Our Customers Say It Best
The following reviews are from past customers of our and we hope they make you feel comfortable and confident in choosing our company for your solar and storage installation.
145 Reviews 5 Star Reviews!
First rate service! Dylan and Chaz are great communicators, and have excellent attention to detail. I recommend them without hesitation.
Trieneke K - Sebastopol, CA
From the first consultation to the last orientation meeting Dylan and Chaz were fantastic to work with! We felt comfortable and well informed from the start. They were professional, conscientious, extremely knowledgeable, timely and we are thrilled with the final work product. They made becoming a solar household a delight! If we could give them 6 stars we would!
Alicia and Xander S - Petaluma, CA
This is a follow-up review more than 2 years after solar installation. The Enphase Enlighten app indicated that one of the inverters was not operating properly. I notified Dylan and Chaz of the issue via e-mail. They quickly responded and notified Enphase. Within a few days, they received a replacement inverter and called me to install it the very next day. Chaz came with a colleague and within 15 minutes the work was complete. The Enphase inverter is covered under warranty, but I expected a charge for the service call. However, Chaz would not accept payment for the service call. I was pleasantly surprised and wanted to show my appreciation for their service so I provided a few bottles of wine. I am in awe of First Response Solar's customer service. Without question, they stand behind the work that they have done and the products that they install. THANK YOU!
Claire S- Bodega Bay, CA
Dylan & Chaz and the First Response Solar team came to us with the highest possible recommendation.
Now that they have achieved a flawlessly smooth installation at our residence, it's our turn to pass along our best possible recommendation. From our very first contact with First Response right through installation, PG&E hookup, and final inspection, everything was super professional, friendly, helpful, and transparent. Our system is running, and we know First Response will be available instantly, should we have any questions. There are a lot of solar providers out there, but from what we hear and know, none of them check all the boxes in the same way that First Response does!
Chris & Maria P- St. Helena, CA
Purchasing a home solar energy system is a significant investment so we carefully evaluated the state of the industry and multiple solar energy system companies before deciding to “go solar”. We then worked closely with several different solar energy system companies to determine the size and cost of having an appropriate system installed for our home. First Response Solar was excellent to work with every step of the way and we are very happy we chose them to install our solar energy system.
They were very responsive in answering all of our questions and addressing all of our requests during the quote portion of this process and continue to be responsive to our questions and requests today - years after our system was installed.
Throughout the entire process:
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Sizing and quoting
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Permitting
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Installing
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Commissioning
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Servicing
First Response Solar has done what they said they would do and have taken excellent care of both us and our system. We had a minor hardware issue that was addressed quickly and easily, all under warranty.
We are very happy with both our system and First Response Solar.
Thanks First Response Solar!
Jeff & Penny M - Cloverdale CA
Dylan & Chaz are professional in every way. I recommend them to anyone installing solar systems. Very good coustomer service from start to finish. First Response Solar Inc. a great local business!!
Stan C - Petaluma
Consultation to installation to orientation, First Response Solar made us feel confident and taken care of. We felt like were a part of a graduate level engineering course and a workshop discussion on renewable energy. Most wonderful, was how gracious, thoughtful, meticulous and easy the whole process was. Thank you Dylan, Chaz and your team.
Susan H - Guerneville
I cannot say enough about my experience with Dylan and Chaz. They interceded when another company dropped the ball. They installed a new 200 amp electric panel and full roof top solar system in Bodega Bay.
From our first meeting I could tell they understood the challenges of a corrosive coastal environment. They were very thoughtful and detailed with the bid, they provide superior customer service, they are clear communicators and meet milestones. They worked well with PGE and Permit Sonoma. They have established relationships with the right people, which smoothed the path of this project.
The entire installation went great. I'm thrilled with the whole experience. I don't say that lightly. In my career, I work with contractors daily. And great contractors are hard to find. These fellows are top notch-- integrity, honesty, high standards. I recommend First Response Solar with no hesitation. Plus, they are really nice guys.
Cari H - Bodega Bay
You guys are the best. So informative and service oriented, friendly, tidy and incredible follow through. Can’t say enough good things.
Joe R - Guerneville
I had a new solar system installed by First Response Solar last year and they outdid themselves with quality and customer service. Dylan walked me through the installation and provided support for all aspects of the process including assistance with applying for tax credits. Chaz did an exceptional job with the installation. They also provide ongoing monitoring of the system and reach out of there are any blimps along the way. I recently had an issue with the reporting system and a part needed replacement. I was in France but Dylan jumped on it. The part was ordered and replaced without a hitch. Over the last two years, I have worked with a number of contractors for various projects and the First Response team is at the top of the list for quality and service. You can't go wrong with First Response Solar.
Jacquie M - Santa Rosa
Exceptional service from start to finish. Dylan walked us through the whole process, and he addressed all our questions. He is timely in responding to my questions and worked with us in scheduling. Super nice people to work with, and finished workmanship is exceptional. Even my neighbors remarked how nice, completed project look from solar panel to wiring. I highly recommend this solar company to anyone, and for future, I would go to First Response Solar for any solar project again. Mine was completed last week, and considering how well it turned out, it was money well spent.
Ken C - Santa Rosa
Exceptional customer service, prompt with all communications. Their professional work and crews exceeded our expectations. We are thrilled to have our solar up and running and would highly recommend First Response Solar.
Jeannie V - Sebastopol
We got solar plus batteries recently from FRS. From all the solar companies we contacted initially, FSR was the most proactive looking to help us in this project. They provided the best customer service at all time. The solar and battery installation was done very professionally and all paper work done in no time. We strongly recommend this company to anyone looking to go solar.
Ernesto R - Santa Rosa
A Perfect Experience with First Response Solar! This review is regarding our system that was installed at the end of 2022. First off, Dylan and Chaz are both very professional and always communicated promptly and thoroughly throughout the project. In our research, we talked with several customers of other companies who had experienced poor communication and sometimes months of delay in getting their systems up and running. That certainly wasn't the case with First Response Solar. The entire project went very quickly and precisely to their timeline, which we really appreciated. As far as workmanship, they went above and beyond, using top quality components and making sure the installation was done cleanly with a nice layout, hidden conduit, etc. It was all top-notch work, and you can tell they really care about the job they are doing. On top of all this, their pricing was very competitive. It was a pleasure working with these guys and 18 months later, not one issue. I highly recommend First Response Solar.
Larry H - Santa Rosa
Just want to say that, without question, First Response Solar is the best contractor we have ever worked with. Dylan and Chaz are exceedingly thoughtful and detail oriented, and really, actually treat your project as if it was their own. This is extremely rare for contractors, in my experience. We got a few quotes, and I was relieved and thankful that First Response's proposal was on par or slightly less expensive than other options. They were incredibly communicative in every step of the process and were always available to answer any questions or reassure any concerns we may have had. The actual installation was flawless, with every minute detail considered and resolved beautifully. If we need any more solar work, or if anybody ever asks me for a recommendation, First Response will no doubt be my choice.
Aaron H - Santa Rosa
"Installation Fall 2023. The First Response Solar team were great to work with. They were helpful and did an amazing installation. Dylan, Chaz and the team were reliable, knowledgeable, and efficient."
Allie O- Forestville
"Just finished the solar system with battery on my house. They finished the install quickly & professionally. Actually, they finished quicker than I expected. They handled every aspect of the install from the permits to the final inspection; just dealing with the permit process from the county is priceless.
I got bids from 4 companies and went with 1st response over 3 of the bigger outfits. The other 3 could learn something from 1st response. If you decide to install solar you won't find a better company than 1st response. For price, installation, communication & knowledge 1st response is clearly the best choice."
Rip & Diane R- Penngrove
First Response Solar installed a new solar panel/battery system in our home last week. Throughout the entire process, I was delighted with every interaction that I had with either Dylan or Chaz. They always responded right away to any questions I had, and were thoroughly professional in all ways. When a problem came up that required additional work on their part (which was totally due to misinformation with which I had provided them), they cheerfully did the extra work, and to my amazement, their final bill came in at the original estimate.
I was totally pleased with the look of their installation, both on the roof and at the electrical panels. They sought to provide an esthetically pleasing panel geometry, and to minimize the amount of conduit on the roof. Their electrical work looks absolutely first rate.
