The definitive guide to local shopping; methodically researched, updated daily.

Bay Area Edition

Prime Buyers Guide Solar Contractors

How to Find Good Home Solar Contractors in Marin County CA

Today, more and more green-minded consumers in Marin County are turning to home solar power. Home solar panels have gotten smaller and more affordable while the benefits have grown dramatically. Installation of home solar energy systems has become its own licensed specialty performed by licensed home solar contractors. Read the following articles to find good home solar power contractors in Novato, Sausalito and San Rafael and all of Marin County  who can provide good home solar panels and home solar energy systems. more »

Updated July 3, 2008

Top 10 Solar Contractors in Marin County

Sunbather Inc.
Send an email to this Company
(877) 476-5278
2661 Gravenstein Hwy S. Suite 108
Sebastopol, CA 95472
C53 Contractor's License
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Better Business Bureau

Areas Served: Marin & Bay Area incl, Novato, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Tiburon, San ...
Services: Innovative solar heating system for swimming pools, new home solar panels in custom ...
Key Brands: Sunbather Australia, Hayward Pool Products

Clean Solar
Send an email to this Company
(408) 436-7652, (888) 551-7652
302F Toyon Avenue #249
San Jose, CA 95127
C10 Contractor License #910849
   Prime Buyer's Certified Chamber of Commerce-Santa Clara ASES (American Solar Energy Society) HBANC (Home Builders Association of Northern California) NorCal Solar (Northern California Solar Energy Association)

Areas Served: Marin, Novato, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Tiburon, San Anselmo, Woodacre
Services: Solar electric systems, solar installation and design, solar photovoltaic systems ...
Key Brands: Sharp solar panels, Sanyo solar panels, Mitsubishi solar panels, SolarWorld panels, ...

Power Solutions
Send an email to this Company
(408) 998-7400
1190 S Bascom Ave # 211
San Jose, CA 95128
C10 888052
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified Rotary Club US Green Building Council SEIA (Solar Energy Industry Association) Chamber of Commerce-Silicon Valley Green Business Santa Clara County

Areas Served: Bay Area & Marin incl. San Rafael, Mill Valley CA, Sausalito, Novato
Services: Solar energy system installers for home solar electricity design & home solar ...
Key Brands: Evergreen Solar Panels, Sharp Solar Panels, Misubishi Solar Panels, Sunwize Solar ...

Solar Works
Send an email to this Company
(707) 829-8282
400 Morris Street
Sebastopol, CA 95472
C-46 Solar Contractor's License #878231
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified Chamber of Commerce-Sebastopol CALSEIA (California Solar Energy Industries Association) NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) Solar Sebastopol Solar Sonoma County

Areas Served: Marin & Bay Area incl. San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley CA, Sausalito
Services: Solar contractors for home solar power system installation, solar repair and solar ...
Key Brands: Sun Power Solar Panels, Sanyo Solar Panels SMA Sunny Boy Inverters

Sun Connection
Send an email to this Company
(707) 542-5387
112 Commercial Ct #24
Santa Rosa, CA 95407
Contractor's License #856042
   Prime Buyer's Certified  Diamond Certified

Areas Served: Marin County incl. San Rafael, Sausalito, Mill Valley, Ross, Tiburon, Belvedere
Services: Solar contractors for home solar water heating, home solar hot water systems, solar ...
Key Brands: Velux Skylights, Velux Sun Tunnel Lights, Velux Solar Hot Water systems, SureFit ...

A1 Sun Inc
Send an email to this Company
(510) 526-5715
2015 Yolo Ave
Berkeley, CA 94707
California Contractors License #891743
 Better Business Bureau ASES (American Solar Energy Society) Businesses for Peace Go Solar California

Areas Served: Bay Area & Sonoma incl. Santa Rosa CA, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Healdsurg, Sonoma CA
Services: solar contractors for home solar water heating, home solar systems, solar heating
Key Brands: Solar World solar panels, Sanyo Solar Panels, Sharp Solar Panels, SMA Sunny Boy ...

