Business Details
About
Solar Energy Company
United Solar Electric offers residential Solar Panels services and installations , work on and service on Grid and off Grid Batteries, Install level 2 fast charging car chargers. We provide installation services in Brentwood, Alameda, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Sacramento, Napa, and Solano, CA, Northern California, Bay Area California
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.9
45 reviews
5 stars
43
4 stars
1
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1 star
1
- JNJawad NasrullahJun 29, 20255.0We recently had an Enphase solar system installed by United Solar Electric and had a great experience from start to finish. Their team demonstrated expertise across all phases—design, permitting, installation, and securing utility permission to operate. Their pricing was competitive with other quotes we received through EnergySage, and they came highly recommended by a friend. While a few issues arose during installation, they handled everything smoothly and professionally. Special thanks to Ben, who was consistently responsive and dependable throughout the entire process.
- DZDonald ZhaoJun 28, 20255.0United Solar in Castro Valley absolutely nailed my solar project! They were super helpful, especially since I have an existing NEM2 system and a tricky tar and gravel roof—no other company was willing to take it on. Their suggestion to focus on self-consumption was a game-changer, and their Enphase system package was top-notch. There was a small hiccup with the system reading the input and output correctly, but even though their team was super busy over the summer, Anahi, Dre, and Ben carved out time to get my system working perfectly. Big shoutout to them for making it all happen! Highly recommend their expertise and customer service!
- STScott ThomsonJun 20, 20255.0We decided to have solar installed at our house recently in the Central Valley, and went with United Solar Electric, given their strong reputation. We could not have been happier with the entire process. From the sales team, to the design team, to the installation group, they were all extremely professional and did a great job at communicating every step of the way. They also did a great job of educating me on how the system worked and what to expect, which was great considering I knew absolutely nothing about solar at the time. The installation of the panel assembly as well as the battery system was done very clean, and the system is working precisely as intended. I would highly recommend this company if you are considering solar!
- FKFaro KJun 5, 20255.0We installed rooftop solar panels about six months ago, and so far, everything has been going well. The installation team did a great job, and despite a few issues during the process, we are overall very happy with the quality of the system and the installation. The system is generating an excellent amount of electricity, and they used the best panels available on the market at the best price. Our only complaint is that they did not inform us in the original contract that the ducts would be routed around the house instead of in the attic. As a result, we had to pay an additional amount for this change and sign a new contract. However, considering the quality of the system and the professionalism of their work, I believe they deserve a five-star rating!
- SPSkip PeckNov 23, 20205.0The best phone call I have eve made was too these folks about solar power. From start to finish the finest experience I have ever had with a contractor. I would use them again if I had another house.
Frequently Asked Questions About United Solar Electric
Is solar energy free?
Solar energy is not only free but is a renewable energy source. After the installation cost, you will not have to pay another cent for the electricity you use that’s generated by your solar panels.
You will need to do some maintenance on your solar panels here and there or repair them if something happens to them due to external factors. Still, the money you save by installing solar panels outweighs the cost of paying for your electricity.
Solar panels have a long lifespan. Some panels come with a 25-year warranty, although panels can last up to 30 to 40 years on average.
What are solar panels made of?
Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells, also known as solar cells. These cells are made of semiconductors that transform sunlight into electricity.
There are two types of solar panels — photovoltaic panels, which convert sunlight into electricity; and solar thermal panels, which are used to heat water by absorbing the warmth from the sun — the latter can be used to heat homes and pools.
How efficient are solar panels?
The solar panel industry has come a long way since its inception. Nowadays, the solar cells used in domestic solar panels can convert around 20% of the sunlight they receive into electricity that you can use at home. Of course, there are more efficient solar panels that can reach 40% solar efficiency — these are usually more for commercial systems.
With more incentives being given to people who install solar panels and the technology advancing due to the high demand, the near future looks bright for solar panels as the prices keep decreasing and their efficiency keeps increasing.