The other solar contractor that I interviewed seemed fine, but the system they proposed had a significantly smaller battery than the one First Response Solar recommended. With the larger battery that I now have, I see that the competing proposal was significantly undersized, and would have provided an unsatisfactory installation had I gone that way. I believe the other contractor was trying to keep the total cost of the system down, but would have actually delivered much less for my money.
As something of a technology geek, I was always peppering Dylan and Chad with questions. They responded positively and quickly to my queries, and never showed any impatience with my frequent questions.
Obviously, I could not be more pleased with the work of First Response Solar.
Ed C- Santa Rosa
Top-notch service, including installation, communication and planning from start to finish. I have also personally referred them to several of my clients and family members with the same experience and feedback. These guys are hands on and always available. Best part is I now consider Mathias brothers friends.
Matt S- Glen Ellen
My custom solar system installation was just completed by First Response Solar. They did an outstanding job. Both Dylan and Chaz were very knowledgeable and professional throughout the project. I would highly recommend them to anyone thinking about installing solar!
Ann W- Santa Rosa
Thank you very much for your outstanding service. When you first came to our home to discuss installing solar, I decided to go with you within the first 10 minutes of the visit. Your professionalism, knowledge, and care of the client showed through stunningly. It is not a quality one often sees today. I think the next day you sent the proposal and as soon as I received it I said “let’s do it”. It was an easy decision to make. You and your brother’s professionalism have made this process a remarkable pleasure. We shall recommend First Response Solar to our friends. I wish you much success in the future.
David B- Santa Rosa
Efficient, fast service. Handled everything. Electrical knowledge.The team worked well with us and each other.
Ali O- Forestville
I'm thrilled to share this testimonial for First Response Solar, the team that has truly revolutionized my approach to energy consumption. From start to finish, the entire process was nothing short of exceptional.
First and foremost, the team's professionalism was nothing short of exemplary. Right from my initial estimate request, they stood out by offering the latest technological advancements in the solar field. They took the time to explain every intricate detail of the solar installation process, instilling a profound sense of confidence from the very beginning.
What truly set them apart was their respect for the unique architecture of our property. They worked seamlessly with the specific design elements, ensuring that the solar installation seamlessly integrated with the aesthetics of our home.
The installation itself was a masterclass in seamlessness. The crew exhibited remarkable efficiency and skill, approaching their work with utmost diligence. Every component of the solar system was installed with a precision that was truly commendable, reflecting their unwavering pride in their craft.
Throughout the installation journey, First Response Solar maintained excellent communication. I was consistently kept in the loop regarding the progress, and any queries or concerns were met with prompt and satisfying solutions. Their dedication to customer satisfaction was genuinely remarkable and deeply appreciated.
I wholeheartedly endorse First Response Solar to anyone contemplating a solar installation. Their professionalism, cutting-edge expertise, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction make them the definitive choice for embracing the power of solar energy while respecting the unique architectural elements of your property. Thank you, First Response Solar, for your outstanding service and for significantly enhancing my life and positively impacting the environment!
Jose I- Santa Rosa
We recently contracted with First Response Solar of Sonoma County to install a 25 panel, 9.875 kW DC rated solar system. Their competitive proposal was the most complete and professional we received. It was clear they have an excellent engineering and technical background. They also work directly with P.G.&E. for all approvals. The Enphase system was installed in two days with excellent workmanship. This won’t be possible in all installations, but they were able to install our system without any visible conduit anywhere on the house. After installation, they worked with us so that we could understand the system fully. They also monitored our system and made sure we were satisfied. We are very happy with First Response Solar and highly recommend them to anyone interested in solar.
Bill B- Windsor
We had a system installed by First Response in November of 2022. Chaz and Dylan were a pleasure to work with from the initial contact, through installation and follow up. They answered all of our questions thoughtfully, and communications with them have been clear and timely. Recently, one of our panels started producing less than the others. A text to Dylan resulted in a visit that afternoon (!) and replacement of the faulty panel within a week, at no cost to us. I cannot recommend them highly enough. They are honest and reliable.
Jana U- Sebastopol
These guys are the most professional contractor we have ever dealt with. Their work is clean and thorough. I highly recommend them.
Larry L- Santa Rosa
We have had multiple contractors and vendors with our new house remodel. FRS have been the best of all we have dealt with. Professional, knowledgeable, responsive, timely, trustworthy--absolute pleasure to work with. We researched/interviewed several, and there was no question we made the right choice, which was a huge relief. I would have no hesitation recommending them (which usually I tend to do so sparingly, as everyone and every situation is so unique and different, but not with these guys).
Sheri K- Sebastopol
First Response Solar is the best! Chaz and Dylan and the crew go above and beyond, we could not be more pleased, we had solar on our previous home and it was not the best experience. We lost that home in the Tubbs Wildfire and when we rebuilt, we did a good deal of research and are positive we made the best possible choice.
Thank You First Response Solar!
Ken and Mary Ellen M- Santa Rosa
Dylan and Chaz have installed two systems for us. We would give them 10 stars if it were possible. We have recommended them several times without hesitation and have been thanked by those who have had systems installed by them. It is their company and the dedication and professionalism shows in everything they do.
Laurie L- Santa Rosa
We remain pleased with our purchase and experience. The fact that you have reached out without prompting when some small system issues have occurred and worked to resolve them on our behalf is greatly appreciated.
We have had some PG&E outages recently and the battery system worked exactly as designed to maintain our safety and comfort.
We have both recommended your company to friends who are considering a solar system, and will continue to do so.
Michael R- Petaluma
We just completed our system installation with First Response Solar. They were professional, responsive, and reliable from the first interaction. I met with both First Response and another well-reviewed larger installer and both were very kind and knowledgeable. But I noticed that First Response didn't only rely on mapping software to estimate energy production but also went up on the roof to measure light at different points. They were really easy to work with when we wanted to reduce the number of panels slightly from their original estimate. They also checked in during the period between signing up with them and installation, and actually were able to move us up in timing by several months because we had flexibility. The installation of 18 panels took only 2 days, and they completed it without us having to be there. They scheduled the inspection for the following week and again completely managed it end to end without us. It's very cool to see the production from the panels in our app and also see that we are covering all our PG&E usage with a little extra production on top! Would highly recommend First Response Solar to others who are looking for a very clean installation as well as great communication and reliability.
Lily C- Santa Rosa
Dylan and Chaz are AMAZING! They attended to every detail, were very patient with our questions, organized in scheduling our job, and we were happy with their service and advice. Such professional, diligent, and honest guys! We're so happy we found them for our solar project. Look no further! We would hire First Response Solar again without hesitation.
Eric F- Sebastopol
My wife and I hired First Response Solar to install solar panels and battery backup more than a year ago. I am writing to follow-up on my wife’s review of this company. We received strange reports from our Enphase application, which were immediately followed up by First Response Solar. Chaz showed up at our home 10 pm on a Saturday night to figure out the problem. Dylan and Chaz immediately followed up with Enphase and one of their representatives came to our home a day later. The system was reset and we needed to hire an electrician to replace burned out circuit breakers. However, there were still problems with the electricity in the house even with all of the repairs that had been done. Chaz and Dylan continued to follow-up until the problem was resolved. Their diligence is stunning in this day and age where promises are made and regularly broken after goods and services are provided. To make a long story short, Chaz and Dylan determined there was a problem with the wiring in the house, which they immediately diagnosed and repaired. We tried to pay them for their time and effort to no avail. My wife was able to give them homemade baked goods, which was absolutely insufficient thanks for their efforts. I can’t thank them enough for the installation of the solar panels and battery back-up and the continued follow-up when the system indicates a problem. If you are considering solar panels, this is a local company that provides unparalleled service and takes care of their customers long after installation of the system.
Phil K- Bodega Bay
After researching other companies I chose First Response Solar because of Dylan's honesty and professionalism. He wasn't pushy and trying to sell me more than I needed like the other companies. He was prompt, available and helpful with all aspects of the process, including financing possibilities and working with PG&E, etc. When it was time for the installation, Chaz and his crew worked with my schedule and were prompt and courteous. Chaz was professional in explaining the process and the installation was completed quickly and the inspection soon after. When people ask me about going solar I have been telling them about First Response and will continue to do so.
