Solar contractors help many property owners lower energy expenses, reduce their carbon footprint for more financial independence.
How to choose the best solar contractor is important for property owners. How to select a solar power system for home or business use is easiest when partnering with a quality solar contractor. There are many factors that property owners need to consider, including solar energy budget, energy use, taxable income, and the location and orientation of the property. Solar contractors need to be prepared to address these questions.
Advice for Choosing a Solar Contractor from the U.S. Department of Energy
When choosing solar contractors, ask yourself the following questions:
Has the Solar Contractor installed grid-connected PV systems or off-grid PV systems?
Solar Installation Experience in grid-connected systems is valuable because some elements of the installation—particularly interconnection with the local utility—are unique to these systems. However, a competent company with off-grid PV experience should not be eliminated just because it has not yet installed grid-connected solar power systems. Experience with off-grid systems is valuable too, because off-grid systems are more technically complex than grid-tied systems.
How many years of experience does the solar contractor have installing PV systems?
A solar contractor who has been in business a long time understands how to work with customers. Additionally, solar contractors will probably be aware of the latest code and permitting issues surrounding the installation of PV systems.
Is the solar contractor properly licensed?
Solar power systems should be installed by an appropriately licensed solar contractor. This usually means that either the solar installer or a subcontractor has a general, electrical or solar contractor license. Your state contractor licensing board website can tell you whether a solar contractor has a valid license.
Local building departments might also require that the solar contractor has a general contractor’s license. Call the city or county where you live for additional information on licensing.
A solar rebate program may require that, in addition to being properly licensed, solar contractors must demonstrate that they have special knowledge about installing PV systems. Special knowledge can be demonstrated through certification.
Does the Solar Contractor have any pending or active judgments?
As with any project that requires a contractor, diligence is recommended. Your state contractor licensing board website can tell you about any judgments or complaints against a state-licensed solar contractor. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is another source of information.
Tools from Solar Contractors: Free Solar Estimate & Free Solar Webinar