Do you need direct sunlight?
Maximum efficiency is reached when the sun hits the solar panels directly, although electricity can still be produced in a cloudy sky and during winter. At night, the solar panels would not generate any electricity, creating the need for a solution to this problem. That’s where batteries shine.
A good solar power system coupled with the right-size batteries can result in never needing to resource other means of electricity.
Do I need permits?
You will need a permit from your city as well as the need to follow codes in your HOA or any safety measures that are put in place by your community and city. You can contact us, and we will help you with any permits, how to request them, and make sure that everything is good to go before any installation takes place.
What's the required maintenance for solar panels?
Taking care of solar panels is simple. All you need to do is make sure that the panels are clean so they can absorb as much sunlight as they are supposed to. Placing the panels in the right location and angle can mean that the cleaning and servicing will have to be performed fewer times.
What are the cons of solar panels?
Solar panels do have a negative aspect to them, although they can all be mitigated with proper planning and location.
Placing the solar panels in a place that receives shade during the day can mean that your solar power system will not generate as much electricity as you had initially planned.
If panels are placed too close to trees or tall vegetation, two negative outcomes may occur: The shade produced by these features can lower your solar efficiency, and the branches can scratch your solar panels, making them less effective.
Aside from free electricity, what else can solar panels provide?
With the rise in efficiency of commercial and residential solar panels comes increased demand. Having a solar power system installed on your property can instantly increase its value, as potential buyers often consider it an attractive deal when a house has a fully functioning solar power system in place.
We can also add that installing solar panels not only generates jobs for a growing industry but also helps our environment by reducing our carbon footprint — this is invaluable!
For some people, solar panels can be visually appealing since they add a modern touch to the home exterior.
Does solar increase the value of my home after installation?
Yes, solar power increases a home's value after installation by greatly reducing monthly energy bills and helping homeowners achieve energy independence.
Is solar energy truly free after installation?
While solar energy itself is free as a renewable resource, there are initial installation and occasional maintenance costs. However, the savings on electricity bills and long lifespan of solar panels often outweigh these expenses.
What materials are used to make solar panels?
Solar panels are made of photovoltaic cells composed of semiconductors that convert sunlight into electricity. There are photovoltaic panels for electricity and solar thermal panels for heating water or pools.
How efficient are the solar panels offered?
Domestic solar panels typically convert around 20% of sunlight into electricity, with some commercial systems reaching up to 40% efficiency. Efficiency improves as technology advances and demand grows.
Do solar panels require direct sunlight to generate electricity?
Solar panels perform best with direct sunlight but can still generate electricity on cloudy days and during winter. At night, battery systems help ensure continuous power supply.
Are permits required for solar panel installation in Brentwood, CA?
Yes, permits from the city and compliance with community codes like HOAs are necessary. United Solar Electric assists customers with the permitting process before installation.
What maintenance do solar panels need?
Solar panels require simple maintenance such as keeping them clean and properly positioned to ensure maximum sunlight absorption, reducing the frequency of servicing.
What are potential drawbacks of solar panels?
Issues can arise if panels are shaded or placed near tall trees, reducing efficiency and causing potential physical damage. Proper planning and location can mitigate these concerns.
Does installing solar panels increase my home's value?
Yes, solar panels can increase property value by reducing energy bills and providing energy independence, making homes more attractive to buyers.
What other products and services does United Solar Electric offer besides solar panels?
They provide on-grid and off-grid battery systems, Level 2 car chargers, solar panel installation, battery installation/upgrades, system design, servicing, and main panel upgrades.
What nearby places can I visit before or after my appointment at United Solar Electric in Brentwood?
Nearby fitness centers like 1st Class Fitness and Kaia FIT Brentwood offer workout options. For grooming, Old School Barber Shop and Ultimate Styles are close by. If buying or selling a home, nearby real estate agents like Weichert Realtors HH and Associates can assist.