Annamarie S- Santa Rosa
When we were needing a new solar array we checked with 4 companies and were most impressed with Dylan and his brother Chaz Mathias
They came highly recommended from friends who had just put in a new system.
We needed a new roof and with the changes in pricing from PG&E we realized a new system was advantageous rather than re installing our old system.
We could not be happier with the job the team from First Response Solar did for us with the deadline approaching in mid April for the cutoff date from PG&E. They streamlined our process and got the old system off so we could get our new roof put on in early May. They told us they might be able to get us in before year end to do the install which meant an entire year almost with no power generation. We were hoping to get it done asap. They got us in early June and after the install they said PG&E might take 4-6 weeks to turn on the Solar.
They over delivered all across the board for us and PG&E turned our system on in ten days.
We highly recommend these young men at First Response Solar
Reed F- Santa Rosa
I could not be happier with Dylan and Chaz. Absolutely professional and organized. In the last year, I've gotten a new roof, new paint, and plumbing work done, so I've dealt with many companies recently. First Response stands out head and shoulders above the rest of these companies. Go with First Response Solar; you will not be disappointed.
Jimmy M- Santa Rosa
HUGE shout out for FIRST RESPONSE SOLAR!!!! From start to finish I have nothing but OUTSTANDING things to say about this small, local, family-owned company. 10/10 on cost, communication, responsiveness, explanations, expertise, installation and down-right integrity! Co-owner (who is also a licensed electrician) was on-site during the entire installation and my partner (who is a retired contractor) inspected the work and said they did EVERYTHING right….from finding the studs to attaching it the roof to wiring the unit. Both owners were an absolute delight with whom to work. Sooo excited to see my first PGE bills. If you're looking to install solar, give these guys a call!!! Seriously!
Debbie D- Santa Rosa
We interviewed a few solar companies and found First Response Solar to be the most knowledgeable, professional, courteous and respectful.
Everything was done as promised. The job is beautiful and we are more than happy!!
Tammy G- Santa Rosa
Installing solar panels using First Response Solar was one of the easiest customer experiences I've ever had. Dylan and Chaz are professional, knowledgeable, responsive and fast. The actual installation was quick and seamless. The only drag of the whole thing was getting it connected with PG&E (who were not at all fast or responsive) but Dylan stayed on top of it and got it done. I don't have a single reservation about hiring these pros.
Stacey S- Sebastopol
We decided to go with First Response Solar about one year after they installed a system on our neighbors' house. Dylan and Chaz were great to work with. They started by giving us a clear expectation of what to expect, including an honest timeframe and cost estimate. We were lucky that they started our job sooner than expected. The work was flawless. They treated our home with respect, leaving zero mess. The Enphase system and new service panel they installed look very clean on the side of the house.
I would recommend First Response to anyone in the area.
Josh W- Petaluma
Chaz and Dylan were impeccable to work with. Their attention to detail is amazing. They were extremely responsive throughout the entire process of installing our solar system. Their word is as pure as gold and their professionalism is beyond expectations. I could not speak more highly of them and their work
Michael L- Cloverdale
From start to finish our Solar installation project with First Response has been STELLAR. Their professionalism and communication is above and beyond industry standard. They care about their customers and gave us all the education we needed to make informed decisions about our project. They are prompt, communicative, and always have a smile on their faces. Thanks so much for helping make our home run more efficiently! We thoroughly enjoyed the process (and who can say that about home improvement projects??)!
Shannon S- Santa Rosa
Amazing! I highly recommend. Responsive, responsible and kind. They helped every step of the way and the Sonoma County third person said their quote was on point.
Bernadette P- Windsor
I probably went a little overboard researching solar options. I got multiple quotes from local and regional installers. Some had very low prices to reel me in, but those would quickly inflate before giving a final quote. Others took weeks to respond to emails. When Dylan from First Response Solar came out to look at my property, I could immediately tell he was genuine. Their quote was competitive and there was no upselling or hidden charges. After all the research I had done, I was pretty particular about what I wanted. Dylan and Chaz listened to everything I asked for and made sure I would get it.
The entire transaction is one of the smoothest I've ever had with a contractor. I have heard horror stories about other companies dragging their feet, failing inspections, or even forgetting to submit paperwork with PG&E. They took care of all the PG&E paperwork and guided me through anything that needed my signature. They were able to schedule my install over a month ahead of schedule, arrived on-time and the install went flawlessly. A couple weeks later the permission to operate came through from PG&E.
You can tell they take pride in their craft. The panels look great! Unlike other homes I've seen, the panels are all perfectly aligned and there are no visible conduit runs along my roof (they went through the attic). The electrical panels are meticulously labeled and the car charger is exactly where I wanted it. They even touched up paint on the house where they had removed some old equipment from a previous solar system.
My system has been producing for just over a month. Dylan and Chaz have checked in multiple times already and just recently came by to upgrade the monitoring on the system (free of charge). Their customer service is second to none, and really puts my mind at ease that I went with a company that will be able to maintain my system for years to come. I cannot recommend First Response Solar any more highly. If you are thinking about getting solar, you need to give them a call.
Trevor M- Santa Rosa
Very very happy with Chaz and Dylan - They provided multiple options on panel layout etc, which was very helpful and allowed us to maximize the setup. Installation was PERFECT, the team spent time to ensure conduit was neatly installed and is almost invisible. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for solar in Sonoma County.
Ben M- Sebastopol
I interviewed several companies but they all wanted me to sign a contract before coming out and seeing the actual roof and possible area to place a ground mount. Dylan was super responsive and came out right away and quickly determined that a ground mount was not possible. So we saved a lot of time by focussing on what was doable and then I felt more comfortable signing a contract with them. They were on time on budget super professional and courteous. They cleaned up after themselves and did a beautiful solar array complementing the current roof design. They also responded to all my questions in a timely manner and even gave excellent referrals to roofers and heat pump installers.
Nancy O- Bodega Bay
As a retired Solar and Plumbing contractor, I have pretty high standards, and usually do all the work on my own house. Having seen the quality work First Response Solar did on my son's house, I was less nervous. Dylan explained the quality components and installation methods in detail. I was dazzled by the micro inverters, PV panels, anodized roof mounts, concealed flashings and conduit, even the gutter protector they rested their ladder on. When the last panel was installed Chaz stayed until it was energized and confirmed that all micro inverters were feeding into the grid. I did not expect to be producing and feeding into the grid for weeks. I also like the idea that First Response Solar is local, and will be nearby if I ever need servicing.
Gerry & Gail M- Sebastopol
Excellent local company. Easy to work with and very professional. We had a great southern exposure space for a ground mounted system and opted for this since our house was surrounded by trees. Dylan and Chaz Mathias are very hands on and have a great crew. Construction area cleaned up and looking good! Highly recommend them for any Solar applications.
Rick B - Sebastopol
Wow! What a great experience. We got 3 solar bids, but after meeting with Dylan we felt completely confident that we would be getting the best value for the money and not buying something that wouldn't work well if we went with FRS. That first meeting set the tone for a very smooth handover to Chaz who did the install in a very expedient and respectful manner. It really couldn't have gone better from beginning to end and we are so pleased with our system. After spending the last almost year with a full house remodel and new build barn--this was the top vendor we worked with out of everyone. HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!
Willow P - Sebastopol
First of all, I am not a usual "yelper" but this company was so great I felt compelled to say something and I cannot say enough good things about First Response Solar. The team was professional in every way, from the beginning through installation and even after when we needed added support. The owners are a fun brother duo. Excellent in communications, customer service and installment. We are very happy with our system and First Response. It looks great and we are loving the solar benefits. If you are thinking about solar, I highly recommend First Response. You will be happy you did!
Michelle M - Sebastopol
We support local businesses whenever possible. I researched local solar installers and liked First Response Solar after reading the customer reviews and determining that I would be working directly with the owners of the business. Chaz, Dylan, or both were on the job site every day. Our system is working great and was completed sooner than promised. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending.
