Solar Companies help homeowners reduce electricity bills with clean, renewable power. They can also help customers reduce their reliance on the electrical grid and qualify for federal tax credits. However, there are many solar companies out there, and not all of them are created equal. Here are some things to consider when choosing a solar company to install a system for your home:
One of the most important factors is whether or not the solar company does their own installation. We have found that about 40% of the solar companies in California use a subcontractor to do their solar installation. This lowers the likelihood that your solar installation will be installed correctly. A subcontractor will often not be as concerned with quality as a company who does their own installation.
Another factor to consider is the solar company’s history. How long have they been in business? Are they licensed to do solar work in your state? Do they have a good reputation amongst consumers and industry professionals? You can check this information on consumer rating websites like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp and Google. You can also check a company’s license status with your local contractor licensing board.
Solar energy systems are complex and require a lot of different components, including solar panels, inverters, racking, wiring and monitoring. Some solar companies make all of these pieces of equipment in-house, while others specialize in one or two items. Some manufacturers are vertically-integrated, meaning they take care of all aspects of the solar process, from manufacturing the solar panels to installing them on your roof.
Many solar companies offer a variety of financing options, from full purchase to leases and PPAs. A full purchase can qualify you for federal and state solar incentives, while a lease or PPA Solar Companies in Harlingen may not. Make sure to understand the different terms and conditions of each before making your decision.
It is also important to consider how long you plan to live in your home. Residential solar systems are designed to stay on the property for 20 years, so if you think you’ll move within that time frame, be sure to find out if the solar company you choose allows you to transfer your contract to a new homeowner.
Finally, it’s important to choose a solar company that prioritizes sustainability. The solar industry produces a lot of waste, habitat destruction and carbon emissions, so it’s crucial that companies strive to be more environmentally responsible. Some solar companies use recycled materials and reduce energy consumption by implementing smart thermostats and other efficiency measures.
When looking for a solar company to install a system on your home, be sure to compare multiple quotes from qualified installers. Schedule a consultation to assess each company’s experience and expertise. During your meeting, ask the company to provide references, certifications and credentials. If they are reluctant to provide this information, it is likely a red flag. Also, be wary of high-pressure sales tactics and never pay upfront.