Best solar installers near me (2021)


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Over the past decade, rapid advancements in solar power technology, falling costs for clean energy systems, and government-sponsored incentives have taken the popularity of solar panel installation to a new level. record. For readers wondering “who is the best solar installer near me?” Here’s the good news: To take advantage of the anticipated growth in solar power, a large number of new solar installers and electricians are opening their doors across the country, creating healthy competition for your business.

The growing number of competing solar installers presents both challenges and opportunities for a customer. On the one hand, having more options can make a decision more difficult. But on the other hand, savvy investors can use the competition between local installers to their advantage. Competition between solar companies can lower the cost of solar panels, saving you thousands of dollars.

To ensure you get the best value for your money, we recommend getting free quotes from a few certified solar installers near you. You can get in touch with the best solar companies in your area by filling out the 30 second form below.

So how do I find the best solar installer near me?

To get a concrete understanding of the cost and process of installing a solar panel system on your home, it is best to contact a solar installer near you. Typically, most solar installers offer a free consultation during which they analyze your current energy use, roof layout, budget, product availability, and energy goals. Then, they will offer you a proposal tailored to your specific needs.

To ensure they’re getting the best possible value from their renewable energy investment, savvy customers will get quotes from multiple companies and compare costs and warranties. Companies frequently run specials and promotions on solar products or energy efficiency packages, so be sure to inquire about this when requesting quotes.

When choosing the best solar installer for your job, look for a company that helps homeowners claim the federal solar tax credit as well as any applicable local solar rebates and tax incentives. If applicable, installers will also help you connect to the net metering program offered by your utility company, and most will walk you through solar financing options if you are unable to pay cash for your system.

It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with financial incentives and financing options before your consultation to make sure an installer covers whatever is available. If an installer doesn’t have extensive knowledge of local programs or offer help applying for discounts or solar loans, this might not be the best company to do business with.

Here are some other things to consider when finding the best solar installers near you:

  • Licenses and certifications: Legitimate installers hold state-mandated electrical licenses as well as certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
  • Customer reviews: Checking a company’s Better Business Bureau rating and customer reviews on the web can give you a better idea of ​​an installer service.
  • Additional services offered: Some installers offer tree removal, roof repair, solar battery installation, and energy monitoring services. If you need these or other solutions to complete your installation, look for a full-service installer.
  • Financing options: Whether you are paying cash, taking out a loan, or wanting to rent solar panels, make sure the installers you are considering have the financing options you need.

How to read a solar proposal?

Choosing a few best solar installers near you and booking consultations is the easy part. However, once you have received proposals from each company, things can get a bit more confusing. Reading and understanding these proposals is one of the most important steps in choosing a solar installer. Here are some things to look out for in a proposal:

Solar proposal element

What to look for solar installers near you

System size

The size of a solar power system is measured in kilowatts, which is abbreviated as
kW. One kW is a common unit of energy measurement energy production – or consumption.

The size of your system will be based on the amount of energy you use in your home and will determine the number of solar panels you need to purchase. For example, if you need a 5kW system and you buy panels with a power of 340 watts, you will need 15 panels. (5kW / 340W = 14.7 panels)

Estimated annual solar production

Your estimated annual solar production is a measure of how much
the energy your system is supposed to produce in a year. You can compare this number with the usage shown on your utility bills to calculate how much energy your system will compensate.

Estimated energy load

When creating a proposal, a solar installer will ask how much electricity your home uses each year. They use it to calculate your estimated energy load, which reflects
how much money you could expect to spend on energy without solar system.

Beware of the number inflation here, as installers will often take into account the increase in utility rates over time. If an installer estimates a high energy load, it is easier for him to calculate high estimated lifetime savings. If you get multiple quotes and one reflects a much higher estimated energy load than the others, the installer may use shady sales tactics.

Estimated Lifetime Savings

By comparing your energy load with your estimated annual solar production, solar installers can estimate the
energy savings generated for life by a system.

Compare this key figure to other propositions to assess which company can offer the best return on investment (ROI).

What should I expect from my solar panel installation?

So you have compared your proposals and chosen a winner. A trustworthy solar installer will walk you through the process from start to finish, but here’s a good idea of ​​what to expect when installing solar panels:

Solar installation stage

What to expect from solar installers near you

Sign the contract and submit the documents

Customers should be prepared to provide a copy of a utility bill, a down payment (depending on financing chosen) and a signature for their net metering agreement, if applicable.

Obtain permits and approvals

Similar to some other home improvements, an approved permit from the presiding city or county is required for solar projects in most areas. The solar installer will take care of the authorization, but this process can take a few days to a few weeks depending on the efficiency of the area.

Most energy providers also require approval for solar installations in their grid. This can take the form of a net metering agreement or an interconnection agreement.

System installation

Once all permits and approvals have been obtained, the company will schedule a day to install the solar panels, inverters and other equipment.

The schedule varies depending on the complexity of the installation, but most are completed in less than a day.

Pass inspections

The presiding permit office and utility company must inspect the facility before it can be put into operation. The solar installer will take care of the logistics of the inspection, but planning and performing an inspection can take a few weeks.

Get the PTO and turn on the system

Once your utility provider approves the inspection and processes the necessary documents, it issues the License to Operate (PTO). Getting the PTO is the last step before a system can be turned on.

After that, your solar installer will inform you and guide you through the steps to start up the system or come and do it for you if necessary.

FAQ: Solar installers nearby

Who is the best solar panel supplier?

While we can recommend some of the best solar companies that operate in the United States, the best solar panel supplier and installer for you will depend on where you live. We encourage readers to compare quotes from local businesses, read reviews, and talk to neighbors who have installed solar panels. Referrals are also a popular method of finding a trusted installer.

What is the average cost of installing a solar system?

The cost of installing solar power will vary widely depending on the size of the system, your location, and the type of solar panels and other products you choose. On average, for a modest system, we can expect to pay between $ 15,000 and $ 20,000 after applying the tax credit.

Is installing solar panels worth it?

Unless you’re dealing with a shady property, a rainy climate, or an unsuitable roof, solar panels are one of the most reliable investments you can make. Most solar panel installations pay off in energy savings over five to ten years and have an expected lifespan of 25 years. Even if you are planning to move, solar panels add to the value of the property, so your investment is protected.

How much will solar energy help me save on my electricity bill?

Energy savings depend on a variety of factors such as monthly energy consumption, system size, and the size and shape of the roof exposed to the sun. The best way to calculate the estimated savings on your electric bill is to consult a solar installer near you.

Karsten Neumeister is a writer and renewable energy specialist with a background in writing and the humanities. Prior to joining EcoWatch, Karsten worked in the New Orleans energy sector, focusing on renewable energy policy and technology. A lover of music and the outdoors, Karsten can be found climbing, canoeing or writing songs when he is not at work.

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