John P - Forestville
We are very happy to have our new solar system completed on our home by FRS, Dylan and Chaz were professional and helpful, explaining all the details of the solar project. I have already recommended them to other friends, and will continue to do so. They told me the facts without pressure selling. I appreciated their honesty and expertise throughout the entire process!
David M - Santa Rosa
We were inundated with many offers to install solar panels on our home. Plenty of telephone calls, e-mail correspondence, and being approached by SunRun every time we shopped at Costco, There were plenty of "hard sells" and discounts if we signed a contract immediately, but very few answers to our questions. We wanted to talk with a local solar installer with a good reputation. We were referred to First Response Solar and were pleasantly surprised about their approach and how thorough Chaz and Dylan (the co-owners) were in answering each and every question we had about the technology, the installation process, and the costs. They spent time researching our monthly electricity use and home to design the appropriate solar panel and battery back-up system. After answering even more of our questions, and taking the time to study their proposal (which took a few months), we were comfortable signing the contract for their services. They even presented and defended their proposal to our Homeowner's Association without a hitch, which is a demonstrable achievement! It took several months for the equipment to arrive, but Chaz and Dylan kept in contact with us to apprise us of an approximate installation date. Throughout the process, Chaz and Dylan were in touch providing us with information and the paperwork needed for the solar equipment to be installed. In this day and age of hard sells and empty promises, First Response Solar is the real deal. We whole-heartedly recommend First Response Solar and cannot thank them enough for their extraordinary service.
Claire & Phil S - Bodega Bay
Stop looking around and choose Dylan and Chaz.
A month and a half after install, I received a call from Dylan stating he noticed something funny on my monitoring and that he would fix it. Next day it was looking amazing.
He didn't have to check on our system and follow up but he did
These two have a long future in solar
Mike W - Cloverdale
Great Experience! Dylan and Chaz delivered highly professional service from beginning to end. Excellent communication, great attention to detail combined with expert knowledge of every aspect of my solar installation. As an architect-owner, I appreciate their professional care. I can highly recommend and deserve five stars all around! Thanks!
JuanDiego P-V - Sonoma
First Response Solar installed a 54 panel system at our home. They helped us with a very difficult PGE problem, and installed the system flawlessly and efficiently. They were great to deal with and are incredibly responsive. I spoke with many solar companies before we spoke with First Response. Clearly, First Response had a command of the project from proposal to execution that the others did not come close to having. I would recommend First Response Solar to anyone.
Larry F - Sonoma
Dylan and Chaz of First Response Solar offer the highest quality, professional, local solar installation that is customized to your needs specifically. I had been contemplating solar for over a decade and finally decided to go for it. First Response Solar came highly recommended by local professionals, trades specialists, and homeowners. I could not be happier with their quality product line, timely installation, depth of industry knowledge and most importantly customer service!
Shannah H - Sebastopol
First Response Solar installed a 17 module, 5kW system on our roof in August 2021. So far it has worked as expected without any glitches or service calls. We are very happy with the system and FRS in general.
Positives
- FRS is based in Sebastopol, and their service area is basically Sonoma County.
- They have a lower-pressure approach than other installers I dealt with.
- They were up front about the system design and willing to modify it according to our input
- They were very responsive to calls & emails.
- Their electrical work supporting the system was high-quality.
- They handled all the city permitting and interactions with PGE.
- They finished the job when they said they would, cleaned up well and were respectful of us and our neighbors as they worked.
Negatives
- No real negatives. Since they are a small-sized family business, I do wonder if they be around to address warranty issues in 10-20 years. You could ask this about any installer, of course. The solar industry sees a lot of churn.
Advice
- Be aware that they install Enphase exclusively.
- Have a good idea of your current & future electricity use so FRS can size the system correctly.
- Consider whether you can afford to replace your roof before putting up solar (we did)
- Be aware that an upcoming change to the Net Metering program in California (called NEM3) will reduce the value of the electricity you export to the grid. You will want your system functioning before NEM3 takes effect. That will probably happen mid-2022.
Brian G - Petaluma
We had our solar installed in September. We could not be more happy with the experience. We received a few quotes from some big solar companies last year and then decided to look locally. After speaking with two local companies we were referred to First Response. The initial meeting felt honest and transparent, not like a sales pitch from some of the other companies. We got the process going and Dylan and Chaz were fantastic to work with all along. They made things so easy, keeping us well informed during the process and they were quickly available for questions. Installation day came and it was quick and seamless. I would highly recommend First Response Solar to anyone wanting to make the move to solar.
Christina C - Santa Rosa
It has been such a pleasure to work with First Response Solar. Chaz and Dylan are respectful, responsible, friendly and professional. They were involved in all the steps of the solar installation and permit process. We just had to sit back and enjoy becoming the owners of an American made, quality product, solar energy generating system.
We were kept well informed along the way and both systems were delivered ahead of time at our residences.We highly recommend First Response Solar and wish Chaz and Dylan the best of luck!
Peggy & Eric G - Forestville
We just completed a new home build and could not be happier with First Response Solar. When I was receiving multiple bids from solar companies, First Response was truly the "first responder" to satisfactorily answer all my questions. They were very proactive, communicative, flexible in working with the GC, and true to their word regarding scheduling of work. Their panels and inverter are high quality and First Response provided the best warranty on hardware of all the solar companies I interviewed. I know I sound like a paid endorser of this company but am honestly just a very satisfied customer.
Paul K - Sebastopol
First Response Solar added an Encharge 10 backup battery to our existing solar panel array. Chaz and Dylan are extremely knowledgeable and provided detailed explanations of the system design and function answering all of our questions. Their workmanship is first class and they are a pleasure to work with. They delivered on all of their commitments and I would highly recommend First Response Solar to anyone considering adding solar or battery backup to their home. The system is working perfectly.
Tom P - Santa Rosa
I could not be happier with the outstanding quality of workmanship and professionalism I experienced from First Response Solar during my install. They were very knowledgeable and made the whole process simple. I would highly recommend them to anyone considering solar!
Lindsay C - Sebastopol
From the very start, I got great service from First Response Solar. They were prompt with their responses, and very upfront and honest. They are genuine people who take a lot of pride in their work, and this came across in talking with them. They didn't feel like some of the sales pitches I got from other companies. Also, they are a local company. For these reasons, I chose to go with First Response, and I'm glad I did. They delivered exactly what they promised, and my solar is working great.
Jackie J - Windsor
We were so pleased with our experience with First Response Solar. They were extremely professional. The whole process was very smooth and easy! They finished the job very quickly and we are very happy with how it turned out! Definitely recommend if you're in the market for solar!
Khris and Jessica H - Forestville
Would give 10 stars if I could. They were friendly, professional, and have top of the line product. The process from start to finish could not have been easier. They took care of all the paperwork, from permits to HOA's including drawings. Arrived when promised, finished when promised, and the install was clean, neat and operates without any issues. Their customer service is something all contractors could learn from. I highly recommend this company, so much so that we are looking at having them do another install on our second home.
Laurie L - Santa Rosa
I am exceedingly satisfied with First Response Solar. Dylan came well prepared to describe the process to me, including bringing a sample of the metal shields that would be used on my tile roof. He explained the battery options and types. In less than 48 hours I had a detailed proposal. He put me in touch with the Sonoma County person in charge of loans for solar installation. Dylan kept close contact with me every step of the way, promptly answering all emails, texts, and phone calls. Dylan and Chaz are very knowledgeable about every aspect of solar installation: technical aspects, inspections, permits, county loan assistance. They know what they are doing! I highly recommend First Response Solar to anyone "going solar”.
Penny M - Santa Rosa
I couldn't be happier with the customer service and quality of work performed by First Response Solar. They were timely with showing up and completing the job as promised. They answered all my questions and kept me apprised throughout the process. They were polite, courteous and abided by Covid regulations.
Chai S - Sonoma
You guys Rock!! Great job and really enjoyed working with you both. Other bids were less but when I first started working with your Dad; I sensed integrity professionalism and quality. You both lived up to those standards.
Bill & Roy - Cloverdale
Chaz and Dylan were terrific. The project was done ahead of schedule and both of them were very patient with me in explaining the ins and outs of solar power. I have nothing but praise for First Response Solar.