Solarcraft Services
(415) 382-7717
285 Bel Marin Keys Blvd # D
Novato, CA 94949

Areas Served: Marin, Novato, Sausalito, Mill Valley, San Rafael, Tiburon, San Anselmo, Woodacre
Services: solar power contractors for solar system repairs, solar water heating systems

CalWest Solar
Send an email to this Company
(707)546-2227
3375 ValleyView Drive
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
B, & C-10

Areas Served:
Services: 30+ Years of General Contracting Experience.
Key Brands: Sharp, SunnyBoy, SMA, Shell, Sun Power, Sanyo

Cooperative Community Energy
(415) 457-0215
534 4th Street
San Rafael, CA 94901

Areas Served: Tiburon, San Rafael, Novato, Sausalito, Mill Valley, Corte Madera, Kentfield
Services: home solar power specialists for solar water heating systems, home solar systems

Eco Solar Systems
(415) 461-0111
14 E Sir Francis Drake # B
Larkspur, CA 94939

Areas Served: San Rafael CA, Larkpur, Woodacre, Sausalito, Mill Valley, Novato, Tiburon, Kentfield
Services: residential solar heating & solar water heating, home solar power systems

How to Find Good Home Solar Contractors in Marin County CA 

Solar Contractors in Marin County Perform Numerous Solar Power Services

Home solar power is a great option for clean, renewable energy. Whether on or off the grid, home solar energy systems come with a number of benefits, including federal and state tax credits. As the home solar energy industry expands, the number and types of jobs performed by solar contractors in Marin County expands as well. They can install all of the necessary components for a new residential photovoltaic system, solar water heating, solar pool heating, and more. These home solar contractors can guide you through the solar system design process to arrive at the optimal solar electrical or solar thermal system for your home solar energy requirements. Aside from all-inclusive solar poowre units, solar contractors in Marin County can install solar pool heating systems, solar attic fans, and several other auxiliary solar components. Good solar contractors in Marin County may also have experience with other solar energy sources, can convert appliances to run on home solar electricity, maintain or modify existing solar energy systems, repair faulty home solar energy systems, or provide design advice to update your facility with turnkey solar electricity. If you want to reduce your electrical bills in Marin County and the remove the guilt of draining a non-renewable energy source, solar contractors in Marin County can safely convert your outdated electrical system into an efficient, clean, and environmentally friendly source of power with home solar energy systems. If you're considering converting to home solar power, check out some of the state sponsored benefits at the California Energy Commission Web site.

Solar Contractors in Marin County Offer Many Parts and Materials
Converting your home or business with solar power is a comprehensive process with many auxiliary options. Solar contractors in Marin County use a number of specialized materials to outfit indoor, outdoor, industrial, commercial, or residential structures with solar power, including solar collectors, in-roof collectors, absorber plates, open- or closed-loop solar storage tanks, two-way sweat ball valves, pressure relief valves, and psi pressure gauges. These home solar companies also supply the photovoltaic cells and panels, flexible solar panels, flexible panel accessories, pv modules, boiler drains, evacuated solar collectors, flat plate solar collectors, and solar hot water controllers. The solar contractors can do a lot more than basic power source retooling. In addition to whole-facility solar energy conversions, solar contractors in [county] install solar water heaters, solar spotlights, solar landscape lighting, solar stationary or floating fountains, solar fountain pumps, solar garden lights, solar Christmas lights, solar birdbaths, solar sign lights, solar flag lights, solar security systems, solar cameras, or solar security lights. If you wish to extend your environmental conscientiousness to the other energy drains to your life, they can even convert autos, RVs, or marine vehicles to solar power as well. Good home solar contractors in Marin County sell portable solar power systems, solar sealed lead acid batteries, LED solar lighting systems, solar panel kits, solar electronic kits, solar PDA battery chargers, solar 12 volt battery chargers, travel solar battery chargers, or solar cells by the watt. If you wish to share your newfound environmentalism with the individuals in your life, some solar specialists in Marin County even sell educational solar cells, educational solar kits, and books on solar energy systems. With all the tools and accessories that Marin County solar contractors offer for your photovoltaic energy conversion, it's easy for you to harness the clean and renewable energy of the sun and feel good about your commitment to the environment.

There are Many Good Solar Contractors in Marin County to Choose From
The Prime Buyer's Report can help you weed out the unqualified and help you find the best solar contractors in Marin County. We've listed the top 10 solar contractors in Marin County as Sunbather Inc., Clean Solar, Power Solutions, Solar Works, Sun Connection, A1 Sun Inc, Solarcraft Services, CalWest Solar, Cooperative Community Energy, Eco Solar Systems. Other solar contractors who might serve Marin County include Reid Heating & Energy Systems.

