How to Choose the Best Solar Company
Ready to kick off your journey towards energy independence?
If so, you’re in the right place to start your solar adventure! Solar energy has gained popularity as an alternative electricity source. Which offered thousands of homes savings on their bills. We want you to achieve those savings too! That’s why in this article, we’ll provide tips on how to ensure you choose the best solar company for your solar installation needs
Tip 1 : Understand Your Energy Usage
Before investing in solar panels, it’s essential to understand how much energy your home typically uses. Here’s how to do it:
Track Your Energy Use: Think of your electricity bill like a gas station receipt. It tells you how much energy (measured in kWh) you’ve used in a month, similar to how a receipt tells you how many gallons of gas you bought. Compile all your recent bills from the previous months to determine your total energy usage per kWh and the amount you are being charged every month.
Find Your Average: Calculate your average monthly kWh usage by adding up the kWh usage from all the months you looked at, then divide that number by the total number of months. Do the same with the total amount to get your average as well.
Think About the Future: Anticipate any future changes in energy consumption, such as purchasing energy-efficient appliances or an electric car, to better gauge your long-term needs. By considering these potential changes, you can gain a clearer understanding of your future energy requirements and make adjustments accordingly.
Get Ready to Calculate: Once you have a good understanding of your current energy use and how it might change in the future, you’ll be ready for the next step: doing the final calculation. Save this information for your research.
Tip 2 : Explore Available Programs
Since you already have a grasp about your energy usage, the next step is to check if there are government programs in your area that offer financial help for installing solar panels. Aside from that, you also want to know if there are incentives available for you for installing solar panels for your home. These factors will be beneficial for you later on to get cumulative savings.
However, these incentives don’t apply everywhere. It depends on where you live and if you are eligible for them. Some factors that might play a role include your zip code, income level, and the size of your solar system. To help you out, we have an article that provides information on what these incentives are. On the other hand, it is best to reach out to your local government or local solar companies to know the options available to you.
Tip 3 : Find Best Solar Companies in Your Area
Once you understand the available incentives, you can focus your search. The search would be for companies offering solar systems that qualify for those programs. If you are in Connecticut, you can check this article. This article will let you know the best solar companies in Connecticut. In addition to that, online resources like the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) directory. Or state-specific options can be used to find local installers. Furthermore, manufacturer websites often have “Find an Installer” tools to widen your search. You can also ask your friends, neighbors, or businesses for best solar company recommendations.
Tip 4 : Knowing If The Solar Company is the Best Solar Company
You now have a list of companies in your hand. Now it’s time to proceed with researching those companies so that you can know which is most likely to be the best solar company for you. Here are things you can check:
Company Experience: Look for companies with a proven track record and a strong presence in your area.
Certifications: Ensure the company and its installers hold relevant certifications. Certifications from organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), BBB, or anything related.
Warranty: Check if the company offers warranties. This would ensure you are covered for your solar panels.
Reviews: Look for online reviews to see what past customers have experienced with the best solar companies.
Tip 5 : Why Choosing the Best Solar Company Matters
Selecting the best solar company is crucial for several reasons. It safeguards your investment by using high-quality equipment, following proper installation techniques, and offering comprehensive warranties. They prioritize safety and efficiency by ensuring your system meets all safety codes and operates optimally to maximize energy production.
Reputable companies understand available financial incentives and programs in your area, which can significantly reduce upfront costs and boost your return on investment.
Additionally, they provide long-term support through maintenance plans and address any issues that may arise, ensuring peace of mind. With a reliable and experienced company, you can enjoy the benefits of clean energy generation without worrying about potential problems in the future.
Tip 6 : Obtain Proposals and Make a Decision
Once you’ve researched potential solar companies, get detailed proposals from at least three. These proposals should outline the system design (number, type, and placement of panels), equipment details (brand, model, efficiency rating of panels and inverters), estimated costs (including equipment, labor, permits, and incentives), installation timeline, and warranty details.
Don’t just focus on price! Compare proposals based on equipment quality, system size matching your needs, warranty length and coverage, financing options, and the company’s experience, certifications, and reviews.
Ask questions if anything is unclear – a reputable company will be happy to answer. By carefully evaluating these proposals, you’ll be well-prepared to choose the best solar company for your clean energy journey.
Sources
- https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/estimating-appliance-and-home-electronic-energy-use
- https://www.energyaustralia.com.au/home/bills-and-accounts/understand-your-bill/energy-usage-data-request
- NABCEP Board Certifications – NABCEP
- Take Control of Your Electric Bill: How to Measure Home Power Usage | PCMag
- https://www.energybot.com/blog/understand-your-business-electricity-consumption.html
- https://www.heatspring.com/articles/what-are-the-best-solar-certifications-and-nabcep-photovoltaic-pv-certifications-and-exams
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How do I choose between solar companies?
When choosing a solar company, consider their experience, reputation, and pricing. Seek quotes from multiple companies that are licensed and insured, and have a proven track record of quality installations. Inquire about the equipment they use and the warranties provided. Personal recommendations from friends or neighbors can also be valuable.
This was also discussed on this part of the article
2. Why choose a local solar company?
Opting for a local solar company can offer several benefits. They often provide superior customer service and design customized systems tailored to your area’s specific needs. They may also offer lower costs due to reduced overhead expenses.
Furthermore, local companies are well-versed in local regulations, which can simplify the permitting process and ensure a smoother installation.
3. Why choose a local solar company?
Solar power has the potential to significantly enhance a community at the local level. By offering a clean and sustainable energy source, it diminishes the need for fossil fuels and diminishes greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, it can pave the way for energy self-sufficiency, given that sunlight is an abundant resource.
Moreover, the setup and upkeep of solar panels can generate employment opportunities within the community, thereby boosting the local economy, as seen in Milford, Connecticut, Fresno, California, and Austin, Texas. Ultimately, solar energy can lead to reduced electricity costs for households and businesses that adopt solar technology, allowing for more disposable income to be allocated towards local expenditures.