Ilene B - Sonoma
Dylan and Chaz were responsive and friendly. They finished the job sooner than I expected, and the work was completed professionally, while they kept me posted on their progress. Great customer service. I would definitely recommend First Response Solar!
Jennifer W - Santa Rosa
From quote to completion of installing 20 solar panels on my house, they were super professional, thorough, patient and easy to work with. They provided me with a very competitive quote which was the final price after completion. I'm very happy that I went with First Response Solar for my solar power system.
Chris T - Sebastopol
It has been a pleasure to work with Dylan and Chaz. Very professional and informed. Highly recommended!
Steve M - Santa Rosa
Dylan and Chaz had exception communication and quality. They were extremely thorough and left no detail undone. They were timely, respectful, and most importantly, highly competent. We were very comfortable having them work on and inside our home. They followed up by creating a Dropbox folder containing all important documents and personal training on how to use the app. Strongly recommend.
Toddy C - Santa Rosa, CA
I had an outstanding experience with First Response Solar. From start to finish, their service was exemplary. The team was incredibly professional throughout the entire process, ensuring that every step was completed to the highest standard. What truly sets them apart is their attention to detail. They were meticulous in assessing my needs, designing the solar setup, and executing the installation with precision. It's rare to find a company that is so detail-oriented, and it gave me complete confidence in the quality of their work. I highly recommend First Response Solar for anyone looking for reliable, top-tier solar solutions!
Meher G- Santa Rosa, CA
Honest, responsive and conscientious from start to finish on a difficult solar project for me. I recommend Chaz and Dylan Mathias highly for your solar needs. They also fixed up two other solar systems that needed replacement inverters on the property I own in common with another family. Five Stars!! You Can't do better than these guys and their crew.
Jeff M- Sebastopol, CA
First Response Solar installed our panels a few years ago and we were so happy with them then, but just last week they impressed us even further. A part failed on our system and not only did they contact us to let us know but they wanted to come out the very next day to fix at no cost to us! They are truly honest good people that do great work and have continued to look after our system! Thanks again Chaz and Dylan we will continue to refer you to all our friends and family!
John and Kelsey F - Windsor, CA
Couldn't be happier with First Response Solar. We met with them a couple of months ago, came to a price and got an estimated date to install rooftop solar and back-up batteries. They were here on that date and completed the work in a few days. All done on time and budget. But possibly more importantly they were so good to work with. Both Dylan and Chaz are hands on so they can guarantee the work will be done right. They are professional and so polite. I would recommend them to anyone looking to put solar on their home.
Ed H - Sebastopol
If you are considering putting in solar, the only right choice is First Response Solar. Dylan and Chaz walked me through every step of the process (often multiple times) and ensured I understood everything before moving forward. They kept me updated regularly. We ran into some issues with PG&E, and Chaz and Dylan went above and beyond to find solutions to every obstacle PG&E had put up. We were also having a new roof put on, and First Response Solar worked seamlessly with our roofing contractor to coordinate the two projects. First Response Solar installed the brackets (to hold the solar panels) once the old roof was off. Being willing to coordinate with the new roof installation allowed us to keep the new warranty intact. No one else was willing to do this. They returned when the new roof was done and completed the solar installation. Once everything was approved to turn on, they returned and taught us how the software works and how to manage the system. We were impressed not only with Dylan and Chaz but also with all of their employees.
Jean & Bill B - Forestville
Chaz and Dylan provided an incredible service. They were super helpful in all ways from start to finish. Its great to see two brothers running such a great business together. They provide the best products as well. I highly recommend First Response Solar!
Andreas M - Sonoma
Not only did First Response Solar do a first-rate installation of my solar system, they also have provided post-installation care. The electrical outlets in my garage stopped working and I asked them to trouble-shoot when they were in the area as I wanted to be sure the outage wasn't related to the solar installation. They came by while they were working on a job nearby and discovered the source of the problem was a burnt out GFI plug and replaced it at no charge. Deeply grateful!
Nancy O - Bodega Bay
Chaz and Dylan are great communicators and very professional in their work ethic. They gave all costs up front, were quick with the install process, and managed the process to get our solar meshed up with the PG&E grid. I wouldn't hesitate to use them for future solar projects.
Emily L - Sebastopol
I have nothing but good things to say about First Response Solar. They stayed in contact while I was waiting for installation. They showed up on time, were always polite and answered all my question. They were very clean and conscientious about my home and yard. I don't think there was a speck of dust out of place when they finished. They have continued to stay in touch, and followed through with all the paperwork. Great guys!
Ann M - Santa Rosa
My husband and I have been quite pleased with the excellent quality service we have received from First Response Solar. Explanations for solar panel and support material choices was clear and they helped us make decisions that assured we were getting what we needed for our home. We felt that both Chaz and Dylan were not only incredibly knowledgeable but professional, warm, and wonderful to work with. They have continued to keep an eye on our system and when a minor problem occurs, they are there before we even know it's a problem!
Phyllis R - Santa Rosa
I have worked with Chaz and Dylan at First Response Solar for three and a half years now. They installed my solar system. Did a super job with that. Well done and fast. They come on the job and do most of the work themselves. The system works great. Anytime I have had ongoing issues, they are available to help. Like recently. Seven panels on my 23 panel system went down. I called Chaz and Dylan. They figured out the problem quickly. It was the inverters. Fried due to a power surge by the electric company. Chaz and Dylan went the extra mile and used their own coverage to get me new inverters at no cost to me. They installed the inverters as soon at they arrived. I'm back in business with a fully operating solar array now! Great service.
First Response and Dylan and Chaz are talented and honest dudes. Smart guys. And they back up their work as best as anyone could. I recommend them 100%
Bob R - Santa Rosa
First Response Solar recently installed solar panels with microinverters and control panel, along with an upgraded main service panel. We are still waiting for the utility to give the okay for the cutover, but their and the county's inspections both passed first time. We got excellent attention from the owners, two brothers, who made sure all our questions were answered and that we understood how the system worked. We had fired a previous solar contractor, and Dylan showed us where they had tried to upsell us on unecomonical equipment and overestimated the output of the system. They also showed us that that contractor had misinformed us about our NEM2 (better sales price to utility) qualifications, and took care of that too. 10 out of 5 stars! (not a typo)
Jim O - Forestville
I just had Solar installed at my house in Forestville. First Response was one of 3 vendors I asked to provide a quote. They were the lowest by about $1800. But I did research on the equipment (panels, inverters, hardware) and their equipment was top of the line.
They signed me up 12 months ago and explained that they only have 1 crew, and they want to keep quality high, so I'd need to wait. They explained the process clearly and were outstanding on letting me know what was needed to get this done.
Dylan and Chaz and the crew showed a great professional attitude and know what they are doing. I am very happy with the results. I'd recommend them highly. This was a big investment in our home. We needed a new roof first. But knowing that we will be protected from extreme PG&E este increases is a great feeling. Thanks guys!
Rob C - Forestville
So incredibly impressed with this company!!!! They were so responsive from our very first meeting. In the sleazy world of solar companies and their bait-and-switch techniques, Dylan and Chaz were the exact opposite. They made the whole transition to solar, clear, concise, and non-technical for those of us not in the biz. They were on-time, courteous and always communicating with us throughout the entire process. We like that you deal with them directly and not some big corporate entity that shoves you off to some distant support department. The best part is they handled all the approvals, permits, and dealings with PG&E. If you are thinking of adding solar trust me when I tell you we interviewed so many companies and were so grateful to meet Dylan and Chaz. I can't recommend them highly enough!
Caryl K - Petaluma
"I cannot say enough wonderful things about First Response!!! From proposal to post-installation, Dylan and Chaz Mathias were highly professional, knowledgeable and diligent. They even suggested and walked us through the grandfathering process for our NEM2 application from a previous solar application. We are incredibly happy with our solar system, which was installed a month early and completed within 5 days. They also use excellent products and materials. Even on really cloudy days our system is producing power and it looks great too. Dylan and Chaz are truly committed to their customers and are always quickly available to answer questions. I truly believe you can not find a better solar company in California."