Look for Good Solar Contractors in Marin County Who Can Adequately Serve You
You should always research potential solar contractors. Despite their claims, they might not have the experience or licensure to complete your home solar energy project to the standards of both you and local building code that covers solar power. Select solar power industry associations that exclusively allow the best solar contractors to enter their ranks, so the membership information you can find on these Web sites (see the article "Key Resources for Good Solar Contractors in Marin County) will help you identify the better home solar companies. Additionally, non-professional internet and print sources can educate you about a smart transition to home solar energy systems. To start your research, visit The Prime Buyer's Report article, "Key Resources for Solar Contractors in Marin County".

Updated July 3, 2008
Top of page

 

 

Dealing With Solar Contractors in Marin County 

Step 1: Describe Project to the Solar Contractors in Marin County
There are myriad reasons to update your archaic energy system, from environmental conscientiousness to tax credits. When the time comes to actually visit with potential home solar contractors, prepare a list of the home solar power elements you wish to make on your home or business. It is this same list that each contractor will see, so you can be sure that it's a consistent job description to which potential contractors will respond.

Step 2: Answer The Questions of the Solar Contractors
Allow potential solar contractors the opportunity to question you about your intended work. Take note of the concerns the home solar power installers have about your job. Pay attention to their inquiries, which may reveal their aptitude for the home solar power project.

Step 3: Ask Questions of the Solar Contractors in Marin County & Take Notes
Look at any notes that you took before the appointment. You can use them to create a list of questions for the home solar power contractors. Then, select the most appropriate questions from the list below to modify what you've already learned about the solar companies. Take notes not just on the answers to questions, but also how you feel about the solar contractors. Ideally, you'll have to trust the solar contractors through a process that may last a while, so the relationship you develop will impact your satisfaction with the work.

How long have the solar contractors been in business in Marin County?
How many solar jobs have the solar contractors completed in Marin County?
Can the solar contractors complete the home solar energy system I've described? If so, please provide some examples of similar home solar power installations you've completed.
How long should it take the solar contractors to bid and complete the solar power work?
Do the solar contractors carry workers' compensation and liability insurance?
Will the solar contractors provide a written estimate?
How do the solar contractors price the solar energy services?
Are the solar components used by the solar contractors certified by the California Energy Commission (CEC)?
What type of warranty will the solar contractors provide on parts and labor?
Will permits be needed? If so, will the solar contractors be responsible for getting them?
Do the solar contractors and their employees actually complete the solar work or do they hire subcontractors?
How and when do the solar contractors clean up?
Will the solar contractors provide a written contract?
Can the solar contractors process my rebates for the home solar power system?

Step 4: Making a Preliminary Decision
After you've interviewed a few solar contractors, narrow your list of candidates. If you use your notes, you can pick out the answers that are the most important to you. Weigh these heavily as you assess which solar contractor will be your best provider. In addition to meeting relevant industrial criteria, the contractor of your choice should be an amiable business associate as well. A good rapport is just as integral to successful contracting work as technical ability.

Step 5: Final Research
After you've identified the best solar contractor, finish up with some final research. Find out which credentials the solar contractor has. Verify licensing, insurance and certifications such as contractor licensing, Diamond Certification, and Better Business Bureau membership.

Step 6: Making the Final Decision
Now that you've arrived at an informed decision, it's time to sign on with the solar contractor of your choice. Call and ask any final questions and then ask for your representative to provide a written pricing, timing, quality and warranty agreement.

Updated July 3, 2008
Top of page

 

 

Key Resources for Solar Contractors in Marin County CA 

Associations & Licensing for Solar Contractors in Marin County
ASES American Solar Energy Society (www.ases.org)
BBB Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org)
CALSEIA California Solar Energy Industries Association (www.calseia.org)
CEC California Energy Commission (www.energy.ca.gov)
CSLB Contractors State License Board (www.cslb.ca.gov)
DCA California Department of Consumer Affairs (wwww.dca.ca.gov)
Diamond Certified (www.diamondcertified.org)
EPA Environmental Protection Agency (www.epa.gov)
ISES The International Solar Energy Society (www.ises.org)
NASEO National Association of State Energy Officials (www.naseo.org)
NCBE North Coast Builders Exchange (www.ncbeonline.com)
SEIA Solar Energy Industries Association (www.seia.org)
SEPA Solar Electric Power Association (www.solarelectricpower.org)

Media & Web Publications for Solar Contractors
Green Power Magazine
Grist Magazine
Home Energy Magazine
Home Power Magazine
Plenty Magazine
Power Engineer Magazine
Solar Today Magazine
World Watch Magazine

www.aboutmyplanet.com
www.buildinggreen.com
www.envirolink.org
www.renewableenergyaccess.com
www.solarbuzz.com
www.solarpowerforum.net

If you are on the market for a solar energy system The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the top 10 solar contractors in Marin County within the following zip codes.

