When you are on the market to purchase a car, plane ticket, or an insurance plan, it is always in your best interest to compare as many rates as possible before making a final decision. The same is true when purchasing solar power systems. Comparison shopping allows you to find the best return on your investment while also giving you peace of mind that you are saving the most money. We recommend getting at least three solar installation quotes so you can work out the differences between each proposal and see what is the most important when it comes to your home or business’s needs. This will give you the opportunity to make more informed decisions. To start your process of deciding what solar installation company is right for your needs, we have outlined several areas we recommend you use to focus on when comparing different offers.
Solar Panel Brands and Models:
Solar panels have many specifications related to size, design, efficiency, durability, and warranty. These specifications ultimately affect the solar panel quality, and often the price for a well-known brand could cost you more money for the same quality as another lesser-known brand. By doing your own research, you will know what is an affordable option for you while also matching the specifications to your needs.
Inverter Types:
There are three types of inverters that you can choose from and even more manufacturer options. The type of inverter you choose depends mainly on what you need for your unique property. Many solar installers have a specific brand that they use the most frequently, making it important for you to find an installer that gives you the best options. Finding out what these brands are and what differentiates them can help you pick the right inverter for your home or business.
Financing Options:
Buying solar energy out of pocket for your home may not make the most financial sense for you at this point in your life. That is why it’s extremely important to know the different financing options available to you. It is also important to stay up to date on current tax credits and other savings options that may be available to you in your area.
System Design:
Solar panels can be configured in many different ways. To optimize the amount of solar power your home or business produces, it is important that the solar panel layout works with the location of your home regarding the direction of the sun throughout the day. Every solar installer will design your system differently, making it important that you ask questions as to why that difference may be present.
Additional Resources
If you still have a lot of questions and concerns about making the change to solar energy it could make sense for you to work with a developer under a solar power purchase agreement (PPA). This is a financial agreement where a developer arranges for the design, permitting, financing, and installation of the solar energy system at little to no cost. By working with a developer you can benefit from having low upfront costs, reduced energy costs, and less operating risk.
Before you reach the final steps in purchasing a solar system, be sure to read the California Solar Consumer Protection Guide. This guide offers advice and information for people looking into going solar.
You can access the most current guide on the CPUC website: https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/solarguide/