Laura R- Sonoma
"First Response made our installation a success from the beginning. The communication was clear and the work is first rate."
Tom K- Petaluma
We had First Response Solar install our solar system in early 2023. They are professional, knowledgeable, quick to respond, caring, and fair priced. If you are looking for a quality installer who installs quality products, I would highly recommend Dylan and Chaz, the owners of First Response Solar. We interviewed other installers including larger companies and nothing compared. Additionally, I wanted to wait to provide a review to see if they followed up on everything they promised, and they did. Fantastic company.
Mike J- Santa Rosa
I just finished having a brand new solar system with battery installed at my house by First Response Solar. This company literally “checks all the boxes.” If you’re considering working with them on an existing solar system or new solar build, trust me when I tell you that you need not (and frankly should not) look any further for a solar company servicing Sonoma County.
✅ Local
✅ Responsive/Communicative
✅ Approachable
✅ Genuine
✅ Professional
✅ Reasonably-priced
✅ Transparent
✅ Honest
✅ Timely
✅ Respectful/Considerate (of me and my property/time)
✅ Attentive to detail
✅ Thorough
They claim to “treat every installation as if it were their own home and go above and beyond to do what’s right to make sure their customers are happy and taken care of.” This isn’t just something they say. They actually live it, and demonstrated this principle in their work on my new system despite extra time, cost, and energy at their sole expense.
Owners Dylan and Chaz Mathias operate a company that lives, breathes, and genuinely understands true customer service. I can, just off the top of my head, think of four ways they far exceeded my expectations in ways they were under absolutely no obligation whatsoever to do, and did just to take care of me as their customer. Trust me when I tell you I’m not the easiest to deal with and have extraordinarily high expectations for work in my house.
I am incredibly happy with the system they designed and installed!! It was a bittersweet goodbye because I genuinely enjoyed the process of working with them and they made what could have been an incredibly stressful project actually enjoyable. Their install work was flawless and there isn’t a single aspect of it that I am not 110% satisfied with. In fact, they even accommodated my install 2 1/2 months earlier than scheduled at my request.
I cannot recommend First Response Solar enough. They are simply the best.
10 out of 5 ⭐️
Rich S- Santa Rosa
I can highly recommend First Response Solar if you are considering installing solar panels. Owners Dylan and Chaz are very professional and friendly. They made the whole process easy and painless for me. They handled all the paperwork with PG&E, explained very clearly to me how the system works. They are always available to answer any questions that might come up. My panels were even installed ahead of schedule. So if you are thinking about Solar Panels you should definitely use First Response Solar.
Sue R- Cloverdale
Excellent at every step! From start to finish it was a seamless process. Both Dylan and Chaz were exceptionally knowledgable, efficient and professional in every aspect. What a great team!
Kathy H- Sonoma
These guys are super thorough, easy to work with, and produce high quality results. While everyone else giving quotes based on aerial photos from Google maps, Dylan climbed on my roof and inspected it ahead of time himself. Chaz and his crew were awesome and hit all of the deadlines they promised. Highly recommend!!
Keith R- Sonoma
In 2022, When looking for a solar company, we had shopped a few different companies First response was the first group to sit and explain everything to us (including true up).
The other nice thing was they were local and not a 3rd party hire contractor.
We have had the panels in for almost 2 years now and our true up was minimal (around $3) while our power bills have been bare minimum!
These guys really know what they are doing and their service cannot be beat
Mike W- Cloverdale
Could not be happier with the overall experience; this includes the clarity during the initial consultation, follow through through conclusion.
These two brothers, Dylan and Chaz run an efficient business, and are professional and courteous. Highly recommended!
Zafer S- Sonoma
I can't say enough good things about First Response Solar! Dylan promptly responded to my inquiry with specifics. He responded quickly to all emails and was easy to reach throughout the process. Another local company refused (!) to install solar because I have a tile roof. FRS provided metal protectors for my tile shingles. Dylan recommended the county energy support department to help with financing, which worked great for me. When there are power outages, I don't even notice, thanks to my Enphase battery. Now my electric bill is minimal. And an added bonus: this winter I will use a couple of small heaters instead of spending a small fortune using my whole-house (gas) heating. Thank you, First Response Solar!!
Penny M- Santa Rosa
We are extremely pleased with new solar system installed by Dylan, Chaz and their team. They were extremely professional, efficient and flexible to our needs.
Mike K- Sebastopol
First class professionalism and expertise. We went with First Response because of their honesty, integrity and competence throughout all aspects of the project. This was a huge transformation for our home and both Dylan and Chaz were able to explain options and guide us through upgrading our old electrical system to the installation of our solar panels. Other companies had been fierce salespeople more interested in making a sale than making sure we were doing the right thing for our home. We enjoyed working with the entire friendly team as they completed each phase of the installation. It is comforting to know we are working with the owners of the company, not a third-party subcontractor. No corners cut, no sloppy workmanship, and excellent communications made this 100% great decision for our energy needs. We highly recommend First Responders.
Kay and Yannick- Sonoma
Dylan and Chaz have installed solar on each of our two homes. We added batteries to the one on the coast and we could not be happier. Their communication and dedication to doing a clean and efficient system goes far beyond. It is their company, their reputation and they take it seriously. We highly recommend them.
Larry L- Santa Rosa
Absolutely love our system. No problems at all. We generate enough electricity to pay nothing to PG&E and get a credit of $200+ per year towards our natural gas bill!
Couldn’t recommend you guys more!
Ric A- Cloverdale
First Response installed as many panels as possible on my limited roof space. The installation crew was efficient and knew exactly how to do the installation, and how to clean up the grounds when they finished. My electricity bills have gone down significantly. At the end of the year PG&E owes me money, although they push for legislation to reduce what they buy from me. I have been very satisfied.
The panels have been in place about 4 years and I have no complaints about them or First Response..
Dorothy B- Sebastopol
Working with First Response for our solar was an excellent experience overall. We feel fortunate to have found them to do our installation.
Jesse S- Petaluma
I'm not sure I have enough adjectives to describe how good this company is. Dylan and Chaz are extremely responsive, knowledgable, prompt, friendly and professional. They installed a massive ground mount system and battery backup for our property and we couldn't be happier with it.
Kevin L- Sebastopol
First Response Solar was the most highly recommended company we interviewed before installing our solar system. Dylan and Chaz were both completely responsive, took the time to make sure we understood exactly what we were getting and what our choices were. They assisted us in understanding the differences in panels, batteries, quality and output so we could make the decision that best suited our needs. Completely professional, on time, attention to detail and brilliant in designing and implementing our system. I simply cannot recommend them highly enough!!
Bette V- Santa Rosa
Dylan and Chaz were just a pleasure to work with from the very beginning initial proposal to installing a new solar system at our new home. They had complete and thorough follow through on installation and every subsequent aspect of getting the system installed and connected. We feel that we were so fortunate to select this company for our solar needs. Dylan and Chaz were always very knowledgeable, helpful, and extremely responsive to our needs. They were so helpful and diligent in getting through the quagmire of PG&E and getting our system up and running.
We highly recommend this company.
Marian C- Sonoma
Throughout the entire process - from initial meeting through the after-install meeting - First Response Solar was dependable, thorough, and customer-oriented. The installation process was seamless with minimal disruption to my daily routine. Dylan and Chaz paid attention to every detail. They were both more than happy to answer all of my questions. They were always prompt and courteous with every communication.
First Response Solar also followed-up with me to ensure that I understood how the PG&E bill would look, the various rates, and how to use the phone application to monitor and maximize solar benefits.
In short, I am very pleased that I used First Response Solar for my solar installation.
Brian H- Petaluma
At our first meeting I was immediately impressed: Dylan came on time and was totally prepared to explain everything I needed to know to start my research into solar for my home. I didn’t feel rushed, all of my questions were answered (some more than once!) and there was no hard sell.
After doing more research on my own and taking more than a month to think things over, I decided to go ahead with First Response for my solar project.
Again, more questions came up and Dylan discussed again my options and different scenarios and we came up with a system that meets my needs and stayed within my budget.
We thought there might be a wait of 6 months or more for them to fit me into their schedule, but they were able to fit my relatively small and straight forward project into their schedule a few weeks after signing the contract!