94901, 94903, 94904, 94912, 94913, 94914, 94915, 94920, 94924, 94925, 94929, 94930, 94933, 94937, 94938, 94939, 94940, 94941, 94942, 94945, 94946, 94947, 94948, 94949, 94950, 94956, 94957, 94960, 94963, 94964, 94965, 94966, 94970, 94971, 94973, 94974, 94976, 94977, 94978 and 94979

The Prime Buyer's Report provides information for the top 10 solar contractors in Marin County within the following cities.

Bel Marin Keyes, Belvedere, Belvedere Tiburon, Black Point, Bolinas, Corte Madera, Dillon Beach, Dogtown, Fairfax, Forest Knolls, Greenbrae, Ignacio, Inverness, Kent Woodlands, Kentfield, Lagunitas, Larkspur, Marin City, Marinwood, Marshall, Mill Valley, Mission Rafael, Muir Beach, Muir Woods, Nicasio, Novato, Olema, Point Reyes Station, Ross, San Anselmo, San Geronimo, San Marin, San Quentin, San Rafael, Santa Venetia, Sausalito, Stinson Beach, Strawberry Point, Tamal, Tamalpais Valley, Terra Linda, Tiburon, Tomales and Woodacre
Updated July 3, 2008
Top of page

 

 

8 Tips Regarding Solar Contractors in p{county] 

Take Time Choosing Solar Contractors in Marin County.
You want your solar conversion done right, and this means you have to find just the right solar contractors to do it. Don't just hire the first solar contractors listed in the phone book. If you take a little time before starting the solar power project to properly outline the solar job and hire the most qualified solar contractors in Marin County, you're more likely to get the best solar power system for your money.

Write a Description For the Marin County Solar Contractors
The benefits of upgrading your archaic energy system are almost too numerous to contest, from environmental accountability, to tax credits for solar power. When the time comes to actually visit with potential solar contractors, prepare a brief summary of your motivations, as well as the solar modifications you wish to make on your home or business. It is this same list that all solar contractors will see, so you can be sure that it's a consistent job description to which potential solar contractors in Marin County will respond.

Get Several Estimates from Different Solar Contractors in Marin County.
Don't hold yourself down to the first quote you see from local solar contractors. Get a few separate estimates to get a price range, but don't stop there. Different estimates also reveal the solar contractors aptitude for solar energy conversion, as well as general work ethic and style—factors that are just as important as the price you might pay the solar contractors.

Get it in Writing From The Solar Contractors.
It is imperative that everything is documented throughout the contracting process with any solar contractors in Marin County. When it comes to a bid, make sure that the solar contractors provide you with a written description of the home solar energy system, pricing, and a timeframe for completion.

Check the Solar Contractors Credentials.
Before you sign a contract with any solar contractors in Marin County, verify licensing, workers' compensation and liability insurances, as well as any other relevant solar power credentials.

Choose Certified Solar Contractors in Marin County
Some solar contractors in Marin County have an established reputation for delivering excellent customer service to every client. This select lot of solar contractors have earned recognition for their superior service for home solar power systems. Solar contractors in Marin County that have been awarded Diamond Certification or have appeared in consumer-oriented publications for home solar power systems are more likely to apply this exceptional service to you as well.

Agree Beforehand to Check the Finished Work of any Solar Contractors in Marin County
There should be a clause included in your contract requiring your approval of the completed solar energy systems before the solar contractors are dismissed. This way, you can approve every change made by the home solar companies and cross-check the solar installation with the agreement you both signed.

Know Your Rights With Home Solar Companies in Marin County.
Consumers are entitled to some legal protection with home solar companies but it varies by region. Since you're working with solar contractors in Marin County, you can reference the Web site for the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

Updated July 3, 2008
Top of page

 

 

Home Solar Contractors in Marin County Install Many Home Solar Energy Products and Brands 

Home solar contractors in Marin County  are known to use or sell the following brands of solar power products: Cansolair, Conserv, Sun Earth, ICP Solar, Enersol, Conergy USA, Effective Solar Products, Solaraide, Crystal, SunHom, BP Solar, Lumex, GE, Siemens, Unisolar, Morningstar, Midnite Solar, Trace, Solar Products Inc., and Advanced Solar Products.

Updated July 3, 2008
Top of page

 

 

Diamond Certified