Road
Sacramento, CA 95826 - 877-793-9268
Homeowners can receive solar solutions from the company’s experienced team of consultants, engineers, installers, and support specialists. Custom designs are created by SolarCo Solutions to ensure that customers get their needs met. Financing is also available.
- Est. NA
- 9580 Oak Ave. Pkwy., #14
Folsom, CA 95630 - 916-542-9420
Solar Revolution installs photovoltaic to help Sacramento residents save money on electricity, and also offers cost-efficient thermal hot water systems. The company’s in-house staff handles every step of the process, including installation and financing.
- Est. 1981
- 916-681-5872
Homeowners receive solar system designs that cater to their specific electricity usage and property characteristics. The company also offers solar hot water and pool systems.
- Est. 2000
- 1780 Vernon St., Ste. 6
Roseville, CA 95678 - 916-791-2426
Since 2000, the company has installed thousands of solar systems for individuals and businesses. Customers who need maintenance are guaranteed services within 48 hours.
- Est. 1991
- 5 Holland, Building #215
Irvine, CA 92618 - 949-348-9276
Homeowners receive comprehensive help from Suntrek when obtaining solar energy technology. The company designs a system that will provide optimum energy in their home, installs the solar panels in a way that complies with government specifications, and fills out paperwork related to permits and rebates. After the project is complete, Suntrek provides post-installation support.
- Est. 2008
- 1010 Winding Creek Road, Ste. 100
Roseville, CA 95678 - 866-600-6800
Sacramento homeowners receive a myriad of services for their solar projects, including a solar assessment and assistance obtaining rebates and incentives. The company also provides solar solutions to those in the government, agriculture, and commercial sectors.
- Est. 2004
- 20861 Wilbeam Ave., Ste. 1
Castro Valley, CA 94546 - 510-888-9488
Specializes in photovoltaic solar panel systems. Provides systems to commercial and residential property owners.
- Est. 2004
- 9265 Beatty Drive
Sacramento, CA 95826 - 916-254-5111
Offers solar systems for the home, as well as for commercial properties. In addition, the company has solar technology for hybrid or electric cars. Systems are under warranty for 25 years.
- Est. NA
- 623 Bitritto Court, Ste. B
Modesto, CA 95356 - 844-633-3765
Velocity Solar Power consults with homeowners about their solar energy options, designs a system to meet their needs, and provides installation. Clients receive a 25-year warranty. The company has financing options designed to fit in any budget.
- Est. 1947
- 4700 Lang Ave.
McClellan, CA 95652 - 916-646-2700
Provides solar systems to residential and commercial customers in Northern and Central California. Also offers heating, cooling, and plumbing services.
- Est. 1977
- 3479 Orange Grove Ave.
North Highlands, CA 95660 - 916-971-9716
Werner & Sons has been helping homeowners find energy-efficient solutions since 1977. In addition to solar services, the company also offers HVAC products, replacement windows, and mini split heat pump systems.
- Est. 2007
- 3050 Fite Circle, Ste. 104
Sacramento, CA 95827 - 844-492-7652
West Coast Solar understands that each homeowner has unique energy needs, so its experts design systems tailored to the specific customer. The company offers a 10-year limited warranty on its solar systems.
SACRAMENTO LIBRARY OF SOLAR RESOURCES
- Guide to Solar Energy Permits in Sacramento – Overview of city permit requirements for solar PV systems.
- Pacific Gas and Electric Company – PG&E is the second-largest utility company in California.
- Sacramento, California: Solar in Action – Report from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy.
- Photovoltaic and Smart Grid Pilot at Anatolia – This report on solar energy storage in Sacramento is from the Sacramento Municipal Utility District for the California Energy Commission.
- Solar Power – Includes information on how to get started with solar energy from the Sacramento Municipal Utility District.