Their team was only on-site less than two full days- they showed up on time, reviewed the work to be done and quickly and efficiently got to work.
The end result is a neat and clean solar system on my roof with no unappealing conduit running along the roof since the conduit is placed discreetly in my attic.
Now my system is up and running perfectly- I couldn’t be happier!
It also feels good to support a small, local company that puts it’s customers first.
Thanks again Dylan and Chaz!
Ed G- Santa Rosa
We could not be any happier working with Dylan and Chaz on our solar system. Professional, attentive to our needs, on time with delivery and installation. I would give them 10 stars if I could. We were very lucky to be able to work with them. Great follow up from Dylan. Great communicator.
Reid H- Santa Rosa
We highly recommend First Response Solar. We have rarely come across a company whose staff is so responsive, honest, knowledgeable, and helpful in both big and small ways. They were invariably patient with all our questions and needs. I just wish they covered the whole Bay Area, so our family in the east bay could use them!
Susan H- Santa Rosa
Dylan and Chaz were great to work with on the install of our new solar system. They were very responsive and answered our myriad questions promptly and professionally. They designed the solar array to fit on our garage so that the panels are hidden from view from both the street and from our back deck. They even dug a trench and ran electricity to a newer garage that had already been built but lacked the electrical hookup - a nice bonus! They worked with the county and PG&E to get the permits and inspections and to get our electricity changed over. I'm looking forward to hopefully having a net zero electricity bill! Less money to PG&E - Yay!!! And renewable energy to charge our EVs.
Thanks Chaz and Dylan and all your crew for a wonderful job! I highly recommend!
Denise & Bill R- Santa Rosa
Top-notch work and customer service. From our very first meeting to following up after our big solar project was done, Dylan and Chaz were consistently clear, on time and friendly. Their work was very high quality, they clearly care a lot about the end result being excellent. They're true professionals in every sense of the word - I wish they'd clone themselves so we could hire them to do other work too!
Chris B- Sebastopol
First Response Solar is Amazing! I would recommend them to anyone (and have). They have been professional, knowledgeable and courteous throughout the entire process. Dylan just returned to follow up on an upgrade that became available after the installation. Dylan and Chaz have been available for any questions I have had and I feel extremely confident with the level of their products and service.
Nina G- Penngrove
As a client, it was incredibly refreshing to work with two individuals who are truly dedicated to the concept of service like Dylan and Chaz. They are consummate professionals, and very knowledgeable. They offered pragmatic advice that resulted in getting us exactly what we needed. They were extremely responsive and handled all of the paperwork smoothly. The installation was well-planned, straightforward, and completed ahead of schedule and communicated very clearly throughout all stages of the process. Knowing that they are a local business and are invested in customer satisfaction was a major plus for me, and very reassuring given the significant investment involved in purchasing solar PV system.
Eamon O- Santa Rosa
Dylan and Chaz are fantastic. We were thrilled with their approach, communication, responsiveness and work product. We are in the process of a major remodel and they worked closely with my GC and electrician to get the work done and system operational quickly. Highly recommend.
Josh D- Santa Rosa
Wonderfully attentive, very polite, completely professional installation of our solar system. The two brothers respond to emails promptly, explain things in detail, are open to any communication and offer full support. So nice to have such able fellows who are long time local residents. Other friends have used their services and are equally enthusiastic in their praise. It was a most swift and prompt installation.
Ren B- Bodega Bay
We had Chaz and Dylan install 20 panels on our roof and then we had them install another 12 panels about a year later after we purchased an EV car. Their installation was flawless. The communication was superb. They're so professional and the pricing is competitive. To me, it's a no-brainer to go with First Response for all your solar needs.
Chris T- Graton
Making the decision to switch to Solar was easy, the hardest part was trying to find the best company out of the many options. So thankful we went with First Response Solar! Their professionalism and quality of work is impeccable. The process from start to finish was flawless and the end result is exactly what we were looking for in terms of aesthetics and function. They are the best company to work with!
Jeffrey and Diana M- Santa Rosa
I cannot say enough good things about this company. Dylan and Chaz are professional, experienced and deliver top notch customer service! The were timely with showing up and delivered excellent results. They answered all my questions and kept me apprised throughout the process. They were polite and courteous and always picked up the phone when I called. I HIGHLY recommend giving this company a call before you call any other company. I say this because I called so many so-called solar companies and was extremely unhappy with the 3 companies I interviewed.
Lynn W - Santa Rosa
My wife Lindsay and I found them to be very professional and responsive to our inquiries. Dylan was great at explaining the design and benefits of the system they designed for us. We highly recommend them to anyone who is looking to install solar and battery.
Mark & Lindsay F - Santa Rosa
Chaz and Dylan (a dynamic brother duo) from First Response Solar installed our solar system. They were extremally knowledgeable, had great communication and customer service leading up to the installation. They went above and beyond during the installation to hide the solar conduits in the attic and inside our walls. We are extremely particular about how things look around our house and First Response Solar met and exceeded our expectations. We were expecting them to charge us more for the additional work we had them do but one of the owners was on site and said they would not charge us for the extra work. We are so happy with our system, and we would give this company 10 stars if we could.
Allie P - Santa Rosa
About 15 years ago I installed solar on my home in Sebastopol. This system was paid off in the first 6 years and I have been living with a $10 a month electric bill since then. This includes my home with pool and hot tub, an all electric rental unit and an EV (electric car). I added storage to it 3 years back and it has been working great. I needed a new roof and as such needed to remove my existing system. I had 36, 198 watt modules on a string inverter and 8, 270 watt modules on micro inverters. After weighing the pros and cons, I made the decision to replace my entire system with 31 Silfab 380 watt modules, and Enphase Micro inverters. The designed system was about 25% larger then my previous system, to allow for further fuel switching, away from natural gas for my water heater, clothes dryer and a second EV. Because I increased the size of my system, I also needed to upgrade my electrical meter.
Chaz and Dylan from First Response Solar were instrumental in the design of this system, not just for the solar but also integrating my existing Sonnen energy storage system (ESS). They filed the required PG&E interconnection paperwork, obtained the County Permit, ordered my equipment, removed my old system before the roof was installed and installed the new system, integrating to the ESS. Since they have a C10 electrical license, they were also able to install my new meter-main without needing to sub-contract this work like so many other solar companies I am aware of.
My system is performing even better than expected and with the all black modules, racking and smaller foot print, it looks so much better than the previous system. From start to finish First Response Solar was easy to work with and extremely professional. Their attention to detail, care for my property and awareness of noise and my neighbors made the process easy. I even had one of my neighbors bring them cold drinks on a hot day. This neighbor, after watching the professionalism of the crew install my system, has already approached First Response to install their solar system.
I would recommend this company to anyone looking for storage and solar!
Jeff M - Sebastopol
We just had a solar power system installed by First Response and couldn't be happier with our experience. Chaz and Dylan were courteous, professional, knowledgeable, and prompt. They gave us an estimate that was fitted to our needs and didn't go a penny over budget. The installation went smoothly and the system is up and running without a hitch. I heartily recommend First Response for your solar project.
Steve C- Santa Rosa
From start to finish First Response Solar was top notch. They answered any and all questions we had and put the entire project’s history, including photos, in a Dropbox for our records. We have a ground mount system because of the trees surrounding the house. The excellent southern exposure made the efficiency of the system well worth the extra cost because of the long trenching to the PG&E main panel. Local company and a pleasure to work with.
Rick B - Sebastopol
I highly recommend First Response Solar--from bid to completion they did everything right. Good communication, good follow-through, provided information, answered questions, crew worked quickly and neatly. We are 100% happy with our experience having First Response Solar install our new solar panels. Am thankful our roofing company recommended them to us.
Sue & Alex M - Sebastopol
Great company to work with! From the initial meetings to the end, Dylan and Chaz were a pleasure to work with. Very professional, transparent, great communication and their attention to detail while taking pride in their work was obvious. We’re very happy with the result and we highly recommend First Response Solar.
Josh & Lindsey S - Santa Rosa
First Response is an excellent company--quick response time, good communication, thorough knowledge of the materials used. They answered every question we had--although we didn't have very many due to the ample information they gave us. Great crew worked quickly--highly recommended company for your solar needs!
Sue & Alex M - Sebastopol
I fully recommend First Response Solar. I could not be happier with the solar system that Dylan and Chaz installed on my roof. They were professional and helpful throughout the whole process. They took the time to answer all my questions and helped me understand advantages and disadvantages of different options. They made great recommendations for sizing my system, including good estimates for some additional new electric HVAC equipment. They had competitive pricing and offered the best equipment, and all made in America. The system looks so great on my roof too, with no exposed conduit. The Enphase monitoring app they use is awesome. Thank you Dylan and Chaz!
Chris M - Petaluma
I was led to First Response Solar through a personal referral and am now returning the favor to anyone seeking to install solar. This company is fantastic from beginning to end. I could not have been more pleased with their service level and quality of product. This is my third experience with installing solar on a home. While my other two experiences with a very reputable nationwide firm were positive, they were nothing like the white glove service I experienced with First Response Solar. The team was very knowledgeable and extremely responsive. I had a thorough initial meeting where all things solar and battery were discussed. They did a good job explaining the products they use and why they believe them to be the best on the market. They were very quick with my quote. They did a very good job analyzing my rooftop, trees/shade and energy needs to understand the best setup for my home. Their crew was friendly, efficient and very respectful of my property. I was explained every step of the process and always knew what to expect. Being a smaller, locally-owned business, the owners are very dedicated to their customers. I always felt they were going out of their way to make me happy, but it's really just how they run their business. You don't find companies like this much anymore. I would highly encourage you to consider them. Thank you, Dylan and Chaz. You both are incredible!
Renee G - Santa Rosa
After investigating multiple solar companies I really liked the attitude and professionalism of First Response Solar. Dylan and Chaz (owners) carefully listened to my needs and preferences, pointed out what can be done, and suggested good alternatives if necessary. Examples: - They were willing to use conduit from the attic to the crawlspace in order to connect the solar system to my electric service panel (other companies insisted on ugly conduit across the roof, probably because this method is much less labor intensive). - They re-arranged the location of the solar panels on my roof to get as close as possible to my preferences while still satisfying all building codes - We walked around the house at least twice to find the best compromise for the location of the solar controller/combiner unit technical requirements versus aesthetics) - They split and pulled in installation appointments so that it was more convenient for me, as well as to work with instead of against the weather pattern - Before, during and after the installation Dylan and Chaz patiently answered all of my many questions to my satisfaction. They also were on time for all the appointments. - The city inspector (who seemed to be very knowledgeable about potential issues and asked for proof of many details) was positively surprised with how well the work was done. Overall I am very pleased with the interactions I had with First Response Solar, their quality, and what I was charged for this project. I highly recommend this company.
Joachim V - Santa Rosa
Our new solar system is up and running as promised. Dylan and Chaz at First Response Solar were truly excellent to work with. From Day 1 and each step along the way, we received courteous, professional and informative support. We had spoken to several other solar installation companies before deciding on First Response and we are both relieved and very happy to announce that our final decision turned out to be a great one! The installation was on-time, efficient and non-intrusive. The installers were courteous and tidy and the system was up and running even earlier than we had expected. We absolutely strongly recommend First Response Solar to anyone who is currently in that confusing and sometimes frightening process of trying to decide who to go with.
David P & Cynthia DB - Santa Rosa
Just an excellent experience all around. Great price, very knowledgeable and responsive. And they use panels made in the USA! These guys are great!
Richard B - Santa Rosa
Chaz and Dylan made our solar experience easy and smooth. We worked with three solar companies obtaining quotes and it was clear from the beginning that we wanted to work with them. I worked with Dylan to get the right system for us (within our budget). And Chaz did an amazing job with the install. From the quoting process all the way to troubleshooting the new system, they are professional, timely, and transparent. They are willing to go the extra mile to make things smoother and explain things. Solar can be complicated to understand, but their approach is authentic and trustworthy, so we left the experience with confidence in our knowledge. Do your homework, and keep the communication lines open and you'll have a fabulous experience with them!
Jamie & Ryan S - Forestville
It was delightful working with Dylan & Chaz of First Response Solar. They are knowledgeable, offer clear explanations, and follow through on all commitments. First Response Solar came highly recommended from two households we knew--This reputation is well earned. Our system is up and working and we are very pleased.
Phyllis R - Santa Rosa
We have used an abundance of contractors. First Response Solar is by far the best we have ever seen for many reasons. First they are very nice people, polite and informative. They are the most conscientious company and workers we have ever dealt with. Their customer service is impeccable. The company provides only the best and reliable products. We felt that they were super patient in explaining things and walking us through the process. They took care of all of our permits, HOA forms, etc. The work was as clean as could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone.
Larry L - Santa Rosa
Choosing a company to install a solar system is a complicated venture. Fortunately I was referred to a local company, First Response Solar, and I am very pleased with their service. The co-owner, not a sales rep, helped me sort through the online information about the choice of solar panels and installation. He has been involved in all the proceedings, including interacting with PG&E’s requirement for a new fuse box. He provided the necessary documents, and was available to answer all my questions. The other co-owner was present and supervised the actual installation. They were both skilled in the process and made it worry free. Now my roof is busy making kwh.
I highly recommend this company
Dorothy B - Sebastopol
We are thrilled with our First Response Solar system!! Chaz, Dylan, and Laird exceeded our expectations. My wife and I are new to the solar world and they patiently explained the quote, components, installation process, and operation to us. They accurately accessed our power need and designed a system to provide us with efficient, cost effective everyday electricity, and battery backup to keep us very comfortable in a power outage. Their craftsmanship is excellent and the components are all American Made, many in Northern California. I was a general contractor for many years and I know a great contractor when I see one. I strongly recommend you hire First Response Solar. You'll be happy, too.
Bob and Miriam - Santa Rosa
Chaz and Dylan were extremely professional and knowledgeable with all aspects of setting up our Solar System. They were thorough and took care of all the County, PG&E paperwork and permits. The installation of our Solar and Battery System was top notch. They went above and beyond to make sure we were happy with their work. The system looks and works great.
Sheri and Mark P - Sebastopol
As a complete novice on Solar power, Dylan and Chaz were very patient with me and spent a great deal of time explaining the process. It was seamless. They put me on their busy schedule and finished the job in about a week. I'm very happy with their company
Ilene B - Sonoma
Dylan and Chaz, co-owners of First Response Solar have a great organization that is focused on customer service. Their knowledge of the solar / battery systems is extensive and their attention to detail is very good, but their desire to develop a strong and lasting relationship with their customers set them apart from most others in this special area of technology. It has been great working with them through the entire process.
John E - Santa Rosa
I cannot say enough positive comments about Chaz and Dylan. Everything was professional from receiving a clear, thorough quote to completing the job on our house. They were so patient with my many questions and explained everything in a timely, patient and thorough manner. They installed 20 panels on our residential house roof and the system is working great. They handled the paperwork beautifully so that I didn't have to be overwhelmed. Great price too. Thanks!
Chris T - Graton
I couldn't be happier with the installation First Response Solar did on our home. Chaz came out and was helpful and informative of the process, answering all our questions. He has years of experience in the solar world and as an electrician is very knowledgeable!! The installation went smoothly and the crew was efficient, hard working and wonderful to have around. Dylan educated us on the Enphase system and when the solar system was accidently turned off by another co, he notified me and made himself available to talk me through the process of turning it on.
It is comforting to find a company that is honest, dependable, communicates well and has competitive pricing. I have only great things to say about FRS, Chaz and Dylan!!!! Highly recommend this company!!!!!
Kelley M - Sebastopol
Knowledgeable, Efficient, Patient, Good Communicators—GOOD JOB!!!!
I’m so glad I chose this company to give me solar with battery backup. Everything was explained completely. All my questions completely answered.
THANK YOU!
Judy H - Santa Rosa
The First Response Solar team is phenomenal. Their communication and customer service are second to none. They do excellent work and their attention to detail is top rate. They go above and beyond and it shows in their work. You couldn’t ask for a better solar company than First Response Solar.
Tony & Camilla - Santa Rosa